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5.0
7 Reviews
16 Mar, 2024 by Isaac
Justin was professional and very knowledgable. Guided me through every step when I had no idea what I was doing just trying my best. He never wasted time and was composed in the courtroom and ready for anything we had to overcome. Thank you so much Justin
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29 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
I had a very complicated situation and Justin was amazing throughout the entire process. He made sure that I understood all of my options, and always answered my questions quickly, even outside of his normal hours. I hope I don’t ever need his services again, but if I do, I wouldn’t hesitate to reach out.
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26 Feb, 2024 by Mary
I google searched when I needed a lawyer and Arenson Law Group came up. I started reading the testimonials - I kept reading about Justin and the wonderful job he did for his clients. So, I decided I also needed him to represent me during my divorce and I am extremely happy he was available. I would recommend him to anyone, he was professional, kind, easy to talk to and work with.
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17 Feb, 2025 by Terry morton
I have been awarded social security disability benefits because of the hard work of attorney Corey Luedeman of RSH Legal.
After Corey took over my case, he literally did everything. He handled all communication from requesting medical records to meeting deadlines. All I had to do was update him on any medical changes.
Corey kept me in the loop throughout the entire process. At each stage, Corey explained what was happening, why, and what to expect. Corey was very knowledgeable about social security disability cases and really put my mind at ease.
I already recommended Corey and RSH Legal to a friend. I highly recommend their services to anyone looking for a competent and compassionate attorney.
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04 Feb, 2025 by Sean steichen
Corey was very helpful with my case. Very polite. Called me and let me know every time there was something new happening or when needed something from me.
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03 Feb, 2025 by Mohamed omer
I really appreciate all works Emily and Tonya did for me on my case keeping me updated and getting me a fair deal.
I’m really so happy with the RSH team
I recommend anyone who need help with and accident call RSH
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17 Feb, 2025 by Terry morton
I have been awarded social security disability benefits because of the hard work of attorney Corey Luedeman of RSH Legal.
After Corey took over my case, he literally did everything. He handled all communication from requesting medical records to meeting deadlines. All I had to do was update him on any medical changes.
Corey kept me in the loop throughout the entire process. At each stage, Corey explained what was happening, why, and what to expect. Corey was very knowledgeable about social security disability cases and really put my mind at ease.
I already recommended Corey and RSH Legal to a friend. I highly recommend their services to anyone looking for a competent and compassionate attorney.
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04 Feb, 2025 by Sean steichen
Corey was very helpful with my case. Very polite. Called me and let me know every time there was something new happening or when needed something from me.
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03 Feb, 2025 by Mohamed omer
I really appreciate all works Emily and Tonya did for me on my case keeping me updated and getting me a fair deal.
I’m really so happy with the RSH team
I recommend anyone who need help with and accident call RSH
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03 Oct, 2024 by Nicci ola-olajumoke
re: wills, estate administration, probate.
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26 Jun, 2024 by Shanna m.
17 May, 2024 by Abby leonard
Simmons Perrine is a great firm! The staff and attorneys are knowledgeable and very helpful, I would recommend it to anyone looking for legal services.
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14 Mar, 2023 by Disgruntled mother
About 8 years ago he represented my ex at my 2nd domestic violence hearing (me being victim, and pregnant both times) and intimidated me into dropping the restraining order with the promise of seeing my daughter. That was a LIE! they went to the judge and asked for 5050 legal and my ex with primary physical and any interaction with my daughter was to my ex discretion. Fast forward to today and 9 dhs reports with 6 founded cases of abuse or neglect and 1 criminal charge against the step mom for smacking my 10 yro daughter (who has cp) across the face for a fruit snack. THANK YOU JOHN FOR HELPING MY ABUSER WHO NOW ABUSES OUR DAUGHTER.
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05 Oct, 2022 by Mariano huerta
I think I am very good defenders, they care and answer all your questions, I will hire them
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28 Nov, 2021 by Karen muters
Personable, efficient, reliable individuals
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19 Feb, 2020 by Matt milburn
Just wanted to say that Rachel McCrate at this firm is awesome! Always professional, listens to my thoughts and concerns and most importantly is just a flat out smart attorney. Super glad to have her on my side when I have needed her!! Would recommend her to anyone!
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17 Feb, 2025 by Terry morton
I have been awarded social security disability benefits because of the hard work of attorney Corey Luedeman of RSH Legal.
After Corey took over my case, he literally did everything. He handled all communication from requesting medical records to meeting deadlines. All I had to do was update him on any medical changes.
Corey kept me in the loop throughout the entire process. At each stage, Corey explained what was happening, why, and what to expect. Corey was very knowledgeable about social security disability cases and really put my mind at ease.
I already recommended Corey and RSH Legal to a friend. I highly recommend their services to anyone looking for a competent and compassionate attorney.
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04 Feb, 2025 by Sean steichen
Corey was very helpful with my case. Very polite. Called me and let me know every time there was something new happening or when needed something from me.
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03 Feb, 2025 by Mohamed omer
I really appreciate all works Emily and Tonya did for me on my case keeping me updated and getting me a fair deal.
I’m really so happy with the RSH team
I recommend anyone who need help with and accident call RSH
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5.0
4 Reviews
4.2
89 Reviews
07 Feb, 2025 by J m
Had scheduled consultations set up with Austin Norden to review a child support case. First meeting was supposed to be in his office at 11am. He called at 8:30am and said it would have to be over the phone and he'd call me at 11. 11 came and went with no phone call. I finally texted him at 11:30 asking if he was still available to meet, but got no response. At 11:45, I called him and got his voicemail. He immediately called back and acted like nothing happened. No apology, no explanation for missing the 11am meeting without notice. After a quick call explaining the situation, he said he would call back the next day at 3:30 to get more information. Well, 3:30pm came and went with, once again, nothing from him. He didn't even try to call or text me after missing this second appointment, and needless to say, I didn't try to contact him again, since being stood up twice in 2 days was not only rude and inconsiderate, but a window into what it would probably be like if we hired him. It's mind-blowing that someone could treat another person like this and not reach out to apologize. He clearly lacks common curtesy and manners in general. I'd save yourself the headache and hire someone who's reliable and actually cares!
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08 Dec, 2024 by Derek schroeder
All of the reviews seem to be for Tom. Iv had one of their lawyers assist me in a traffic case and he gave me 30 minutes of his time with really no results. I heard he may have been let go after my case which is good. Businesses need to perform and be accountable for their results.
I recently called in and spoke with a diffrent attourney and more or less he didn't want to help me. Iv got a bad taste in my mouth from this firm. I have not experienced Tom's performance. He is approaching $500/ hr.
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06 Dec, 2024 by Susan wasson
Tom and his crew were exceptional. He believed in my innocence and fought for me all the way. He even had to talk me off the ledge a time or two;) It was a very LONG process, but could not have had a better outcome. Anyone in the medical field that gets charged with bogus charges contract Tom!!!
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17 Mar, 2016 by Conan's dad
Working to get the custody of my son. I had tried two others attorneys before in family issues, but Mr. Fisher is for sure the best and most ethical one. He explained to me clearly how strong my case really was, with all the pros and cons if we went one way or another. We tried to go to arbitration, as it’s required by law first in Iowa, but we had to change the mediator because it was handpicked by the opposing party. His legal assistant is also very kind, knows her job well, and it’s always kind and courteous in all matters. I don’t know much about the rest of the law firm, I imagine it’s also good and ethical too, but I can say that with attorney Fisher, he knows how to handle legal matters very well and is also very time efficient. He’s not the cheapest attorney in CR, but he’s also very reasonable. At the end, you get what you pay for.
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29 Oct, 2020 by Derek r
19 Apr, 2021 by Tami baker
Very knowledgeable and confident. A pleasure to work with.
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19 Apr, 2021 by Tami baker
Very knowledgeable and confident. A pleasure to work with.
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04 Dec, 2024 by Alma h
03 Oct, 2024 by Nicci ola-olajumoke
re: wills, estate administration, probate.
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26 Jun, 2024 by Shanna m.
17 May, 2024 by Abby leonard
Simmons Perrine is a great firm! The staff and attorneys are knowledgeable and very helpful, I would recommend it to anyone looking for legal services.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Nicci ola-olajumoke
re: wills, estate administration, probate.
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26 Jun, 2024 by Shanna m.
17 May, 2024 by Abby leonard
Simmons Perrine is a great firm! The staff and attorneys are knowledgeable and very helpful, I would recommend it to anyone looking for legal services.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Nicci ola-olajumoke
re: wills, estate administration, probate.
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26 Jun, 2024 by Shanna m.
17 May, 2024 by Abby leonard
Simmons Perrine is a great firm! The staff and attorneys are knowledgeable and very helpful, I would recommend it to anyone looking for legal services.
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30 Oct, 2022 by Shaun nelson
Best attorneys I have ever worked with ever with my business of having Bank issues with payments not being credited to the account and they're taken care of the problem with the bank to get them on the correct page
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03 Feb, 2022 by James sinnott
27 Aug, 2021 by H tinia
I have my business with them because the Google review is 4.9 out of 5. But my experience is pretty bad . my husband sent email to them for what's going on with our case , never got answer for short time , alway have to wait over 15 days . Obviously they DON'T care about SMALL case's customers.
Answer to the office: YES, It's Day Rettig Martin,P.C. You could not find my name in your list because my husband is the only one who contacting you. I already said MY HUSBEND send emails to you. you should read MORE carfully. Good law worker always notice the details that 's necessary.
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31 Oct, 2024 by Bryant dull
Dana Judas moonlights as a county magistrate and she completely botched my open-and-shut case. Her performance was so egregious that the Court actually mailed me a note admitting she had screwed everything up. If Dana Judas performs this poorly on such a simple matter, I can only imagine how piss poor she is as an actual attorney... She'll cut corners, and not take your case seriously.
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31 Jul, 2024 by Kelly tomkins
08 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
In my mind, Dana handles your case like she would if she was representing her own family. She works tirelessly to help you work towards your desired outcome. She has been my lawyer through several cases and I have always been impressed. You can visit with her for a very short period of time and then when in court she is able to convey your messages flawlessly. I couldn't be more impressed with her. If you hire her you will be in good hands.
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11 Dec, 2024 by Judy hamilton
Mark Brown is an exceptional attorney who helped my family through a difficult time. Mark worked hard and never gave us false hope, but in the end came through with flying colors and an acquittal of all charges. We couldn't be more appreciative and thankful for Mark's knowledge, efficiency, and professionalism. Mark's paralegal, Shari, was also courteous, prompt and a pleasure to work with. We highly recommend Mark Brown for legal needs in Iowa!
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05 Dec, 2024 by Kimble slaman
I would not use Mark Brown to fight a parking ticket for me. His professional integrity comes into question. Not to be trusted.
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29 Nov, 2024 by Tim
16 Sep, 2024 by Cari zeimet
Amazing experience! Laura and John are quick and thorough!
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25 Feb, 2024 by Pam schlee
12 Jul, 2023 by J will
They're very efficient and quick to help. After my Dad passed away, they helped my Mom with all her Power of Attorney and Living Will needs as well as any Estate Planning that we needed to have done. They were amazing, if we had to leave messages. They were quick to get back to us. Highly recommend them!
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06 Aug, 2023 by Shirlz harris
17 Jan, 2023 by Kyle maley
Great team of lawyers! Always a pleasure stopping in to chat while in town! Dave rocks!
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26 May, 2022 by Dakota w.
11 Dec, 2024 by Judy hamilton
Mark Brown is an exceptional attorney who helped my family through a difficult time. Mark worked hard and never gave us false hope, but in the end came through with flying colors and an acquittal of all charges. We couldn't be more appreciative and thankful for Mark's knowledge, efficiency, and professionalism. Mark's paralegal, Shari, was also courteous, prompt and a pleasure to work with. We highly recommend Mark Brown for legal needs in Iowa!
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05 Dec, 2024 by Kimble slaman
I would not use Mark Brown to fight a parking ticket for me. His professional integrity comes into question. Not to be trusted.
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29 Nov, 2024 by Tim
09 Jan, 2025 by Kelly asquith
Victoria and her staff were amazing in my custody modification case. I've never trusted a lawyer untill I had her as one. She was aggressive in all the right ways, listened to me and helped achieve something I had been trying to get done for years. You cannot go wrong. No lawyer can guarantee a certain outcome, but she will put in the work for you. Absolutely amazing!
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17 Dec, 2024 by Josh koolbeck
Hands down one of the best attorneys around town with what he deals with. I was falsely accused of multiple situations and he had everything straightened out within a matter of a few minutes in court. He helped me get thru a tough spot that I may have lost had I not gotten the proper representation. He’s a very friendly and honest guy, but he also means business when it’s needed. Thanks again John. For everything.
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13 Jul, 2024 by Andrew gallagher
Victoria and her staff are knowledgeable, resourceful, and courteous with an expert level dedication to your case and all relevant details and findings. My case was complex and multifaceted, and it was handled with class, tenacity, and thorough follow through. Would recommend to anyone needing a top level no nonsense attorney. Everything you could want and expect in your time of need and professionalism.
My case was emotionally exhausting, and the countless hours her team spent preparing, researching, corroborating testimony, precedents, and obtaining records I had not previously possessed contributed to an extremely well prepared case at trial. From start to finish, she reminded me of the positives we had in front of us and urged me to lean on faith, wisdom, and love as I trusted the process. The decision came back favourable and I couldn’t have imagined getting here without Victoria and her team.
Eternally grateful for all your help and skills when I needed them the most.
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26 Nov, 2024 by Erik hammer
In case anyone isn't aware, Benjamin shut down both his office in Cedar Radius, and his office in Huxley around the beginning of July. He took payment for my case, and he did complete the case. However, he did not inform me when he shut down his offices, and left me hanging for a month. I believe the only reason he did complete the case was because I contacted the prosecutor myself. I also, in my venture to find him and get answers, contacted his former employer, and she didn't get back to me until four months after the fact.
Shutting down your practice without informing your current clients... Shutting down your practice without closing submissions... Shutting down your practice without shutting down your website... Massive failure as a lawyer and potential ethics violations. Leaving clients without any notice of withdrawal of counsel.... That's extremely unprofessional Ben, and I can now see where such habits were built.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Always peace
I requested a consult last week using the submission form. I used the BBB site to email them, it has been three business days and no response. I called once and received a recording, did not leave a message due to privacy. Are they out of business or just don't need or want the work ? I will move on.
When I see that CLO responds to another reviewer with "Our attorneys unfortunately cannot contact everyone who believes they have a case" is unprofessional. The web site makes it appear they are well staffed, every request for a consult deserves a response even if it is not a lawyer. Bad customer service and I am a member of their community.
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18 Dec, 2023 by Sarah foley
I’d highly recommend the Community Law Office in Cedar Rapids. Ben is an incredible lawyer. He has been a huge help in guiding us through the process, answering our questions and explaining things so that they make sense. Ben is very knowledgeable, approachable and experienced as a lawyer and gave us great peace of mind going through each step in the process. Thank you Ben and team at CLO for all your support!
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26 Jun, 2024 by Shanna m.
17 May, 2024 by Abby leonard
Simmons Perrine is a great firm! The staff and attorneys are knowledgeable and very helpful, I would recommend it to anyone looking for legal services.
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26 Apr, 2024 by Timothy mclees
07 Feb, 2025 by J m
Had scheduled consultations set up with Austin Norden to review a child support case. First meeting was supposed to be in his office at 11am. He called at 8:30am and said it would have to be over the phone and he'd call me at 11. 11 came and went with no phone call. I finally texted him at 11:30 asking if he was still available to meet, but got no response. At 11:45, I called him and got his voicemail. He immediately called back and acted like nothing happened. No apology, no explanation for missing the 11am meeting without notice. After a quick call explaining the situation, he said he would call back the next day at 3:30 to get more information. Well, 3:30pm came and went with, once again, nothing from him. He didn't even try to call or text me after missing this second appointment, and needless to say, I didn't try to contact him again, since being stood up twice in 2 days was not only rude and inconsiderate, but a window into what it would probably be like if we hired him. It's mind-blowing that someone could treat another person like this and not reach out to apologize. He clearly lacks common curtesy and manners in general. I'd save yourself the headache and hire someone who's reliable and actually cares!
Read more
08 Dec, 2024 by Derek schroeder
All of the reviews seem to be for Tom. Iv had one of their lawyers assist me in a traffic case and he gave me 30 minutes of his time with really no results. I heard he may have been let go after my case which is good. Businesses need to perform and be accountable for their results.
I recently called in and spoke with a diffrent attourney and more or less he didn't want to help me. Iv got a bad taste in my mouth from this firm. I have not experienced Tom's performance. He is approaching $500/ hr.
Read more
06 Dec, 2024 by Susan wasson
Tom and his crew were exceptional. He believed in my innocence and fought for me all the way. He even had to talk me off the ledge a time or two;) It was a very LONG process, but could not have had a better outcome. Anyone in the medical field that gets charged with bogus charges contract Tom!!!
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11 Dec, 2024 by Judy hamilton
Mark Brown is an exceptional attorney who helped my family through a difficult time. Mark worked hard and never gave us false hope, but in the end came through with flying colors and an acquittal of all charges. We couldn't be more appreciative and thankful for Mark's knowledge, efficiency, and professionalism. Mark's paralegal, Shari, was also courteous, prompt and a pleasure to work with. We highly recommend Mark Brown for legal needs in Iowa!
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05 Dec, 2024 by Kimble slaman
I would not use Mark Brown to fight a parking ticket for me. His professional integrity comes into question. Not to be trusted.
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29 Nov, 2024 by Tim
03 Nov, 2017 by Matt
Jase prepared wills & trusts for my wife and I. He was professional and engaging. He also provided some keen insights which we implemented but would not have had the foresight to cover on our own. Jase also charges a very reasonable fee. For all the reasons above, I have referred a number of people to him.
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02 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
I hired Jase for a Real Estate transaction. Not only was he super helpful and easy to work with, his staff was very helpful as well. From start to finish he walked me through the process of buying my first home. The documents were put together and explained to me using language that I could understand. I was super impressed with the way he handles business. 10 out of 10 would work with again!
Thank you for making my life super easy during what should have been a stressful time in my life.
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01 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
I had a great experience at Howes Law Firm! Jase was a great attorney to work with! He was friendly, very attentive with my case. Fair priced and very thorough with explaining everything. I would recommend him to any and everyone!
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03 Dec, 2024 by Brad waltermyer
Reached out to Howes Law Firm to represent me during my divorce. During the entire process, they treated me not only as a client but as a person that was going through alot at the time. Matt Kashinami was my lawyer and did an awesome job of keeping things in perspective for me and helping me to make the right decisions. I can truly say that he is not only a great lawyer but a friend as well. If you don’t want to just be another client I highly recommend Matt and Howes Law Firm.
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07 Nov, 2024 by Ryan sears
07 Oct, 2024 by Mia barrios
03 Dec, 2024 by Brad waltermyer
Reached out to Howes Law Firm to represent me during my divorce. During the entire process, they treated me not only as a client but as a person that was going through alot at the time. Matt Kashinami was my lawyer and did an awesome job of keeping things in perspective for me and helping me to make the right decisions. I can truly say that he is not only a great lawyer but a friend as well. If you don’t want to just be another client I highly recommend Matt and Howes Law Firm.
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07 Nov, 2024 by Ryan sears
07 Oct, 2024 by Mia barrios
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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.
