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05 Apr, 2024 by Kyla
Chris Kirker is definitely the man you want sitting next to you rather than across from in the court room. He proved that every single time he stepped foot in that courthouse. As a domestic violence victim, he provided me the feeling of safety, confidence, understanding, and eagerness to do what was right. I have nothing but gratitude and admiration for Chris Kirker and his firm Kirker Davis. It was a special experience seeing the level of knowledge, skill, and care Chris takes in his cases. I recommend him for everything Family Law including but not limited to domestic violence and unique cases. Not to mention the special work he and his wife do in our community, they are such good people with such big hearts.
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12 Feb, 2019 by Anonymous
Kirker Davis is a truly special firm. They have helped get me through the most challenging time in my life. Divorce is difficult enough, but when there is alot of contention, it makes it even worse. I hired Chris Kirker and his team 10 months ago. I was the underdog. I was a mess. From the very beginning, they had a strategy based on my particular case. They executed the strategy with respect, skill, experience, passion and precision. Each and every litigation event was a victory for us and accomplished with the utmost integrity. Chris Kirker, Ashley Morgan, Julie Hill and many others in the firm worked tirelessly for me. They maintained excellent communication and response. No question was too much. They held my hand, reassured me with honesty, listened to me, explained things to me, were compassionate and respectful, AND extremely understanding. They are just really good people. I am truly grateful to have found Chris, Ashley and the KD team to represent me. They gave their tremendous expertise and extraordinary talent to my case, and got me to the other side against seemingly impossible odds.
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27 Jul, 2018 by Wei
I found Chris Kirker thru Avvo with awesome reviews. Shortly after I called, they set up the first appointment very quickly which made the firm stand out easily and left me a great first impression when I need the help right away.
Chris has broad experience and solid knowledge & expertise which is a great fit for my case given the complexities due to my international marriage and child custody.
Going thru a divorce is difficult. To make it as smooth as possible, Chris helped me have a comprehensive understanding of divorce process and set up proper expectations with thorough strategies. He listened to me carefully and fully understood my concerns and priorities. It is a great relief for me that his firm took care of the case with my kids and my best interests in mind all the time.
The whole team are very dedicated, proactive, professional, and always there for me when I need recommendations or support. Thanks to them, I am confident to go thru this lengthy divorce. I really appreciate everything they have done to make the divorce as easy as it could be.
Highly recommend Chris and his firm to anyone who is looking for a strong, trustworthy and caring team.
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18 Aug, 2023 by Christine
I hired Travis after receiving glowing reviews from a local moms group! I was not disappointed!! Travis was compassionate, understanding and super helpful during the worst time of my life! He was able to read my now ex, like a book, and stayed on top of everything. Travis was able to get me the best deal in spousal/child support, and even fought for things I didn’t know I needed! So thankful to have had Travis by my side, fighting for me and my boys!
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08 Feb, 2023 by Jennifer
Travis Turner has been our divorce attorney for many years. My husband unfortunately agreed to a poorly drafted divorce decree in 2008, which led to many years of ongoing conflict with his ex-spouse. Travis worked tirelessly on our behalf. He was able to negotiate a modification to the original divorce decree, leading to thousands of dollars saved in unnecessary spousal support. Additionally, over the last 10 years, Travis has assisted in resolving ongoing custodial arguments, as well as, dismissing false claims to child support arrears. In so many ways, Travis Turner has been a voice of reason amidst a tremendous amount of stress. I know it is Travis Turner’s job, but it is our life, and I feel that he went above and beyond. I would recommend, without reservation, Travis Turner and his law firm to anyone going through a complex or contentious divorce. They are the best in Austin!
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30 Jan, 2023 by Nancy
Travis Turner of BurnettTurner helped me through a difficult time in my life. He was exceptionally professional, knowledgeable and compassionate in navigating my divorce. I was always well informed of the process and what options were available to me. His office staff and paralegal were always quick to respond and helpful. I highly recommend Travis and BurnettTurner for anyone needing help, answers or assistance with any personal or family matters.
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06 Nov, 2023 by Dana
INCREDIBLE! There are not enough stars available for Scott in this review option! Scott has been incredible throughout the entirety of an extremely difficult and lengthy family court trial. He is brilliant and dedicated and tough, all while remaining cool and professional, but very clearly stating the issues in my case. He has been steadfast and tough-as-nails, while, all at the same time, sensitive to my family’s and my most emotionally difficult times. I would highly recommend Scott to my very closest, dearest, most-loved friend or family member.
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13 Jan, 2022 by Rick
Scott helped us through the difficult process of divorce with kindness, fairness, and humor. He presented information clearly and provided us with detail information to make proper decisions.
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17 Dec, 2021 by Laura
My experience with Thompson Law was most impressive. Scott is a talented, thorough, and responsive attorney who guided me through every step of the way. I am grateful for him and his legal team.
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14 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
Highly recommended
I consulted Mr Perry
I like his advise, he is honest, I recommend him to everyone
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20 May, 2022 by Pat
Ditto to all the great reviews !! He is all those things and much more!! Incredible attorney !! Our case was overwhelming and he took care of us! We were not offered a plea bargain, straight to trial. Two felonies manslaughter and negligent homicide. A car accident that was truly a tragic accident but charges were filed anyway. It is true Perry brings in highly experienced people on his team. These things can be so complicated. In court Perry was exceptional. He knows when to be humble, but never intimated, and when he needed to be fierce he was!!
Three day trial with not guilty on both charges!! (The jury took Under 30 minutes to decided) We are forever grateful ! Still our friend today !
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30 Aug, 2019 by Debi
In despair I called his office at 5:15 on a week night 3 days before my daughters 1st court appearance. I received a call back at 9:00 pm from Mr. Minton. He put me at ease immediately and told me he would help us. By the time we went in to our consultation the 1st court date had been reset and he handled everything from there. This man was my Angel. I had never needed a lawyer for anything much less my teen child. He worked with us when no one else would return calls and the court appointed attorneys couldn’t help us. I would recommend Mr Minton to everyone.
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20 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
Karen was very informative, she gave me a better understanding from the information I provide red her with. Very upfront and honest. I felt really comfortable tell about my situation. I feel hopeful and positive after speaking with her
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06 Apr, 2021 by Michelle
I could not be more grateful to have found Karen Wang. I am extremely impressed by her direct approach, personable skills, honesty, wisdom and passion. This woman gave me the confidence I needed to work through my case and I don't think I could've done it without her. We had a favorable outcome through her guidance and Iwould highly recommend her for anyone going through a family case, especially with children involved. She is responsive, understanding and detail oriented. Thank you for working with me, Karen!
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17 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
Karen has been a fantastic resource for us. She is passionate, confident, articulate, knowledgeable, and experienced. Her communication is easy to understand, direct, and prompt. She was not afraid to give us the difficult truths, but also walked us down paths of reasonable solutions. Our engagement with her thus far has been less than a month, and yet she accomplished the limited contracted services quicker than expected. I recommend that you reach out to Karen for foster/ adoptive legal representation to see if she is a good fit for you.
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03 Jun, 2023 by Katie
I have been working with Micah for almost two years to address a complicated and challenging family court matter. From start to finish, his professionalism, expertise, and dedication to my case were unparalleled. I highly recommend Micah and his firm to anyone in need of family law services.
Micah and his team are capable and responsive. They are not only well-versed in the legal intricacies surrounding my case, but also take the necessary time to translate legal jargon into plain language to make it more understandable. Micah took the time to listen attentively to my concerns and thoroughly understand the unique dynamics of my family situation.
Throughout the entire process, their communication was outstanding. Micah promptly returned my calls and emails, keeping me informed at every step. This open line of communication reassured me and made me feel supported during what could have been an overwhelming and stressful time. Micah patiently answered my questions and provided valuable guidance, always ensuring I had a clear understanding of my options and the potential outcomes.
One aspect that truly sets Micah apart is his compassionate and empathetic approach. He displayed an exceptional level of sensitivity and understanding, ensuring that my emotional needs were met while still aggressively advocating for my legal rights.
Most importantly, Micah is an excellent attorney. He puts in the time to build a strong strategy and then executes that strategy with meticulous attention to detail. He fought tirelessly for a favorable resolution, and I am truly grateful for the positive outcome he achieved on my behalf.
In conclusion, if you are searching for a family law attorney, look no further. This attorney's exceptional knowledge, excellent communication, compassionate approach, and formidable advocacy skills make them a standout choice. I wholeheartedly recommend their services to anyone in need of a dedicated and trustworthy family law attorney. They truly have your best interests at heart and will go above and beyond to achieve the best possible outcome.
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21 Apr, 2023 by Anonymous
If you are looking for a divorce attorney, it is important to find someone who is experienced, knowledgeable, and compassionate. After researching and working with a few attorneys, I highly recommend Micah as a top-notch divorce lawyer.
From the first consultation, Micah was professional, personable, and reassuring. He took the time to listen to my concerns and understand my situation, while also being upfront about the challenges and potential outcomes of my case. I appreciated his honesty and transparency throughout the entire process.
Micah was also very responsive and communicative, promptly returning phone calls and emails and keeping me updated on any developments in my case. He is always available to answer my questions and provide guidance, which made a stressful situation much easier to handle.
Most importantly, Micah achieved an outcome in my case that exceeded my expectations. His expertise and advocacy were instrumental in securing a fair settlement that protected my rights and interests.
Overall, I cannot recommend Micah highly enough. If you are seeking a divorce attorney who is skilled, compassionate, and dedicated to achieving the best possible outcome for their clients, Micah is the right choice.
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11 Apr, 2023 by George
Divorce sucks! Micah and his team made us suck less! Not only are they patient and understanding but they’re professionals who help you stay focused and be as objective as possible. That itself is a difficult feat because to many, family legal disputes represent the worst times in people’s lives. I was valued well, represented well and cared for professionally.
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25 Sep, 2023 by Julia
ana and her team are truly supportive advocates. She walked me through my custody journey, explained everything, was so quick to respond, and offered so much comfort during such a stressful experience.
Even after my case is over, Ilana takes my calls and answers my questions that come up.
She’s not an attorney, she’s a powerhouse support system that I’m lucky enough to have in my life.
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15 Aug, 2023 by Kristin
If you're searching for a lawyer who will not only fight fiercely for your rights but also provide you with unwavering support and guidance, look no further than Ilana Tanner. Ilana and her staff are an exceptional advocates and a true professionals who will go above and beyond to ensure the best possible outcome for you. They treated me with respect and empathy, making me feel like more than just a case file. It was evident that they genuinely wanted the best for me, both legally and personally.
Thanks to Ilana and Nisreen's unwavering dedication and exceptional legal skills, my case had an outcome that surpassed all expectations. I can confidently say that I wouldn't have achieved such a positive resolution without their guidance and support.
I wholeheartedly recommend Ilana Tanner and her staff to anyone in need of legal representation.
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01 Dec, 2022 by Amy
When I needed a lawyer for a divorce from out of state, Ilana called me back right away. She and her team are very responsive and effective. My settlement was very fair and I give Ilana all the credit!
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20 Aug, 2020 by Sara
Mr. Forest Cook was a godsend to me, and he represented me in my divorced this past year. He inspired confidence that I needed to make it through one of the most trying times in my life. During this time, one can be very frazzled and weak. Mr. Cook did nothing, but fill be with encouragement and advice. His confidence made me feel at peace and it was easy to trust him, even when trust was a serious issue for me at this point of time. He provided creative solutions that have helped me become a better parent in addition to sound, realistic family legal advice. I never felt like Mr. Cook held any sort of judgment against me or any of my views, opinions, or actions. When one is going through a divorce, one can have 100% support from friends and family, or one can have no support at all. Forest provided all the support that I needed; legally and emotionally. He put my child first and worked tirelessly on my case to ensure the best possible outcome. His tactile handling of my divorce was smooth and professional. Forest is an excellent communicator. He was truly clear and concise. He educated me during the beginning, middle, and final steps of the process. He followed up on emails and phone calls in a timely matter and even put aside his personal time to meet with me. Going through this divorce was one of the hardest things I have ever had to do. I am so grateful that I had Forest Cook by my side throughout the process. His sound advice saved me a lot of money, time, and heartache. I am truly appreciative to have had such an experienced lawyer representing me in my divorce. I highly recommend Mr. Forest Cook!
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24 Jul, 2020 by Elaine
I hired Mr. Cook to assist me in dealing with my tenants and in dealing with the City regarding a commercial piece of property. Not only is Mr. Cook knowledgeable about the law in this area, but he is practical and approaches the issues with a good sense of humor! We have had to meet with our tenants when they were not following the lease terms, and we’ve had to meet with the City when they have proposed changes that affect our property. In every case, Mr. Cook has worked on my behalf to settle issues without having to go to court by using logic, reason and a true desire to find a workable solution for everyone involved. He keeps me informed of the progress of an issue and has always been patient with me and my endless questions – to which he has the answers! I recently sold this property, and Mr. Cook handled the closing in his office. It was the easiest closing I’ve ever done. I’m happy to recommend Mr. Cook for your real estate needs.
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24 May, 2020 by Anonymous
I rarely spend the time to review someone but for Forest Cook I simply had to. After having to switch legal counsel a few times in a rather contentious and very complex (multiple properties here and abroad) divorce, I can only be grateful to have found The right lawyer to lean on during the most difficult time in my life. They say the number one complaint people with the need to hire one will have, is: “my lawyer is not spending enough time on my case”. Well, that might ring true with many and seem that way, at times, but with Forest’s long time legal expertise and remarkable capacity to read people, one thing is certain: results! You will not regret having this guy in your corner!
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26 Feb, 2024 by Bill happel
Outstanding service, communication, attention to detail and results. They could not have been better.
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25 Nov, 2020 by Mario montemayor
I highly recommend Doan law firm. Jimmy Doan and team are all very knowledgeable of their jobs. Everyone is professional, kind and they make you feel like your their #1 priority, they explained the process and got right to work. I would recommend them to ANYONE who came my way.
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07 Oct, 2018 by Liliana camarena
Had a great experience with this law firm. I really recommend them.
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17 Sep, 2021 by Dara
I’m not sure about her pricing but I promise you she’s worth it. She’s quick on her feet and FIERCE! She wasn’t my lawyer but she ate my lawyer and I alive. Highly recommend. Definitely the person you’d want on your team. Well versed, seems to have a great reputation with judges and is incredibly smart.
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11 Aug, 2021 by Michele
We have been in a 5-year custody battle for our grandson and thankfully have had the pleasure of Michele Locke being our attorney for the past 2 of those years. She is very supportive and extremely knowledgeable about family law which was key in our case. Our previous lawyer seemed to fall off the planet, but Ms. Locke took our case and worked diligently over the two years to prepare our case for trial and was flawless during the 2-day trial. Ms. Locke, we simply do not have the words to describe how thankful we are for your consistent guidance and putting up with our questions, and calming our fears. Her paralegal, Juan Diaz, is also amazing to work with. Juan kept us up to date on all matters and when Ms. Locke was busy he would step in and help us whenever he could. We never felt out of the loop or had concerns our needs were not going to be met - this is a dynamic duo if we ever saw one. Thank you to you both and your team.
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16 Jun, 2021 by Melissa
I consulted with and then hired Michele Locke in September 2020. She is the 4th attorney I have worked with since 2013. I wish I had met her 8 years ago. She is BY FAR THE MOST CAPABLE AND KNOWLEDGEABLE attorney I have interviewed and/or hired. Having been and still presiding as a Judge, Michele brings a unique perspective that most attorneys cannot provide. She is direct, succinct and concise in her delivery in the court room which makes her a force to be reckoned with. And when you hire Michele, you are not hiring JUST Michele...you are also gaining the knowledge and capabilities of her amazing paralegal, Juan Diaz. The two of them make THE MOST PERFECT TEAM! I read so many reviews before I hired Ms. Locke and so many referred to Juan and how integral he is to the process. I had NO IDEA how spot on those reviews were until I hired Michele. I hired Michele to defend me in a VERY high conflict custody modification lawsuit brought against me by my NAPD ex-husband. I needed THE BEST attorney I could find and that is EXACTLY what I received. Trust me, I have talked to and hired many attorneys in Wilco and Travis County. There is no one better than Michele Locke and her Paralegal Juan Diaz. Over the course of 10 months, Ms. Locke has walked with me through mediation, Discovery, a postponed hearing, a partial hearing and a full day hearing. Each time Michele MADE SURE I was COMPLETELY prepared for whatever situation I would be encountering. I could go on and on, however there simply are not adequate words to truly describe my gratitude or adequately endorse Ms. Locke to the degree she deserves. There just aren't. I have known I was in good hands the last 10 months, however what I witnessed in Court yesterday is almost indescribable. You most definitely want to be sitting at the same table as Ms. Locke!!! Because being cross - examined by her is not a pretty picture for the one sitting on the witness stand. My children and I will forever be in her debt.
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07 Feb, 2024 by Marilyn
Amazing expertise and knowledge, focused attention to detail, genuine compassion for clients, strong sense of fairness and prompt follow-up combine to make Attorney John Hennan and his remarkable staff masters of their profession! Their ability to listen attentively, assess situations and discern client needs made me feel at ease during a most onerous time in my life. Their guidance on what to expect and how best to prepare at each juncture was invaluable and spot-on! Vanessa, the paralegal, has a wealth of knowledge, a store of patience, and a bias for action. Attorney John Hennan operates as a well-oiled machine with fairness and the best interest of clients as the goal!
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12 Dec, 2023 by Tazeen
Had the pleasure of hiring John to file a complicated case of divorce involving international assets and custody. With not much legal information where and how to begin, the entire team provided a very dedictated guidance and best advices. John was there every step of the way and was absolutely easy to reach. Well informed case preparation and mediation got me what I was looking for the custody and out of state move. Do not think twice ! He is all equipped to get you through ! Appreciate it John. Best wishes for continued success. So grateful! Thanks
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12 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
John, is an incredible attorney and truly a good person. A rare find in my five year experience in and out of family court.
He is a great listener, direct with his communication, thoughts on the case, and presents orally in the courtroom and depositions with arguments and thought processes well above the average attorney. He was quick to see the truth in my case, read people very well in my opinion (which is a great asset in the courtroom), and lead my case with morals and character
I felt that I not only had excellent representation, but an attorney I could trust that was truly after the best outcome for my children.
I cannot thank him enough for the time and effort and dedication he put into representing me. While there are no guaranteed outcomes in a courtroom you can't go wrong having John on your side.
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04 May, 2024 by Anonymous
Alyse was very attentive to me and my case over a very long and drawn out divorce process. Alyse and her team made themselves readily available to speak with me whenever I needed, were very good with communication and helping set expectations throughout the process. Highly recommend working with Alyse and team if in need of divorce assistance.
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24 Aug, 2023 by Fritz
She is super-sharp, could answer questions that were involved and didn't have a simple yes/no answer, provided great guidance on what to expect, when, how various things might play out, and how the various judges in Travis County might view the facts of the case. On top of that, she's a great negotiator - she was in total command of all the numbers during mediation and was able to give solid counterarguments during that process, and she had rapport with the mediator.
She also was quick to respond and ensure that all my questions were answered throughout my entire case, be it via email, phone calls, or office visits.
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25 Apr, 2023 by Antonio
I am so grateful for the support, guidance, and commitment I've received for my legal team and this firm. I couldn't have done it without you, Alysse, Rachel, Kristin, and everyone at Kirker Davis who supported me throughout my divorce process.
Eternally thankful,
Antonio
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03 May, 2018 by Anonymous
Mrs. Dixon supported me and walked me through what was a scary and somewhat daunting process. She helped me understand the steps necessary for my divorce. She was there for me from start to end. I would gladly recommend her to anyone in need.
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02 May, 2018 by Maggie
Tricia is the absolute best lawyer I could have hired to help with my divorce. She is calm, experienced, powerful, and caring. When I needed reassurance, she was rock solid in restoring my confidence that everything would work out. She helped me feel safe during a very uncertain time by providing me with the answers to any and all questions I had about the divorce process and what I needed to do to prepare for mediation. Tricia understands divorce cases in and out, taking care of clients business and emotional needs. She was always available when I needed her and helped keep mediation proceedings to one day which saved time, energy, and money. With the perfect blend of powerful professionalism and supportive reassurance, hiring Tricia is worth every penny spent and I know she is truly happy to have given me a fresh start.
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30 May, 2017 by Anonymous
Patricia helped me through my divorce and both my ex-husband and I found her to be knowledgeable, professional, and fair. She did a brilliant job of making sure we understood all aspects of our case and made sure we worked in the best interest of our child. I would absolutely recommend her to anyone!
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28 Nov, 2022 by Eric
Sarah recently represented me in my motion for enforcement and my ex-spouse’s petition to modify. Sarah’s demeanor, planning, knowledge of the law, and attention to detail showcased the facts of our case in the most complete, but concise way. I felt the best attribute from Sarah was her ability to be direct and a match for any personality type she encounters. She is kind, empathetic, and caring, but also tactfully assertive when appropriate. Sarah was on the lookout for the best interests of my children at every turn and she is an advocate for children in general as her main focus was the kids in this matter. I would highly recommend her for any good parent involved in a divorce or post-divorce custody matter.
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16 Nov, 2022 by Dani
Sarah packs a legal punch! She knows family law like the back of her hand and can throw out all the necessary jargon without hesitation. My ex husband's legal team didn't know what hit them. I can't recommend her enough!
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10 Aug, 2022 by Matthew
Going through a divorce was the most painful and difficult event in my life to date, but more importantly the future of our daughter Marley was heavy on my mind. As a father/man I felt there was no hope for me seeing our daughter more than I was(few hours a week) and being a part of the decision making in her life due to the way my ex talked to me and threated me. This was a false idea in my head and they were patient and understanding towards my fears and concerns. Sarah, Hailey, Kaitlyn, Alex, and the whole team helped me through every step of the process. I was emotional over many parts of the divorce and they were calming when I needed it and direct with certain things when I need it. I applaud the entire team for being knowledgeable about family law. The divorce took 2+ years, but I was granted joint custody of our daughter with the final decision being mine to make if my ex and I can't agree about education, health, mental health, and other major life decisions for out daughter. I also was granted the right for my home address being where our daughter goes to school along with the the custodial parent's schedule. It was extremely tough to go through a final hearing/trail with a judge, but Sarah and her team were able to display the truth and facts about what was happening and ultimately provide our daughter with the most stable future possible. I highly recommend hiring Sarah and her team if you have children as they absolutely understand that the child comes first. Thank you Sarah, Hailey, Kaitlyn, Alex, and Team!
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23 Jan, 2023 by Guillermo
Will was an exceptional help in my separation and divorce and really looked out for me and helped me not just through the divorce, but the all the life challenges and changes that it brought about. Thanks to him, I was able to regain access to my children and move forward after a nightmarish family situation. I am very grateful for him and would highly recommend him to anyone that needs help through a divorce/separation, etc.
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12 Jan, 2023 by Anonymous
Will was very professional and made a very hard process … smooth and easy. I really appreciated his promptness in getting back to me and keeping me informed.
I would definitely recommend Will for representation.
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01 Mar, 2022 by Caleb
William T. Lachowsky has now helped me sort through two child custody cases, and while I pray that I never need his help again, I can highly recommend his services to anyone needing guidance and counsel during a separation or custody case. His attention and presence are more than you could ask for; always professional, straight-forward and a great judge of the situation at hand and how to best navigate it. I come from a family of lawyers and can honestly say he is more attentive and kinder hearted than all of them. Thank you, Will.
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14 Nov, 2017 by Reggie
Kirker Davis is a top of the line law firm that excels in strategy, execution and victory. As a Line Officer in the Navy with 16 years of service I can credibly assess that their operations are on point and well-greased. Holly and Chris are simply magic in the courtroom: expertly weaving their story on the floor and directing the flow of arguments.
What's more is that they take that extra level of care and customer service when you need it most, making critical calls and responses via email and phone at night and on the weekend should necessity dictate. The result is a pair that exhibits hybrid characteristics of both dedicated hired guns and personal friends and confidants. Kirker Davis advertises concierge level service, and it couldn't be more true.
My case started out very bleak, with multiple significant challenges and obstacles already established when I first walked into the Kirker Davis office. Although I cannot go into the details of my case, Holly, Chris and the rest of the KD team were able to turn the tables from a defensive posture to undeniable forward momentum. I will say if you are facing seemingly insurmountable odds there is no better team to have at your back and side to protect you and achieve the results you're looking for.
Going through a divorce is one of life's greatest challenges should it happen to you. Godspeed to everyone that must journey down this path.
Best regards,
Reggie
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29 Nov, 2016 by Jeff
I hired Holly Davis to represent me in a family law negotiation and am extremely satisfied with the end result. Holly and her team provided me with great advice and the attention I was seeking. I will continue to use Holly in the future and couldn't recommend Kirker Davis enough.
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11 Apr, 2016 by Anonymous
I consulted holly about my sister's divorce case. After listening intently, she offered to review her case free of charge and give sound advice. Some of the advice she gave were the steps we ending up taking throughout her divorce process. One thing I would say about holly is how CARING she is. Going through a divorce is a very difficult and heart-wrenching process and holly pulls through 2,000% with a caring heart but is successful because she is tough and unbelievably smart. This woman is truly the best at what she does. You want her as your lawyer!!!!
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17 Oct, 2024 by Scott
Katherine is one of the best attorney’s in Austin.. Katherine is very responsive and reliable. She made my case a breeze when I did not understand certain things. I would highly recommend Katherine as anyone’s attorney. Thank you Katherine for everything you made happen for me..
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19 May, 2024 by Brett
Navigating the family court system can be terrifying. Finding myself in this position and knowing the battles ahead to fight for possession and decision-making rights for my child was beyond nerve-racking, I wasn't sure where to turn. Enter Katherine Obando…
There aren’t enough characters to adequately describe the attention and care she gave my case. On an interpersonal level, I consistently felt heard and understood – a HUGE relief in dealing with the stressors of the family law process. As my attorney, she made it evident she would FIGHT for me, and she did! I’ll forever be grateful for the amount of attention and energy she gave my case.
STRONGLY recommend!!!
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10 Nov, 2023 by John
I was referred to Katherine by a friend. Katherine and her Team really set the tone for my experience by being very prompt with a response after my initial inquiry. During our initial meeting Katherine was very thorough at explaining to me the process of drafting a prenuptial agreement and was very upfront of the timeline for completion. Katherine was able to breakdown the legal jargon so I could better understand the documents. During our interactions I could tell Katherine cared about me as a client and was very passionate about the work that she does. I highly recommend Katherine.
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5.0
16 Reviews
10 Feb, 2022 by Staci
I sought the counsel of Carlos Salinas for an order of protection from my husband after a very terrifying situation. Carlos was a calming and confident presence during very difficult court proceedings. From the instant I began working with Carlos, it was apparent that he was beyond knowledgeable and experienced with not only family law, but domestic violence and orders of protection as well. Carlos walked me through every step of the process in a manner that was reassuring and comprehensible. It was not just Carlos’s professionalism and expertise that stood out to me however. Carlos was compassionate and relatable. I knew that he genuinely cared, and his sincerity made all the difference while going through such a difficult situation. I never felt like "just a case" to Carlos. It was clear that we were a team, and Carlos was there for support and to fight for me. I am very fortunate to have had Carlos Salinas represent me. I cannot say enough positive praises- I highly recommend Carlos Salinas!
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15 Apr, 2020 by Lisa
I hired Carlos Salinas to handle my divorce last year. He was knowledgeable, reliable and always had my back. We managed to avoid going to court and I felt the way things were settled was very fair.
Unfortunately, months later and a few weeks into the COVID-19 pandemic, a loose end popped up that was out of our control. Carlos quickly rushed to my aid and helped me ensure that the divorce decree was upheld. With all the stress related to the pandemic, I couldn't have imagined going through it alone and was so relieved to have him in my corner.
Thanks Carlos and Team. You're the best!
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12 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
I hired Carlos Salinas to help me dissolve a troubled marriage involving physical and mental abuse by an egocentric ex-partner. The case was made complicated, as I had to deal with further issues that my previous attorney created during my earlier failed mediation process. When I first met him, I was immediately put at ease with his thoughtful and considerate approach to my situation. Carlos dealt my complex divorce case involving shared community property with thorough analysis, understanding the intricacies involved in my case, evaluating all possible options and proposing the best course of action. He was always well prepared for our meetings, having read all the previous paperwork from court and opposing council and was able to explain it all in a straightforward manner. Throughout my various interactions with him, I found that he works with a great amount of diligence and integrity because he cares deeply about his clients and wants to provide them the best possible results. He and his office staff especially Brent are organized and prompt in communications. In the course of this tough time, he supported me by lending me with a listening ear allowing me to take a formidable standpoint. During the court proceedings, I found him to be a strong and passionate litigator, strengthening the trust of his clients with his aggressive but practical approach to the case. Most importantly, he fought for me until the end enabling me to achieve my desired outcome allowing me to move on with a sense of peace and accord. I would highly recommend Carlos Salinas and his firm to anyone dealing with Family Law issues.
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14 Feb, 2024 by Dani
J. is a talented, passionate and skilled attorney. J. is capable of approaching difficult situations with tact and determination. If you hire J., you won’t be disappointed.
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09 Feb, 2024 by Maria
J. helped me out so much when I was going through my divorce. He was very patient with me and always explained every step we took during my divorce process. I highly recommend J. Riggs as a divorce attorney.
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29 Jul, 2023 by Atx twillis
Great firm with great people!
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03 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
I hired Ms. McCoy to handle my divorce from my ex. Me and my ex were not on the best of terms and it had the potential to get really ugly. But she was able to hammer out the details of our divorce without ever having to go to court. I worked with her via email and she was incredible. Ms. McCoy even drafted my wills and health documents to make sure that my kids were protected in case something were to happen to me. I cannot recommend her enough. She is full-service!
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28 Mar, 2017 by Kumar
Aishah is a first rate lawyer. She is completely professional and explained all the options available to me. She was patient and courteous, always prompt with her responses. The best thing about her is that she genuinely cares about the well being of her clients and strives for a win-win outcome at all times. I highly recommend her for any legal help you may need.
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12 Jan, 2017 by Anonymous
I hired Ms.McCoy for a particularly sensitive family law case where there was a need to maintain delicate family relationships despite circumstances. Her professionalism and ability to navigate these circumstances was critical to successful negotiation. I have recommended several people to her and will continue to do so.
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08 Apr, 2021 by A.c.
There is not enough review space available for me to praise Mary Louise. She is an amazing person and incredible attorney. The fate of our family was in her hands and ultimately, we could not be happier with the outcome. She immediately immersed herself into our narrative. She was highly attentive and detail-oriented. It is worth mentioning separately that Mary Louise is very, very sharp-witted. This is not something one learns but it is innate. She is intuitive when it comes to reading others and their intentions. She was thoughtful in every decision and methodical in her approach. She worked tirelessly to address all downstream possibilities in a preemptive fashion. She was exceedingly responsive and efficient with time. She kept me updated on all movements of the case the moment shifts would occur. She is genuine and has a heart for those involved. She listens late at night. Most importantly, Mary Louise has the highest moral/ethical standards. I never had to wonder if our path was in the right. She handled our case with class, professionalism, energy, empathy and commitment. Mary Louise is the representation you want navigating through the most difficult of times. One would be remiss to look any further. She is the very best.
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28 Jul, 2019 by James
Mary Louise is a fantastic divorce attorney that guided me from start to finish through the most difficult experience of my life. From the moment I met her at the initial consultation, I felt her compassion and professionalism. She guided me efficiently and confidently to an amazing outcome for my entire family. The process was highly collaborative, leveraging her deep legal expertise and my insight to formulate an effective approach. I was amazed by her attention to detail, preparation and execution during the deposition and mediation. Mary Louise was able to quickly recall the detailed background I initially provided to effectively navigate issues and reach closure. She efficiently processed new information throughout the entire divorce process and offered insightful recommendations to the decisions I faced. I always felt safe and powerful in her company during the times when there was conflict.
Having someone like Mary Louise by your side through a divorce process is priceless. She is a unique lawyer - someone with deep legal acumen and an understanding of relationships and family dynamics. I admire her spirit, ethics and professionalism to reach an outcome that was in the best interests of my children and me. The best in the business - highly recommended!
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21 Jul, 2019 by Abby
Mary Louise Phelps surpassed any expectations I had for my divorce attorney. Going through the proceedings was a very scary ordeal for me being that it involved money, businesses, and most importantly my two children. I was very nervous about being in the wrong hands. She by far did not disappoint though! I knew after my first meeting with her that it was going to be the right fit. She was there for me any time of the day, and truly had mine and my kids best interest at heart. Mary Louise is an incredibly organized person which was crucial for such a complex divorce such as mine. She was ALWAYS prepared for court, was two steps ahead on everything, and was ready for the unexpected at any time. She is very knowledgeable on the law and helped walk me through each step of the proceedings. From mediation to court, she always came overly prepared. She has a heart of gold but also the bravado in court that demands respect. Her ethics & morals are top notch which was something I highly desired from my legal counsel. My divorce was now final over a year ago - and she still keeps in frequent contact with us. She checks in on us and is always rooting for me and my life. I would highly recommend Mary Louise Phelps to anyone who is looking for an attorney that will take your case seriously and will fight for what is right!
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16 Sep, 2024 by Michael
I had the opportunity to work with Attorney Lianna Garza Smith and her team during a challenging and extended divorce process, and I am extremely thankful for their effective and strategic support. After transitioning from another attorney, Lianna took over my case and made a significant impact with her prompt and efficient handling.
Lianna swiftly assessed the complexities of my situation and developed a clear, strategic plan. Her timely and thorough approach was crucial, particularly when we needed to address the temporary orders hearing before the final decree. She ensured that all necessary steps were taken promptly to secure interim arrangements that supported my child's well-being and stability.
A key focus of my case was child custody, and Lianna was exceptional in managing this sensitive issue. She concentrated on helping me establish protective parenting arrangements, advocating effectively to ensure a stable and secure environment for my son throughout the process.
Lianna’s extensive knowledge of family law and her strategic insight were evident from the start. She provided direct, actionable advice and was consistently available to answer my questions and address my concerns.
If you need a divorce attorney who is both efficient and committed to achieving effective protective parenting arrangements, including handling temporary orders hearings, I highly recommend Attorney Lianna Garza Smith. Her expertise and focus on my child’s well-being were crucial in reaching a favorable outcome.
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01 Feb, 2023 by Neil
Lianna inspired confidence from my first contact with her. Her calming demeanor and good information convinced me to let her handle my divorce, and I believe that was a good decision to this day. She handled my divorce very professionally and respectfully and with favorable results. I can easily recommend Team Lianna for divorce matters.
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29 Apr, 2020 by Anonymous
Lianna was such an incredible and sincere presence during my divorce. I reached out to Kirker Davis and Lianna met with me swiftly to better understand the specifics of my situation. She never made me feel rushed and listened to all the specific details I had to share with regard to my case. Additionally, she did a great job of keeping a compassionate ear while remaining truly objective and on point. Lianna was attentive and leaned heavily on her experience to see me through. Her paralegal, Kate, was also extraordinarily diligent and easy to get ahold of when necessary. I sincerely appreciate them and their amazing work ethic a great deal.
I look forward to working with them, and Kirker Davis if needs arise in the future.
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19 Nov, 2019 by Anonymous
I have worked with many attorneys in my career. David Kazen is a phenomenal attorney and very well versed in his career. He sees his clients a human beings and not as dollar signs like the majority of family lawyers out there. He knows the law and quotes case law when he drafts up a motion. David is the type of lawyer I want protecting me and my family. His paralegal, Mary is an amazing woman and well educated in family law. I couldn’t have hired a better attorney in the Austin area. David did the job he was hired to do and he even refunded me some of my retainer fee, which is very unheard of in family law. He is a top notch and ethical attorney. I highly recommend him!
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29 Mar, 2019 by Lisa
David is an excellent attorney who helped me through a difficult time with his wise and patient counsel. Family law can be a highly charged emotional process, and David calmly guided me through the options available within the legal system.
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25 Jan, 2019 by Kathleen
I hired David Kazen as my divorce attorney. It was important to me that he was a good person and that he would follow what I wanted to happen within the divorce while at the same time being prepared to fight for me if needed. David exceeded my expectations and helped to achieve what was most important to me in my settlement. I would highly recommend David to anyone needing a divorce attorney.
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13 Oct, 2015 by Robert
I had contacted Keith Leuty on a Thursday in need of a divorce attorney by Tuesday the next week. Keith not only accepted my case, but worked through the weekend preparing for my hearing. He also followed through during the entire divorce helping reduce costs in the long run with great representation and advice.
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10 Sep, 2015 by Jeffrey
I contacted Keith Leuty in March 2015 to handle a complicated family law matter. I found Keith to be very knowledgeable, sincere, and professional. He conducted a thorough assessment of the issue and provided me with clear and helpful legal services. I will use Keith for all my legal needs and will recommend him to all my family and friends.
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06 Aug, 2015 by Randy
Keith was instrumental in providing the essential guidance I needed in putting together my wills and trusts to protect my family. His consultation has given me confidence and peace of mind that I am doing things the right way.
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15 Jun, 2017 by Melissa
Katherine Burnstein came highly recommended by another lawyer I've known for years, and worked for nearly 18 months on my divorce and custody case. Katherine possesses a perfect balance of compassion, empathy, and occasional brutal honesty when necessary.
Her years of experience and her clear love of ongoing learning were invaluable in helping me navigate a complex situation that I knew little about. She had the patience and willingness to listen and help me figure out what I wanted and needed, without ever pushing me toward her own conclusions. When the need arose for specialists outside of the field of law to assist with the case, I was very impressed with the experts she brought it.
Katherine showed keen attention to detail, catching little details in the settlement proposals that were either errors or ambiguities. In the end, I benefitted from her ability to catch these details that others might have missed.
Katherine seems to have good working relationships with other family lawyers in town and is respectful, professional, and friendly when communicating with them. When she needs to, however, she has a fierce strength and voice that gets what needs to be done, done.
Going through a divorce is an agonizing experience, and it meant the world to me to have someone like Katherine fighting in my corner and walking with me through that difficult time. I can't recommend her highly enough.
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06 Nov, 2016 by Randi
Kathryn is personable, knowledgeable, articulate, thorough, and patient. From day one, I knew that she was going to be a source of comfort during the most trying time of my life. As someone who has never been involved in any sort of court procedure, I felt at ease because she is the best communicator, explaining the process, my rights and what a realistic outcome would look like. I never knew an attorney could be so encouraging. Kathryn has heart, empathy and she was there with me through the whole thing. Her staff is welcoming and friendly, and everyone in the office is prompt about attending your needs. I will never have to search for a family lawyer again because I lucked out and found the best one in town. On my court date, I felt unbelievably calm and collected because she had prepared me well and I knew exactly what to expect. My case closed with little stress and I know it's because she worked diligently to ensure the best outcome for my child and me. I highly recommend Kathryn, especially if you are aiming to protect your child's rights.
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04 Jul, 2016 by Natalie
Kathryn handled my divorce. She was absolutely intent on making sure I got the very best settlement and on ensuring I understood the repercussions of my decisions during the process. She was direct, especially when she believed I was making decisions against my best interests.
She was also flexible when my now-ex-spouse and I were making unusual requests.
Kathryn was easy to reach when I had questions.
She was supportive, which I very much appreciated.
I don't think I realized quite how well she had represented me until the entire process was complete and I could see how great the settlement turned out for me and the children.
I highly, highly recommend her.
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03 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
I was wrongfully accused of a Title IX infraction. Marc is an exceptional listener and possesses the innate ability to ascertain facts from friction. After discussing my situation, Marc walked me through the Title IX process and explained how we should address the issue. Marc assisted in drafting a response letter to the adjudicate and coached me leading up to the interview. In the end, the accusation was not a Title IX issue, and flaws and false accusations in the claimant's testimony surfaced in which the case was ruled in my favor. I would not have known how to respond and properly defend myself without Marc’s assistance. Finally, Marc was always responsive and his fee for service was reasonable. The value of legal service with winning results is exceptional. Thank you, Marc.
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23 May, 2023 by Val
Words cannot express the gratitude I have for Marc; but I will give my best attempt for anyone going through challenging and distressful legal matters to completely give him your trust!!! I truly did not believe my case would result in being COMPLETELY DISMISSED, and somehow Marc was able to get it done!!!!!
Filtering through my options of attorneys, Marc gave me the best offer of anyone and had my interest even more when he told me he was previously a prosecutor for several years.
I just followed everything Marc guided me to do. He constantly walked me through everything every time we met. The justice system is certainly intimidating, and he made the experience simple from the beginning. He explained what was happening, every outcome and exactly how they came to be, what things to expect, what things to prepare for and how to prepare for them.
Facing a number of F1 charges, getting caught in the wrong place at the wrong time, I was anticipating that I'd have to do probation in the VERY least. Getting my case dismissed entirely still seems unfathomably unbelievable to me, and I am infinitely grateful for everything Marc was able to do for me. The weight of relief I feel is inconceivable! He is incredible at what he does, and I cannot recommend him enough!!!!! I will always recommend him to anyone for as long as he is in the business!
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21 May, 2021 by F.l.m
I hired Marc Chavez for a Title XI case I was named a Respondent for. To put it briefly, he was incredible. He was present at all of my interviews with investigators and provided me with useful legal counsel throughout the entire process. Marc without a doubt is in a class of his own. On the day of our hearing, the Complainant tried pulling a fast one on us by having a surprise witness show up to testify against me. Marc handled the situation amazingly. He managed to stay calm and continue to present our case in a clear and concise manner. If you find yourself being falsely accused of violating Title XI policies at your university, Marc Chavez will be key to your exoneration. I cannot recommend him enough.
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23 May, 2016 by Mike
Garrett Higley and his team are phenomenal from every aspect within family Law. Garrett is extremely knowledgeable, compassionate to your needs, concise, upfront, thorough, fair and simply a great advocate. Him and his team have shown nothing but the utmost respect and attention to detail with my situation and have fought hard for me and my rights. His experience and art of his craft; are apparent and valuable. I would absolutely recommend using Garrett as an attorney if you are in need of an excellent family law practitioner. I could go on and on about how great Garrett and his team are, how they have helped me tremendously through this stressful time in my life and how they actually care about me, my situation and a providing a positive outcome. Let me just say, Garrett was highly recommended to me by another attorney and I highly recommend him to anyone who needs an honest, hardworking and productive family law attorney.
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22 Oct, 2015 by Stacy
I interviewed several attorneys before choosing Mr. Higley. He and his staff handled my case thoroughly and professionally every step of the way. They were always available to address my questions and concerns. Going through a divorce brings a ton of emotional stress. It was good to not have to worry about the competency of my representation along with the life altering changes a divorce brings.
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15 Oct, 2015 by Kimberly
Garrett C. Higley has served as my attorney on more than occasion. His professional attention to every detail of my case, timely return of phone calls and correspondance, as well as superb representation, always put my mind and heart at ease through some difficult circumstances. To say that Garrett is not only an outstanding attorney but also a truly genuine human being would be an understatement. I'll never hire anyone else to represent me should the need arise.
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01 May, 2017 by Ghofran
He's a great lawyer, he did a really great job, He worked out all the problems that we had ,
I surely recommend him
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27 Jun, 2016 by Gilbert
I asked Robert to help me with a difficult family matter involving child custody. His experience was important to my case and his confidence and guidance was exactly what was needed. Although we encountered some difficulties with the opposing attorney, he solved those issues quickly and had my best interests at heart, as his client. I would recommend hiring Robert Kiesling to anyone needing an efficient attorney to get matters resolved.
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08 Jun, 2016 by Patrick
Robert has been there for me through thick and thin, with excellent knowledge of not only Family Law but Criminal law as well and has never hesitated to answer any questions I have had. I hired his services in August of 2015 when my ex-girlfriend filed for Divorce when no marriage ever existed. Robert was quickly able to get that taken care of and removed, so we could focus of setting up visitation with my daughter. Although it has been a rough road thus far Robert has not let me down and continues to work hard for me, and I believe he shall continue to work just as hard until I am able to put this chapter of my life to rest. I would recommend Robert to anyone needing Family Law or Criminal Law services, he is an excellent lawyer and is willing to listen no matter what circumstances may arise.
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09 Jun, 2018 by Gilda
Nikki Hudman was a beacon of hope to my family at a time when our options appeared limited and the likelihood of a satisfactory resolution seemed nigh on impossible. Not only was she able to defend us from an unjust accusation, her calm and empathetic demeanor offered emotional succor to myself and those I care about most. My children and I are eternally grateful for her service and I hereby recommend Ms. Hudman and her excellent team without reservation.”
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21 May, 2015 by Rsu
Bonnie Nicole (Nikki) Hudman was exactly what I wanted and needed in a divorce lawyer. So often, we hear about contentious divorces in which the focus seems to be making the opposing party as miserable as possible. I did not want my case to be like that. Sure, making a cheating spouse go through all kinds of hell would be enormously satisfying; but, after all, that approach only serves to make everyone miserable and runs up your legal fees. I wanted a lawyer who is smart, someone who pays extraordinary attention to the details, and a lawyer who is professional and completely ethical. Nikki fulfilled all those requirements. I never doubted her loyalty to me. I know she had plenty of other clients, but she made me feel as though my case was of the utmost importance. I tried to not call or email her unless I really needed to; but when I did, she was very prompt to respond. When my case went to mediation, I was ready to give into demands from the opposing counsel. She looked me square in the face and said she would not let me do that. She said that I deserved more. Now, eight months later, I'm so happy she did that. I suppose we could have gone to trial to fight for an even greater percentage of the marital property, but Nikki clearly explained the possible benefits and the likely added expense. She definitely had my best interest in mind rather than increasing her legal fees. In the end, I'm very pleased with the outcome. My case finished with a property division I'm happy with, legal fees that weren't too painful, and the knowledge that my lawyer did a top-notch job for me. Best of all, I walked away with my dignity. Can't say that for the other side!
Just a note about Nikki's firm: Everyone that worked on my case was professional and courteous, especially Nikki's assistant. Every time I went to their office, I was treated with respect and kindness. I initially consulted with one of the partners. He suggested that I work with Nikki. He must have known she would be the perfect fit for my needs!
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03 Oct, 2014 by Emma
Nikki was amazing throughout my divorce. She was tough and ready to fight my ex in court if necessary, but was always very empathetic and understanding when I met with her, and respected my wishes. She always kept me informed and made the process as quick and painless as possible. I would recommend her to anyone getting a divorce.
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08 Feb, 2021 by Cassie
Bill and team really are the best. While my very high-conflict divorce was finalized six years ago, my ex continued to drag us back to court over minutia every year since then; that is when I hired Bill.
At ever corner, Bill had my children's best interest in mind. Any advice he gave me, was prefaced with "What is going to be best for your kiddos is..."
Bill has the utmost integrity, is an unflappable professional, and he is a genuinely good person. I highly recommend Bill and his superstar team.
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31 Mar, 2019 by Kipling
Can't recommend Bill Powers and his staff highly enough. Mr. Powers handles all elements of family law--in the diciest situations, when the chips are down, you want someone who has been there before and who has the temperament and expertise to carry the day. Bill Powers is just that attorney, and he is backed up by an efficient and courteous staff. In our case, he saved our family. When family-law issues come into your life, don't make a move without calling Mr. Powers first.
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18 Mar, 2019 by Robert
Bill guided me through my divorce, that started out friendly but ended up very contentious. He dealt with the change and modified our approach on the fly while maintaining a high level of professionalism. Bill's staff was empathetic and efficient which made the process much easier. His advice to me kept the process moving and on track. During mediation, Bill did a great job of getting us to a settlement that I wasn't sure we could make happen. When the dust settled, I'm glad that I had him represent me.
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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.
