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06 Nov, 2023 by Alexa
Michael has been such a blessing throughout this whole process, and I can't say enough great things about him. I met with several other attorneys before finding Michael, but immediately knew during our initial consultation that I wanted him to represent me for my case. I came into this not knowing anything about child custody law, and being completely terrified about what the outcome might be. Michael was calm and confident from the very start, and remained that way throughout the duration of my case. He was always honest with me even if it was something I didn't want to hear. He fought so hard to get me the things I wanted, and never made me feel stupid or crazy for feeling the way I did on certain aspects of my case. He often reminded me how I deserved to be treated from the opposing party and reassured me that everything was going to be okay, which was exactly what I needed. I always felt that he made time for me even when I knew he was busy with other cases, which is something that is hard to find with attorneys. Michael is such a kind and genuine person who really cares for his clients. I would 10/10 recommend him to anyone who is facing a child custody case. He knows the law so well. You would really be missing out on a great attorney if you don't have him by your side.
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22 Sep, 2020 by Rebecca
Mike was amazing! From the moment I first spoke to him on the phone, to our first meeting, and all through out the divorce process Mike made me feel extremely comfortable. He was there for me any time I needed him and he made sure to reassure me any time I was having a melt down. He never lost his patience with me and I was a nagging client. I was scared and very desperate, but he never got upset or angry with me. I am very satisfied with choosing him to represent me. When I needed him he was always there and yes I needed him a lot! He was honest with me and told me things I didn’t want to hear at times, but he knew best and knew exactly what I needed! I will forever be grateful to Mike for helping me through the hardest thing I’ve ever had to face. Divorce was not in my plans, but I couldn’t have picked a better attorney to get me through it.
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15 Feb, 2020 by Jade
Mike graciously took over our case with a month to catch up on everything before our final court date. No words can even describe how much of an excellent attorney he is but I will try my best to express it below!
-He communicated impeccably and I always got a call back no later than 24 hours (literally within a few hours).
-I was listened to carefully and I was given honest advice on my case even if it necessarily wasn’t what I wanted to hear.
-He was thorough with his research and paperwork.
-He is more than reasonably priced for such a quality lawyer
Finally, I was floored by the outcome of court and even though some of the parts were really questionable on what the outcome would be since it’s up to the judge, however with his excellent representation we were able to get everything we asked for.
Mike has seriously changed our entire families life and I will forever be grateful for him. He is our life long attorney from here on out and comes highly recommended! Thanks again for all your help!
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06 Feb, 2013 by Paul
Mr. Walker has served as my general counsel for about three years. He has advised me in a tricky traffic case, represented me in my divorce, and advised me on personal business and other legal matters.
Mr. Walker is extremely intelligent, knowledgeable, and pleasant to work with. I am particularly impressed with his writing skills; his documents show legal competence but are also comprehensible and straight forward.
He was considerate of my desires in handling my divorce and, even when we disagreed about the right course of action, complied cheerfully with my requests.
I have recommended them to my business and many of my friends.
Please note that there is another copy of my review with all ratings marked "Poor", that was a mistake; I meant for all ratings to be "Excellent" and this review is a correction.
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06 Feb, 2013 by Sara
Excellent advice and counsel through the emotional and difficult divorce. Thanks for taking the extra time to explain all the little things and for taking care of all the big things. I would go nowhere else for legal counsel.
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05 Feb, 2013 by Adam
Wayland Worked with me on a not very complicated or contested divorce. He explained all of my options and ways to do things. he was not very expensive and kept in touch with me about every question or situation that came up. The only drawback that I could even think about is that he has not practiced a lot here in Athens yet and may not be very well known around the town. I have recommended him to others and he is working with one right now.
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02 May, 2016 by Anonymous
Ms. Nesset-Sale is everything you want in a lawyer -- knowledgeable, experienced, smart, well-connected, personable, efficient, compassionate, firm, and wise. I was so grateful someone referred me to her and I wanted to let others know in case they ever need a lawyer or mediator. I will actually miss working with her though I'm glad to get the divorce/mediation process finished. She was up front about cost, explained the difference between mediation and divorce representation, helped us figure out child support and the parenting plan, knows timelines and how the local courts work very well. We had already made preliminary agreements between the two of us, but wanted to keep the best interests of our children at the forefront while also being fair to each other . . . but there was no way we could have navigated our way through the forms and the courts without some guidance. Divorce is important even when it's amicable, so it's worth it to work with someone who knows exactly how to guide you through the process in a timely and professional manner. And clearly knows how to handle a variety of clients, even the non-amicable ones. I will absolutely hire her again if I need a lawyer again in the future.
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17 Jun, 2011 by Anonymous
Jo Carol Nesset-Sale is a Top Criminal Attorney in Athens GA, She has been a good friend to me when I needed a criminal attorney. She talked about every thing that was going on with my case and what would happen. She has gotten me out of a life charge where every one knew I didnt do anything but I could not prove it till Jo Carol represented me. If any one is looking a top criminal attorney in athens ga go see her.
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30 Jul, 2015 by Monzy
Brian has help me in my child support/custody process. I am glad he has been on my side and knows excatly what he is doing. He experienced and no doubt the best.
-Monzy
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19 Sep, 2013 by Katie
Brian is an excellent lawyer and has helped me through a very difficult child custody case. He is the best lawyer I could have hoped for in the circumstances. Highly recommend.
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5.0
2 Reviews
11 Jun, 2021 by Laura
Mr. Davidson listened to my case with compassion and gave me clear answers as to whether or not my case was valid and why. His answers were direct and he knew the law.
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17 Mar, 2021 by Paul
He took my case for a lawsuit for a student loan which was past statue of limitations and put up an excellent defense for me. He was on point for writing up legal correspondence to the courts. I highly recommend him for anyone wanting get the job done! He takes the time to explain the process with you anytime of the week and on weekends. I can never thank him enough!
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10 Mar, 2024 by Elizabeth robertson
25 Oct, 2023 by Dena hayden
Miss mcAWESOME!!!!
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14 Oct, 2022 by 4brothers love
Will definitely help in more ways then one. Very understanding and willing to fight for you even beyond her limit.
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05 Oct, 2023 by Stacy dean
16 Jul, 2018 by Maggie edge
Jo Carol has been my attorney for 3 years now. She assisted with my divorce as well as two other complicated situations that required a family attorney. She is professional and fair and always does what she says she is going to do. I would recommend her to anyone in need of a good attorney or mediator.
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09 Oct, 2024 by Gina moseley
Attorney Larrison did amazing with my case! He kept me informed and updated on everything that was going on, from start to finsh. While I know that these things take time and patience, he always made me feel confident in the process. I really appreciated the firm contacting me throughout the process to ask how I was feeling and how my chiropractic vists were going. Hopefully, I will not need to go through this again; however, if I do, I know who I will be calling; Larrison Law Firm!
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09 Oct, 2024 by Sabrina iannucci
They were great. Highly recommend. Great people very reliable
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30 Sep, 2024 by Jaron coleman
Awesome team, great communication and hard work, I was totally satisfied with the service. Thanks again.
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09 Oct, 2024 by Gina moseley
Attorney Larrison did amazing with my case! He kept me informed and updated on everything that was going on, from start to finsh. While I know that these things take time and patience, he always made me feel confident in the process. I really appreciated the firm contacting me throughout the process to ask how I was feeling and how my chiropractic vists were going. Hopefully, I will not need to go through this again; however, if I do, I know who I will be calling; Larrison Law Firm!
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09 Oct, 2024 by Sabrina iannucci
They were great. Highly recommend. Great people very reliable
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30 Sep, 2024 by Jaron coleman
Awesome team, great communication and hard work, I was totally satisfied with the service. Thanks again.
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5.0
2 Reviews
4.8
17 Reviews
02 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
Had a lot ahead of me and he got me out of 30years! Very nice guy. Would pay to have him in my corner again 100%.
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06 Aug, 2024 by Levi
At the beginning of my case I wasn't confident I had a foot to stand on but after consulting with Mr.Olson and presenting everything I had he assured me that I was in great hands would definitely recommend on any criminal case especially in Oglethorpe county
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04 Apr, 2024 by Roberto gonzalez
Best lawyer in Athens hands down. I've worked with like 7 different lawyers in Athens and none compared to how fast and got me a better result than Mr. Kirby.
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01 Sep, 2024 by Cristian david carvajal cifuentes
01 Sep, 2024 by Sadac sanchez
21 Aug, 2024 by Ryan mcdougal
These professionals are truly exceptional! During a difficult time, they managed to make my ex-wife’s lawyers quit one after another. They are like real-life Jedi masters, always available and by your side throughout the entire process. Hands down, they are super lawyers!
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01 Sep, 2024 by Cristian david carvajal cifuentes
01 Sep, 2024 by Sadac sanchez
21 Aug, 2024 by Ryan mcdougal
These professionals are truly exceptional! During a difficult time, they managed to make my ex-wife’s lawyers quit one after another. They are like real-life Jedi masters, always available and by your side throughout the entire process. Hands down, they are super lawyers!
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08 Oct, 2024 by D. r.
Was charged with trafficking in Methamphetamine in central Georgia. Hired Mr. Fargione. He filed several motions, argued those and was successful. The evidence was kept out. I was looking at 30 years. Could not ask for a better lawyer.
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01 Sep, 2024 by Cristian david carvajal cifuentes
01 Sep, 2024 by Sadac sanchez
01 Sep, 2024 by Cristian david carvajal cifuentes
01 Sep, 2024 by Sadac sanchez
21 Aug, 2024 by Ryan mcdougal
These professionals are truly exceptional! During a difficult time, they managed to make my ex-wife’s lawyers quit one after another. They are like real-life Jedi masters, always available and by your side throughout the entire process. Hands down, they are super lawyers!
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14 May, 2024 by Committing natural
I had the pleasure of working with attorney Freddrell R. Green for a consultation, and I couldn't be more impressed with the level of service I received! He took the time to listen attentively to my concerns and provided valuable insights and advice tailored to my situation.
What stood out the most was Mr. Green's genuine empathy and encouragement throughout the consultation.He not only addressed my legal questions but also took the time to understand the emotional aspect of my situation which meant a lot to me.
After consulting with Attorney Green, I felt empowered and confident in my next steps.
I would highly recommend him to anyone in need of legal assistance. (T. Stephens)
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17 Mar, 2024 by Chastity rhodes
The Green Law Firm is the best. I highly recommend them. They were there to support me and my family through the entire process.
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15 Mar, 2024 by Cathy
Phenomenal, Excellent ,
Professional don't hesitate to use you're in good hands
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03 Mar, 2024 by Candace rader
12 Dec, 2023 by Greg garcia
31 Jul, 2023 by Tiffany t. shaw - broker associate, amelia island
Integrity and Accommodation. What more can you ask for from a business. Even after the transaction, Cook & Tolley comes through taking care of someone else's mistake. They find the way to get it done with style and grace.
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03 Mar, 2024 by Candace rader
12 Dec, 2023 by Greg garcia
31 Jul, 2023 by Tiffany t. shaw - broker associate, amelia island
Integrity and Accommodation. What more can you ask for from a business. Even after the transaction, Cook & Tolley comes through taking care of someone else's mistake. They find the way to get it done with style and grace.
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25 Jan, 2024 by Brandon longenecker
We had a seamless closing at Mr Beisswenger’s office in the middle of January. The entire staff, along with Mr Beisswenger were all very knowledgeable and worked diligently to ensure we could close within 10 days. I would recommend them to anyone in the area!
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27 Sep, 2023 by Brad ennis
I had a really great experience working with Tom and his team. We ran in to a few tricky issues related to my purchase and Tom helped me navigate them with confidence. His staff, Kristen and Martha were super to work with too. I would definitely recommend these good folks to anyone looking for an attorney to help with a real estate transaction.
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02 Aug, 2023 by Jack
Suddenly in need of a divorce lawyer after over 25 years of marriage is not a position I ever wanted to find myself in. Luckily I found David. I was not at all sure what my expectations should be heading in to the divorce but he explained to me what he considered to be a fair and equitable result and despite some unexpected obstacles he was able to deliver that result. It was very important to me that the divorce be amicable if at all possible. David was sensitive to that as well being mindful of my limited finances. I'm very pleased with how he handled my case from start to finish.
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4.4
16 Reviews
4.2
29 Reviews
16 Aug, 2024 by Jeris
I first hired Mr. Daniels 4 years ago when he was recommended to me by my cousin. Mr. Daniels won my cousin full custody of his daughter due to a terrible situation the mother was putting their child in. Initially I was with a female attorney in Athens who was not capable of performing up to my expectations in the courtroom. I had not one, but TWO cases going on at the time of hiring Mr. Daniels. One with my x husband who had a terrible opiate addiction and the other with my daughter’s father who was alcoholic. Both of which were in no shape to take care of themselves, much less a child.
Mr. Daniels literally mopped the floor with my daughters father, (rightfully so) and worked hard to get my sons father (who agreed to rehab) on the right path. Since 2019 I have been in the courtroom with Mr. Daniels numerous times. We have filed contempt twice against my daughter’s father and won each time. Plus I was awarded attorney fees two times, which is not common in family law.
I HIGHLY recommend Greg for any and ALL cases pertaining to family law. In my humble opinion he is the best family law attorney in Athens, by far. He has protected my children with an iron fist. He is fast at getting back in touch when you need him. He works very hard to determine the best outcome for the child and fights tooth and nail to get awarded in the courtroom. He is well respected by Judges as well as his colleagues. I’m so thankful I fired my old attorney and hired Greg Daniels. If I didn’t, I truly believe that my children would still be living in dangerous situations due to the negligence of other attorneys who just wanted to take my money and not FIGHT for what was right.
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12 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
I ended up firing Greg Daniels because I was ultimately dissatisfied with his lack of communication, inability to develop a solid strategy, bad customer service, and overall lackluster performance. If you are looking for a divorce attorney that you have to pull information from instead of receiving it, overcharges, and makes you question if he's actually on your side then Greg is the one for you. Mediation with him was a huge waste of time and money and he had no problem taking other clients' calls while working on my dime. That was unprofessional considering what I was paying him. I even found myself looking up legal things at his request while he was sitting across from me. Almost like I was working for him….what?! Following our failed mediation I decided to let him go. I received a final bill in February full of inflated charges for his time. For example, he billed me 2 hrs for a 25-minute phone call. I emailed Greg about my disagreement with his billing, spelled out my concerns, and clarified that I was ready to resolve this so we could move on. He never responded and I never received any other bills or correspondence. Fast forward to July, after radio silence since February (5 months) I received an email from his business manager with a bill for the original amount and a notice that Greg had placed a lien on my house! After researching I found out the lien on my property was placed two weeks before even notifying me! Without any attempt to resolve the situation, he chose to use the nuclear option!! What kind of professional conducts business like this? In the end, he reduced my bill (let that speak for itself), I paid it….and he removed the lien. There’s a lot more I could say about my overall bad experience but leaving you with this….going through a divorce is tough, emotional, and expensive and I now know I chose poorly in hiring Greg Daniels to represent me….save your money, time, and sanity and don’t make the same mistake!
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06 Aug, 2024 by Isabelle shurts
16 Jun, 2024 by Dan skidmore
Fantastic advice and counsel given. Really appreciate the care he takes and his work ethic in all regards.
Highly recommend!
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01 Feb, 2024 by Nicolette wilkinson
I can't say enough about Mr. Cronon! He made the process so easy and was there every step of the way! He made the process very stress free and was always an email or phone call away! If you are in the market for an attorney, give Mr. Cronon a call, you won't be disappointed!
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16 Jan, 2024 by Jimmy wilfong
Great people!
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06 Aug, 2024 by Isabelle shurts
20 Dec, 2023 by Hall hall
I had a consult here and that was where my experience ended. I was able to find another attorney who welcomed my case with more realistic possible outcomes than what was discussed during my consult at Daniels & Rothman. My case is small and the quote here was $$$
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22 Aug, 2023 by Alexandria manning
Anna is amazing! Very detailed and quick!
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06 Aug, 2024 by Isabelle shurts
20 Dec, 2023 by Hall hall
I had a consult here and that was where my experience ended. I was able to find another attorney who welcomed my case with more realistic possible outcomes than what was discussed during my consult at Daniels & Rothman. My case is small and the quote here was $$$
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22 Aug, 2023 by Alexandria manning
Anna is amazing! Very detailed and quick!
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09 Aug, 2018 by Bobby jones
John took my case after I had to fire an incompetent wanna-be lawyer from Monroe Georgia! John got this matter of divorce finalized, in tact and also got me through it. If you want a great divorce lawyer, trust me on this one, hire John Smith. He was fantastic in court and in running a past judge/prosecutor under the table. I loved it! John is the real deal when it comes to a professional lawyer.
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04 Oct, 2015 by Anonymous
Mr. Smith had issues with listening to what I wanted as a client. He literally billed me for a process that I did not agree to (I asked him to look into the issue and would confirm with him whether to proceed). His lack of comprehension as to my dismay further supports my experience that he has issues with listening, comprehension or underlying biases that he himself is unaware of.
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01 Apr, 2011 by Anonymous
He is without a doubt more honorable than any attorney I have used.
John Smith is a man with integrity and you can trust him. I highly recommend this Attorney.
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29 Jan, 2018 by Kalista
I hired Nicole Hull to represent me in a family law case and couldn’t be happier with my choice. My original consult was March 2017. We were able to settle out of court with me getting everything that I asked for in July 2017. She’s 100% for the best interest of the child/children. She kept me informed every step of the way throughout the process and handled everything professionally. I was always able to talk/email with her when I had any questions or concerns and never felt rushed. She came highly recommended and I was so impressed that I’ve recommended her several times to friends who were going through similar issues. I made the right choice by contacting Nicole. My only regret was not doing it sooner!
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29 Jan, 2018 by Stephanie
We hired Ms. Hull to represent us in a case against DFCS. She was absolutely amazing through out the entire process, which lasted 6 months. She answered every question and concern multiple times. She worked hard and made sure we were heard by DFCS. I have no idea how things would have gone if we didn't find Nicole. She was nothing but caring and we felt like she was always in our corner when no one else was. Thank you again Nicole! We appreciate you more than you can ever know! :)
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22 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
I originally hired her for my kids but regret that decision she is very unprofessional and does her job poorly in so many ways I would never hire Nicole for anything else because she is not worth the money to begin with hopefully she we learn how to be a better gal but currently lacks the know how to do so
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24 Nov, 2015 by Michael
Contrary to the two reviews I have read on this site Mrs. Forwood has been there in every step of my case. I believe she has the knowledge and compassion that is required in such legal cases as my own. Mrs. Forwood is a constant guardian in my definition and a great lawyer, and I would recommend her to anybody I know that needs such representation. Her tenacity and presence in court is unparalleled by anyone's standards and believes in the right thing for the case. Even if it is not in favor of what "the client wants" it will be the right thing to do. This I trust, and am willing to say it with confidence and conviction. In a nutshell, I am more than pleased with the services rendered thus far in an ongoing case and am pleased to have been referred to Mrs. Forwood by a very well known practice in the athens area.
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09 Jul, 2014 by Anonymous
Was not available once to assist me with details of my case, despite repeated attempts to contact. Saw her the first day (when I paid my upfront fee) and the last day (after I negotiated my own settlement with no legal input). Seemed knowledgeable, but provided little to no service.
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14 Feb, 2013 by Anonymous
I was not happy with my experience with Ms. Forwood. I increasingly felt less confident that she was a strong advocate, efficient, and effective. Her lack of knowledge is apparent, and she drags on her case in order to increase the cost of her services. I felt that she presented options for me that were detrimental. Additionally, I thought she treated the paralegal poorly, talked behind the paralegal's back. She doesn't realize that she is a fool, and appeared that way in front of the judge and the opposing council. Choosing her was an embarrassment.
She is simply a failure at her work.
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25 Apr, 2018 by Anonymous
John Lyndon is an excellent attorney. He is well regarded by attorneys, judges, and his clients. He is a straight shooter. He gives first rate legal advice and has the experience to predict the outcome in most cases. He is also a skilled litigator in high conflict, high asset legal matters. I highly recommend him.
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19 Sep, 2016 by Anonymous
He sat on damning discovery, which he could have used to settle, evidence my wife was cheating when she filed petition for divorce. He never petitioned the court to hear temporary alimony petition, even though this was the specific task I hired him to do. Instead he asked for meaningless discovery and wasted my finite resources. When all my money was exhausted, he quit leaving me facing a motion for contempt having no representation. The first thing he will request is affidavit of your finances to determine how much money he can get from you, when the money is gone he will quit. Don't sign anything! His wife is his secretary. I wonder why?
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11 May, 2016 by Anonymous
I begged him to file a petition for support, but in 9 months he didn't. When I finally got a hearing, because the other lawyer filed a motion for contempt, Lyndon was unprepared and just sat outside with Plaintiff's counsel trying to settle in the hallway until I caught him working against my interest. Lyndon tried to waive my right to a jury trail and when I wrote him saying I specifically asked him not to do so, he withdrew as my attorney leaving high and dry. He might as well have been working for the Plaintiff. He cannot be trusted.
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18 Jul, 2011 by Anonymous
From the get go, Mr. Elkins acted more like a prosecutor than an advocate. He did absolutely nothing for me or my case. I got the same outcome I would have gotten without an attorney. About the only thing positive I can say is that he answered phone calls promptly.
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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.
