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15 Jul, 2024 by Khusbu patel
02 Nov, 2023 by Ashley brown
19 Apr, 2023 by Manuel martinez
Miss Melissa Is the best closing attorney in Georgia! She is reliable, professional and extremely trustworthy, along with all her staff at the Fayetteville office.
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15 Jul, 2024 by Khusbu patel
02 Nov, 2023 by Ashley brown
19 Apr, 2023 by Manuel martinez
Miss Melissa Is the best closing attorney in Georgia! She is reliable, professional and extremely trustworthy, along with all her staff at the Fayetteville office.
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15 Jul, 2024 by Khusbu patel
02 Nov, 2023 by Ashley brown
19 Apr, 2023 by Manuel martinez
Miss Melissa Is the best closing attorney in Georgia! She is reliable, professional and extremely trustworthy, along with all her staff at the Fayetteville office.
Read more
15 Jul, 2024 by Khusbu patel
02 Nov, 2023 by Ashley brown
19 Apr, 2023 by Manuel martinez
Miss Melissa Is the best closing attorney in Georgia! She is reliable, professional and extremely trustworthy, along with all her staff at the Fayetteville office.
Read more
15 Jul, 2024 by Khusbu patel
02 Nov, 2023 by Ashley brown
19 Apr, 2023 by Manuel martinez
Miss Melissa Is the best closing attorney in Georgia! She is reliable, professional and extremely trustworthy, along with all her staff at the Fayetteville office.
Read more
15 Jul, 2024 by Khusbu patel
02 Nov, 2023 by Ashley brown
19 Apr, 2023 by Manuel martinez
Miss Melissa Is the best closing attorney in Georgia! She is reliable, professional and extremely trustworthy, along with all her staff at the Fayetteville office.
Read more
15 Jul, 2024 by Khusbu patel
02 Nov, 2023 by Ashley brown
19 Apr, 2023 by Manuel martinez
Miss Melissa Is the best closing attorney in Georgia! She is reliable, professional and extremely trustworthy, along with all her staff at the Fayetteville office.
Read more
15 Jul, 2024 by Khusbu patel
02 Nov, 2023 by Ashley brown
19 Apr, 2023 by Manuel martinez
Miss Melissa Is the best closing attorney in Georgia! She is reliable, professional and extremely trustworthy, along with all her staff at the Fayetteville office.
Read more
15 Jul, 2024 by Khusbu patel
02 Nov, 2023 by Ashley brown
19 Apr, 2023 by Manuel martinez
Miss Melissa Is the best closing attorney in Georgia! She is reliable, professional and extremely trustworthy, along with all her staff at the Fayetteville office.
Read more
15 May, 2024 by Ivan smith
Their clients ( General wholesale) Driver was found at fault for Causing a Major accident on May,19,2022 ,they will not settle the case, and are causing me Grave Hard ship,,. This is a Act of bad faith. I am making a complaint to the GA Bar.
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19 Apr, 2024 by A. wells
Excellent
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12 Mar, 2024 by Jamie robards
26 Feb, 2024 by Chudney richmond
Attorney McKinnon represented me and my company in a real estate matter. Attorney McKinnon was thorough and knowledgeable in the negotiations and kept me updated throughout this matter. More importantly we won and I highly recommend her services!
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26 Feb, 2024 by Michal allen
Attorney McKinnon handled a matter for me and my BF of 2 years. She got his statement and represented him in the COA courts. Thoroughly satisfied with the attention and service received. I do not trust ANYONE but Attorney McKinnon to handle any of my cases.
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26 Feb, 2024 by Bandman kevo (bandman kevo)
My experience this this company was absolute horrible, I paid $7500 dollars and was told one thing then another , it was very hard to get in contact with ms McKinnon .. she was always busy with another client like I didn't pay my hard earned money she also got mad about me emailing her during certain hours and days if she wasn't at work
It was a very unprofessional experience for me and I wouldn't want anyone to ever have to deal with such a lawfirm like this .. I heard sorry from this company more then I heard in my entire life ..
I am very unsatisfied and very frustrated with the work they do at this company, people like this have to be stopped from getting over on there clients
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26 Feb, 2024 by Chudney richmond
Attorney McKinnon represented me and my company in a real estate matter. Attorney McKinnon was thorough and knowledgeable in the negotiations and kept me updated throughout this matter. More importantly we won and I highly recommend her services!
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26 Feb, 2024 by Michal allen
Attorney McKinnon handled a matter for me and my BF of 2 years. She got his statement and represented him in the COA courts. Thoroughly satisfied with the attention and service received. I do not trust ANYONE but Attorney McKinnon to handle any of my cases.
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26 Feb, 2024 by Bandman kevo (bandman kevo)
My experience this this company was absolute horrible, I paid $7500 dollars and was told one thing then another , it was very hard to get in contact with ms McKinnon .. she was always busy with another client like I didn't pay my hard earned money she also got mad about me emailing her during certain hours and days if she wasn't at work
It was a very unprofessional experience for me and I wouldn't want anyone to ever have to deal with such a lawfirm like this .. I heard sorry from this company more then I heard in my entire life ..
I am very unsatisfied and very frustrated with the work they do at this company, people like this have to be stopped from getting over on there clients
Read more
26 Feb, 2024 by Chudney richmond
Attorney McKinnon represented me and my company in a real estate matter. Attorney McKinnon was thorough and knowledgeable in the negotiations and kept me updated throughout this matter. More importantly we won and I highly recommend her services!
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26 Feb, 2024 by Michal allen
Attorney McKinnon handled a matter for me and my BF of 2 years. She got his statement and represented him in the COA courts. Thoroughly satisfied with the attention and service received. I do not trust ANYONE but Attorney McKinnon to handle any of my cases.
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26 Feb, 2024 by Bandman kevo (bandman kevo)
My experience this this company was absolute horrible, I paid $7500 dollars and was told one thing then another , it was very hard to get in contact with ms McKinnon .. she was always busy with another client like I didn't pay my hard earned money she also got mad about me emailing her during certain hours and days if she wasn't at work
It was a very unprofessional experience for me and I wouldn't want anyone to ever have to deal with such a lawfirm like this .. I heard sorry from this company more then I heard in my entire life ..
I am very unsatisfied and very frustrated with the work they do at this company, people like this have to be stopped from getting over on there clients
Read more
26 Feb, 2024 by Chudney richmond
Attorney McKinnon represented me and my company in a real estate matter. Attorney McKinnon was thorough and knowledgeable in the negotiations and kept me updated throughout this matter. More importantly we won and I highly recommend her services!
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26 Feb, 2024 by Michal allen
Attorney McKinnon handled a matter for me and my BF of 2 years. She got his statement and represented him in the COA courts. Thoroughly satisfied with the attention and service received. I do not trust ANYONE but Attorney McKinnon to handle any of my cases.
Read more
26 Feb, 2024 by Bandman kevo (bandman kevo)
My experience this this company was absolute horrible, I paid $7500 dollars and was told one thing then another , it was very hard to get in contact with ms McKinnon .. she was always busy with another client like I didn't pay my hard earned money she also got mad about me emailing her during certain hours and days if she wasn't at work
It was a very unprofessional experience for me and I wouldn't want anyone to ever have to deal with such a lawfirm like this .. I heard sorry from this company more then I heard in my entire life ..
I am very unsatisfied and very frustrated with the work they do at this company, people like this have to be stopped from getting over on there clients
Read more
18 Aug, 2024 by Yanique
Paid my retainer and haven’t heard anything since, she never returns calls and the staff is completely incompetent, stay away and go somewhere else. I wasted my time and money. I should have done better research so lesson learned.
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10 Nov, 2022 by Tony redmon, my wife, rose kibuku
My name is Tony and I was in need of being Represented by a very good Immigration Attorney. My Wife and I have been represented previously by several Immigration attorneys that Failed Our Mission with a healthy cost from Our Pockets. Upon meeting, greeting, and consultation with Attorney Annette, as I so Respectfully address Her. The Money that My Wife and I paid to the; Office of Immigration Attorney Annette King-Hammond is well worth the Services and Actions as proofed by Documents that are Approved by the USCIS. See! Attorney Annette writes a book that is a best seller for Each, and, Every Client that Her Firm Represents. She is the Best in My Humble Opinion in the Representation of Her Clients, Bar NoN, I Feel id Better, Thank You very Much Attorney Annette
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30 Jan, 2020 by Roland
My wife Oretha and i obtained the services of
The King-Hammond- Law Center We were very satisfied with the service provided.
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23 Jul, 2020 by Andrew b
Jeff is an exceptional attorney! His knowledge, compassion, patience, and consideration was above and beyond. He guided me through a tough situation I thought I would never get through, let alone come out on top. Jeff gave me the confidence to overcome my fears and handle the issue most appropriately. If you seek not only a Lawyer with the highest level of expertise, but care and compassion as well, The Barnes Firm is your choice.
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15 Jul, 2020 by Barry
Great service! Thank you To Jeff and his team at The Barnes Firm. They helped me and my family through a tough time and made sure we all came out alright. It’s hard for me to trust people, but right away Jeff became a part of our family. Again, thank you Jeff and I definitely recommend your services.
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29 Aug, 2017 by Ben
When what I thought was going to be a nearly uncontested divorce turned nasty, I hired Jeff to represent me. His representation and professionalism was top notch from the moment I met him through the trial. He delivered on his promises and got me a judgment that exceeded what he told me to expect.
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29 Jul, 2022 by Chrishandra
I was being bullied by a lawyer who handled my divorce. He gave up on my case when my money ran out and I lost everything that was important to me (my children). He didn't want a payment plan, just money or nothing. Fast forward three years and I start receiving emails stating i still owe $3000. I kept asking for them to send me an invoice of my bill or something proving that I owed more money. I was harassed by these emails for months and they weighed heavily on me. I reached out on the next door app to get advice from any of my neighbors who had been through a similar situation. Mr. Halberg contacted me and gave me his contact info. After giving him all the details, he handled the situation in a very professional and cordial manner and I haven't heard from the bully lawyer since. Mr. Halberg charged me absolutely nothing to help me out and i am eternally grateful. He is a really good man and a really good human.
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28 Apr, 2018 by Michael
I recommend that everyone avoid this attorney at all costs as I believe his performance to be terrible. I initially hired Blake Halberg in 09/16 to modify my divorce decree with the primary goal of downward modification or elimination of alimony and several other modifications such as a more amicable split in transportation of my son between me and my ex-wife. During our initial consultation and Blake Halberg's review of my divorce decree I was assured this would be no problem and very easy to accomplish my stated goals. Upon filing the appropriate paperwork with the court and communicating with opposing counsel I was advised by Blake Halberg in 04/17 that the "lump sum" type of alimony awarded to my ex-wife is non-modifiable under Georgia law. This key fact was never communicated to me at any time by Blake Halberg and I now I have absolutely nothing to show for the $6,000.00 paid to attorney Blake Halberg for his services in addition to $2200.00 more I have been billed but am refusing to pay. Upon learning of his failure to achieve my stated goals I immediately terminated attorney Blake Halberg and have retained a different attorney which has only just now been resolved in April of 2018.
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01 Aug, 2017 by Michael
I recommend that everyone avoid this attorney at all costs as I believe his performance to be terrible. I initially hired Blake Halberg in 09/16 to modify my divorce decree with the primary goal of downward modification or elimination of alimony and several other modifications such as a more amicable split in transportation of my son between me and my ex-wife. During our initial consultation and Blake Halberg’s review of my divorce decree I was assured this would be no problem and very easy to accomplish my stated goals.
Upon filing the appropriate paperwork with the court and communicating with opposing counsel I was advised by Blake Halberg in 04/17 that the “lump sum” type of alimony awarded to my ex-wife is non-modifiable under Georgia law. This key fact was never communicated to me at any time by Blake Halberg and I now I have absolutely nothing to show for the $6,000.00 paid to attorney Blake Halberg for his services in addition to $2200.00 more I have been billed but am refusing to pay. Upon learning of his failure to achieve my stated goals I immediately terminated attorney Blake Halberg and have retained a different attorney to hopefully clean up this mess but as of this writing my case remains unresolved.
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02 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
This attorney will say all the right things to get you to retain her firm, but afterwards things quickly will go downhill. She doesn't return calls, messages, etc. I personally wouldn't refer her to anyone.
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06 Jan, 2022 by C lee
Mr. Lee is very competent and through. He always respond upon request and update the information in time. He is very professional and has good manners . I would recommend his service without hesitation.
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06 Jan, 2022 by Dennis hare
Paul is very knowledgeable in terms of helping to protect your wealth which is very important in this economic and political climate.
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08 Jun, 2022 by Alex
Attorney Rowland is an amazing lawyer who helped my with my case and guided me in the right direction. She was very personal and worked so hard for me. Thank you!!!
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23 Jun, 2020 by Anonymous
Natalie represented for my recent divorce case. Natalie was very professional and knowledgeable in the area of divorce law. She always responded in a timely manner and processed all paperwork in a timely fashion. My divorce was granted without me having to appear in court. She quickly e-filed all necessary paperwork and divorce was granted. Natalie was also empathic to my feelings and emotions during my divorce proceedings. She always provided sound advice.
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17 Aug, 2019 by Anonymous
she is fantastic, very dependable, too good anf excellent, she was the best lawyer I ever encountered
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17 Jan, 2024 by Tony cash
The response time is a amazing, also the communication is great, if u wanna put your trust in someone E.ALBERT LAW firm is the place to go looking ‼️
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10 Jan, 2024 by Rosci
I had a great experience with Attorney Esther Albert. She responded to all my questions and was always updating me throughout the process. Thank you!!
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31 Oct, 2023 by Casey howard
Esther is truly a great person. She was honest, fair and quick which is tough to find with Attorneys. "She is knowledgeable, intelligent, confident, and passionate about her client cases". Within weeks she was able to assist as stated. She contacted me over the phone, sent emails and always kept me updated. What a great attitude and atmosphere at E. Albert Law! Please don't hesitate to contact them.
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24 Jul, 2022 by Gerry
This attorney, took $4900 from me to do nothing but cost me my sons paternity time to be thwarted by not giving me notice that I had a child custody hearing. She was unprepared in a TPO order prior and would not assert herself to a lying & vindictive wife. Today I’m having to get another attorney to clean up her mess. She dismissed herself from my case without advising me of my child custody case court date. As a result I haven’t seen my son in almost 8 months. Now I have to fork out another $2500.00 for another attorney. Thanks Joyce for a splendid job that you managed to foul up. GREAT JOB!
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17 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
Ms. Edwards and her staff are excellent, their attention to detail and work ethic are to be commended. She did so much more than our previous lawyer and was able to get a legal matter that had been hanging on for years resolved quickly. I highly recommend.
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05 Jun, 2012 by Faith smith
Joy is amazing. She always listened to me to understand what my needs were and she did a superior job executing my request. Although I just met Joy, she managed my case like she was a close family friend who sincerely had my best interest at heart. During the trial she was not thrown off by the other party's spontaneous attempts to sneak in invalid information. She even fought for me all the way to the end when the Judge was giving the decision; she recommended an alternate proposal which would benefit me and the Judge accepted. I am so glad she knew what she was doing. From the first conversation with Joy I felt confident in her ability to handle my case and from the day I hired her I never worried again about my case. I would highly recommend Joy and she will handle all of my family matters.
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18 Jan, 2021 by Jeff
While the divorce system is basically broke and the attorneys will always win. Barbara was the worst.... She drained all money that was given to her and when fired she made sure she burned through every nickel in the last several days. She was terrible and unprepared in court and had no idea of who I was or what was being said or done in the courts. I have dealt with the legal system in my business(s) for many decades and she is quite possibly the worst I have had to deal with. I wish I would not have hired her and hope someone else does not make the same mistake I made.
And of the several attorneys I hired Ms. Keon was the most expensive even though she was the shortest duration of representation and accomplished the least. Again, the system is broke - by design. Ms. Keon does not help the cause.
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26 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
Barbara Keon represented me in my divorce. Throughout this long process, she remained extremely professional and caring. Barbara knew every small detail of my case, knew the laws that applied to my case and was always very well prepared. She is talented, experienced, and practices with high integrity. I would not hesitate to recommend her to anyone in need of a talented, smart, assertive attorney. I have nothing but positive things to say about working with Barbara Keon and her staff.
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14 Mar, 2017 by Jo ann
Barbara Keon was my lawyer in divorce proceedings that resulted in a court hearing, judge's ruling and in a repeat case 2 years later. She was always professional and by letting me be very involved in the research, collection of information and decisions on approach to the case saved me money and built up my confidence and self esteem which was at a low ebb. I always felt that she was looking out for my best interest and could not have been happier with the outcome. Years later we are still in contact and I cannot thank her and her office enough for their work.
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4.0
3 Reviews
25 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
I have worked with Charla for the last several years on a Settlement Agreement, Settlement Modification, and a few annoying odds and ends. She has always gotten me the results I was looking for and created a great situation for my family.
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17 Jan, 2014 by Anonymous
I wrote the 1st review. Since that time, my settlement agreement has seen a lot of activity. It was and is a huge waste of money and time. I was persuaded by Ms. Strawser to trade assets for 'final decision making authority on my children". Final decision means nothing unless, I have primary custody. I can't imagine Ms. Strawser didn't know that. Towards the end of her representation of me, Ms. Strawser was going through some personal issues and it effected her behavior, her decisions and ultimately, my case. and my children. I contacted the managing partner of her firm who alerted Ms. Strawser of my concerns. Ms. Strawser was unmoved. As well, Ms. Strawser told me to wait to call the police on a molestation incident that occurred during the course of our divorce. That was horrific advice and still affects my daughter's custody issue. Since that time, Ms. Strawser has made every attempt to malign me to anyone who would listen. While Ms. Strawser's behavior was unprofessional and cause of grave concern, the repercussions of her advice are still being felt and paid for today. I wouldn't recommend Ms. Strawser, 2 1/2 years post divorce. I paid well into six figures and am still paying to try to have the worthless Settlement Agreement. . .enforced. Her advice was not accurate and has in fact, been harmful. Her gossiping about her clients is most unprofessional. I suggest you keep looking. . .
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12 Aug, 2011 by Anonymous
Charla has been a blessing. She is calm, smart, strategically 2 steps ahead and is fair. After hiring the "best divorce lawyer" in Atlanta. . .who was a nightmare, Charla, stepped in and took over my case seamlessly. I would and have recommended her to my friends. She is well respected by her peers and judges, intelligent, articulate and easy to get along with. . .even through times of intense emotions. She is a great lawyer, a strong advocate, adviser, a tough negotiator and is trustworthy.
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08 Jun, 2012 by Anonymous
Julia has been handling my case and has done a great job. She is responsive and even calls back on a Sunday if need be.
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28 Aug, 2012 by Anonymous
I hired attorney Thomas after a bad experience with a previous attorney. I was battling a DUI less safe charge. After YEARS of the previous attorney giving me the run around, I found Attorney Thomas. From our first consultation, my concerns were eased. He was knowlegable about the process in addition, he was extremely responsive. A compliant I had with my previous attorney. He had a great relationship not only with the police officer (very important) he seemed to be well respected by the judge. He was able to work out a resolution that satisfied all parties. Again, well worth the money.
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19 Sep, 2024 by Patricia johnson
03 Sep, 2024 by Susan breazeale
I have dealt with Deming Parker for 23 years and until now, my service has been superior. However, this year I have waited 5 weeks for Attorney Phelps to write a letter on my behalf, I called on a Wednesday for an attorney call back and it is Tuesday and I STILL have not spoken to an attorney about my matter!!!! The young man on the phone was rude and condescending and not one person has said "I am sorry you are having these issues" or even acted like this was unacceptable, which apparently this is the standard of their service these days! Someone at Deming Parker needs to get their head out of the sand and fix these problems NOW!!!
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20 Aug, 2024 by James shelton
This law firm is the worst. Michael Peterson acts like he is interested when you are about to give him your credit card number on top of your legal shield. Then as soon as you pay he treats you like you the bad person. When you request a refund, he keeps charging you even though he filed papers saying he is no longer you attorney. This law firm made me cancel my Legal Sheld. They owe me $1000 but even though they have not been my attorney for 2 months they keep sending me invoices for the work. I am down to $200 now. I wonder if I will even see that or will they send me another bill. This place is a joke, bottom feeder attorneys.
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19 Sep, 2024 by Patricia johnson
03 Sep, 2024 by Susan breazeale
I have dealt with Deming Parker for 23 years and until now, my service has been superior. However, this year I have waited 5 weeks for Attorney Phelps to write a letter on my behalf, I called on a Wednesday for an attorney call back and it is Tuesday and I STILL have not spoken to an attorney about my matter!!!! The young man on the phone was rude and condescending and not one person has said "I am sorry you are having these issues" or even acted like this was unacceptable, which apparently this is the standard of their service these days! Someone at Deming Parker needs to get their head out of the sand and fix these problems NOW!!!
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20 Aug, 2024 by James shelton
This law firm is the worst. Michael Peterson acts like he is interested when you are about to give him your credit card number on top of your legal shield. Then as soon as you pay he treats you like you the bad person. When you request a refund, he keeps charging you even though he filed papers saying he is no longer you attorney. This law firm made me cancel my Legal Sheld. They owe me $1000 but even though they have not been my attorney for 2 months they keep sending me invoices for the work. I am down to $200 now. I wonder if I will even see that or will they send me another bill. This place is a joke, bottom feeder attorneys.
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13 Apr, 2023 by Andrea moreland
08 Apr, 2023 by Lee li
The male receptionist at the firm was very professional. Answering all of my questions and had a very pleasant disposition.
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27 Mar, 2023 by Robert sumners
13 Apr, 2023 by Andrea moreland
08 Apr, 2023 by Lee li
The male receptionist at the firm was very professional. Answering all of my questions and had a very pleasant disposition.
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27 Mar, 2023 by Robert sumners
13 Apr, 2023 by Andrea moreland
08 Apr, 2023 by Lee li
The male receptionist at the firm was very professional. Answering all of my questions and had a very pleasant disposition.
Read more
27 Mar, 2023 by Robert sumners
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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.
