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5.0
22 Reviews
4.9
58 Reviews
19 Nov, 2024 by Jakeem mealey
Really great law firm. No case too big no case too small.
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22 Oct, 2024 by Laura moran
18 Oct, 2024 by 504 ford
Very professional, kept me informed through the whole process. Painless.
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5.0
9 Reviews
4.8
101 Reviews
09 Dec, 2024 by Pat friedrich
21 Oct, 2024 by Melinda sharp
When I hired Franz, I was so emotional, stressed and just didn't know what to do. After speaking with him, I felt a sense of relief, he was always available and always got answers for me. He is very knowledgeable and explains everything to your understanding. Always answered the phone when called and if he didn't, he would text you to explain why he's unavailable and would always return your call as soon as he was available. If you need an excellent attorney, he's your man!!!!!!
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17 Oct, 2024 by Matthew mcallister
Being frank, Franz kept my behind from being in a lot of trouble in a very rough situation I was in. He always picked up the phone, texted back promptly, and reassured me when I thought things were hopeless. He isn't afraid to go to bat for you no matter what situation you're in. Hire this man!
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17 Sep, 2024 by Miller1755
21 Feb, 2024 by Carol o'neil
I want to thank Siobhan Leger and her staff for their highly professional, thorough, and caring service. Siobhan took the time to explain everything to me and answered all my questions. I would absolutely recommend her to anyone as an estate lawyer.
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10 Jan, 2024 by Terri lewis
We were so blessed to find Leger Law Firm to help my family with Medicaid Issues that we were having.Siobhan was so knowledgeable and so easy to understand, She was a godsend to our family. The staff was outstanding and made us feel like family. Highly Recommended this firm for any Medicaid and Estate Issues .
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11 Dec, 2024 by R j
The best decision I could've made was to contact Magnolia Disability Law Firm. It was beyond a satisfactory experience! Mr. Lance and Mrs. Paula is great! Kept me informed every single step along the way and provided all the necessary steps for me to provide essential information needed to get the job done! I definitely recommend Magnolia Disability Law Firm to anyone looking for a satisfactory experience for the services they provide! Their work ethics and effort to provide for their clients is nothing short of exceptional!
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09 Dec, 2024 by Corey russell
Mr. White was professional and courteous while working my case. He is truly a blessing.
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08 Nov, 2024 by Nate
Excellent lawyer, if you want a realisitic lawyer that's with you every step of the way, this is your guy! He fought to make sure I received everything I was owed. Thanks to Lance I won my case against an unforgiving system.
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11 Dec, 2024 by R j
The best decision I could've made was to contact Magnolia Disability Law Firm. It was beyond a satisfactory experience! Mr. Lance and Mrs. Paula is great! Kept me informed every single step along the way and provided all the necessary steps for me to provide essential information needed to get the job done! I definitely recommend Magnolia Disability Law Firm to anyone looking for a satisfactory experience for the services they provide! Their work ethics and effort to provide for their clients is nothing short of exceptional!
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09 Dec, 2024 by Corey russell
Mr. White was professional and courteous while working my case. He is truly a blessing.
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08 Nov, 2024 by Nate
Excellent lawyer, if you want a realisitic lawyer that's with you every step of the way, this is your guy! He fought to make sure I received everything I was owed. Thanks to Lance I won my case against an unforgiving system.
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14 Apr, 2021 by Yolanda williams
09 Dec, 2016 by Rosalinda
When I needed someone my attorney was able to help me get my home in the property settlement and that I will always be grateful.
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08 Dec, 2016 by Richard
I have used Kristina's Law firm several times over the past few years. Has always helped me with legal issues. Would and do recommend her to anyone .
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20 Nov, 2024 by Tyeisha walker
Mrs Hatfield is amazing she has been understanding from the beginning I love her she helped and is still helping me through a difficult case and I promise she has been kicking butt from the beginning she is a great person very understanding in all fields works your case to win your case and she has made things possible I didn’t think will ever happen especially with the well-being and custody of my children thank you Mrs. Hatfield
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02 Aug, 2024 by Jason whisnant
Teresa L. Hatfield is a professional, courteous attorney who will go to bat for you in the court room. Some attorney's talk a good game but when they get under the lights of that courtroom they fold under the pressure. Not her. She thrives in those moments and there is no other attorney that I've seen in there that is even close to being on her level... Her level of caring, her level of expertise in the field of family court procedings... her level of LAWYERING... Simply the BEST!!
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28 Jun, 2024 by Dominic marcello
Teresa is an excellent attorney and worth every penny I paid. She did the community property settlement for my divorce. She recommended we try mediation first. I was extremely skeptical, but went with it. We had mediation scheduled for 9 am - 6 pm, it was done by 1 pm, with a deal I thought fair. I very much hope I will never need her services again, but if I do, I would go with her, and recommend her to anyone with disputed community property..
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21 Nov, 2024 by Jason williams
If you are in need in legal counsel this is THE law firm. They are exceptionally competent and will be with you every step of the way. I trust this law firm with my life. Being satisfied with your results is an understatement. Jim Knipe and his paralegal Casey are a dream team. Don’t trust your case with any other law firm MGKB is the only choice!
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09 Nov, 2024 by L brand
All of the attorneys that i've ever dealt with there have been amazing
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30 Oct, 2024 by Brandon ingle
I would like to thank everyone for all the help and professionalism at my time of need I would definitely use them again. Thank you Scott
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01 Nov, 2023 by Jessica
Lori is an excellent lawyer. She worked really hard on my case, representing me very well. I appreciate the hard work and would absolutely recommend her. The entire law firm was awesome. I have already referred a few of my closest friends. It's so important to have proper representation in any court case. Thank you for everything.
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31 Oct, 2023 by Jane
I had a complicated case and Mrs.Lori attacked my case seamlessly, I was in and out. I highly recommend Mrs.Lori ! I am so happy I went went my decision in having Mrs.Lori represent me! She does NOT fail!
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02 Oct, 2023 by Yanessa
I hired Lori and Brock almost immediately after speaking with them concerning my custody case. She has an amazing work ethic and drive to make her clients feel welcomed, supported, and heard. I would absolutely recommend Lori as an attorney for any services she provides.
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22 Nov, 2024 by Angela haile
Stephen is the BEST and his services were awesome!
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19 Nov, 2024 by Deirdre batiste
The Best Attorney hands down
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29 Oct, 2024 by Lauren buckles
Louis and Diane were a pleasure to work with and were able to handle my property settlement without even having to go to court.
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5.0
1 Reviews
27 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
She is a incredible lawyer with the knowledge to help you through the twist and turns of the legal process I would definitely recommend her A+
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04 Jan, 2025 by Bdon
I was very pleased with the service I received at Murphy’s Law Firm. Brian McCullough worked my case and I felt he went above and beyond to provide the best outcome for my situation. Mrs. Betty would call and provide great insight as to how the process works and was very informative about the updates pertaining to my case. Both Betty and Brian were quick to respond to any questions I had along the way and explained everything in great detail. All of your hard work and professionalism has been greatly appreciated throughout this whole process. Thank you!
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22 Aug, 2024 by Alexis matthews
I was cheated they put words in my mouth that I didn’t say than they made up dates that wasn’t true they double dip it was poor communication I always had to call them I maybe talk to my attorney maybe 3 or 4 times in 3 years I would not ever go back to them be careful and mindful of picking this law firm they couldn’t even show me nothing they lied on me saying I said something and I didn’t my experience was a living hell this second time around than the attorney ask was I mad what you think when you no you been cheated and his assistant be right along with the lies I wish I could give no stars yall please go somewhere else out of 9500 all I got was 838.00 now you do the math it take days for to go in because they had to come up with a plan what law firm you no forget to do anything but they going get they money ever time I think about this I wish nobody will go their I don’t want what happen to me to happen to nobody else
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21 Aug, 2024 by Janice brown
It was a very good experience, everyone was so friendly and helpful..Love Murphy Law Firm
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22 Nov, 2024 by Angela haile
Stephen is the BEST and his services were awesome!
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19 Nov, 2024 by Deirdre batiste
The Best Attorney hands down
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29 Oct, 2024 by Lauren buckles
Louis and Diane were a pleasure to work with and were able to handle my property settlement without even having to go to court.
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09 Dec, 2024 by Pat friedrich
21 Oct, 2024 by Melinda sharp
When I hired Franz, I was so emotional, stressed and just didn't know what to do. After speaking with him, I felt a sense of relief, he was always available and always got answers for me. He is very knowledgeable and explains everything to your understanding. Always answered the phone when called and if he didn't, he would text you to explain why he's unavailable and would always return your call as soon as he was available. If you need an excellent attorney, he's your man!!!!!!
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17 Oct, 2024 by Matthew mcallister
Being frank, Franz kept my behind from being in a lot of trouble in a very rough situation I was in. He always picked up the phone, texted back promptly, and reassured me when I thought things were hopeless. He isn't afraid to go to bat for you no matter what situation you're in. Hire this man!
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23 May, 2024 by Canon
Brad was a great attorney. Brad helped me in family court while I was going through a really tough time. Brad gives his all to every case and is an excellent communicator. Brad also has a fantastic team that works with him.
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15 Apr, 2024 by Allison
Brad Cranmer provided outstanding representation throughout my divorce proceedings. From our initial consultation to the final resolution, he demonstrated a level of professionalism and expertise that exceeded my expectations. His attention to detail ensured that every aspect of my case was thoroughly addressed, and his guidance was instrumental in achieving a favorable outcome. What truly set him apart, however, was his unwavering commitment to my well-being beyond the legal aspects of the case. His empathetic approach and willingness to listen to my concerns made me feel heard and supported every step of the way. The genuine care for his clients is a testament to his integrity and dedication to his profession. I wholeheartedly recommend Brad to anyone in need of legal representation, knowing that they will be in the most capable hands.
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01 Aug, 2023 by Sarah
Brad helped me collect property payments from a family court ruling in a neighboring state. Brad is highly knowledgeable about collections and proactive in dealing with uncooperative employers and slippery exes. I live on the other end of the country, but it felt like Brad and his team were in the same city. Communication was frequent and thorough. I am so lucky to have found Brad, a trustworthy professional willing to take my case. Brad gave me closure on a lengthy and frustrating family court issue!
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02 Oct, 2024 by Tasha maples
I cannot express how grateful I am for the exceptional legal support provided by Maria Finley. She represented my friend, W. Shelton, during a challenging family matter, and the professionalism and dedication she displayed were truly remarkable. If you are in need of a family attorney, look no further than Maria Finley. She is an outstanding professional who will fight for you and represent your best interests with integrity and passion. I can’t recommend her highly enough!
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02 Oct, 2024 by Wanda shelton
I absolutely love Ms Maria! Ms Maria has went above and for me on two separate accounts over the last few years. Ms Maria is brutally honest and won't even charge for her time like she should.
All in all , I couldn't have asked for a better attorney!
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02 Oct, 2024 by Wanda
I couldn't have asked for a better attorney. Ms Maria is very ethical and goes way out of her way to help people. She has helped me in two different cases and I will go to her again if needed.
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15 Nov, 2024 by Ryan pack
Charcie is an amazing lawyer! From day one, she understood, educated, and reassured me. Charcie was fair and very knowledgeable about the situation. She was able to explain every step clearly while also showing genuine compassion to me. Her expertise and professionalism gave me comfort and courage through the entirety of the process. There is no lawyer that I could recommend more than Charcie.
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01 Nov, 2024 by Krystal c
Attorney Charcie Roach took my money and refuses to return it. She did not do the work that we agreed on. She has shown that she is not trustworthy. At this point I want nothing from her but my money back. I am so disappointed.
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21 Jun, 2024 by Willie mccorkle, iii
Robins Roach Law Firm is the best! Lead Attorney Charcie handled our auto accident case so professionally and efficiently! Their firm is very organized and communicative. I was informed every step of the way with updates from the insurance company as well as medical appointments and results. We are very pleased with the settlement received by Atty. Charcie and are looking forward to future opportunities, such as family estate and planning, to transact business with the Robins Roach Law Firm!
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08 Jan, 2019 by Deshawna
About a year ago I was in a car wreck, my very first, and I was not at fault. Unfortunately, though the situation turned on me after my lawyer at Morris Bart turned down my case during my treatment for body injuries. I was told that I did not have insurance, which left me on my own with injuries that continued to have me in pain.
That was until my friend told me about a friendly and passionate friend she's known a long time; Danny Russell. He was a godsend and he really and truly felt for my situation. It's not only that he's sympathetic, but also empathic to understand what it is like to be in a situation like myself. He's inspired to really fight for you, and really look into policies that you could not understand. When he says he can do something, you better believe it. Because while I lost hope, Danny found it.
Thank you so much. Both you and your wife and staff are extremely thoughtful. Thank you for the birthday/holiday cards, and for the gift basket. That was a sweet touch to the entire experience. I feel like family. I promise not to be a stranger, we are way past that. :)
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19 Aug, 2017 by Devin
Danny does such a wonderful job explaining all of the legal terms and actions that will happen. I probably wouldn't have understood a thing that was going on if it weren't for him. I am definitely recommending him to anyone in need of a good lawyer.
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15 Aug, 2017 by Angela
It was a positive experience working with the Danny Russell Law Firm on my case. They were there to help me every step of the way. After my car accident, I didn’t even know where to begin. Dealing with insurance companies can be nerve wracking, and an injury on top of it was overwhelming. Danny was in constant communication with me. His attention to the case allowed me to recover and get back to work quicker. I would absolutely recommend Danny Russell to handle your personal injury case.
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11 Jul, 2017 by Sam maida, jr.
I hired Andy to assist me as local counsel on a case I had near Monroe, Louisiana. We knew from the beginning that the case would be extremely difficult and complex. Most lawyers would have backed away from the case for this reason. But, Andy did not hesitate to take on the challenge and Andy took on four corporate defendants without fear. With Andy's help, we were able to achieve a rather remarkable settlement for our case. He is loyal beyond belief and never backs down from a "bully".
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24 Jun, 2016 by Sylvia s. gonzales, la
Stands for what he believes in and protected and guided me through every step of the legal process. Though I was scared my attorney was not which is why I hired him for my complex family matter. He stood his ground and made sure my rights were protected and my outcome was favorable for me. Thank you, Andy.
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18 Mar, 2015 by Jacob
”A couple of months ago I got myself in a bind by making a poor decision under pressure, and I was facing some potentially serious trouble. I found DeJean Law online, and I knew I’d made the right decision to work with them from my very first conversation with Andy and his team. I am a good person who simply made an honest mistake, and they treated me with dignity and respect during an extremely vulnerable time in my life. Andy took the time to get to know me as a person and used that knowledge as fuel when deciding how to defend my case. He made sure that I was fully aware of the worst case scenario, and then we worked together to create a list of desired goals for my court date and how we were going to approach achieving them. Andy prepared me for what to expect in court, and when that day came, we knocked our goals list out of the park… I was dropped to a lesser offense, charged a tiny fraction of what I had planned on in court fees/fines and, most importantly, wasn’t sentenced any jail time, suspension or even probation! I would recommend Andy and DeJean Law to anyone that I know. They will fight to ensure you are represented fairly and that your case has a favorable outcome.”
-Jake R.
Houston, TX
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31 Aug, 2019 by Monica
Divorce is one of the most trying things a woman can go through, you feel alone, taken advantage of, hurt, angry, and just simply not able to trust ANYONE. Mark was great, he made me feel like I was not alone, he walked me through the entire process explaining each step and going above and beyond to ensure the process move as quickly as possible. He was always available to answer every call. Thank you Mark for making my biggest mistake and my greatest regret a thing of the past and helping me move forward into my best life.
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23 Jun, 2017 by Ellen
Mr. Lazarre has helped me obtain and retain custody of my granddaughter over the past several years. He guided me through each step and explained both what was needed and why. In the middle of the custody issues, my sister passed away and Mr. Lazarre was again incredibly helpful in getting her succession completed with as much as possible left for my sister's son.
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27 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
Mr Murrell assisted us with a name change for my grandchild, who has been estranged from her father for many years. The father was very reluctant to allow her name to be changed from his last name, but Mr Murrell ultimately gained his permission.
Mr Murrell handled this very emotional situation quickly and professionally. We will use him again soon for estate planning, and we highly recommend him to relatives and friends.
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17 Mar, 2017 by Margaret
Mr. Murrell is knowledgeable about all facets of business law and family law.
Mr. Murrell and his staff are always welcoming, courteous and make you feel like family.
I will not call another law firm for business or personal legal issues/ questions and have referred Mr. Murrell to all my friends and business associates as well.
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13 Dec, 2024 by Kirsten eddy
Beall & Thies hands down best lawyer absolutely recommend! Always stayed in contact & informed me with every single detail of my case. Was completely on top of everything , didn't waste any time. Very welcoming environment , Cheri was always took her time to explain every detail as well as Beall. There team found both insurance from the person who hit me. If I could give them 10 stars I would they did an outstanding job on my case & well as my children's case. HIGHLY RECOMMEND
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04 Dec, 2024 by Sohail akram
Very professional people there works speaks better then what I can see . Definitely recommend.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Brooke jafferies
Beall & Thies has an amazing team, of very talented professionals, that care for you like family! My case was settled for more money than I expected and all things were done within a timely manner. I encourage you to trust them with your case care too!
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21 Nov, 2013 by Anonymous
Was extremely worried and scared the entire time. I have two young children and really needed some help because my ex-husband hired a lawyer, left me with the kids and all these bills and I didnt know what to do. It felt really good when we left court and everything he told me was going to happen, happened. I would definitely recommend him if you are in need of a family lawyer. He was a pleasure to work with, and didnt make me feel uncomfortable like those other lawyers when i had to share intimate details about my family situation.
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21 Aug, 2024 by Kathy v
It’s clear Christopher is extremely knowledgable in his field. But what makes him such a good lawyer, is his intuition. The ability to understand something immediately, along with a strong sense of intuition, makes him a GREAT ATTORNEY. The icing on the cake - he is righteous man and conducts himself the way all attorneys should.
"we shall allow our intuition to guide us"
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25 Jan, 2024 by Pamela ward
Saunders and Chabert Law Firm
They are always dedicated professionals willing to go the extra mile for their clients .
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25 Jan, 2024 by Ross wolkart
Saunders and Chabert truly work for their client and not just to get a quick settlement. They believe in honest and ethical representation. Saunders and Chabert will personally handle your case and calls. They don’t pass off your case to a building full of team members that have no personal engagement with the client. Your case has meaning to a smaller Law Firm.
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25 Jan, 2024 by Jason
Scotty Chabert and the staff always go above and beyond to make you feel like family and not just another case. Such a great team of folks at Saunders and Chabert!
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13 Mar, 2024 by Hugh ramirez
I have enjoyed working with everyone associated with this firm. They truly go the extra mile and always with a smile 😃 I would hope you consider coming here for any of your legal matters cause they are fantastic!
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26 Jul, 2010 by Jeffrey lovell
Claude represented my father during a partnership dispute. Thanks to Claude's detailed preparation (his team gets kudos too) we prevailed in our action. I highly recommend him.
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24 Oct, 2020 by Sharan thomas
25 Apr, 2017 by Mario vice
24 Oct, 2020 by Sharan thomas
25 Apr, 2017 by Mario vice
20 Feb, 2024 by Claire cox
06 Dec, 2024 by Luana price
She is a great attorney!
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06 Dec, 2024 by Mayra duran
Recibí una grata llamada de la abogada, ante una duda en una situación muy delicada, ella fue dinámica,rápida, certera y eficaz con sus respuestas. Muy agradecida .
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08 Nov, 2024 by Angela bell west
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
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.
