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16 Nov, 2015 by Anonymous
Ted has handled my cases since I was 17. I am now 39 and he has always won my battles wether it was criminal offinces or just citations.
Thank you Ted.
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25 May, 2015 by Diane
Ted and his staff were very informative and helpful. Very knowledgable about my particular situation and
provided an accurate solution. He is compassionate and has integrity, two qualities that are hard to find in some attorneys now-a-days!
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09 Jun, 2014 by Kevin
I have used Ted in past years and he has showed concern on and off the case. I have many friends that have also used Ted and feel they are his friend as well as his client. Julie his office manager is A#1 and will also make you feel at home. He will be honest with you and If another Attorney would best represent you, he is not afraid to tell you.
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24 Feb, 2017 by Brandy
Michael Smith is a class A attorney. I would highly recommend him to anyone looking for a family attorney. He is very up front and honest and will do anything to help you. I thank the lord everyday that I found him.
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30 Dec, 2016 by Rc
Very knowledgeable attorney. He beat out a team of attorneys from a much more expensive firm. He was more fair in his billing practices than other attorneys I have used.
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05 Nov, 2008 by Anonymous
I could have not asked for a more honest lawyer. Anytime I called if he was not there his wife or daughter was always very helpful. Mr. Sherman always returned my calls and got my divorced done in a very timely manner. I have already recommended him to two other people that have been very pleased with him. He never made me feel like I was taking up too much of his time. His fees were very fair for all the work he did. A good friend used his wife for her bankruptcy and has had noting but good to say about her work also.
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18 Mar, 2016 by Mario
Mr. Smotherman helped me get permanent and full custody of my daughter and I will forever be grateful. Words cannot express how thankful I am to this man and his God given abilities but I will try. As an African-American male trying to get custody of my then 4 year old daughter, the odds were stacked against me. However, Smotherman took the time to listen were others just blew me off. He was able to build and executed one of the best defenses I have ever seen. The case centered around the facts that the mother was actively alienating me from my daughter's life by hiding her from me during my visitations weekends. Every 1st, 3rd and 5th weekend I would drive form Odessa, TX to Dallas, TX, a 6 hour drive one way, just to see my daughter. I had never missed a visitation or a child support payment. The mother was even harassing the schools to keep me from seeing my daughter at lunch time. The mother even had me removed from being able to see her at her after school daycare were I was tutoring my daughter and helping her with school work. The mother also created false allegations that my wife and I were physically and sexually abusive to my daughter and all these allegation where proven false.The mother was later convicted of felony custodial interference. Throughout the entire two year process (the Judge dying in the case, several reset dates and having to deal with a defense attorney that would do anything to win and in my opinion no professional at times) Smotherman never lost his composure and remained a man of integrity even when faced with shady dealings from the defense. He remained true to his Christian identity....He was fair and timely with his responses...and always professional. Mr. Smotherman is the type of person who has a passion for justice and helping others. This case had so many sides and it was so deep (before Smotherman the case had already taken a year) that literally no other attorney would take my case. I prayed for someone to help me and spent my days calling and writing attorneys only to receive countless "No"s. However, Mr. Smotherman said, "Yes" and that has made all the difference. I cannot say thank you enough. Today, marks the day the child custody case is officially closed and the final orders have been signed. This man has given me my life back and a chance to be a full-time father to my daughter something I did not have the privilege of having. I always promised myself that when I had kids, I would not be like my dad, an absentee father, I was going to be there for my kids and now I can keep that promise to my daughter and myself.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Priti patel
I highly recommend Chandni Patel for anyone in need of legal representation. Their professionalism, communication, and effectiveness are truly outstanding. It’s clear that they are dedicated to their clients and passionate about their work. I am grateful for their support and would not hesitate to work with them again in the future.
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18 Jul, 2024 by David t
I stopped in unannounced to ask for assistance on handling my mother's estate. I've never used an attorney before - never even spoken to one before - and came to the Holland McGill Law firm because my mother had them do her will six years ago.
Janine McGill was very empathetic and professional, reassuring me that her firm could assist me in handling her estate settlement and my role as executor.
I couldn't be more pleased with the help I received. Janine accompanied me throughout the probate process - in court, filings, and communications - something I would never have been able to do myself. She's a very upbeat, pleasant, yet professional attorney, and she and her office staff kept in touch and kept me updated throughout the entire process. Her billing was honest and completely upfront (she uses Clio for Clients portal) and she is accessible in her office on Bedford-Euless Rd.
I highly recommend Janine McGill and The Holland McGill Law Firm for wills and estate planning.
Thank you, Jeanine!
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09 Jul, 2024 by John stimmel
I was very pleased with the professionalism and empathy I received from Janine and her wonderful team. Great job!
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18 Sep, 2024 by Idris shamad
My experience with this firm was absolutely incredible. This law firm helped our family in our great time of need and helped us to be treated fairly in our case. I would give ten stars if I could and I highly recommend their services! Not only were we treated with respect, but we were also treated as a friend and felt our case was a top concern the entire time! Thank you so much Brian Hargrove law for all you have done for our family!
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22 Aug, 2024 by Elizabeth cortez
Giving Chandler 5stars he’s amazing! But his paralegal Addi I’m afraid is not she is very rude and disrespectful. She tells me not to listen to my Supportive family and my friends. my case Is very sensitive. Chandler has been very nice and very helpful even though he very busy.. but Addi every time I talk to her and ask why I don’t have a court order drawn up for my court Hearing. It was in April months ago it just doesn’t make sense why nothing has drawn up yet. My family and friends tell me that does not make sense to keep asking Addi or Eli to get me the court order so I can get visitation with my daughter. My ex pretty much took her at birth after I had her and has not been letting me see her. I feel Let down by addi and I hope Chandler Can see through her and find a new paralegal. Eli his other paralegal is very nice. Haven’t had a problem with her yet. And Chandler is a great attorney he’s helping me with two Very sensitive cases. I’m frustrated that I don’t have my court order drawn up and I can’t see my baby She’s only three years old.
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21 Aug, 2024 by Kam
Mr. Hargrove and his team were very helpful from day one!!
In the beginning this process was so overwhelming I didn’t know what to do or who to call. After getting in contact with Mr.Hargrove he assured me to sit back relax and allow him and his team to work their magic. And they did just that!
This process was smooth and simple thanks to Mr. Hargrove!
10/10 would recommend!
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15 Aug, 2024 by Priti patel
I highly recommend Chandni Patel for anyone in need of legal representation. Their professionalism, communication, and effectiveness are truly outstanding. It’s clear that they are dedicated to their clients and passionate about their work. I am grateful for their support and would not hesitate to work with them again in the future.
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18 Jul, 2024 by David t
I stopped in unannounced to ask for assistance on handling my mother's estate. I've never used an attorney before - never even spoken to one before - and came to the Holland McGill Law firm because my mother had them do her will six years ago.
Janine McGill was very empathetic and professional, reassuring me that her firm could assist me in handling her estate settlement and my role as executor.
I couldn't be more pleased with the help I received. Janine accompanied me throughout the probate process - in court, filings, and communications - something I would never have been able to do myself. She's a very upbeat, pleasant, yet professional attorney, and she and her office staff kept in touch and kept me updated throughout the entire process. Her billing was honest and completely upfront (she uses Clio for Clients portal) and she is accessible in her office on Bedford-Euless Rd.
I highly recommend Janine McGill and The Holland McGill Law Firm for wills and estate planning.
Thank you, Jeanine!
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09 Jul, 2024 by John stimmel
I was very pleased with the professionalism and empathy I received from Janine and her wonderful team. Great job!
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24 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
dOES NOT TAKE CARE OF BUSINESS ,EVEN THO HE SAYS HE DID. DOES NOT REMEMBER THINGS YOU TELL HIM FROM ONE WEEK TO THE NEXT.DOES NOT LIVE BY ATTORNEYS RULES.DRAGS HIS FEET.
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18 Sep, 2024 by Idris shamad
My experience with this firm was absolutely incredible. This law firm helped our family in our great time of need and helped us to be treated fairly in our case. I would give ten stars if I could and I highly recommend their services! Not only were we treated with respect, but we were also treated as a friend and felt our case was a top concern the entire time! Thank you so much Brian Hargrove law for all you have done for our family!
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22 Aug, 2024 by Elizabeth cortez
Giving Chandler 5stars he’s amazing! But his paralegal Addi I’m afraid is not she is very rude and disrespectful. She tells me not to listen to my Supportive family and my friends. my case Is very sensitive. Chandler has been very nice and very helpful even though he very busy.. but Addi every time I talk to her and ask why I don’t have a court order drawn up for my court Hearing. It was in April months ago it just doesn’t make sense why nothing has drawn up yet. My family and friends tell me that does not make sense to keep asking Addi or Eli to get me the court order so I can get visitation with my daughter. My ex pretty much took her at birth after I had her and has not been letting me see her. I feel Let down by addi and I hope Chandler Can see through her and find a new paralegal. Eli his other paralegal is very nice. Haven’t had a problem with her yet. And Chandler is a great attorney he’s helping me with two Very sensitive cases. I’m frustrated that I don’t have my court order drawn up and I can’t see my baby She’s only three years old.
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20 Jun, 2023 by Becky howman
Craig has handled a few cases for me and has always went above and beyond to make sure everything was taken care of and nothing was left incomplete. Thank you Craig your the best.
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17 May, 2023 by Ross ward
Could not have had a better experience. The whole divorce process was handled professionally, and I was kept informed throughout. Craig made sure things were kept as simple as could be.
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05 Feb, 2023 by Christopher edwards
I highly recommended Craig for legal representation. He is very knowledgeable,experienced and extremely devoted to you and your concerns. Really made me comfortable as possible during the difficult and stressful process. I at times felt like I was his only client due to how thoroughly he handled and explained my situation. My family and I truly appreciate and thank Craig for all of his help and support. You won’t regret having him on your team!!!
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21 Apr, 2024 by Chelsie hill
21 Jan, 2023 by Edith lenington
06 Nov, 2022 by Sharon pinkerton
Professional and friendly, caring staff
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18 Jul, 2024 by Hill hilliard
☆☆SOME OF GREATEST LAWYERS IN THE STATE☆☆
One of our family members faced an issue that required good representation for a Parole hearing Tate Roush and the Cox Law Firm delivered 5-star expertise and service, providing Professional and Quality service. His lawyering style has even motivated actionable change for our loved one.
Tate helped our family navigate through this difficult legal process, along with humanizing this experience for their client, helping him to restore confidence and self-esteem.
I would highly recommend this Firm over any for the Legal expertise and affordability when client and family support can help drive the good results you expect!
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15 Jul, 2024 by Ashley
Thank you Tate so much for everything. You weren’t here only as a lawyer, but as a friend as well and you did everything you could and got my husband approved the first time! Thank you for everything and I would definitely recommend him for any parole services. Thank you for everything you have done
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10 Jun, 2024 by Erin
A big thank you to Tate Roush and his team! They not helped our family navigate a complex system and understand it, they also had the expertise and professionalism needed for the job! Thank you for always taking the time to answer our questions, no matter how small. I truly felt like we had someone on our side to be our voice. Thank you!
I would highly recommend Cox Law Firm to anyone!
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18 Sep, 2024 by Alexandra taylor
This firm has had several opportunities to do a great job and just hasn't. Although they are friendly, they aren't responsive or effective.
First opportunity, revising a very simple will that this same firm had developed 7 years ago. Typo's and various errors, back and forth with a paralegal for over a month, and during the phone call to finalize, the paralegal did not even listen to the questions being asked, she just talked over my questions. The result was to just notarize what they had developed and take the document to another attorney for review.
Second opportunity - we contacted Bailey & Galyen on a Friday evening for advice on a potential criminal matter. A person was being detained and we needed timely advice. We contacted the office around 9pm on one phone number, and a man who barely spoke english took our information and said an attorney would contact us soon. At 2 am we contacted Bailey & Galyen on a different number, and a woman took our information and said someone would contact us shortly. At 5am we used the text method to ask for assistance. Thankfully we did find an attorney to provide advice in the situation but it wasn't Bailey & Galyen. This firm never returned my calls, and finally sent an email on the following Tuesday.
If you need actual representation in a timely manner, this is not the attorney to call.
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17 Sep, 2024 by I win
When I first started my journey with social security nothing seamed to go right. Then my husband called Bailey & Galyen. There was communication from the very beginning. My phone calls were always answered with a pleasant attitude all the time. Kathryn Mousa was more than just a paralegal she became a friend. my attorney Ian Croall gave me hope, and acknowledged that I actually could get disability. I would refer anyone to Bailey & Galen. Thank you guys so much for helping me with one of the most important time of my life.
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16 Sep, 2024 by Ava dang
18 Sep, 2024 by Alexandra taylor
This firm has had several opportunities to do a great job and just hasn't. Although they are friendly, they aren't responsive or effective.
First opportunity, revising a very simple will that this same firm had developed 7 years ago. Typo's and various errors, back and forth with a paralegal for over a month, and during the phone call to finalize, the paralegal did not even listen to the questions being asked, she just talked over my questions. The result was to just notarize what they had developed and take the document to another attorney for review.
Second opportunity - we contacted Bailey & Galyen on a Friday evening for advice on a potential criminal matter. A person was being detained and we needed timely advice. We contacted the office around 9pm on one phone number, and a man who barely spoke english took our information and said an attorney would contact us soon. At 2 am we contacted Bailey & Galyen on a different number, and a woman took our information and said someone would contact us shortly. At 5am we used the text method to ask for assistance. Thankfully we did find an attorney to provide advice in the situation but it wasn't Bailey & Galyen. This firm never returned my calls, and finally sent an email on the following Tuesday.
If you need actual representation in a timely manner, this is not the attorney to call.
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17 Sep, 2024 by I win
When I first started my journey with social security nothing seamed to go right. Then my husband called Bailey & Galyen. There was communication from the very beginning. My phone calls were always answered with a pleasant attitude all the time. Kathryn Mousa was more than just a paralegal she became a friend. my attorney Ian Croall gave me hope, and acknowledged that I actually could get disability. I would refer anyone to Bailey & Galen. Thank you guys so much for helping me with one of the most important time of my life.
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16 Sep, 2024 by Ava dang
18 Sep, 2024 by Alexandra taylor
This firm has had several opportunities to do a great job and just hasn't. Although they are friendly, they aren't responsive or effective.
First opportunity, revising a very simple will that this same firm had developed 7 years ago. Typo's and various errors, back and forth with a paralegal for over a month, and during the phone call to finalize, the paralegal did not even listen to the questions being asked, she just talked over my questions. The result was to just notarize what they had developed and take the document to another attorney for review.
Second opportunity - we contacted Bailey & Galyen on a Friday evening for advice on a potential criminal matter. A person was being detained and we needed timely advice. We contacted the office around 9pm on one phone number, and a man who barely spoke english took our information and said an attorney would contact us soon. At 2 am we contacted Bailey & Galyen on a different number, and a woman took our information and said someone would contact us shortly. At 5am we used the text method to ask for assistance. Thankfully we did find an attorney to provide advice in the situation but it wasn't Bailey & Galyen. This firm never returned my calls, and finally sent an email on the following Tuesday.
If you need actual representation in a timely manner, this is not the attorney to call.
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17 Sep, 2024 by I win
When I first started my journey with social security nothing seamed to go right. Then my husband called Bailey & Galyen. There was communication from the very beginning. My phone calls were always answered with a pleasant attitude all the time. Kathryn Mousa was more than just a paralegal she became a friend. my attorney Ian Croall gave me hope, and acknowledged that I actually could get disability. I would refer anyone to Bailey & Galen. Thank you guys so much for helping me with one of the most important time of my life.
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16 Sep, 2024 by Ava dang
4.4
7 Reviews
4.5
33 Reviews
05 Sep, 2024 by Marshall stewart
I found Earl Hargrave knowledgeable, cordial, a very good listener, and a quick study on my particular issue(s).
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09 Jul, 2024 by Cheryl koepp
Hargrave Law firm is extremely helpful, knowledgeable, kind staff and just all around pleasant to work with, I highly recommend them!
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27 Jun, 2024 by Steven housewright
Very personal, very professional, and thought only of us and what we need to do to take care of our family. God bless and and grateful for Hargrave Law!
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05 Oct, 2022 by Viola francis
Thanks Diane for professionalism, trustful, honest, fabulous communication and great success in my case this year.
* Highly recommended.
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18 Sep, 2020 by Debra wies
Diane was recommended to me by a friend. Diane was extremely helpful and knowledgeable with questions I had placing a will in probate. She answered my questions quickly and effectively. I would unquestionably recommend Diane.
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08 May, 2020 by Bob power
Diane handled my daughter's divorce. She was extremely professional and caring. She was in my daughter's corner the entire time. Highly recommended.
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08 May, 2024 by Besim lushaj
Waste of money, terrible advice. Didn’t even look at our paperwork. Charges $100 to tell you it’s $500 to fill out a 6 page document I can do myself
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11 Mar, 2023 by Ryan king
This is one of the nicest guys you'll ever meet! Extremely intelligent and isn't afraid to fight for what's right! Not just for money like most attorneys! Besides being well versed in the law he's got heart!
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23 Aug, 2022 by Chando granados
04 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
Her office will charge you an arm and a leg to just get you to mediation, encourage you to settle because it’s going to be at least 10k more to go to court, and then keep charging you more and more to get the final orders. Left this single mom with a good job living in a deficit without a care about it. I think all she cares about this point in her life is retiring and not her clients well being.
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12 Oct, 2023 by Valerie shortridge
Anita was horrible!!! She took my daughters 7,500 retainer and did nothing for her. We went to court twice and did not even get to see the Judge bc she was not in the courtroom waiting for us to be called. We ended up agreeing to temporarily orders for visitation to avoid having to pay more for having to come back to court. She negotiated my daughters child support and got it raised but didn’t file it. She always seemed very scatterbrained! We did our first consultation with the paralegal NOT her and they were more thorough, but then when we met her, she would come in and took no notes and when talking to my daughter she was refer to my grandson as her daughter not son!! And when we were at the court house she treated my daughter like she wasn’t going to get what she wanted and even told her “ I told you a million times that he was going to get extended visitation, “ She was Not respectful at all of my daughter. She even left the doors open while speaking with the other lawyer and was making comments to him like my daughter was acting like she wanted to much!!!!
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05 Oct, 2022 by Viola francis
Thanks Diane for professionalism, trustful, honest, fabulous communication and great success in my case this year.
* Highly recommended.
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08 Dec, 2015 by Karen
Joan is very professional, caring, detail oriented, and has no problem explaining exactly what you can expect as things progress. In my particular case, Joan has helped me with workers' compensation, guardianship, estate, financial, medical, tax, social security, and family issues. Joan is committed to making sure everything is handled to your satisfaction, so you can lessen your stress. She answers all questions, or will help guide you to find out what you need to know. In my case, Joan has accompanied me to family conference updates on medical progress of a brain injured family member for whom I am now guardian, and he is well cared for in a proper facility. Joan continues to stay in touch throughout the year and checks on how I am and how my ward is progressing. If I had had to accomplish on my own all that Joan has assisted me with, I would be lost and buried in red tape. Joan answers questions promptly, and when she is tied up, will let you know when to expect her attention. She asks specific questions and has been immeasurably helpful in a complicated situation. I highly recommend Joan Durkin.
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17 Oct, 2009 by Bill
Did not know Federal Workers Compensation policies. Did not understand the difference between Reduction In Force and Management Reassignment. Made no attempt to understand the duties of my job or what caused the injuries.
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15 Apr, 2019 by Gaylyn
My son has had to use him as a court-appointed an attorney. He didn't show up for one of the court dates and didn't call to reschedule. Needless to say, the court officials don't take kindly to this and hold the clients somewhat responsible. I guess he feels as though since this is a court appointment and shouldn't have to give it the same attention he would otherwise. The court-appointed clients deserve the same type of representation that the clients who have put him on a cash retainer do. What he fails to realize is, court-appointed client, have the same capability that other clients do. They can give him glowing recommendations, or they can give horrible reviews, or even go so far as to file complaints with the courts or with the State Bar of Texas.
Sincerely,
Gaylyn
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16 Feb, 2009 by Anonymous
this guy is horrible...he helped me with my case. however he is no longer with conner and the number that they give me is disconnected. the guy didnt even send me a final decree with the stamp on it so i have to pay to have the county send me a new one
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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.
