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05 Dec, 2024 by Bryan
Maureen was very dilligent in helping me with my case. She has a lot of knowledgeable experience in family law
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03 May, 2024 by Hang pox
02 Apr, 2024 by Adam hole
08 Jan, 2025 by Camryn ranson
Chellie was so helpful throughout the whole process. She kept me informed and was very upfront about everything. She was personable and fun to talk to! Envision took great care of me and made it a stress free process. Thank you!!
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17 Dec, 2024 by Bailey hutchinson
Such an amazing experience! I had the pleasure of working with Josh Bruner and Chellie Anderson, and they are nothing short of the best. They helped me through a very difficult and stressful time and made me feel like family. I would recommend them 10 times out of 10 for any family matters. Their dedication and service went above and beyond in all aspects!
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12 Dec, 2024 by Sandra spoelstra
We had a family crisis and were immediately connected to Anna Linden a family law attorney who provided exceptional counsel on proceedings. Highly recommended.
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10 Jan, 2025 by Susan dittmann
A death in the family brings up many issues and complexities. Emily helped us navigate the next steps in estate planning after the death of my dad. She is skillful in understanding the nuances of family dynamics at play and brought her objective expertise. This brought clarity and streamlined our long term goals. She lifted the heavy weight off my shoulders during this difficult time.
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28 Dec, 2024 by Barbara wood
Emily was extremely helpful in putting together all the important estate documents. She was easy to work with, understood our needs and was very quick to pull everything together. We are in a much better place for estate planning thanks to Emily, you won't be disappointed working with her.
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27 Dec, 2024 by Karen bell
My hour long appointment with Emily regarding the process of collection of my Small Claims Court Judgement was enlightening.
Her explanation of the process and costs was straight forward and concise. She helped me make a difficult decision. I will definitely contact Emily for any legal services I will need in the future.
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08 Jan, 2025 by Camryn ranson
Chellie was so helpful throughout the whole process. She kept me informed and was very upfront about everything. She was personable and fun to talk to! Envision took great care of me and made it a stress free process. Thank you!!
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17 Dec, 2024 by Bailey hutchinson
Such an amazing experience! I had the pleasure of working with Josh Bruner and Chellie Anderson, and they are nothing short of the best. They helped me through a very difficult and stressful time and made me feel like family. I would recommend them 10 times out of 10 for any family matters. Their dedication and service went above and beyond in all aspects!
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12 Dec, 2024 by Sandra spoelstra
We had a family crisis and were immediately connected to Anna Linden a family law attorney who provided exceptional counsel on proceedings. Highly recommended.
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30 Apr, 2022 by Linda
Bob (Mr. Wolle) and his assistants Aime and Katrina were very kind, generous with their time, professional, and knowledgeable. They guided me through all processes and made sure I had everything in order. They were patient with all my questions. Bob and his team made sure I was educated in the process of bankruptcy and was there "by my side" at the finish line. I highly recommend this legal team!
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03 Feb, 2022 by Anonymous
Timely manner, information and process disclosure, price wise, very professional.
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20 Jul, 2021 by Aime
I hired Mr. Wolle for my bankruptcy matter, and found quickly that he was extremely kind, generous, professional, and knowledgeable. He is a phenomenal attorney. His knowledge of the law and response times (calls, emails, requests, etc.) were more than I could ask for. He walked me through the process and made sure I had everything documented to have a successful case. He was very patient with all my questions and made sure I had the knowledge of the bankruptcy process to make all the right decisions. I would highly recommend Mr. Wolle to anyone I know.
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14 Feb, 2023 by Anonymous
I had an unfortunate illegality due to my mental illness. Mark promptly took care or all court-dates to the extent that I only had to appear in court once. I had peace of mind about the whole process and the case was settled with great results. Highly recommend!
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18 Apr, 2022 by Anonymous
Mark was the most difficult person to speak with and when we would speak, he treated it like he was always in a rush to get me out the door. I never felt that Mark had my best interest at heart and was made to feel as if I was a bother for all the questions I had. I’ve never been in trouble before so of course I had questions. So fast forward to the end of the case. We felt as if Mark wasn’t interested in talking with the Prosecutor and when he did, he didn’t seem to fight on my behalf. So, when it came time to agree on a settlement, I trusted that Mark had my best interest at heart. The DOL revoked my license for 365 under admin suspension after the DUI, then after the conviction, they tacked on another 365 days for a total of 2 years. I have come to find out that Mark could have negotiated my license suspension from 365 days to 90 days which he never even discussed with me. I asked Mark about it before the hearing, and he said it should only be the original 365 days. Then I get the letter from the DOL a few weeks later that it is in fact a 2 yr. revocation. Mark could have fought that but never would return my calls. Not sure how he received such high ratings because he did pretty much nothing for my DUI case for the amount of money he was paid
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03 Feb, 2021 by Francisco compean
Very helpful, fast service. Even after my case was complete, they still helped with any and all questions.
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09 Oct, 2023 by Ann bright
Kathryn Resnick was referred to me through the Senior Will Program with Law Advocates. I so appreciate her participation in this important service. The will she prepared was so comprehensive, included all the important details and her service, along with staff Sara, was just excellent. She was also very kind and welcoming, and appreciated the supportive way in which she and her staff conducted business. It's a relief to have a very good will in place and again, was so impressed with the quality of work and the professional and personal service she and her staff provides!
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03 Oct, 2023 by Rob snowden
We found Kathryn and her staff extremely professional and committed to the highest standard of legal procedure. Kathryn has a profound knowledge of state and federal laws and regulations and how those domains apply to her client’s personal needs. She keeps herself and her staff updated with the ever changing strictures within the legal community.
For us, she provided several services: an updating of our will, she’s helped provide clear understanding of our family trust, and she had a commitment to work with our financial advisers in order to give us greater confidence in our financial and legal concerns.
Kathryn has an ability to put abstract and ambiguous legal jargon into basic layman’s terms. We were comfortable asking her questions and her answers were never returned in esoteric attorney type piffle. Through the years we have recommended her practice to several friends and they share our appreciation of her professionalism.
We recommend her law practice with all enthusiasm.
Coleen & Rob Cheesman
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21 Sep, 2023 by Trisha walton
She is a competent attorney, but she told me so many times that she would do something that she never did. It was very frustrating, especially with the amount of money I was paying her.
Examples are she would tell me she would get back to me within a couple days and she wouldn’t, she said she would look into many things for me which she never did.
When going through a divorce you need an attorney who will do the things they say they are going to do when they say they are going to do them.
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21 Nov, 2012 by Heather
Penny Henderson was a joy to work with. In our initial phone conversation she was encouraging and very supportive of our journey of adopting through foster care. Mrs. Henderson took care of all the communication and bills to the court house and kept us in the loop. She was happy to wait for her payment from the state so that it was not out of our pocket. Mrs. Henderson went above and beyond and took wonderful pictures of us in the court room and joined us for the party afterwards. She made the legal part stress free and joyful!
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14 Nov, 2012 by Kathleen
I used Penny Henderson to handle my collaborative divorce. She was great. I interviewed several attorneys in town who specialize in collaborative divorce, and chose her because of her experience and expertise. She had worked in the legal field for years before becoming and attorney. I was so impressed that she had challenged and passed the bar exam, without going to law school. No easy feat for anyone, much less someone who worked full time. I was also drawn to her calm manner. She was perfect in a collaborative legal setting.
She was at all times professional with me and with the other parties involved. She explained up front what to expect and she spent time asking questions and making sure she understood all my issues. Her explanations of the legal issues were very clear. When I had questions or concerns, she would return calls promptly and always spent time making sure I understood. Her billing was fair and accurate, and about half of what my spouse paid for the same legal representation.
I would use Penny Henderson again.
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14 Nov, 2012 by Anonymous
Ms. Henderson handled a case for me in 2007 and has helped me on subsequent smaller matters as well. I find her services to be exemplary. I was impressed with her collaborative approach to the law and how she was able to elicit cooperation from both sides. I found her to be impartial, fair, and a consummate professional. I recommend her to others often as she is patient and very skilled at working with children, particularly those in crisis.
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10 Jan, 2025 by Susan dittmann
A death in the family brings up many issues and complexities. Emily helped us navigate the next steps in estate planning after the death of my dad. She is skillful in understanding the nuances of family dynamics at play and brought her objective expertise. This brought clarity and streamlined our long term goals. She lifted the heavy weight off my shoulders during this difficult time.
Read more
28 Dec, 2024 by Barbara wood
Emily was extremely helpful in putting together all the important estate documents. She was easy to work with, understood our needs and was very quick to pull everything together. We are in a much better place for estate planning thanks to Emily, you won't be disappointed working with her.
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27 Dec, 2024 by Karen bell
My hour long appointment with Emily regarding the process of collection of my Small Claims Court Judgement was enlightening.
Her explanation of the process and costs was straight forward and concise. She helped me make a difficult decision. I will definitely contact Emily for any legal services I will need in the future.
Read more
17 Mar, 2022 by Anonymous
I happned to obtain Roy's services after trying and paying other attorneys; my matter was simple. Other attorneys I attempted to use prior weren't reliably faithful in communication nor as knowledgeable as Roy for my situation. I was so fortunate to have obtained Roy. Roy was so clear in communication, mindful of the process, always made me aware about the matters both in in mediation as well as all costs every step of the way. Words cannot express how stellar, professional, compassionate, and kind Roy provided me; moreover the knowledgeable-based expertise Roy possessed to me was above and beyond others: Roy made the difference for me, but also for my family. Blessed and grateful I am. Thank goodness, thank you, Roy.
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21 Feb, 2020 by Anonymous
I consulted with Roy when my marriage had become significantly strained, in order to explore various "what if" scenarios. Roy was very knowledgeable RE: divorce law, with a focus on collaborative divorce. He understood that I loved my wife and kids very much and respected that I still hoped at that point to save my marriage. He was supportive of me efforts early in the process, to reconcile with my wife as we attended couples counseling, trying to work through our marital issues. My spouse eventually discontinued counseling. My case eventually became high conflict and contentious, with my spouse unfortunately refusing a collaborative pathway, so I am not able to comment on Roy's handling of the collaborative process. Nonetheless, in the scope of our work together, Roy was extremely professional. He always promptly answered my questions and empathetically addressed my fears. He respected where I was at mentally/emotionally in the process and I never felt like he was out to make busy work, just to increase revenues. When he recognized that a collaborative divorce process was not in the cards, he quickly arranged a seamless transition with a capable colleague who could do mediation and/or litigation. I highly recommend him especially for cases with couples that can maintain at least a modicum of rationality, civility and are able to focus on the long-term wellbeing of family members through the divorce process.
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06 Oct, 2018 by Anonymous
I was referred to Roy's office through my employer's employee assistance program when I requested help with my failing marriage.
I really appreciated that Roy had made his practice part of this program. I think it really demonstrates his objective of helping couples work through the divorce process in a collaborative way. Such a better approach for all involved, especially the kids, than some of the other attorneys I consulted with before hiring Roy.
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17 Dec, 2024 by Tiffany bailey
I had the pleasure of working with Bill on various matters and can confidently say he is a dedicated, knowledgeable, and highly professional attorney. His attention to detail, ability to communicate clearly, and commitment to achieving the best outcomes truly stand out. Bill consistently goes above and beyond for his clients, making sure they feel informed and supported throughout the entire process. I highly recommend him to anyone in need of an exceptional personal injury attorney!
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04 Oct, 2022 by Stacie jefferson
Great Lawyer ♥️
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15 Mar, 2022 by Yolanda lani tate
Not only is an amazing person but a fantastic attorney. Bill was able to settle my claim much quicker and for more money than I expected. If you are looking for honesty, professionalism and integrity along with an attorney that understands the human side, then you have come to the RIGHT FIRM
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18 Dec, 2024 by Alice baggett
Adam worked diligently to help us with a complicated situation without dear pup. At every moment he was kind, professional, and knowledgeable. Without his expertise, we would’ve been lost. His services were worth every penny and we highly recommend him.
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17 Dec, 2024 by Tiffany bailey
I had the pleasure of working with Bill on various matters and can confidently say he is a dedicated, knowledgeable, and highly professional attorney. His attention to detail, ability to communicate clearly, and commitment to achieving the best outcomes truly stand out. Bill consistently goes above and beyond for his clients, making sure they feel informed and supported throughout the entire process. I highly recommend him to anyone in need of an exceptional personal injury attorney!
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13 Dec, 2024 by Ashley pavone
I couldn't of got my girls back without his help he was amazing and I would work with him again if I had to
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19 Dec, 2024 by Carey deshaw
Michael and his staff were awesome. Always kept me informed on what was going on with my case. And they kept advocating for me until they got the maximum I deserved from my settlement. I recommend him and his team to anyone. Sincerely Carey Deshaw.
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16 Dec, 2024 by Sherri lasater
Mr. Tario worked on my case to get me the best settlement possible. He is very passionate, generous and actually cares about you.
His staff Sandy and Mars... you can't get any better than them. Always calling me to check in to see how I was feeling and my recovery. If I needed anything they would take over and get the job done. They actually care.
This by far is the best team!
Highly recommend this firm.
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22 Nov, 2024 by Maria pagnotta
I can't say enough good things about Michael Tario and his team! He truly cares about his clients and works hard to get the best results. His attention to detail and deep understanding of the law really stood out. The entire team was professional, kind, and responsive, and I would recommend them to anyone in need of legal help in Bellingham!
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19 Dec, 2024 by Carey deshaw
Michael and his staff were awesome. Always kept me informed on what was going on with my case. And they kept advocating for me until they got the maximum I deserved from my settlement. I recommend him and his team to anyone. Sincerely Carey Deshaw.
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16 Dec, 2024 by Sherri lasater
Mr. Tario worked on my case to get me the best settlement possible. He is very passionate, generous and actually cares about you.
His staff Sandy and Mars... you can't get any better than them. Always calling me to check in to see how I was feeling and my recovery. If I needed anything they would take over and get the job done. They actually care.
This by far is the best team!
Highly recommend this firm.
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22 Nov, 2024 by Maria pagnotta
I can't say enough good things about Michael Tario and his team! He truly cares about his clients and works hard to get the best results. His attention to detail and deep understanding of the law really stood out. The entire team was professional, kind, and responsive, and I would recommend them to anyone in need of legal help in Bellingham!
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23 Mar, 2022 by Jhonathan “jhonny5zalive” depoppe
08 Sep, 2021 by Sa'ad dawud
Very professional, convincing
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25 Aug, 2021 by Afterlyfe events
29 Jul, 2022 by Megan boizot
When a family member suddenly passes away and they didn't have an estate plan, probate becomes a necessity. Which is why this process can be extremely confusing and time-consuming.
My mother passed away when she lived in another state from my sister and I. I reached out to a few lawyers to see if they could help and advise on our probate issues. From the moment we started working with Aaron Rasmussen and Ericka Bradley, it became a managable endeavor. They created such an easy process for my sister and I and truly made this comfortable for us. Their professionalism and caring approach made any issue that may have occurred seamless. We are grateful for their service and I would recommend Barron, Smith , and Daugert to anyone who would need to deal with probate legal issues. They are responsive, knowledgeable, and a true example of dedication to their client.
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20 Apr, 2022 by Carl graber
excellent place
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04 Mar, 2022 by Shovia muchirawehondo
09 Oct, 2023 by Ann bright
Kathryn Resnick was referred to me through the Senior Will Program with Law Advocates. I so appreciate her participation in this important service. The will she prepared was so comprehensive, included all the important details and her service, along with staff Sara, was just excellent. She was also very kind and welcoming, and appreciated the supportive way in which she and her staff conducted business. It's a relief to have a very good will in place and again, was so impressed with the quality of work and the professional and personal service she and her staff provides!
Read more
03 Oct, 2023 by Rob snowden
We found Kathryn and her staff extremely professional and committed to the highest standard of legal procedure. Kathryn has a profound knowledge of state and federal laws and regulations and how those domains apply to her client’s personal needs. She keeps herself and her staff updated with the ever changing strictures within the legal community.
For us, she provided several services: an updating of our will, she’s helped provide clear understanding of our family trust, and she had a commitment to work with our financial advisers in order to give us greater confidence in our financial and legal concerns.
Kathryn has an ability to put abstract and ambiguous legal jargon into basic layman’s terms. We were comfortable asking her questions and her answers were never returned in esoteric attorney type piffle. Through the years we have recommended her practice to several friends and they share our appreciation of her professionalism.
We recommend her law practice with all enthusiasm.
Coleen & Rob Cheesman
Read more
21 Sep, 2023 by Trisha walton
She is a competent attorney, but she told me so many times that she would do something that she never did. It was very frustrating, especially with the amount of money I was paying her.
Examples are she would tell me she would get back to me within a couple days and she wouldn’t, she said she would look into many things for me which she never did.
When going through a divorce you need an attorney who will do the things they say they are going to do when they say they are going to do them.
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21 Jan, 2020 by Tara
Todd Allen helped me legally through a relocation case and is continuing to help finalize my divorce. He is knowledgeable and made sure I understood everything I was going through, and helped me confidently step into court.
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16 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous
Todd was compassionate and thorough in his handling of my case - diligent in the details, responsive and committed. I could not have received better representation or outcome in my situation.
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25 Nov, 2019 by Misti
Todd represented me for both my divorce and protection order hearings. He was always very professional and honest with me through the entire process. I always felt he genuinely had my best interests in mind and I never felt blind sided during any proceedings. He was also aware of my budget concerns and worked with me to keep the costs of my representation manageable. I would absolutely recommend him to a friend.
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27 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
Had Bob represent me in a marriage dissolution proceedings.
He demonstrated both compassion-at times- and ineptitude with a close focus on maximizing billing time.
I discharged him after confronting him about not following the plan of service we worked on numerous times. His in-person explanation was related to some other personal considerations that precluded him from attending to my and my children's best intetests. I was appaled and the stress that resulted on my family was perfectly avoidable.
Litigation fatigue precluded me from holding him accountable for his negligence. BOO on Bob, et al.
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01 Aug, 2022 by Robert
Bob and his team were a great comfort to me during a very difficult and emotional time in my life.
Bob’s wisdom and experienced helped me feel at ease in all aspects of the difficult process of ending a long relationship.
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15 Oct, 2020 by Kara
Robert and his team went above and beyond in our case. Their level of professionalism as well as proficiency far exceeded any other attorney I have worked with in the past - Full Stop.
Robert himself listened with an empathic compassionate ear to our case. He then utilized his experience and expertise to guide us towards our intended result - while being cognizant of time and cost.
I have the utmost respect for this firm - they are truly what exemplifies "integrity and diligence" a rarity within the legal profession.
Noteworthy; the first attempt to resolve this case was not granted. Yet again, with compassion Robert calmly and clearly articulated our options for moving towards a resolution and our ultimate objective. Our decision going forward was not the easy route. Robert and his firm proceeded with tenacity in the direction we requested which was to represent us before the court. I believe Robert's concise skillful presence while litigating the case gave us the advantageous outcome we were seeking.
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19 Dec, 2024 by Jacklyn partlow
Nancy is the most professional and kind-hearted attorney I could have ever hoped to have when my grandmother was diagnosed with cancer and we needed documents notarized. Nancy took time out of her schedule to meet us at the hospital and worked around our availability. Anyone who says anything negative about her is someone who didn't like the truth hitting them in the face. She is fair, and she is kind. That's all there is to it.
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25 Jan, 2024 by Cathy campbell
Nancy and Katie have been great to work with. I like working with shall women owned businesses. Efficient and effective. Very professional and nice
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01 Jun, 2023 by Luke james
I could not be happier with the service that I received from this team. Specifically from her paralegal Shelley. Would recommend 10 times out of 10.
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03 Mar, 2022 by Anonymous
Save your 5k, and KEEP LOOKING. Regrettably I hired him, and it was such a horrible idea. So unprofessional, his entire office is a disaster, and he has very poor social skills.
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17 Jan, 2019 by Leigha
Bob is the best! I have hired him several times and each time he got the job done! He is effective and fair!
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20 Jul, 2018 by Anonymous
I first spent over $5K on the "Best in Bellingham" who inhaled all of it and did NOTHING! A mover told me in passing that there was a guy in Bellingham that never loses. I called Robert as they carried my stuff out of the house. He took my case, put a stop to all of her lies, made her face reason, a miracle to say the least. He cost less for the year of great service than the "Best" did for 5 weeks! Do yourself a favor and call Robert first!
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28 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
He gets back to you but I think he is not all that clear on the crucial part of the case, was always pushing to go to trail and I felt bullied through the case, even when I specific ask during a crucial time in the case What would happen I felt he was extremely unclear and pushy. Going to criminal court is stressful I think it will be stressful x2 if you hire him.
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21 Oct, 2020 by Shannon
William Wisdom has been really great and I know he has my best interests in mind. I appreciate his support and diligence on my case.
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19 Dec, 2024 by Jacklyn partlow
Nancy is the most professional and kind-hearted attorney I could have ever hoped to have when my grandmother was diagnosed with cancer and we needed documents notarized. Nancy took time out of her schedule to meet us at the hospital and worked around our availability. Anyone who says anything negative about her is someone who didn't like the truth hitting them in the face. She is fair, and she is kind. That's all there is to it.
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25 Jan, 2024 by Cathy campbell
Nancy and Katie have been great to work with. I like working with shall women owned businesses. Efficient and effective. Very professional and nice
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01 Jun, 2023 by Luke james
I could not be happier with the service that I received from this team. Specifically from her paralegal Shelley. Would recommend 10 times out of 10.
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21 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
She took this case on from another attorney that was filled in October 2014 when she became ill.
She took on the case she later stated she didn't even want to take this case on because she has had bad experiences with taking this attorneys cases before.
How is that my problem? She took money and commited to the case. . It was a child support modification which then turned into a contempt of court case as well. She did not represent me effectively. She made statements to my Ex husband and didn't follow threw with what she said she was going to do. Hence my Ex husband was stringing her along. 9 months later she has gotten nothing accomplished and withdrew from my case. I felt and feel abandoned and unprotected by this attorney. She didn't come close to adequate representation. It was an awful experience and has caused more harm then good. She constantly spoke with my Ex husband. Having me write my own proposal to him. This just made him more agitated. She promised me just the week before due to high volume of cases that she was going to focus on this case more. Then she started telling me I should try to modify support with DSHS. What did I hire you for? Plus she kept changing directions and lost my W2 .... It took her 4 months to get my Ex husband's W2 in which she only got one year. Your supposed to get two. It was just awful and I'm so upset and she just made things worse.
I'm devastated and this has caused a huge back lash on my Son who is a child of 17. And my self and my family.
She not only didn't help me she totally dropped the ball. In her withdrawal her reasoning was false and did not make sense. My Ex thinks it's great! With this attorney who took the case over and now almost 2 years from when it was filled...It had gone on 9months with her...She accomplished nothing but more emotional pain to my self and my child
It was the worst experience I have had with a lawyer. She bailed out right in She middle of my case..I asked her repeadly to go to court and file a contempt order against my X husband for unpaid child support. She refused but wanted to keep corresponding with my Ex husband dragging it out. I cannot express how disappointed I am.
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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.
