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27 Sep, 2024 by Cyndi canova
**★★★★★**
No tengo palabras para agradecer a Jesse por su excelente trabajo en mi caso de accidente. Desde el inicio, demostró un conocimiento profundo y un gran compromiso con mi bienestar. Se encargó de todo de manera rápida y eficaz, permitiéndome concentrarme en mi recuperación mientras él manejaba todo el proceso legal. Siempre estuvo disponible para responder a mis preguntas y me mantuvo informado en cada etapa. Gracias a su dedicación y experiencia, obtuve un resultado más favorable de lo que esperaba. Recomiendo a Jesse al 100%, es un verdadero experto en su campo.
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25 Sep, 2024 by Lester machado
**★★★★★**
Tuve la suerte de contar con Jesse tras un accidente que sufrí, y no puedo estar más agradecido por su ayuda. Desde el primer momento, fue profesional, atento y muy empático con mi situación. Se encargó de todo el proceso legal de manera impecable, explicándome cada paso y asegurándose de que entendiera todas mis opciones. Gracias a su experiencia y dedicación, logré obtener una compensación justa, lo cual me dio tranquilidad en un momento muy difícil. Recomiendo a Jesse sin ninguna duda para cualquiera que necesite un abogado comprometido y eficiente. ¡Un verdadero profesional!.
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18 Sep, 2024 by Grace
I recommend Jesse to anyone! He handled my auto accident and he was communicative, thorough, made sure I got the help I needed and always graciously answered any and all of the questions I had. 10/10!
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5.0
21 Reviews
5.0
21 Reviews
08 Aug, 2024 by Steven
Faith Is an excellent Attorney, Her Paralegal Kimberly is also “Great”. I was kept up to date through the whole divorce process. I am a retired Associate Court Clerk with the New York State Courts. I knew a lot of judges and Attorneys back in New York. I knew the type of Attorney I was looking for. I read Faith’s online reviews and liked what I read. I made an appointment with Faith. I had a lot of issues that required a competent Attorney. I found Faith to be honest, reliable and caring. She explained to me the difference between going to trial or settlement negotiations. I ended up going to arbitration and Faith handled my case professionally and we came to an agreement that I was happy with.. I highly recommend Faith Brown as a divorce Attorney.
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04 Jun, 2024 by Howard
This was a complicated and and at times an adversarial divorce. Faith and Kim were amazing during the entire process. They were available to answer any questions and explain the legal terms, motions, and actions fully. Faith advocated for me and ensured my legal rights were protected. Faith had an extensive knowledge regarding alimony state laws and she was able to collaborate with opposing counsel to reach a fair an equitable property division with my ex spouse. I have the utmost confidence in Faith even when things seemed their bleakest.
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02 Dec, 2022 by Robert j. subbiondo jr.
Faith Brown is honest, wise, and concise. Her ability to analyze the facts of the case and law through a compassionate but realistic framework is mitigating the pain and trauma that can occur through legal representation and the process. By refraining from legalese salesmanship she has saved me time, money, and aggravation.
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5.0
23 Reviews
26 Aug, 2024 by Steve
This review is to display my complete satisfaction with Ed Sobel and his excellent staff. They were extremely attentive, knowledgeable, accurate and detailed. The interaction with opposing counsel and mediators was beyond professional. Ed and his staff always provided sound advice. Divorce proceedings are very challenging but I am forever grateful that I selected Ed Sobel to represent me. Thank you Ed, Julia & Piper.
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28 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
Mr. Ed and his office team ( Piper and Julia) are amazing! I went to Ed office after getting referred by a friend. Ed and his team took my divorce case seriously and went out of their way not only to provide me guidance but also to help handling my difficult case successfully and peacefully! I got the result I wanted! Thanks Ed and your team for incredible work you done! I could not do this my own! I was very grateful to have you as my lawyer!
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25 Mar, 2024 by Patricia
Attorney Edward B. Sobel has a thorough knowledge of the law, and defended my case with expertise and determination.
He kept me informed every step of the way, from beginning to end.
He was attentive to my case. He was patient and understanding.
He listened and addressed all of my concerns with clarity.
My attorney, Mr. Edward B. Sobel thoroughly reviewed all the evidence in my case and prepared an exceptional strategy that ultimately led to my/our victory. His preparation, dedication, and commitment was totally extraordinary.
I will always be grateful to God for the hard work this attorney consistently put forth for my case. Job well done, victory was won!
I would strongly recommend Attorney Edward B. Sobel, an attorney that will truly fight for you!!
Thank you,
Patricia, very pleased client.
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08 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous
Mr Hittle was very nice and helpful. I am very glad I went to see him. Thank you Mr Hittle!
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25 Oct, 2020 by Catherine
Mr. Hittel was very helpful and trustful in my time of need, I would highly recommend him to anyone. The best in the business.
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26 Nov, 2019 by Alta
I found Chris to be a very compassionate, honest person. I would highly recommend him if you need help. He helped me tremendously.
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18 Mar, 2022 by Niaja
He won my case and he did a great job. I wanted to thank him for the work that he did.
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08 May, 2015 by Andrew
Mr Fleck has handled several mortage foreclouser cases for me . His knowlege of the law is amazing. The outcome of each case was past anything that I would of expected. I would highley advise speaking to John prior to making any other decisions .
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15 Jul, 2014 by Anonymous
I used Mr. Fleck for my divorce and he was excellent in making sure I was protected. I recommended him to a friend for his divorce and his guidance was flawless. I recommended him again to another friend for bankruptcy and he protected him without fail. I asked him for legal guidance on another issue and his response time was impeccable along with his legal recommendations. I live in another state and the lawyers here are horrible. I highly recommend him. His approach is a no nonsense approach and his legal knowledge is impeccable.
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19 Jun, 2016 by Janet
Lisa was hired for my car accident.
If your needing an attorney for your prompt attention needs I would definitely recommend Lisa Orga.. Thank you for giving me your personal cell number Lisa!
You get to talk to her not always passed off to the assistant. She is awesome !!!
Thank you Lisa !
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19 Jan, 2011 by Gareth
Lisa's attention to detail was outstanding. with all the required documentation but together (over 500 pages) our visa was submitted processed and approved with in 90 days. the detail was so good that no extra paper work was requested and our interview took 10 minutes.
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17 Jan, 2011 by Cj
Attorney Orga helped my wife and I with her immigration paper work and processing. Lisa answered all of our questions and went to the immigration interview with us. We would recommend Lisa to anyone, she is very friendly and answers all of her own phone calls.
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28 Apr, 2015 by Carol
My ex and I had most of our issues worked through, but needed an attorney to help us mediate thru the issues we had not resolved. Ms Fradley, was professional, neither of us felt like she took sides, she was extremely fair and impartial in a very emotional time. When the discussion would get off track, she would redirect us back to the issues at hand. I/We were extremely happy with her services and that was the first thing we agreed upon in years. (LOL) All kidding aside, I would highly recommend Ms Fradley.
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25 Jul, 2011 by Liz
The divorce and mediation process was handled in a professional manner yet with compassion and care. Ms. Fradley kept me informed and remained available for consultations. Mediation was an innovative means to resolve difficult family issues. Divorce utilizing mediation abated alot of tension and accomplished a satisfactory agreement. I highly recommend Tricia Fradley.
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22 Sep, 2015 by Tommy
I would recommend this law firm over anyone in Pinellas County! Diligence and perseverance would best describe my experience with Mr. Kantaras and his legal team. Living in a state where fathers rights are constantly over looked, Mr. Kantaras and Sarah Runevich fought and I was awarded permanent sole custody of my son.
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16 Jul, 2009 by Anonymous
Bob has great research skills and was able to find out statues and information that really helped my case. His down-to-earth personality and instant rapport made it very easy to understand the more complicated parts of the law regarding my case. He was quick to return phone calls and emails; I always felt like I was in good hands. I will be sure to turn to him whenever the need arises.
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21 May, 2015 by Anonymous
very knowledgeable in this field, and he always kept me well informed what was it what was going on with my case, always answered any questions that I had. And most of all won my case. Would definitely use him in the future.
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03 Nov, 2023 by Marko sherma
Jason is the best
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02 May, 2023 by Hair fx
Awesome lawyer, really he is the best!! Be patient and kind
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03 Feb, 2023 by Karis russell
Mr.Reid represented a friend of mine and did an outstanding job. He is polite, professional, and thorough. Mr. Reid communicates well, he is thoughtful, and meticulous. He provides his services with sincerity and integrity. Very thankful for his help and representation. Highly recommended.)
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15 Apr, 2024 by Fred palermo
Brenden Moriarty did a great job for us, settling a property sale, probate, helped us with our wills and trust ! Highly recommended!!! Very Professional and very quick! Reasonable!
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28 Jan, 2024 by Amir abu-aita
13 Aug, 2023 by Roslyn freeze
Used this firm for a condo closing in Florida. They called me a minimum of times when they were gathering information they closed when they said they would. I found their fees were very reasonable.
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24 Apr, 2024 by Lorena betancourt carbonell
Muy buena la atención, los consejos, buen servicio en general
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24 Apr, 2024 by Jose alberto 1970 gonzalez
Nuestra experiencia con el abogado Arnoldo de rate y su equipo fue muy exitosa, nos devolvió la confianza y la tranquilidad.verdaderamente un ejemplo de profesionalidad todo su equipo ,nos quitó la corte a mi esposa y nos limpio el camino en este gran paÃs... agradecidos de todo corazón y k dios me lo bendiga..un abrazo
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23 Apr, 2024 by Jendy macia
Mis más profundo agradecimiento a mi abogado defensor de la justicia que lucha por un mundo más justo y equitativo, defensor de los derechos y excelente abogado Arnoldo Arrate y a su equipo legal les envÃo mis más sinceros reconocimientos en su invaluable labor estoy impresionado por su talento , habilidad y la eficiencia de su trabajo al llenarme de felicidad y hacerme residente de este hermoso paÃs en un récord de tiempo. Muchas felicidades y éxitos profesional por la gran labor que realizan . Muchas gracias! aprecio su arduo trabajo y con gusto recomiendo sus servicios a otras personas q puedan necesitar asistencia legal por su diligente representación en mi reciente caso judicial su experiencia y determinación fueron fundamentales para el resultado favorable que hoy disfruto. Muchas gracias aprecio profundamente su arduo trabajo!
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25 Jul, 2024 by Monica stilla
Our experience with The Law Offices of Tricia Fradley was nothing short of amazing! She was very prompt, thorough and guided us every step of the way! My (ex)husband and I were on an agreement to everything and we are so grateful we found her! She made the process so easy and seamless for us. Although a marriage is ending, we are the best of friends for our children and I couldn’t recommend her services enough! Thank you so much Ms.Fradley! It was an absolutely pleasure working with you!
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11 Jul, 2024 by Patrick cody
10 Jul, 2024 by Danielle marchand
Working with Tricia was a pleasant experience. She was extremely responsive and professional. Her emails included clear instructions along with specific, easy-to-follow, detailed checklists. Working with her was a very positive experience.
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11 Aug, 2024 by Jean marie hoppe
I was very scared about my financial future as I went through my divorce and into retirement. Daphane and the Army behind her fought for me and everything I needed financially. She's a fighter. Couldn't be happier with my representation.
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11 Aug, 2024 by Kathy mckee
Daphane & her staff were excellent in getting my divorce finalized. I was told what to have for her to file, if I had questions all I needed was to call & get my answer. The compassion she & her staff have is what is needed to help the client through their case. Should I need an attorney I will be calling my "friends". Thank you all!
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11 Aug, 2024 by William blosch, dmin, phd
I contracted with this attorney to represent me in a civil case. Once I paid the retainer, she ghosted me. I had to contest the charge with the bank to get my retainer back. I knew this attorney personally and had vouched for her with the Florida Bar. I clearly made a mistake doing that.
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31 Dec, 2022 by Linda
Hired Mr Wiggins and gave him a $10k retainer which he has kept and has done absolutely nothing. He told us he was going to file an action but it has been months and he has done nothing we know about. He told us he could keep the money and do nothing. He has kept our money and he has done nothing. We are filing a small claims action.
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02 Dec, 2022 by Robert j. subbiondo jr.
Faith Brown is honest, wise, and concise. Her ability to analyze the facts of the case and law through a compassionate but realistic framework is mitigating the pain and trauma that can occur through legal representation and the process. By refraining from legalese salesmanship she has saved me time, money, and aggravation.
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20 Dec, 2021 by Ty burns
Jim kept me informed and up to date. He checked on me often. It was my first experience with this type of law and was not sure if i needed it as we were never going to go to court etc. I am so happy I went to him! I would NEVER have known what to do, where to go, or how to maneuver thru the complexity of it. I would never have received the compensation I did with out Jim Dodson Law. There are too many things I would have never known on my own. I was concerned about paying a lawyer one third but he MORE than took care of that.
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13 May, 2022 by Tania thornton
13 May, 2022 by Tania thornton
28 Jun, 2021 by Kathleen ell
I just called this morning to find out if this office handled a landlord tenant breach of contract and no one would even tell me yes or no unless I paid a $250 consultation fee! The receptionist was pretty rude and dismissive. Other reviews seem to be positive having spoken to attorney Nelson himself. Very poor customer service or should I say lack of. Maybe she is having a bad Monday morning!
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18 Apr, 2024 by Wendell martin
Great attorney and care about each case.
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15 Nov, 2023 by Levi courtney
08 Sep, 2023 by Cm morris
Very good legal form. Contacted me very quickly after I put an online request for more information and possible legal services.
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18 Apr, 2024 by Wendell martin
Great attorney and care about each case.
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15 Nov, 2023 by Levi courtney
08 Sep, 2023 by Cm morris
Very good legal form. Contacted me very quickly after I put an online request for more information and possible legal services.
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13 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
Does not return calls or emails, and does not keep me updated. I really had high hopes for this attorney. I thought that he was really going to go to bat for me, but he has let me down. I just don't hear from him.
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17 Apr, 2017 by Michelle
Great attorney. Thankful that God lead me to him as I was in a nightmare divorce involving three small children. My case also involved CPS and a pending foreclosure. I couldn't have been in better hands than with Bart who was very experienced and versed in family law and the family court system. He also was able to masterfully negotiate repayment of the loan with my bank and get us out of foreclosure while the divorce pended. His secretary was always wonderful with me and had the patience of a saint with my endless calls. His assistant was also diligent and did a great job. I would definitely recommend him!
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03 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
Bart Ray was wonderful and very helpful. Fought for what we wanted and wasn't going to give up. Very thankful for this attorney.
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07 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
Paul worked with me to create all documents, but then went MIA when it was time for action. Did not get back to me on the status of my case, but finally answered when I asked to close it, with an extremely small refund. I wasted over $2k working with him and had absolutely nothing happen as a result.
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06 Jun, 2022 by Marisa noce
Paul Grondahl is an excellent attorney who really goes above and beyond for his client. Never once did I doubt I was in the best possible hands. He is a very knowledge and trustworthy person. He is extremely intelligent, and especially he is a good person, it means that he has values and a high sense of justice. He will work as hard for you, protecting your interests. He explains the law, outlines in clear language the steps in the process that are needed to be done, his experience makes you build confidence and peace of mind, also during turbulent times during a divorce process. I highly recommend Paul Grondahl as the best attorney in the area.
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03 Sep, 2021 by Jeannine
I interviewed three attorneys before carefully deciding who would best represent me and protect my child's interests. I confidently chose Paul because it just felt right. He is clearly passionate about his profession and getting the very best results for his clients. Paul is honest and truly cares. He quickly resolved my case without conflict or contention. As a direct result, I have a very good relationship with my former husband, which is the the very best outcome for our child.
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31 May, 2023 by Carol
I met with Linda for a consultation regarding a dependency case. Linda immediately made me feel comfortable and she listened. She understood what I was going through, where I was coming from, and had knowledge and experience to go along with a great personality that made me laugh too. She gave me solid legal advice, but also common sense mom to mom advice which I appreciate. The consultation fee was reasonable and she spent over an hour with me which I didn’t expect. I felt she was real, honest and took pride in helping people and knowing the law. I know who I would recommend or hire myself if I needed a family or dependency attorney.
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22 Jul, 2022 by David
I have referred many cases to Linda over the years and I have nothing but the upmost respect for her legal mind and her tenaciousness
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17 Dec, 2015 by Joshua
I had fought the court system in Florida for 10 years and 10 months to remove my daughter from a harmful environment. The judges refused to grant me custody because I was in the Army and that is "unstable". My daughters mother is drug addicted and has no home but was considered stable. I had a very hard time even though it seemed I was the best choice. Mrs. Lorrier took my difficult case and helped me more than I could have asked for. To me she did not look at me as a client or for a business end, she looked at me as a father and she truly cared. I could not have asked for a more caring and dedicated lawyer and I can say I consider her family now. She devoted time and love into getting my family whole and keeping my daughter safe. If you feel no one cares and you have no options, you must speak with Mrs. Lorrier before you accept defeat.
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26 Mar, 2024 by I h
Pour communication, rude and very ignorant and loaded with hate for no reason. I googled it and tried to call it for two days, a lady with a thick southern accent answered with prepotence that she won’t deal with anyone that is a foreigner and doesn’t have English has her mother tongue . I was totally shocked. However i asked her if she could point me to a direction where we could get legal help as foreigners that do speak English , she drops the phone on my face ..
so horrible
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18 Nov, 2020 by Jack storm
Outstanding Elder Law Attorney , Ms. Proctor is extremely articulate end up on all the recent laws in Florida.
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13 Jan, 2020 by Michael lewetag
I needed assistance for some legal documents that had to be done in an urgent manner. A friend of mine recommended that I contact Rebecca Proctor. I contacted her office and the staff was very polite and courteous and scheduled an appointment that week for me to come in. Ms. Proctor addressed my concerns and answered all my questions very professionally. Her office was able to draw up the necessary paperwork in a very timely fashion. Everything was taking care of very smoothly and professionally and they make you feel very comfortable. Needless to say I was very impressed with the quality of service and care her office demonstrated and I highly recommend. Will definitely use her services again.
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08 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
Her inexperience damaged a life of someone where she could have prevented has she done the work, but chose not to. When called out on it, she decided to ignore and not address or help. I guess it's not her life, so she doesn't care to correct something that clearly could have been prevented. When becoming a lawyer, one should consider being accountable no matter what. Too bad another's life has been adversely affected and she could care less.
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19 Jun, 2015 by Heather
I had full confidence in Kristy Guy Zinna handling my traffic case. Not only was I completely satisfied with the outcome, she exceeded all expectations in a truly professional manner! Ms. Zinna knows what she is doing and it shows! It's nice to have someone representing you that really loves what they do. It was a blessing to have someone so wonderful on my side. If I ever need her services again, she will be the first one I call! I can't reccinend her enough!! Class act, smart & professional!
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05 May, 2015 by Jamie
I was fired from another attorney for calling too much to try and get answers I needed due to not being able to return to work due to my weight restriction limits. I was glad I got fired and found my old friend I met years ago was a personal injury attorney now. Kristy helped me through the most stressful time in my life. I would recommend her and Luhrsen to anyone!
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03 May, 2018 by Anonymous
First of all, Greg Kramer does nothing, his Clerk (Wayne) does all of the work. BUT the clerk does not go to Court. So Kramer, who does not keep up-to-date on the info, is the one actually representing you. Anything you give to Kramer will not make it to the Clerk (I gave Kramer original documents that never made it to the clerk, had to re-complete my intake form, etc). There is a lack of communication between Kramer and the Clerk.
They rack up legal bills and give no results. Clerk wrote lots of motions and files (and subsequently charged me for his time), then they would not use them. For example, they unilaterally decided to do Contempt of Court on the opposite party when he didn’t pay his child support, spent a lot of my time writing emails, motions, etc. Then it all just disappeared. When I asked what happened the clerk said, “No contempt. Greg made that decision and it had been already removed from prior hearing.” I was not asked to start or stop that process, but I was charged. That is just one example of many where they wasted my money in that manner.
Kramer gave terrible advice. The #1 reason I got a lawyer was so they could guide me through the process and help me know what outcome to expect. Kramer is either ignorant to how judges typically rule in family court OR purposefully misled me in order to make money off of me. I suspect a little of both.
When the opposing counsel asked us to go to mediation, Kramer and his Clerk told me not to go and to wait until after the first court date. They continually reassured me that nothing would happen at the court date (which they set) except appointment of a GAL and a Social Investigation. Kramer recommended and set up this court date and then was completely unprepared. Nor did he prepare me (I called him multiple times asking to meet, and he kept saying we had plenty of time). As one small example (I have many) the opposing lawyer had a document that I had originally provided for evidence at the beginning of the legal process. Kramer tried to object to it and the opposing counsel reminded him “your office filed this.” To make matters more laughable, Kramer then asked if the opposing counsel had printed a copy for him. Kramer had zero evidence, made zero points, alienated the judge in his opening statement (and actually argued when the judge corrected him until the judge said that he could stop and read the transcripts if necessary). He was not credible in court at all. Kramer simply talked in circles. He obviously just likes to hear himself talk, but there is no substance being said.
Our Guardian Ad Litem told me Greg “did not advocate for you at all.” The opposing counsel stated that Greg “made a fool of himself.” Greg emailed me hours after the trial saying he was sorry, but also deflecting blame from himself. One day later he emailed me saying that he assumed I wanted him to withdraw and that they would prepare a final bill and the paperwork for withdraw. The next day the clerk messaged me saying, “Mr. Kramer thinks you will be seeking new counsel. Is that correct?” Kramer pushed me very hard to let him leave the case. So Kramer did not do his job, which put me in a terrible position, and then immediately wanted to withdraw from the case. He charged me a significant amount of money, got me no results, and then left me scrambling to find another lawyer to fix what he had ruined. Terrible.
He is the exact type of lawyer that gives lawyers a bad name. He does no work and does not care about his clients. He needs to retire.
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01 Jul, 2017 by Alex
Attorney Kramer is an increadibly bright and experience family law attorney. He is honest , reliable and well spoken. I chose him because he cares about the families he represents and all cost Greg looks out for the best interest of the children involved. Greg is kind yet tough I would recommend him to anyone needing help in divorce matters. He has already helped several of my friends as well
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27 Jun, 2017 by Michael
Greg is one of the only Attorneys who is honest and upfront . Tells you like it is not just what you want to hear. I went from having my child 8 days a month to now 50%! I could not of done it with out you Greg!
God Bless!
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13 Jul, 2023 by Samantha
Do not consider this firm if you actually want your case filed. They are known for taking excessive retainer fees and charging you for their incompetence. Multiple charges against retainer for acquiring the same information. Either they do this purposely or they are entirely incompetent. After a year, they never even filed in court.
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05 Nov, 2021 by Joyce
At my first appointment The first thing Mr. Mackey said to me is,”your husband is an idiot to have left you.” He constantly flirted with me and commented on my body. Then he charged me $50,000 for a divorce leaving me with modifiable alimony after a 25 year marriage. I lost all faith in the legal system and attorneys as a result.
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19 May, 2021 by Eduardo martinez
Peter Mackey was our Attorny for a issue we had involving a real estate transaction. It was nothing short of amazing in the quart room and one hour case and we received our settlement a few days after the victory. We would be using no one other than the Mackley Law Group! Thank you 1 million times!
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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.
