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18 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
Best interest of the child is a sound bite. I hope she can sleep at night because my kids are living with an abusive alcoholic but they have deeper pockets than I do.
One star was selected only to submit.
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01 Jun, 2022 by Moses
Ms. Bayne is a phenomenal family law attorney! My wife and I have been her clients since 2015 and from the get go she listened and empathized. She is real and transparent; providing the proper strategy and letting you know every course of action along the way. We had very difficult cases, especially our contested adoption case. She went above and beyond for us and she will go above and beyond for you. We really enjoyed our strategy sessions with her where we would lay out different options, analyze the pros and cons, and then make a decision for the best way forward with backup options at the ready. She will also be honest and does not tell you want you want to hear, instead, she tells you the truth even if that truth is inconvenient. She's quick thinking and knows how to push the opposing side. Ms. Bayne is a deeply caring attorney and doesn't just see you as another number. I would VERY HIGHLY recommend her! Thank you so much Christina for being there for us and our family and fighting for us!
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07 Jan, 2019 by Susan
Christina helped me through my very bumpy divorce. She was extremely knowledgeable, responsive all the while very kind and supportive. She truly cared not only about me but also my costs and spared me from unnecessary expenses. I couldn't be more grateful for all her help. I warmly recommend her to anyone in need of an attorney.
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25 Apr, 2024 by Ryan eglinton
Mr. Hartman helped me with (2) legal cases very recently.
Both cases went as well for me as I could have expected - and likely even better.
Mr. Hartman was able to get me a PBJ on one case and charges dropped on another - essentially saving my career.
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22 Apr, 2024 by Erica johnson
Christian Hartman is a talented, knowledgeable and trustworthy attorney who I would recommend. His experience and passion for his speciality shows through in his work.
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22 Apr, 2024 by Joanna rutland
Christian Hartman is a great attorney that is reliable and trustworthy. Highly recommend!
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25 Apr, 2024 by Ryan eglinton
Mr. Hartman helped me with (2) legal cases very recently.
Both cases went as well for me as I could have expected - and likely even better.
Mr. Hartman was able to get me a PBJ on one case and charges dropped on another - essentially saving my career.
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22 Apr, 2024 by Erica johnson
Christian Hartman is a talented, knowledgeable and trustworthy attorney who I would recommend. His experience and passion for his speciality shows through in his work.
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22 Apr, 2024 by Joanna rutland
Christian Hartman is a great attorney that is reliable and trustworthy. Highly recommend!
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28 May, 2024 by Ratko
The best lawyers.
Thank you!
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21 Nov, 2023 by Becky freitas
Thanks to Klein and associates for the professionalism and the kindness that you showed in my case I won my case thank you so much
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30 Oct, 2023 by Sheryl jaros
Gordana is a friendly, professional and very capable lawyer to help navigate people though difficult times in thier lives. I highly recommend her!
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22 Apr, 2024 by Jim myers
I called Mr Brown for a custody and child support case and I still have had no call backs
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30 Mar, 2024 by Mic hael
12 Jun, 2023 by Heidi tracey
Does not respond to phone messages to obtain new clients.
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22 Apr, 2024 by Jim myers
I called Mr Brown for a custody and child support case and I still have had no call backs
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30 Mar, 2024 by Mic hael
12 Jun, 2023 by Heidi tracey
Does not respond to phone messages to obtain new clients.
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26 May, 2011 by Renee
Evelyn represented me in a workman's compensation case. In the beginning I felt misrepresented, due to the fact that we did not meet prior to the initial hearing, of which we lost. During the appeal trial a side of Evelyn came out, that not only surprised me, but revealed a tiger underneath her professional demeanor. I could not have been better represented by any other and she fought for my rights with everything she had. Regardless of the outcome of the appeal, I was more than satisfied with my representation
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20 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
Jim has a very good understanding of the MD family law and provided solid legal advice. However, he displayed a bit of condescending tone at times and Jim and his associate, Thomas DeGennaro made a few billing mistakes. They included duplicate charges so please pay attention to the details of the invoice before submitting payments. When I questioned the bill, they admitted their mistakes and resolved the billing, but they charged me for the time Jim and Thomas reviewed the bill and adjusted the invoice. Thus, at the end, I was charged for the same amount as they initially charged me with duplicate charges. Jim' explained to me that his time is billed regardless of the activity even if that is to fix his mistakes.
Lastly, I asked them to please check with me before moving forward with the next step or doing the research, but despite my request, Jim/Thomas carried on with the research. The general theme was because they know what they are doing, they expected me not to have a say. I ended up firing them. They are both good lawyers but they lack client centric mindset. They may treat their high-paying clients more favorably, but even smaller clients can turn into great referral source in the future.
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24 Sep, 2024 by Lorena campos
My husband was the victim of a vicious assault. State Attorney Shane Nolan was on top of my husband’s case and kept us informed throughout the process. Ms.Stephanie in the attorneys office followed up and reached out during this ordeal and at no point did I feel we weren’t a priority for them. While they take on an enormous amount of cases and I did have to follow up on some things, which we should also advocate and stay up to date on things and not let them take it all on , they did an incredible job and justice was served for my husband. I see some reviews that people didn’t get a phone call or an email. We never received anything in writing but again we the victims must advocate and do the work too, case search is free, the dockets are posted the day before and court dates can be found online, we can not expect the States Attorney’s office to be our personal assistant. Also for other victims please know you’re not alone the MD Crime Victims Resource Center was a great help as well in our case. The Anne Arundel County States Attorney’s Office did exceptional and we thank you!
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05 Sep, 2024 by Gordon blackstone
I was beat up by my kids mother bleeding from the head and knee when all I was trying to do was pick my kids up witch is court order they officer took pictures and never came court plus the state never even called me about the case they threw her case out bout said they going to go through with the charge she press on me after the state press charges on her glen Jessi rivera-ruz did not do her job at all !!
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29 Feb, 2024 by Joseph thumel
Don't get robbed at gun point by a state attorneys father. They'll give you petty sentence instead of an apology. I got robbed of at least 1100.00 in tools, developed ptsd, got a 30 day sentence, one year probation, an appeal bond paid with no release of incarceration and no refund for that bond either.
The guy even thanks his daughter (states attorney which I don't have to name), for the verdict in his victim advocate speech. I acquired testimony. It's all there! Sorry for giving one star on the review. This organization deserves less in my opinion.
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24 Sep, 2024 by Lorena campos
My husband was the victim of a vicious assault. State Attorney Shane Nolan was on top of my husband’s case and kept us informed throughout the process. Ms.Stephanie in the attorneys office followed up and reached out during this ordeal and at no point did I feel we weren’t a priority for them. While they take on an enormous amount of cases and I did have to follow up on some things, which we should also advocate and stay up to date on things and not let them take it all on , they did an incredible job and justice was served for my husband. I see some reviews that people didn’t get a phone call or an email. We never received anything in writing but again we the victims must advocate and do the work too, case search is free, the dockets are posted the day before and court dates can be found online, we can not expect the States Attorney’s office to be our personal assistant. Also for other victims please know you’re not alone the MD Crime Victims Resource Center was a great help as well in our case. The Anne Arundel County States Attorney’s Office did exceptional and we thank you!
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05 Sep, 2024 by Gordon blackstone
I was beat up by my kids mother bleeding from the head and knee when all I was trying to do was pick my kids up witch is court order they officer took pictures and never came court plus the state never even called me about the case they threw her case out bout said they going to go through with the charge she press on me after the state press charges on her glen Jessi rivera-ruz did not do her job at all !!
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29 Feb, 2024 by Joseph thumel
Don't get robbed at gun point by a state attorneys father. They'll give you petty sentence instead of an apology. I got robbed of at least 1100.00 in tools, developed ptsd, got a 30 day sentence, one year probation, an appeal bond paid with no release of incarceration and no refund for that bond either.
The guy even thanks his daughter (states attorney which I don't have to name), for the verdict in his victim advocate speech. I acquired testimony. It's all there! Sorry for giving one star on the review. This organization deserves less in my opinion.
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24 Sep, 2024 by Lorena campos
My husband was the victim of a vicious assault. State Attorney Shane Nolan was on top of my husband’s case and kept us informed throughout the process. Ms.Stephanie in the attorneys office followed up and reached out during this ordeal and at no point did I feel we weren’t a priority for them. While they take on an enormous amount of cases and I did have to follow up on some things, which we should also advocate and stay up to date on things and not let them take it all on , they did an incredible job and justice was served for my husband. I see some reviews that people didn’t get a phone call or an email. We never received anything in writing but again we the victims must advocate and do the work too, case search is free, the dockets are posted the day before and court dates can be found online, we can not expect the States Attorney’s office to be our personal assistant. Also for other victims please know you’re not alone the MD Crime Victims Resource Center was a great help as well in our case. The Anne Arundel County States Attorney’s Office did exceptional and we thank you!
Read more
05 Sep, 2024 by Gordon blackstone
I was beat up by my kids mother bleeding from the head and knee when all I was trying to do was pick my kids up witch is court order they officer took pictures and never came court plus the state never even called me about the case they threw her case out bout said they going to go through with the charge she press on me after the state press charges on her glen Jessi rivera-ruz did not do her job at all !!
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29 Feb, 2024 by Joseph thumel
Don't get robbed at gun point by a state attorneys father. They'll give you petty sentence instead of an apology. I got robbed of at least 1100.00 in tools, developed ptsd, got a 30 day sentence, one year probation, an appeal bond paid with no release of incarceration and no refund for that bond either.
The guy even thanks his daughter (states attorney which I don't have to name), for the verdict in his victim advocate speech. I acquired testimony. It's all there! Sorry for giving one star on the review. This organization deserves less in my opinion.
Read more
24 Sep, 2024 by Lorena campos
My husband was the victim of a vicious assault. State Attorney Shane Nolan was on top of my husband’s case and kept us informed throughout the process. Ms.Stephanie in the attorneys office followed up and reached out during this ordeal and at no point did I feel we weren’t a priority for them. While they take on an enormous amount of cases and I did have to follow up on some things, which we should also advocate and stay up to date on things and not let them take it all on , they did an incredible job and justice was served for my husband. I see some reviews that people didn’t get a phone call or an email. We never received anything in writing but again we the victims must advocate and do the work too, case search is free, the dockets are posted the day before and court dates can be found online, we can not expect the States Attorney’s office to be our personal assistant. Also for other victims please know you’re not alone the MD Crime Victims Resource Center was a great help as well in our case. The Anne Arundel County States Attorney’s Office did exceptional and we thank you!
Read more
05 Sep, 2024 by Gordon blackstone
I was beat up by my kids mother bleeding from the head and knee when all I was trying to do was pick my kids up witch is court order they officer took pictures and never came court plus the state never even called me about the case they threw her case out bout said they going to go through with the charge she press on me after the state press charges on her glen Jessi rivera-ruz did not do her job at all !!
Read more
29 Feb, 2024 by Joseph thumel
Don't get robbed at gun point by a state attorneys father. They'll give you petty sentence instead of an apology. I got robbed of at least 1100.00 in tools, developed ptsd, got a 30 day sentence, one year probation, an appeal bond paid with no release of incarceration and no refund for that bond either.
The guy even thanks his daughter (states attorney which I don't have to name), for the verdict in his victim advocate speech. I acquired testimony. It's all there! Sorry for giving one star on the review. This organization deserves less in my opinion.
Read more
27 Oct, 2014 by Be afraid
Do not use Jasen Adams. I cannot stress this enough. Mr. Adams does not practice; he malpractices. The statements and examples shown below are from verifiable events.
1. Mr. Adams does not follow up with clients supposedly because he is busy with cases, but he also misses court deadlines. In my case, he missed two key deadlines. If you cannot read a scheduling order and do not enjoy chasing down your own lawyer, give careful consideration to hiring Mr. Adams. His secretary can easily keep you apprised at no cost to you.
2. Mr. Adams increases his rates exponentially, but he fails to send notices about said increases. I feel he charged me for empty hours he could not fill with legitimate client work, basically because he has few clients.
3. Mr. Adams should send monthly invoices, but he does not do so. Yet the language in his engagement agreement gives the client a one-month window in which to contest the current invoice. In my case, Mr. Adams continually told me that absolutely nothing was going on in my matter, which told me that most of my retainer was intact; no bill=no charges, right? Mr. Adams did fabricate invoices when he was required to produce them, still claiming he had treated his fictional invoices as correct because I did not contest them. I cannot contest invoices I do not receive. Mr. Adams has no problem “fabricating” in general. He is passive-aggressive.
4. Mr. Adams does not keep accurate records of client payments. In my case, Mr. Adams claimed I owed him money, and that I had not paid amounts I knew I had paid him. Again, he also did not send invoices and did very little work. My retainers should have been substantially intact. He was quite comfortable as long as I could not locate statements for a credit card I had not used in years. Mr. Adams may be surprised to know that I finally found the statements in storage, and the statements are incontrovertible evidence that Mr. Adams lied to me and to others; he charged my card thousands of dollars for which he has never given an accounting. He is on record as stating I never paid him these amounts. His are the only transactions on these statements. Mr. Adams stole from me, kept inaccurate records and violated his ethical responsibility to use an escrow account.
5. When Mr. Adams his invoices, he charged me $100-or-more per hour for paralegal duties he claimed his secretary/receptionist had performed. There are no legitimate paralegal tasks on my bill such as legal research, subpoenas, reviewing medical records or preparing legal documents. Xerox copying and hole-punching are not paralegal tasks.
If you are desperate enough or naive enough to consider Jasen D. Adams as your advocate, don't. He will look you in the eye, eff up your case and rob you blind all at the same time. Staring at my credit card statements and the lies Mr. Adams had the gall to put in writing, I will be seeking a refund of the money he somehow lost through attorney oversight channels or the court or the Maryland Attorney Grievance Commission. Do not put yourself in my shoes. You will be sorry. The most disturbing aspect of this is that Mr. Adams is the managing partner over a group of attorneys, so he can modify every bill that goes out of his office to his own benefit. Beware.
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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.
