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20 Jul, 2024 by Sandra davis
My husband was having problems settling his moms estate with family members and after talking with Glen he agreed to take our case.. this had been going on for over four years without anything being done. Glen stepped in and within three months or so all was settled. Glen is not only a great lawyer but a good caring person!! We thank him and his entire staff and highly recommend his firm. Rusty and sandra davis!!!! Thanks so much!!
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17 Jul, 2024 by Anonymous
When I first contacted Laura to have a consultation prior to the upcoming hearing I was extremely uneasy and filled with emotions. Her knowledge and compassion for my situation was extremely settling. She brought me calm through the chaos that I felt was my life. Her eagerness and willingness to not only represent me but hear me out was just what I needed. She was a confidant for me when I needed it the most. After speaking with her I knew she was the attorney for me in my time of need. Through the entire length of my case, she answered every question I had. Her hard work and determination proved true throughout my case. Laura is tactful, empathetic, brilliant, patient, and charismatic. If you are in search of an attorney, I would highly recommend her.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Bonnie coppedge
05 Sep, 2024 by Heard dooley
This is the best law firm I've ever worked with Mr. Price is a beast and a fighter he will fight tooth and nail for you. His team is the same way they understand what you're going going through and they walk you through the process ready to answer any questions you have, and I asked a lot of questions. Their knowledge of the law is impressive, and they were able to explain complex legal terms and processes in a way that was easy to understand. Their attention to detail gave me the confidence I needed during such a stressful time. If you're in need of an attorney who is both compassionate and fiercely dedicated, I highly recommend Price Law Group. They will go above and beyond to ensure your case is handled with the utmost care and professionalism.
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14 Jun, 2024 by Kaitlin whitfield
Philip Price and his team are honest, trustworthy, and kind. A difficult situation brought me to them, and they helped me navigate it with incredible support. I would definitely use them again in the future and recommend their services.
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22 Jan, 2023 by Richard dailey
Absolutely the best there is!
The entire team are so personal and caring.
I can honestly say Mr.Price will get you where you want to be.
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13 Aug, 2015 by Laura austin
When you've got the cross between a tough "kid" question and the parental fight, Marjorie is one of the best to keep it calm and find the resolution. Well versed and articulate in the law with a personal touch of true kindness.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Heard dooley
This is the best law firm I've ever worked with Mr. Price is a beast and a fighter he will fight tooth and nail for you. His team is the same way they understand what you're going going through and they walk you through the process ready to answer any questions you have, and I asked a lot of questions. Their knowledge of the law is impressive, and they were able to explain complex legal terms and processes in a way that was easy to understand. Their attention to detail gave me the confidence I needed during such a stressful time. If you're in need of an attorney who is both compassionate and fiercely dedicated, I highly recommend Price Law Group. They will go above and beyond to ensure your case is handled with the utmost care and professionalism.
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14 Jun, 2024 by Kaitlin whitfield
Philip Price and his team are honest, trustworthy, and kind. A difficult situation brought me to them, and they helped me navigate it with incredible support. I would definitely use them again in the future and recommend their services.
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22 Jan, 2023 by Richard dailey
Absolutely the best there is!
The entire team are so personal and caring.
I can honestly say Mr.Price will get you where you want to be.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Heard dooley
This is the best law firm I've ever worked with Mr. Price is a beast and a fighter he will fight tooth and nail for you. His team is the same way they understand what you're going going through and they walk you through the process ready to answer any questions you have, and I asked a lot of questions. Their knowledge of the law is impressive, and they were able to explain complex legal terms and processes in a way that was easy to understand. Their attention to detail gave me the confidence I needed during such a stressful time. If you're in need of an attorney who is both compassionate and fiercely dedicated, I highly recommend Price Law Group. They will go above and beyond to ensure your case is handled with the utmost care and professionalism.
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14 Jun, 2024 by Kaitlin whitfield
Philip Price and his team are honest, trustworthy, and kind. A difficult situation brought me to them, and they helped me navigate it with incredible support. I would definitely use them again in the future and recommend their services.
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22 Jan, 2023 by Richard dailey
Absolutely the best there is!
The entire team are so personal and caring.
I can honestly say Mr.Price will get you where you want to be.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Heard dooley
This is the best law firm I've ever worked with Mr. Price is a beast and a fighter he will fight tooth and nail for you. His team is the same way they understand what you're going going through and they walk you through the process ready to answer any questions you have, and I asked a lot of questions. Their knowledge of the law is impressive, and they were able to explain complex legal terms and processes in a way that was easy to understand. Their attention to detail gave me the confidence I needed during such a stressful time. If you're in need of an attorney who is both compassionate and fiercely dedicated, I highly recommend Price Law Group. They will go above and beyond to ensure your case is handled with the utmost care and professionalism.
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14 Jun, 2024 by Kaitlin whitfield
Philip Price and his team are honest, trustworthy, and kind. A difficult situation brought me to them, and they helped me navigate it with incredible support. I would definitely use them again in the future and recommend their services.
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22 Jan, 2023 by Richard dailey
Absolutely the best there is!
The entire team are so personal and caring.
I can honestly say Mr.Price will get you where you want to be.
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11 Jul, 2024 by Garrett jorgensen
This is unfortunately the second time I had to use them but in both cases they were AMAZING! Brooke is absolutely the best and updated me as everything occurred so I never needed to wonder what was going on! Highly recommend using them!
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25 Jun, 2024 by Rosemary moore
I couldn’t be more pleased with the care and service I received from Jon Pope and his paralegal, Hannah. Thank you!
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24 Apr, 2024 by Jacquelyn kennerly
Johnathan A Pope was an exceptional attorney who represented my case with the highest level of wisdom, knowledge, and professionalism. Do not hesitate to call this firm. You will not have any regrets.
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11 Jul, 2024 by Garrett jorgensen
This is unfortunately the second time I had to use them but in both cases they were AMAZING! Brooke is absolutely the best and updated me as everything occurred so I never needed to wonder what was going on! Highly recommend using them!
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25 Jun, 2024 by Rosemary moore
I couldn’t be more pleased with the care and service I received from Jon Pope and his paralegal, Hannah. Thank you!
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24 Apr, 2024 by Jacquelyn kennerly
Johnathan A Pope was an exceptional attorney who represented my case with the highest level of wisdom, knowledge, and professionalism. Do not hesitate to call this firm. You will not have any regrets.
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4.8
14 Reviews
4.7
152 Reviews
11 Sep, 2024 by Daniel hekmat
If you do not retain Grisham, Poole, & Carlile to represent you, be prepared to be represented by the second best, because these guys are by far the best. I was facing a lengthy prison sentence, it took some time and some hard work, but I am a free man thanks to Ross Grisham & team. It appears they have endless resources to help in your case, and they utilized all of them for me. Thank you so much Ross.
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23 Aug, 2024 by Margaret muguro
Kayla Upchurch took up our case for child support. She is enthusiastic, very articulate and dedicated. She is very knowledgeable in family law and we will be forever greatful to you and your team for your help in our case . I highly recommend Kayla for any law needs. Truly appreciate you Kayla ..
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14 Aug, 2024 by Leah bailey
I would recommend using Kayla Upchurch for your divorce proceedings. I was so anxious going through this unfamiliar process, but Kayla never wavered in her confidence that we could get the results I needed. I trusted her confidence right through to the end, and she was right. She is easy to talk to & encouraging, and that made all the difference for me. I also felt like she was extremely reasonable in regards to billing. I would often hear from my ex-spouse that he was being texted daily by his attorneys and charged for every text and was frustrated. I never had this experience with Kayla OR her paralegal. This law firm as a whole treated me with respect and integrity and supported me through a process I never wanted to go through in the first place. I appreciate and recommend Kayla, especially.
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11 Jul, 2024 by Garrett jorgensen
This is unfortunately the second time I had to use them but in both cases they were AMAZING! Brooke is absolutely the best and updated me as everything occurred so I never needed to wonder what was going on! Highly recommend using them!
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25 Jun, 2024 by Rosemary moore
I couldn’t be more pleased with the care and service I received from Jon Pope and his paralegal, Hannah. Thank you!
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24 Apr, 2024 by Jacquelyn kennerly
Johnathan A Pope was an exceptional attorney who represented my case with the highest level of wisdom, knowledge, and professionalism. Do not hesitate to call this firm. You will not have any regrets.
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10 Sep, 2024 by Liv dillan
Burns Smith Law is an outstanding law firm. My lawyer Courtney and paralegal Trish have been incredible during this process and I am thankful and grateful for all their great work. I strongly recommend Burns Smith Law when you get a divorce.
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23 Aug, 2024 by Mermaid pinay
19 Aug, 2024 by Michael cushenberry
Andrew did a great job handling my situation and I trust him
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10 Sep, 2024 by Liv dillan
Burns Smith Law is an outstanding law firm. My lawyer Courtney and paralegal Trish have been incredible during this process and I am thankful and grateful for all their great work. I strongly recommend Burns Smith Law when you get a divorce.
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23 Aug, 2024 by Mermaid pinay
19 Aug, 2024 by Michael cushenberry
Andrew did a great job handling my situation and I trust him
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09 Apr, 2024 by Cathy saripkin
03 Mar, 2024 by Nicole t
No stars. Courtney Moss is Ospina's former partner. My child's custody was transferred by a caseworker outside of court order with no signatures and I was barred from her. I was never served or charged or prosecuted. I was demeaned in every way possible in legal filing referencing no tangibles and pulled into court with an inactive case number for the enforcement I filed for. DFCS,DCSS and the state are 10 years in arrears. I was demeaned as being stalked by police officers even as one was arrested. Both me and my child suffered from the trauma of being ripped away from each other and me from being barred and assaulted in custody under specific order. Judge Helhoski said she did not sign the warrant. They were trying to secure an obstruction and DFCS was trying to secure my signature. They got neither. They told me to show up and be forced to reunification. I requested they were prosecuted for the irreparable damage they caused. My daughter was sending messages that she wanted kill herself. They belong in prison.
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04 Nov, 2023 by Rosanne wells
Awesome attorney with great service
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09 Apr, 2024 by Cathy saripkin
03 Mar, 2024 by Nicole t
No stars. Courtney Moss is Ospina's former partner. My child's custody was transferred by a caseworker outside of court order with no signatures and I was barred from her. I was never served or charged or prosecuted. I was demeaned in every way possible in legal filing referencing no tangibles and pulled into court with an inactive case number for the enforcement I filed for. DFCS,DCSS and the state are 10 years in arrears. I was demeaned as being stalked by police officers even as one was arrested. Both me and my child suffered from the trauma of being ripped away from each other and me from being barred and assaulted in custody under specific order. Judge Helhoski said she did not sign the warrant. They were trying to secure an obstruction and DFCS was trying to secure my signature. They got neither. They told me to show up and be forced to reunification. I requested they were prosecuted for the irreparable damage they caused. My daughter was sending messages that she wanted kill herself. They belong in prison.
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04 Nov, 2023 by Rosanne wells
Awesome attorney with great service
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10 Sep, 2024 by Liv dillan
Burns Smith Law is an outstanding law firm. My lawyer Courtney and paralegal Trish have been incredible during this process and I am thankful and grateful for all their great work. I strongly recommend Burns Smith Law when you get a divorce.
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23 Aug, 2024 by Mermaid pinay
19 Aug, 2024 by Michael cushenberry
Andrew did a great job handling my situation and I trust him
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12 Sep, 2024 by Jeff
Thank you Jeff my case was handled in half a day when he is hired expect the best results.
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12 Jul, 2024 by Kerri
I highly recommend attorney Kameron Keene, he is very knowledgeable and compassionate. He helped my family get through a difficult situation and his professionalism in the court room was unmatched. The entire staff at Jeff Heller Law were always available to answer questions and always very kind and courteous.
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14 Jun, 2024 by Katrina kent
Would highly recommend this law firm. Both Jeff Heller and Kameron Keene are very professional. Anytime I had a question about our case they responded in a timely manner and Kameron Keene was a rockstar in court and got us the best possible outcome for our case.
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12 Jul, 2024 by Kerri
I highly recommend attorney Kameron Keene, he is very knowledgeable and compassionate. He helped my family get through a difficult situation and his professionalism in the court room was unmatched. The entire staff at Jeff Heller Law were always available to answer questions and always very kind and courteous.
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14 Jun, 2024 by Katrina kent
Would highly recommend this law firm. Both Jeff Heller and Kameron Keene are very professional. Anytime I had a question about our case they responded in a timely manner and Kameron Keene was a rockstar in court and got us the best possible outcome for our case.
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13 Jun, 2024 by Angela pannell
KAM WAS AMAZING. He helped my son navigate the system which is very confusing. He and Jeff went over an above. I HIGHLY recommend them and would not hesitate to do so. I hope we never need them again, but if we do, will not even question coming back
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16 Aug, 2024 by Gabriela vazquez
07 Aug, 2024 by Dana
Amanda and Scarlett have been complete rockstars for my case. Amanda is a true realist of this is how the law works. It was unfortunately a long, drawn out process due to my ex, but Amanda and Scarlett gave me peace of mind to stay grounded and know the truth always unfolds itself and justice will be served. Thank you to the two greatest women to have on your side when going through such a difficult time!
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26 Jul, 2024 by Chelsea osborne
Speights Law is an excellent team! This team went above and beyond to ensure I got everything I ask for and in a very timely manner. The attorneys and paralegals are always available to answer any questions as well.
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20 Jul, 2024 by Sandra davis
My husband was having problems settling his moms estate with family members and after talking with Glen he agreed to take our case.. this had been going on for over four years without anything being done. Glen stepped in and within three months or so all was settled. Glen is not only a great lawyer but a good caring person!! We thank him and his entire staff and highly recommend his firm. Rusty and sandra davis!!!! Thanks so much!!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Bonnie coppedge
24 Jan, 2024 by S r
16 Aug, 2024 by Gabriela vazquez
14 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Very good lawyer. She did everything that she said she would do for me. Very timely. Very knowledgeable. This was a criminal case.
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07 Aug, 2024 by Dana
Amanda and Scarlett have been complete rockstars for my case. Amanda is a true realist of this is how the law works. It was unfortunately a long, drawn out process due to my ex, but Amanda and Scarlett gave me peace of mind to stay grounded and know the truth always unfolds itself and justice will be served. Thank you to the two greatest women to have on your side when going through such a difficult time!
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16 Aug, 2024 by Gabriela vazquez
07 Aug, 2024 by Dana
Amanda and Scarlett have been complete rockstars for my case. Amanda is a true realist of this is how the law works. It was unfortunately a long, drawn out process due to my ex, but Amanda and Scarlett gave me peace of mind to stay grounded and know the truth always unfolds itself and justice will be served. Thank you to the two greatest women to have on your side when going through such a difficult time!
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26 Jul, 2024 by Chelsea osborne
Speights Law is an excellent team! This team went above and beyond to ensure I got everything I ask for and in a very timely manner. The attorneys and paralegals are always available to answer any questions as well.
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16 Aug, 2024 by Gabriela vazquez
07 Aug, 2024 by Dana
Amanda and Scarlett have been complete rockstars for my case. Amanda is a true realist of this is how the law works. It was unfortunately a long, drawn out process due to my ex, but Amanda and Scarlett gave me peace of mind to stay grounded and know the truth always unfolds itself and justice will be served. Thank you to the two greatest women to have on your side when going through such a difficult time!
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26 Jul, 2024 by Chelsea osborne
Speights Law is an excellent team! This team went above and beyond to ensure I got everything I ask for and in a very timely manner. The attorneys and paralegals are always available to answer any questions as well.
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05 Jul, 2024 by Mitch granger
Josh is amazing, detailed and always forward looking. He has everyone’s best interests in mind.
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30 May, 2024 by Heather fowler
I am incredibly grateful for the outstanding legal services provided by The Mason Law Firm during my highly contested divorce. After over four years, largely due to delays caused by COVID-19, Joshua and his team remained steadfast, diligent, and fiercely dedicated to achieving the best possible outcome for me and my family.
From the beginning, they demonstrated exceptional expertise, guiding me through each challenging step with patience and clarity. Their unwavering support and strategic approach were invaluable in navigating the complexities of my case. Even amidst the pandemic's uncertainties, they maintained clear communication and ensured that every detail was meticulously handled.
Thanks to their hard work and determination, I was able to secure the outcome I desired. I highly recommend The Mason Law Firm to anyone in need of a compassionate, skilled, and tenacious divorce attorney. Their commitment to their clients' well-being is truly commendable.
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21 May, 2024 by Nathan price
Josh and his Firm should be your first choice for Divorce and Family Law in Cherokee and Pickens County. From the moment I met with him, I could tell he was extremely knowledgeable in divorce cases and how people will behave during divorce . He was compassionate to my situation which included kids and gave me great advice from the beginning. As a man who was greatly concerned about the children, Josh understood and helped my achieve a result I never thought possible, custody of the children. Over a two year period of Divorce, Josh and his team of excellent paralegals helped me negotiate a Divorce filed with unexpected twists and turns. When we went to court he was the most prepared attorney in the court room each time. I couldn’t be happier with the outcome of this process. So thankful I choose Josh Mason as my attorney. Truly a blessing from God in a situation I never dreamed to be in.
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21 Aug, 2024 by Chris vance
I am incredibly grateful to elena and her team. Their professionalism determination and knowledge were clear at every step and are very kind and hospitable. I highly recommend them, they inspire confidence.
Thank you!
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09 Aug, 2024 by Carolyn
I had two clients who didn’t pay their bills. For the first case, Elena Sanchez-Curtis handled my mediation during which we settled in my favor, and for the other, she got a settlement for the full amount due to me after mediation, but before going to court. Her knowledge of equine law is extensive and impressive. Elena is easy to talk to and readily available to her clients. I will use her for all of my future needs, and I highly recommend her!
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07 Aug, 2024 by Vitoria
Elena was great! She represented me with my divorce, it was such an easy and smooth process I had no worries! She kept me update throughout everything and I had no worries, I knew I was in great hands! She’s very professional, if you’re looking for a lawyer she’s the one!
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19 Aug, 2024 by Greg vence
John and the team took great care defending me through my divorce. I was blindsided and panicked. The kept me calm and cool through the whole process. The results were better than I'd hoped.
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27 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
Dara is amazing. She has helped me navigate some very tough legal situations in my life. She is always responsive, she is very intelligent and she thinks outside the box. She takes her time, thinks things through and comes up with great ideas, and most importantly, she gets results. She has been my attorney for close to two years and she has won my case. She always answered my questions with honesty, and she had a tremendous win with my case. She remained respectful and kind throughout the entire case. Best attorney, can't even put it into words how amazing she is. I hope to never need legal counsel again, but if I do, she will always be my first choice. Thank you Dara!
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27 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
Dara helped me through an extremely tough case. From the moment I met her, she assured me that she would be able to help me out and she did exactly that. She certainly came through for me. Her prices are affordable and she is straightforward and honest about fees and what you are up against. Honesty is hard to find in an attorney. I felt like Dara had my best interest at heart the entire time she was my attorney. I would recommend her services to anyone. She genuinely cares about her clients and I will always call Dara should I ever need her representation ever again! Can't thank Dara enough! Hire Dara and you won't be disappointed.
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19 Sep, 2023 by Marty
Amanda is an excellent attorney. She truly cares for her clients. Our loved one is home because of Amanda's brilliant knowledge of the law combined with a truly caring heart. She treats each client with respect, kindness and concern for the client and their family. She returns phone calls promptly and answers each question honestly. I truly feel like she's a precious gift from God.
If you want the best of the best, she's the attorney to call.
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10 May, 2023 by Anonymous
This woman looked at my son and Smerking at him as he begged not to go with his dad. My son finally got out of there when he turned 18 never to speak to his dad again. He is now 20 and has not forgotten what she did. He also told me that she took them in her vehicle to go eat, she failed to mention that to me.
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21 Feb, 2020 by Arthur
Amanda is a highly skilled attorney in her area of practice (family law0. Her poise and command of the courtroom is impressive. She went beyond the call of duty deliver a positive outcome in my case.
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27 Sep, 2023 by Gary henderson
Whit Frost is an amazing Lawyer. He is passionate, ethical, and handled my case with professionalism. He stood in my corner and watching him in court is impressive.
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02 Aug, 2023 by Ardell bailey
28 Jun, 2023 by Chris sterger
Whit Frost took over my divorce case and has been nothing short of AMAZING!!! Whit consistently won the day in court with a level headed focus on the evidence and on the story from a big picture perspective. He also has displayed a calm yet firm demeanor throughout the case and has been an excellent souce of good counsel throughout. He showed that he cares numerous times and also, has been very fair in his billing practices. If you need a lawyer for a domestic situation in Cherokee County, Whit should be the first and only call.
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27 Sep, 2023 by Gary henderson
Whit Frost is an amazing Lawyer. He is passionate, ethical, and handled my case with professionalism. He stood in my corner and watching him in court is impressive.
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02 Aug, 2023 by Ardell bailey
28 Jun, 2023 by Chris sterger
Whit Frost took over my divorce case and has been nothing short of AMAZING!!! Whit consistently won the day in court with a level headed focus on the evidence and on the story from a big picture perspective. He also has displayed a calm yet firm demeanor throughout the case and has been an excellent souce of good counsel throughout. He showed that he cares numerous times and also, has been very fair in his billing practices. If you need a lawyer for a domestic situation in Cherokee County, Whit should be the first and only call.
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27 Sep, 2023 by Gary henderson
Whit Frost is an amazing Lawyer. He is passionate, ethical, and handled my case with professionalism. He stood in my corner and watching him in court is impressive.
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02 Aug, 2023 by Ardell bailey
28 Jun, 2023 by Chris sterger
Whit Frost took over my divorce case and has been nothing short of AMAZING!!! Whit consistently won the day in court with a level headed focus on the evidence and on the story from a big picture perspective. He also has displayed a calm yet firm demeanor throughout the case and has been an excellent souce of good counsel throughout. He showed that he cares numerous times and also, has been very fair in his billing practices. If you need a lawyer for a domestic situation in Cherokee County, Whit should be the first and only call.
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28 Jan, 2024 by David thompson
03 Oct, 2023 by David byers
29 Mar, 2023 by Jenny matthews
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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.
