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22 Aug, 2024 by Nik tizekker
Kamryn was super responsive, communicative and efficient during the whole process. I would recommend them anytime.
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11 Aug, 2024 by Courtney carnes
10 Aug, 2024 by Danni
When it comes to finding not only phenomenal representation, but support throughout a (probably) excruciatingly stressful legal experience, you won’t find a more capable and compassionate group than Idaho Legal Justice! Sam and Kamryn did an exceptional job of keeping me in the loop on everything that was going on throughout the process, in representing me, and in helping me get the best outcome possible. I’m so thankful to have had their support and guidance - for such a reasonable price, no less! Sam made himself available all the time for legal advice and Kamryn was totally on top of it - giving me updates on my next steps from beginning to end. For anyone who’s looking for strong, professional, supportive, and highly-experienced legal representation; I cannot recommend this group enough!
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20 Aug, 2024 by Becky gasperik
I’m so thankful for Mr. Long’s support during a very challenging time. He is truly a professional who understands the law and the system. Mr. Long communicates expectations clearly and realistically. Thanks to Mr. Long, I knew what I needed to do to prepare for my court date. Mr. Long learned and listened to me, and conveyed my circumstances and genuine remorse before the court. I believe that because I followed his recommendations, the court understood my position, and the consequences were more than fair. I highly recommend Mr. Long as council. He is realistic, honest, trustworthy and reliable.
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19 Aug, 2024 by Fatsdonamo money
16 Aug, 2024 by Tony arneson
Long Law Office did an Outstanding job with our legal affairs. Cody is incredibly knowledgeable and kept us up to date and informed on all aspects of scenarios and outcomes. Could not recommend him highly enough. A true professional.
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10 May, 2024 by Deborah sue mitchell
When I first called Brett, he answered his phone. Great first impression. He made the divorce process less painful. He was respectful and compassionate. He educated us and gave frequent updates. I would highly recommend him for any family law you may need.
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24 Apr, 2024 by Allen ingram
Brett Anthon is a really good attorney, Brett got right on my custody case and it was done less then a month , if anybody has any custody issues or legal issues go see Brett Anthon .
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24 Apr, 2024 by Thomas kuyper
We were seeking guardianship of our grandson and had hired another lawyer. He dropped the ball after some initial filings. Brett took over and cleaned up the paperwork and took over our case. I feel he did a great job. He came prepared for court and we got custody of our grandson.
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19 Sep, 2024 by Jenny
After consulting with Ashley for only an hour, I knew she was the one that I needed to represent me. Ashley was very professional and responsive with all my questions and guidance. Ashley and her assistant, Ruby, were very prompt and thorough through this difficult time of my life. Ashley ensured my best interests were a priority. I highly recommend Ashley and her assistant, Ruby to represent you.
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22 May, 2024 by Todd
My experience with Ashley was great. In a difficult time in my life I felt like as though i truly had someone fighting for my best interests. My case was very complicated but Ashley remained patient the entire time. We were in regular contact and she was always easy to get a hold of. She was very professional and easy to talk with. I would recommend her and have to anyone seaking council in family law
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09 Apr, 2024 by Terrie
I consulted with a couple of attorney's prior to contacting
Ashley Marelius. After speaking with Ashley, I knew she was the one for me and I'm so grateful she was able to take my case. Ashley provided alternatives to resolve my case that the other two attorneys I consulted with didn't bother to explore. I would highly recommend this firm, Ashley specific, to handle any family law issues that you may have. Ashely is professional, courtesy and above all else listens to your specific challenge and will work with you to resolve your issues in an expedited manner.
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12 Jul, 2022 by Juan omar
Mi experiencia con mi abogada Lissa fue tranquilidad me iso sentir que mi problema era de ella y eso me dió paz y al final de todo arreglo mi problema y estoy muy agradecido por eso es toda una profesional y muy eficiente
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22 Jan, 2022 by Duaine
She probably could have Quit me, but she believes, from my perception,Life’s life, and we have to fight for our it. Sheand she fought for me, and my Case,when she could have thrown the towel in on my fight in this life,and to have this out of world feeling, when a lawyer that you barley know, truly proves she cares about her clients, she just has too, cause she didn’t give up on Me. Thankyou Mrs Fabreguette, for your patience, dignity, and your integrity in serving we, The people.. Duaine, E.
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05 Sep, 2021 by Kayce
Lisa was excellent. She was very upfront and honest from day one. My cases were constantly getting turned around and we were thrown some heavy information and issues along the way but Lisa handled everything that came our way. She kept me very informed and reassured through our whole process. She made sure that my opinions and wants/needs were always considered from legal stand points and her legal advice was always spot on! Lisa's knowledge of laws and procedures are impressive. She really knows what she's doing. She cares a lot about the people she represents and their outcome. I have recommended her to many family and friends for family law cases.
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15 Mar, 2023 by Rolando
I came in for a consultation and Sam listened to me and gave it to me straight. This is exactly what I needed. To understand what I wanted to accomplish and how I may need to compromise. He gave me alternative situations and advised me that I may not get exactly what I was looking for because of my situation. But he also explained that what I was looking could be accomplished down the road if it didn’t work now. The consultation was so informative he even told me I might not even need him and I could do it myself. I knew this going into it. (And was relieved to know he wasn’t just trying to get my money. As I’ve heard other previous horror stories from friends and family when it comes to other Lawyers.) However my other Co-Parent had already hired a lawyer, I wanted the peace of mind Sam brought to the table. Also his firms reputation was nice. And it shined through in his professionalism and timely communication. In the end it went exactly how Sam and I discussed it would happen. In six months I will be 50/50 Co Parent. Thank you Sam!!! And my Son thanks you as well!!!!
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03 Feb, 2023 by Anonymous
I went through a high-conflict divorce that involved false accusations and threats around taking away custody. It was a stressful process, but Sam guided me through it, kept things in perspective, always had a game plan, and somehow managed to add in some humor through it all to lighten the mood. We won literally everything I asked for in court - I'm so glad I trusted him with one of the biggest decisions of my life. Highly recommend.
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01 Feb, 2023 by Kyle
Sam is great. I would not recommend another family law attorney to anyone. My case was quite extensive and very high conflict. Sam got me a result that I would have never expected. He conducted himself professionally with me and with counsel on the other side and it is easy to see that Sam is highly respected amongst his peers. He was extremely empathetic with my situation and was able to guide me through each issue that arose calmly and professionally. He gave me straight forward advice and never promised me anything that he couldn't deliver. He told me all the risks involved with each path we could take and enabled me to make informed decisions. Sam was able to walk me and talk me through some of the lowest points of my entire life. If you are going thru a family law case and want a fair, reasonable, intelligent, straight shooter that delivers real results, go with Sam.
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20 May, 2024 by Tiffanie perkins
Matt was amazing. I am a nurse and am not familiar with legal proceedings at all. Matt was so patient and kind while explaining things but also did not waste time. He was professional and caring. I’m so glad I had Matt in my corner. He knew exactly what to do and if I ever need representation again I wouldn’t even consider calling anyone else.
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20 May, 2024 by Tiffanie
Matt was amazing. I am a nurse and am not familiar with legal proceedings at all. Matt was so patient and kind while explaining things but also did not waste time. He was professional and caring. I’m so glad I had Matt in my corner. He knew exactly what to do and if I ever need representation again I wouldn’t even consider calling anyone else.
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23 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
Matt was able to help me identify and resolve many issues with my divorce modification. He helped me turn around my parenting plan to where I was able to get back my kids and set up a life for me and my kids. He is a very caring person and made me feel like my issues were important.
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14 Jun, 2024 by Jeff
We hired Regan to help us with an adoption. Her professionalism and experience combined to make this very important endeavor seamless. Her interest in our family and the guidance she gave us as we navigated the legal system was truly beyond our expectations. 100% recommended!!
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22 Nov, 2023 by Christopher
I wanted to express my most sincere thanks for the professional representation. She always had my best interest in mind. I highly recommend Ms. Charlton!
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06 Jul, 2023 by Kathlene
Regan is an excellent Lawyer! She helped me with custody and child support for my daughter! She is very professional and sweet! I will definitely be using her again if needed!
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01 May, 2019 by Anonymous
Bradley made the process of divorce as smooth and seamless as possible. Everything was explained in a way that didn't feel intimidating, and the interactions always felt relaxed and informative.
I would highly recommend his services to anyone.
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04 Feb, 2019 by Shirley
We have used Brad for business contract issues, and other advise. We felt very good about the direction and options to resolve the issue, and the information he provided to guide us. He’s a very honest with his dealings, and will work hard for resolution! I highly recommend his services to represent you.
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03 Feb, 2019 by Cori
Brad is an excellent attorney that was incredibly helpful when I had a property line dispute at my residence. Brad took his time and explained the legal aspects very thoroughly. He gave me his full attention and was very considerate of my time. I would highly recommend Brad for others and I would absolutely hire him again for future legal issues.
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17 Dec, 2014 by Ryan
Throughout my case Chris was very responsive and diligent. Chris was not only great at with all the motions, repeals etc. but he was also very good during the hearing. Chris coveys a calm collected demeanor and was outstanding in the way he presented my case. The outcome of my case was exactly what I would have hoped for. I would without a doubt recommend Chris Cook if someone is looking for a Family law specialist.
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08 Dec, 2014 by Ellen
Christopher was a lawyer on a case for me recently. His knowledge put me at ease throughout the entire process. He is someone I trusted and would recommend him to anyone.
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10 Nov, 2014 by Deb
Chris is absolutely wonderful to have on your side. He is encouraging and really listens to your needs. I won my relocation case last week and I know it was in huge part to Chris' skills and hard work.
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08 Feb, 2019 by Anonymous
Jeff helped me with a custody, child support case. He was easy to talk to and have me the peace of mind that everything would be ok in a very hard time. I appreciate his honesty. I never want to go through something like this again, but if I do, Jeff is who I would want to fight with me.
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10 Apr, 2018 by Ivan
Jeff helped me win custody of my children. He is very smart and patient. I think extremely high of him as a lawyer and as an honest man. He helped me through one of the worst times of my life.
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01 Sep, 2017 by Wes
Mister West did a fantastic job for me always looked out for my back throughout my divorce very reasonable and very good at communicating definitely would use him again if I had to for anything else thank you Jeff West for all your help. Wes
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18 Oct, 2016 by Anonymous
I never seen an attorney so talented with her words and just total bada** that at the end of my review hearing, I actually felt bad for the prosecutor. During the hearing, Prosecuting attorney reminded me of a 4th string rookie quarterback playing his first NFL game and gets destroyed in it~~ Jessica was throwing them objections after objections then blitz. I'm pretty sure that the prosecuting attorney cried himself to sleep that night... real talk. She is like a wonder woman. you wonder where that punch came from. (you know... since she is so tiny and reserved) I learned that she is quiet and reserves her energy and focus because she is about to "#micdrop" in the courtroom.
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19 Sep, 2016 by Kelsey
I would recommend Jessica if you are looking for a great disability or personal injury lawyer. She literally wrote the book on disability and will not stop pursuing a disability case until she is out of options or gets her clients benefits; usually the latter. I haven't used her in a disability case personally, but I know many people who have and won their benefits.
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02 Sep, 2016 by Brian
I would definitely recommend Bublitz Law to everyone! Jessica and her wonderful staff worked very hard on my case. I felt in good hands the minute I retained them and, they proved to be well worth the money.
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02 May, 2019 by Vicki
Krista and her team provided invaluable support, counsel, and resources for a very complicated, challenging, and dynamic divorce. Her ability to listen, show compassion, and empathy while maintaining a straightforward approach throughout the process provided invaluable confidence during a difficult situation. It was evident that Krista and her team had my best interest in focus and I will continue to consult and enlist Krista and her team for all future family counsel. I would not hesitate to refer anyone to Krista and her firm.
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25 Apr, 2019 by Tom
Hired Krista to represent me in a very complicated divorce case.
Her staff and her were very patient and understanding. Would highly recommend Krista for anyone looking for counsel. I would definitely use Krista for any future needs.
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25 Apr, 2019 by Kim
Krista was always very professional as well as her staff and very compassionate and caring. I have worked with her over the last eight years and she has been very helpful and fair.
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14 May, 2024 by Lissa
I hired Abby on a recommendation from another prominent lawyer. I was not disappointed. This was my first time in the legal system and I appreciated her willingness to help me understand everything. She really helped me out in a time where I was really scared about my safety. I don't think I could have had a better lawyer. She fought for me and really tried to keep in touch with me and keep me informed. I appreciate her gentleness and empathy. My divorce took a little longer than I would have liked but she always kept me looking forward. I would 100% recommend her to anyone. She is fantastic. Thank you Abby for everything. I wouldn't be where I currently am without you.
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26 Jul, 2022 by Chris
Abby represented be in a custody dispute after I finally fired an attorney halfway through my case that was not doing anything beyond collecting a paycheck. She listened and took notes as I gave her the case background, was quick to reply, fought hard for what was right in the courtroom, billed fairly and honestly, and worked relentlessly with the understanding that this was more than a simple case. I cannot say enough good things about Abby and only regret that I had not found her sooner. I hope to never hire a lawyer again but if I do it will definitely be Abby.
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21 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
Abby did an amazing job with my case, communicated regularly and got me the resolution I was looking for. I would highly recommend her.
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19 Feb, 2022 by Yaron
Edward is honest, generous with his time and very professional.
I hired Edward in November of 2021 and have been extremely happy with his service. In general, I have always been very leery when hiring an attorney - I have always felt that most attorneys are too concerned with tracking your time and speak to you in legal terms that are difficult to understand, hence patronizing and somewhat condescending, but to my pleasant surprise, Edward has been so humble and gracious while extremely knowledgeable. I would rehire Edward without reservation.
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14 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
From start to finish my case was handled in a professional manner and communication was excellent during the process. Specific questions were asked and results were delivered.
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09 Sep, 2019 by Mark
Great Attorney and great office! Mr. Alegria helped me with my child custody several years ago and recently helped me with a criminal matter. He did well for me in both cases. I have recommended him to several people and will continue to do so. Thank you!
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30 Jul, 2022 by Daisy
Attorney Jack Wagner communicated with the other parties Attorney's the court and my self to help me wrap up my Case at a reasonable time if it wasn't for Attorney Jack Wagner my case would have lasted much Longer since the other parties Attorney's were very slow processing Documents for signatures or review.
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04 May, 2015 by Anonymous
I've been very happy with Sarah so far. She's on the ball, listens to what you want, and explains things in a way that makes sense. She prepares documents and gets them e-mailed to me for review and answers any questions I have really fast. I would use her again in a heartbeat and have recommended her to a few of my friends.
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12 Jan, 2021 by Chris
Mr. Kohler handled all of my questions and concerns in a very knowledgeable and professional matter. I would recommend using this firm for any of your needs truly amazing at what they do.
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08 Dec, 2020 by Tom
I have worked with Max on several different issues and he has always done diligent work and will take the time to make sure his clients get the best outcomes possible.
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17 Apr, 2023 by Kealeigh vine
Paul is a fantastic attorney. He fights for his client and always puts them first. My Fiance will always be grateful for his hard work and making him feel for the first time someone was fighting for him and cared about him. Thankyou Mr Riggins.
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07 Feb, 2019 by D e w adventures
Mountain Valley law and Thomas Curl are awesome and I would highly recommend them to anyone looking for high quality legal representation.
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13 Apr, 2018 by Nutritiousdeath
Tom has been good to us, I would recommend him
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17 Apr, 2023 by Kealeigh vine
Paul is a fantastic attorney. He fights for his client and always puts them first. My Fiance will always be grateful for his hard work and making him feel for the first time someone was fighting for him and cared about him. Thankyou Mr Riggins.
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07 Feb, 2019 by D e w adventures
Mountain Valley law and Thomas Curl are awesome and I would highly recommend them to anyone looking for high quality legal representation.
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13 Apr, 2018 by Nutritiousdeath
Tom has been good to us, I would recommend him
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25 Sep, 2024 by Kristina d
Craig Swapp & Associates go above and beyond for the Spokane area. We are so thankful for their continued support.
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24 Sep, 2024 by Mike phillps
Tj Phillips
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23 Sep, 2024 by Kim haney
Cassandra is extremely helpful answered any and all of my questions! I highly recommend Craig Swapp
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5.0
4 Reviews
4.9
263 Reviews
25 Sep, 2024 by Kristina d
Craig Swapp & Associates go above and beyond for the Spokane area. We are so thankful for their continued support.
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24 Sep, 2024 by Mike phillps
Tj Phillips
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23 Sep, 2024 by Kim haney
Cassandra is extremely helpful answered any and all of my questions! I highly recommend Craig Swapp
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25 Sep, 2024 by Kristina d
Craig Swapp & Associates go above and beyond for the Spokane area. We are so thankful for their continued support.
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24 Sep, 2024 by Mike phillps
Tj Phillips
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23 Sep, 2024 by Kim haney
Cassandra is extremely helpful answered any and all of my questions! I highly recommend Craig Swapp
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25 Sep, 2024 by Kristina d
Craig Swapp & Associates go above and beyond for the Spokane area. We are so thankful for their continued support.
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24 Sep, 2024 by Mike phillps
Tj Phillips
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23 Sep, 2024 by Kim haney
Cassandra is extremely helpful answered any and all of my questions! I highly recommend Craig Swapp
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25 Sep, 2024 by Kristina d
Craig Swapp & Associates go above and beyond for the Spokane area. We are so thankful for their continued support.
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24 Sep, 2024 by Mike phillps
Tj Phillips
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23 Sep, 2024 by Kim haney
Cassandra is extremely helpful answered any and all of my questions! I highly recommend Craig Swapp
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19 Aug, 2024 by Laurel traynowicz
Edwina Elcox is THE defense attorney I use and recommend. Ms. Elcox knows the legal and judicial systems thoroughly. Her experiences both a prosecutor and a defense attorney mean that you have the wisdom and backing of a seasoned attorney who will guide you through the process with YOUR legal rights and YOUR best interests at the forefront. She won’t BS you. Her honest assessment of the facts is invaluable. Trust her. And relax. She’s got this so you don’t have to be a Google wannabe lawyer.
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07 Mar, 2024 by Art waldon
16 Feb, 2024 by Bo fisher
Just the nicest attorney to deal with. Edwina handled everything for me and made sure I was in the know. She will really fight for you and I will always appreciate her for that. Thank you!
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03 Jun, 2024 by Michele
The Team at Hardee, Piñol & Kracke, PLLC has been fantastic during the past few months. This is especially true of Rich Pinol. He’s provided excellent, realistic feedback and transparent legal counsel. Rich knows the mechanics of the courts and bases his rationale on facts and logic. I greatly appreciate all he has done.
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08 May, 2024 by Diane tolley
If you are looking to hire a family law Attorney that is professional, detailed, personal & a great communicator with excellent knowledge of family law Jake Hardee will definitely fulfill your needs. Thank you Jake & his team (Jennifer) for a job well done. We greatly appreciate you both & are very happy with the successful outcome of our case.
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08 May, 2024 by Shanna tolley
Jake and Jennifer are great to work with!
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02 Jun, 2024 by Holley
Jake is such a fantastic attorney. From day one, he listened to me and didn't forget; negate or deny my view point of the divorce proceedings. He took everything into account and told me his honest opinion about a legal approach and why or why not those things would work or not. He always returned emails and calls and is just so super knowledgeable about the laws here in Idaho. He did not try to sway me but was just objective and logical in his advice and it was a breath of fresh air to work with someone that truly wants the best for his clients. If you want an attorney that isn't afraid of his opponents and will fight for you every step of the way, Jake is your attorney!!!
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21 May, 2024 by Kyle
THE. BEST. FIRM. Hands down. I worked mostly w Jake Hardee and a bit w David Kracke and given the circumstances, couldn’t have asked for better representation and personal attention. If I could give them 10 reviews, I would. That’s about how long this stuff went on, and Jake endured. I had come to Hardee, Pinol, and Kracke because I was struggling to get responses from a different firm, and I am so glad I did. Jake, and David as well, both kept me informed, they were patient, professional, cost conscious whenever possible, and always followed through when they said they were going to do something. And thier staff are amazing as well; they all seem to embrace a culture of respect and professionalism.
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09 May, 2024 by Diane
After 11 years trying to reach a goal, Jake accomplished in approximately 7 months. He NEVER forgot the details & our goals, always got back w/us, the paperwork was professionally executed according to the laws & very well written, he's personal, caring & a wonderful negotiator & stayed on top of court deadlines & appointments. We had full confidence our case would be completed with NO loopholes! Jake is a true gentleman with a great future & we cannot express the "peace" he has brought to our family. Once again thank you to you (& your team) for your hard work & all you have accomplished for us. It's much appreciated more than you will know. Stay true to yourself & your work ethics.
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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.
