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07 Nov, 2020 by Stephen pereira
Great Attorney and a great teacher of law.
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28 May, 2019 by Anonymous
Specifically I telephone Mr. Litchfield after spending days of anguish from my father dying and not understanding his Trust and Will. Mr. Litchfield said he'd speak with me within the next hour if I was available. I drove over and with ease and grace he answered every question I had without judgement and answered questions I didn't think. He told me exactly what to expect over the next few months. He was sympathetic when needed and consistently professional. I felt content and at ease after we finished talking. Mr Litchfield never looked at a clock or asked for any funds upon the conclusion of or discussion. Upon returning home I looked at his website to learn he is a beautiful faithful Christian and I will praise God he was in my life at this time. I will pray for many people to come to have his services and read his books he has authored.
God Bless you Mr. Litchfield
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24 May, 2019 by Chris rafforty
23 Apr, 2024 by Ray hostetter
James was no nonsense, to the point, yet very understanding to my plight
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05 Apr, 2024 by Ken fangpnilo
James gave me his full attention. From the first phone call I felt like he was my therapist. We talked openly during my consultation. Right away he got to work. I absolutely recommend James Moore to help you through a very difficult process.
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28 Jan, 2024 by Masker family
To say that I am happy with the service provided by James Moore would be a gross understatement. I hired Mr. Moore for a step-parent adoption. This was a sensitive case and Mr. Moore handled it with knowledgeable professionalism to help us succeed in making our family complete. We are incredibly grateful. He is kind, honest, understanding, intelligent, warm, and incredibly good at his craft. Mr. Moore was a pleasure to work with. I highly recommend his services if you’re in need of a skillful attorney.
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20 Apr, 2023 by Lottie ives-rock
20 Mar, 2022 by Kevin letcher
My daughter called me on a Friday with a very difficult situation. I walked her over to their office having utilized their services prior.. Chris was working on the case and set that aside taking the time to walk my daughter through her situation and assisted with getting paperwork drafted and drawn up. They were amazing and helped give her piece of mind over the weekend. Thank you very much Chris.
Sincerely Kevin Letcher
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20 May, 2021 by Rhonda tyra
It was a little intimidating when I went for my appointment to meet up with Chris. I felt Very comfortable I just wish I new what I needed to say and here for one hour of consulting. Time is expensive but I really think he would not waste any time at all and I wish I could afford him. Thanks Chris for your time
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21 Dec, 2018 by Scott
Sara handled my case very efficiently and professionally. Despite the circumstances of why I retained her services, she made the experience as painless as possible. She was very timely in her response to my questions and she kept me updated as to any changes in the status of my case. I would highly recommend her for any family law needs.
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21 Dec, 2018 by Dara
Sara is the main reason I was able to finally get a fair court hearing and be heard properly by the judge. She was very concise and direct with the judge on what I desire to achieve. She also provided great advice for me on what would be the best approach in hostility with the other party.
Sara isn’t just an awesome lawyer but she is also a wonderful friend to have too.
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14 Jan, 2017 by Anonymous
Sara patiently listened, offered concise and knowledgeable answers to my questions concerning legal actions with regards to my pending divorce. When I am prepared to file with the courts, Sara will definitely be my legal representation.
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06 Feb, 2020 by Rick acevedo
Best landlord in Northern California that I know. Friendly and prompt with whatever needs repair in apartments.
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12 Dec, 2018 by Robert barger
11 Oct, 2016 by Mike h
Geri Bray took my case after 2 other attorneys sold me out and threw me to the wolves and she was able to bring it back to a nice settlement for me. She went up against the so called "pit bull" of divorce attorneys Judy Burger and was a force to reckon with. I was with my wife for 24 years and married 18 of those and I got out of there with no alimony forever, kept the house and all the belongings, my 401K, my 1000 hours vacation pay, and it cost me a third of what the last two idiots charged me. She is the real deal folks. If you want solid family law representation from an experienced attorney with a heart that will listen to your story go see Geri Bray. You won't regret it one of the best decisions of my life.
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14 Aug, 2024 by Harry scarborough
For the better part of nine months, David Frank and his firm represented us in a lawsuit over a real estate dispute that became very contentious. Having no prior experience with legal issues - despite numerous real estate transactions - we were truly lucky to have engaged David to represent us. He and his staff kept us fully apprised throughout and worked diligently to expedite the process. David exemplified professionalism yet recognized the benefits of levity. Many thanks to the Frank Law Group for their efforts on our behalf!
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29 May, 2024 by Jacque martinez
Laura Strasser is a wonderful attorney. She helped me through an extremely stressful and difficult divorce. I am grateful for her caring nature during the times that were emotional and for her strength and knowledge when she needed to stand up and fight for me. I would highly recommend Laura and her team.
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02 Oct, 2023 by Lynn griggs
I am so thankful that I hired Zachary Merliss from Cohen Defense group. He was amazing. He handled my case with care and complete skill. He was always available if I had a question. Zachary was proficient in dealing with several different assistant DA's. He was knowledgeable about the law and what Law Enforcement tries to get away with. I am so grateful for his carefully thought out plan of defense, four different events and Zachary was spot on every time, with a plan of action. I cant thank him enough.
Five stars
Lynn G
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14 Aug, 2024 by Harry scarborough
For the better part of nine months, David Frank and his firm represented us in a lawsuit over a real estate dispute that became very contentious. Having no prior experience with legal issues - despite numerous real estate transactions - we were truly lucky to have engaged David to represent us. He and his staff kept us fully apprised throughout and worked diligently to expedite the process. David exemplified professionalism yet recognized the benefits of levity. Many thanks to the Frank Law Group for their efforts on our behalf!
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29 May, 2024 by Jacque martinez
Laura Strasser is a wonderful attorney. She helped me through an extremely stressful and difficult divorce. I am grateful for her caring nature during the times that were emotional and for her strength and knowledge when she needed to stand up and fight for me. I would highly recommend Laura and her team.
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02 Oct, 2023 by Lynn griggs
I am so thankful that I hired Zachary Merliss from Cohen Defense group. He was amazing. He handled my case with care and complete skill. He was always available if I had a question. Zachary was proficient in dealing with several different assistant DA's. He was knowledgeable about the law and what Law Enforcement tries to get away with. I am so grateful for his carefully thought out plan of defense, four different events and Zachary was spot on every time, with a plan of action. I cant thank him enough.
Five stars
Lynn G
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14 Aug, 2024 by Harry scarborough
For the better part of nine months, David Frank and his firm represented us in a lawsuit over a real estate dispute that became very contentious. Having no prior experience with legal issues - despite numerous real estate transactions - we were truly lucky to have engaged David to represent us. He and his staff kept us fully apprised throughout and worked diligently to expedite the process. David exemplified professionalism yet recognized the benefits of levity. Many thanks to the Frank Law Group for their efforts on our behalf!
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29 May, 2024 by Jacque martinez
Laura Strasser is a wonderful attorney. She helped me through an extremely stressful and difficult divorce. I am grateful for her caring nature during the times that were emotional and for her strength and knowledge when she needed to stand up and fight for me. I would highly recommend Laura and her team.
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02 Oct, 2023 by Lynn griggs
I am so thankful that I hired Zachary Merliss from Cohen Defense group. He was amazing. He handled my case with care and complete skill. He was always available if I had a question. Zachary was proficient in dealing with several different assistant DA's. He was knowledgeable about the law and what Law Enforcement tries to get away with. I am so grateful for his carefully thought out plan of defense, four different events and Zachary was spot on every time, with a plan of action. I cant thank him enough.
Five stars
Lynn G
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11 Apr, 2024 by Lee sims
Margaret Fulton is an excellent attorney. Her staff is very responsive and knowledgeable. Our family has put our trust in her to protect us with living trusts for decades. If you are looking for a top notch attorney to help you protect your home and assets, then Margaret Fulton is who you should see.
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30 Oct, 2023 by John ford
Excellent organized efficient
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21 Sep, 2023 by Botanical beauty
Steve North and Nicole provided invaluable assistance during my divorce process. Their office's emphasis on addressing the challenging issues that can arise after a divorce truly sets them apart.
Together, they formed a formidable team that offered not only legal expertise but also emotional support during a difficult period in my life.
I would wholeheartedly recommend to anyone seeking assistance with their divorce. Their experience and commitment to their clients make them a reliable choice.
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11 Apr, 2024 by Lee sims
Margaret Fulton is an excellent attorney. Her staff is very responsive and knowledgeable. Our family has put our trust in her to protect us with living trusts for decades. If you are looking for a top notch attorney to help you protect your home and assets, then Margaret Fulton is who you should see.
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30 Oct, 2023 by John ford
Excellent organized efficient
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21 Sep, 2023 by Botanical beauty
Steve North and Nicole provided invaluable assistance during my divorce process. Their office's emphasis on addressing the challenging issues that can arise after a divorce truly sets them apart.
Together, they formed a formidable team that offered not only legal expertise but also emotional support during a difficult period in my life.
I would wholeheartedly recommend to anyone seeking assistance with their divorce. Their experience and commitment to their clients make them a reliable choice.
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26 Apr, 2022 by Jim steed
Chandra is an outstanding attorney and deserves nothing less than 5 stars. She represented me in 2013 and 2014 through a divorce and her advice, counsel and guidance saved me hundreds of thousands of dollars. You may notice that almost all of her negative reviews are not from clients. She is outstanding in family law and will always be the one I recommend to my friends and family.
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10 Jun, 2021 by Rebecca hope
UPDATE 7/17/2020: I received correspondence from this office regarding my google review. Be aware that reviews you write could potentially bring you undesirable results!
I would not recommend Chandra for any Family Law proceedings. At times she was condescending of me and she did little to nothing to resolve my case. She consistently had an excuse as to why she could not appear and she did not perform due diligence in researching the avenues available to represent me in court regarding the laws which were clearly being broken and the contempt being committed by the other party of my case. I wasted all of my savings on her to end up in a worse position than when I started. She is inept in understanding and navigating domestic abuse and manipulation of the court system by abusers in custody cases and is unable to perform at a level which is expected of her in regards to dealing with narcissistic personality disorder and post-separation abuse, which she touts being exceptionally knowledgeable about. I am extremely dissatisfied with her services. I also reached out to her office to request an itemized receipt of all my expenses over the course of the time she “served” me, yet never received that information, only excuses and promises of a call back which was never received. Find another attorney, especially if your impetus for seeking an attorney is the well being of your children in family law disputes or custody proceedings.
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10 Jun, 2021 by Pamela reilley
Opposing counsel and all future and past clients take notice. Ms. Miller uses gaslighting and frequently launches personal attacks, fabrications, and makes disparaging comments about the targeted spouse/parent that she knows are NOT true. She is “unprofessional” and “unethical.” I know divorce is not easy, but working together with your partner is really going to save you a lot of money and help you reach a common goal. I wish I knew that then! Sadly, Ms. Miller is incapable of helping anyone achieve a common goal. She antagonizes and upsets the other party while trying to convince you she is compassionate and on your side only to rack up your legal fees by encouraging the court to schedule court date after court date...in hindsight I realize that now. All the while you are paying her to prepare and appear in court on your behalf. She preyed on me while I was trying to work through a difficult time in my life. For that, I would never recommend her!
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10 Feb, 2014 by Anonymous
Absolutely would not recommend John. He never returned telephone calls nor emails even when my child was in a crisis situation. He wrongly told me we had to go to court in Tahoe when we could and I would have preferred court in Roseville. He wrongly told me I could dismiss the court appointed therapist and it is public record. After the therapist saw that, he wrote a scathing court recommendation for my kid and retaliated that nearly cost me custody of my daughter. I have spent nearly $30,000 trying to get my daughter back and John blamed it on me. He is expensive, and lies. Do Not Use!!
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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.
