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12 Dec, 2024 by Tahmeed zaman
Mr. Phelps was really helpful throughout my time of need. He handled my case really professionally and strategically in order to get me the best outcome for me. I would highly recommend Mr. Phelps as he has vast knowledge and experience in the law field, and I have no doubts you will thank yourself for seeking his help!
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12 Dec, 2024 by Anika
Mr. Phelps has been wonderful in helping my family navigate a tough situation. We would 100% recommend to others. Thank you Mr. Phelps & team for everything!
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12 Dec, 2024 by Kalli poche
I hired Reilly Garrett as my attorney and I have nothing but good things to say about him and this firm. He was professional, honest, and kind through the whole process of helping me with my case. I highly recommend this firm!
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13 May, 2023 by Chris seideman
Hunter and his team are great! We have used them on multiple occasions for different tasks from business to personal. Highly recommend!
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11 May, 2023 by Brian switalski
I've been a client of the Thomas Law firm for several years now. They've taken care of a variety of legal matters for me and I've been pleased with the process and outcome every time. Great people to deal with.
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27 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
Mr. Andreski was very kind and informative throughout the process of my case. He was nothing but clear and fair about his pricing and how the process was going to work. He got my charges reduced and soon I will be able to have a fully clear record thanks to him. I cannot thank him enough for his help and patience working with me! I will definitely be recommending him to anyone and everyone.
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18 Nov, 2024 by Justin easley
Hands down if you want a good attorney that will fight for you look no further. Rick Davis along with his team are very good at what they do. Thank you Rick for all you do
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15 Nov, 2024 by Jamie mcelyea
Highly recommend Rick Davis! He is very knowledgeable and will work tirelessly on your case. He worked very hard and very long hours on my son’s case and he got the best possible outcome. His communication with clients along the process is outstanding as well.
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01 Aug, 2024 by Jess c.
Excellent lawyer. Thank you, Rick, for helping my daughter in her case. I wish you the best and will always recommend your services.
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10 Jan, 2022 by Olivia
.... a defense lawyer is compassionate, goes above and beyond. Two felonies rejected.
Many thanks Aaron.
You're appreciated!
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08 Mar, 2021 by Jeanette
I definitely recommend Aaron Kleinschmidt, he was able to get both of my cases dismissed! He’s a great criminal defense lawyer!
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18 Feb, 2021 by Sami
Aaron was extremely helpful! Without hiring him he walked me through exactly what I needed to do to try and get my speeding ticket dismissed but he helped me with questions after our initial phone call. I would definitely recommend him!
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22 Jun, 2017 by Micah
Wendy Represented me well. My Ex kept taking me to court, and I think after having Wendy represent me, she put a stop to that. I have heard that Wendy is the best in Brazos county, and I wouldn't disagree.
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29 Apr, 2017 by Jeff
I have unfortunately been in family court too many times, but Wendy Wood is by far the best, most prepared, smart board certified family lawyer I have ever experienced, and one whom I can say earned EVERY dollar. If you want the best you are going to pay for it. In Wendy's case it is completely worth it. Her legal assistant Alanna is brilliant as well, and I would recommend her to anyone who can afford and wants the best. Many good family lawyer charge a lot. Wendy is great! As a father I was perfectly represented, and can say in every arduous step of the way we won, won, and won.
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14 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
Wendy did an amazing job taking the time to explain the law to me, and she also showed great compassion for my situation. She was sincere, honest, and above all the consummate advocate for me to get the best possible outcome of a bad situation. I can't speak highly enough of her. I found her online through reading reviews like these, and they were all completely true--she's THE best.
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01 Feb, 2025 by Sergio ramirez
Gracias a la señorita Lizet Medrano por su paciencia en explicarnos todo y con claridad, asta ahorita estamos satisfechos
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31 Jan, 2025 by Yudenia domínguez
30 Jan, 2025 by Bot hou
30 Oct, 2015 by James
I didn't think there was any good ending to my case but ray thomas got the best result i could ask for, if i need a lawyer again ill be calling him first
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03 Nov, 2018 by Krista
I have hired Mrs. Borman a few times now in a divorce battle, custody battle and a modification battle. She is absolutely wonderful. I love her honesty and straightforwardness. She will not beat around the bush and I greatly appreciate that about her. She has had all rulings in my favor so far. She is a very hardworking attorney who will fight until the end for you. Her staff is amazing as well. They are very kind, caring and compassionate.
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12 Apr, 2017 by Summer
Channa is an excellent attorney, she has a wonderful attitude and is straight with you. She is down to earth and personable. Love having her as my attorney!
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12 Apr, 2017 by Crystal
Channa is unlike any other. She is honest, caring, and really works for her clients. She is the attorney you want at your side.
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02 Jan, 2025 by Timothy brundidge
After my accident in November of 22, I had the reality check of my life. For the first time in my life I really questioned my future. I have a young son who wouldn't understand. Worse yet, no means to ensure the stability of my family. I don't know how to begin thanking Brian and his exemplary team. I was completely lost before I was referred to his office. When I first came to his office I was met with a warm heart felt smile and comforting atmosphere. Gabrielle was the first on the team I met. She handled the beginning of my case with expertise and confidence. Quite the foreshadowing of the man who made it all happen, Brian Gutierrez. He exemplified the true confidence behind his staff. With the experience and versed knowledge of personal injury litigation I knew I was at the right place. He ensured that no stone was unturned and stood his ground when representing me. I would back this man in any battle, truly a gift to this unfortunate situation and friend to count on. Thank you Brian, if you ever need anything, just let me know and I'll make it happen like you did.
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04 Oct, 2024 by 배경서
My brother and I both got in a car accident by a drunk driver back in 2022. Although the other individual was absolutely at fault, some lawyers wouldn't want to take the case unless my brother sues me when I was also a victim. I was very scared and discouraged as an international student, so I visited the school law center, and they recommended Brian. Brian, without saying any negativity, he gladly took our case. It has been a long time since the car accident occurred, but he has been fighting for us for more than year and a half, and finally we maxed out the policy limit and the case got settled. I not only 100% recommend him as a lawyer, but also his paralegal as a perfect team. Gabrielle and Sarah have been so nice and caring for this whole time. Thank you so much!
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22 Aug, 2024 by Kyle beck
Even though we didn't have a case to build due to my wife being in perfect health and not neededing and treatment a couple days after her accident, these people answered all of our questions and walked us through the whole process on everything we wanted to know. Unfortunately and fortunately we did not need their services they still helped with a lot. They even offered a discount do to my service in the military without me even asking and it wasn't my accident. Very friendly and have great attitude and reply to messages fairly quickly. Thank you for y'all's time!
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02 Jan, 2025 by Timothy brundidge
After my accident in November of 22, I had the reality check of my life. For the first time in my life I really questioned my future. I have a young son who wouldn't understand. Worse yet, no means to ensure the stability of my family. I don't know how to begin thanking Brian and his exemplary team. I was completely lost before I was referred to his office. When I first came to his office I was met with a warm heart felt smile and comforting atmosphere. Gabrielle was the first on the team I met. She handled the beginning of my case with expertise and confidence. Quite the foreshadowing of the man who made it all happen, Brian Gutierrez. He exemplified the true confidence behind his staff. With the experience and versed knowledge of personal injury litigation I knew I was at the right place. He ensured that no stone was unturned and stood his ground when representing me. I would back this man in any battle, truly a gift to this unfortunate situation and friend to count on. Thank you Brian, if you ever need anything, just let me know and I'll make it happen like you did.
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04 Oct, 2024 by 배경서
My brother and I both got in a car accident by a drunk driver back in 2022. Although the other individual was absolutely at fault, some lawyers wouldn't want to take the case unless my brother sues me when I was also a victim. I was very scared and discouraged as an international student, so I visited the school law center, and they recommended Brian. Brian, without saying any negativity, he gladly took our case. It has been a long time since the car accident occurred, but he has been fighting for us for more than year and a half, and finally we maxed out the policy limit and the case got settled. I not only 100% recommend him as a lawyer, but also his paralegal as a perfect team. Gabrielle and Sarah have been so nice and caring for this whole time. Thank you so much!
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22 Aug, 2024 by Kyle beck
Even though we didn't have a case to build due to my wife being in perfect health and not neededing and treatment a couple days after her accident, these people answered all of our questions and walked us through the whole process on everything we wanted to know. Unfortunately and fortunately we did not need their services they still helped with a lot. They even offered a discount do to my service in the military without me even asking and it wasn't my accident. Very friendly and have great attitude and reply to messages fairly quickly. Thank you for y'all's time!
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12 Dec, 2024 by Tahmeed zaman
Mr. Phelps was really helpful throughout my time of need. He handled my case really professionally and strategically in order to get me the best outcome for me. I would highly recommend Mr. Phelps as he has vast knowledge and experience in the law field, and I have no doubts you will thank yourself for seeking his help!
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12 Dec, 2024 by Anika
Mr. Phelps has been wonderful in helping my family navigate a tough situation. We would 100% recommend to others. Thank you Mr. Phelps & team for everything!
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12 Dec, 2024 by Kalli poche
I hired Reilly Garrett as my attorney and I have nothing but good things to say about him and this firm. He was professional, honest, and kind through the whole process of helping me with my case. I highly recommend this firm!
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10 Jan, 2025 by Justin fuchs
The guy wouldn’t even take the time to listen to me explain my case, referred me back to the attorney that referred me to him.
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05 Jan, 2025 by Meg m
Josh is a passionate attorney who zealously represents his clients. He assisted us in reaching a favorable resolution when a larger company would have otherwise ignored and tried to bully us into bearing thousands of dollars of losses for that company’s mistake. Highly recommend and would hire him again in a heartbeat.
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14 Oct, 2024 by Mgb z.
Josh was able to give justice to my son’s dispute with his landlord. He was straight to the point and easy to communicate with.
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27 Aug, 2019 by Reece
Best attorney by far for any of your family needs! Jana Foreman and her staff went above and beyond on my case and made every step of the way as comfortable as possible!
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27 Jul, 2011 by Amanda
Jana has been AMAZING throughout this whole case. I trust her with anything. She is very responsive and gives you all the options whether you want to hear it or not. She always makes sure you are preparred for anything. I absolutly would refer her to anyone.
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07 Sep, 2018 by Tom
I hired Stephanie Imbrie to represent me in a divorce matter, and I could not be more pleased with my choice. She was amazing, both in the courtroom and office. I definitely recommend!
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18 Apr, 2024 by Susan torres
Exceptional service from start to finish! My experience with Paula was outstanding. She is highly knowledgeable, attentive to detail and provided clear guidance throughout my case. Her expertise and professionalism eased my legal concerns and made it such a smooth process.
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13 Apr, 2024 by Isabel moreno
My experience working with Paula was awesome. She was very helpful in my divorce process, it was quick by the time it knew it I was divorced. Thank you very much again.
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18 Nov, 2023 by Scott easom
Paula is very professional and thorough. Took care of my case efficiently and fast. Divorce was set and done very quickly.
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01 Feb, 2025 by Sergio ramirez
Gracias a la señorita Lizet Medrano por su paciencia en explicarnos todo y con claridad, asta ahorita estamos satisfechos
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31 Jan, 2025 by Yudenia domínguez
30 Jan, 2025 by Bot hou
01 Feb, 2025 by Sergio ramirez
Gracias a la señorita Lizet Medrano por su paciencia en explicarnos todo y con claridad, asta ahorita estamos satisfechos
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31 Jan, 2025 by Yudenia domínguez
30 Jan, 2025 by Bot hou
18 Apr, 2024 by Susan torres
Exceptional service from start to finish! My experience with Paula was outstanding. She is highly knowledgeable, attentive to detail and provided clear guidance throughout my case. Her expertise and professionalism eased my legal concerns and made it such a smooth process.
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13 Apr, 2024 by Isabel moreno
My experience working with Paula was awesome. She was very helpful in my divorce process, it was quick by the time it knew it I was divorced. Thank you very much again.
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18 Nov, 2023 by Scott easom
Paula is very professional and thorough. Took care of my case efficiently and fast. Divorce was set and done very quickly.
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11 Jun, 2019 by Cate
I was going through a horrible custody battle because I wanted to move back home, which was out of state. Andrea came very highly recommended to me, and the reality exceeded the hype for once. She fought tooth and nail for me. She was professional, knowledgeable, and understanding. She was honorable, courteous, and I will absolutely utilize her services if I ever again need legal representation.
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09 Jun, 2017 by Catherine
Andrea was thorough, proactive, concise and clear in her recommendations and explanations. She is experienced and knowledgeable in her field however she did not hesitate to garner and seek counsel and input from others with expertise if needed. She was both professional and compassionate in her dealings with me and those involved in this case. My case was particularly difficult and complicated and Andrea took action to get the necessary resources to effectively and successfully represent me and protect my family. She was also aware and considerate of the financial burden a lawsuit can be. She was thorough but also respectful of the costs. I highly recommend her.
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16 Jul, 2014 by Beau
I have, unfortunately, had to use a few legal representatives. None have ever been as supportive, informative, and punctual as Mrs. James. I got the results I was hoping for without a fight due to her knowledge and experience. She made my court experience a breeze. Affordable legal help is almost unheard of, but Mrs. James did everything she could to help me and my family and made it affordable!
I would recommend her to anyone!
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08 Jan, 2025 by Tyler crowe
Daisy is so helpful and compassionate in her job, she is detail oriented and really cares about the individuals she is helping!
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01 Nov, 2024 by Darby easterly
If you’re looking for a family law attorney who truly cares about your case and responds promptly, CE Borman & Associates is a great choice. Their team is compassionate, knowledgeable, and incredibly attentive, making sure you always feel supported during what can be a challenging process. The office staff is friendly and efficient, keeping you updated and answering questions quickly. They understand that family law issues can be stressful, so they go above and beyond to make the process as smooth as possible, with a focus on personalized, client-centered service.
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31 Oct, 2024 by Nigel gregory
I am giving a one-star review for this agency due to an extremely disappointing experience. I strongly advise against hiring this attorney.
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08 Jan, 2025 by Tyler crowe
Daisy is so helpful and compassionate in her job, she is detail oriented and really cares about the individuals she is helping!
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01 Nov, 2024 by Darby easterly
If you’re looking for a family law attorney who truly cares about your case and responds promptly, CE Borman & Associates is a great choice. Their team is compassionate, knowledgeable, and incredibly attentive, making sure you always feel supported during what can be a challenging process. The office staff is friendly and efficient, keeping you updated and answering questions quickly. They understand that family law issues can be stressful, so they go above and beyond to make the process as smooth as possible, with a focus on personalized, client-centered service.
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31 Oct, 2024 by Nigel gregory
I am giving a one-star review for this agency due to an extremely disappointing experience. I strongly advise against hiring this attorney.
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11 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
Amy and her team were wonderful! I could not have been in better hands and I thank her and her team for their professionalism and patience. It takes great humility to say to her client at the end of the case that she hopes they never need legal counsel in the future. Best Wishes to her.
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09 Jul, 2019 by Robert
Ms. Banks is professional, knowledgeable, and down to earth. In addition, she is kind, sensitive and very caring. During a very tumultuous time, Amy helped guide me both professionally and personally. A wonderful lawyer!
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19 Oct, 2018 by Anonymous
We loved having Amy as our lawyer! She handled our case with professionalism and we were so glad with the outcome!
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21 Jun, 2024 by Lis
22 Feb, 2024 by John victor
Idiot
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27 Nov, 2023 by Michellé k. evins
I agree with the other reviewers. He put forth as little effort as possible and 1 week before my trial, tried introducing another attorney. Not interested in going to trial or doing much of anything. I tried taking information/pictures up to the office and was told just to bring them the next day to court. Don't have a lot of faith unless you're a paying customer.
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18 Nov, 2024 by Moises cangas
03 Oct, 2024 by Tobias leiva
Lo peor de lo peor, dejo mi caso 1 mes antes de los 2 años,
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01 Oct, 2024 by J v2020
DO NOT RECOMMEND!! If i could give negative stars i would. Overcharge for everything. Only care about money, did nothing for me in 4 months but take my money.
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18 Nov, 2024 by Moises cangas
03 Oct, 2024 by Tobias leiva
Lo peor de lo peor, dejo mi caso 1 mes antes de los 2 años,
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01 Oct, 2024 by J v2020
DO NOT RECOMMEND!! If i could give negative stars i would. Overcharge for everything. Only care about money, did nothing for me in 4 months but take my money.
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05 Dec, 2019 by Teresa
Larry Catlin has helped me multiple times over the past several years. He is quite knowledgeable regarding family law and I have consulted with him about other areas of law. Larry is up front, tells you exactly how things are going, what you need to do and what to expect. He does not sugar coat anything. I have the utmost confidence in Larry's ability to fight and win your case. His fees are reasonable and he works for every dime he's paid. He returns calls in a timely manner, even on weekends. I have recommended Larry to several people. People have told me that you don't want to be on the opposing side of Larry! I believe this to be true!
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10 Jan, 2018 by Laura
Mr. Catlin helped me face an ex to be who told me, "I will fight as hard and as dirty as I have to, to take our son from you." When times seemed the darkest I knew that all I had to do was step behind my attorney and let him do his job. I have since been able to move on and find happiness with a wonderful husband.
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26 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
Went in for a consult and was driven away due to Larry's unfriendly demeanor and all around insulting treatment. This was a few years ago but I wanted to warn others!
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05 Jun, 2023 by Shannon
I found Kassi in the midst of an ugly legal mess with my ex-husband. It centered on my ex-husband's nonpayment of CS, two years after the original order. I was getting called into the AG's court to waste a day every month or two, just for him to fail to show up, and do it all again the next month. When I called Kassi, she showed up and effectively argued for the court to hold him accountable. She continued to work the case for two years, leaning harder into the arguments for accountability each time. She was fierce and very successful at each hearing. She was also very encouraging and comforting when the process drove me to tears more than once in her office. She knew my finances were strained and regularly offered options that would cost me the least amount. She was very practical, strategic, logical and transparent in her legal thought process, which made it very easy to trust her. She successfully navigated my situation to a termination of my ex-husbands parental rights, in the most cost effective way. She will probably never know just how grateful I am for all that she did for me during that time. She was one of my only touchstones in all of the chaos, and she absolutely delivered on it - steady as a rock!
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24 Aug, 2019 by Anonymous
I hired Kassi Horner as my divorce attorney in 2013. I am writing this review because my experience with her is completely different from the other 2 reviews on the website. Ms Horner was extremely response and covered all of the detail of the divorce in a timely manner. She also added a precautionary component to the divorce suite that had not occurred to me.
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15 Mar, 2016 by Brandy
I hired Kassi Horner to handle a custody issue. I went in and asked her if she would be an aggressive attorney which is what I wanted and needed. She said yes I felt confident that she would get the job done. I signed all paper work and paid the retainer well in the paper work was apparently a non-refundable retainer agreement. ( I did not know this). It would take 5-6 calls to finally get her on the phone to find out what was going on. Every time I talked to her she would say she was just waiting on the other attorney. That was the response I got every time I finally got her on the phone. Another issue came up where I needed an attorney asap and against my better judgement I called Mrs. Horner and the only reason I did that is because she had over $1800 of my original retainer. I spoke to her told her the issue and she said she could help but I would have to put down another $3000 retainer…I asked why because she had the rest of the original retainer. She said it was a new case and I couldn’t use it. I was told that the original retainer could only be used on the one case. I tried to call Mrs Horner 4 times to let her know of a meeting with my daughter’s dad ( the first custody case which the retainer was paid on)and his attorney she never responded so I ended up meeting with them by myself and settling everything. When asked if I could get the retainer back she said no. So now they are holding over $1800 of a $3000 retainer (goes to show how much work was not done in a year). Stay away!!!
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05 Jan, 2015 by Anonymous
Overall an amazing attorney! We have used Anne Cofer for 7 years and she has been amazing for us. Always has made time for us. We appreciate all her knowledge and willingness to provide an excellent customer service experience.
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11 Jul, 2014 by Anonymous
The lawyer filed all the paperwork but not much else. She was going through motions for the most part. She honestly seemed too busy to handled my case and it showed. She often had to change my court dates because of her schedule and billed me for the time it took her to file the paperwork to include her Vacation time. If you need an attorney who is on your side, I'd look somewhere else.
After 14k, I'm looking for a new attorney.
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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.
