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28 Oct, 2024 by Kenneth martinez
The Best Ever !
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21 Oct, 2024 by Derek cardona
Catherine and Marilyn helped every step of the way and completely delivered. I couldn't have asked for more. I would recommend, especially being a father in a child case they really helped me out.
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18 Oct, 2024 by Joni renee realty
Sal is extremely knowledgeable, educated and stays update on the ever-changing laws. I recommend working with him.
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28 Oct, 2024 by Kenneth martinez
The Best Ever !
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21 Oct, 2024 by Derek cardona
Catherine and Marilyn helped every step of the way and completely delivered. I couldn't have asked for more. I would recommend, especially being a father in a child case they really helped me out.
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18 Oct, 2024 by Joni renee realty
Sal is extremely knowledgeable, educated and stays update on the ever-changing laws. I recommend working with him.
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28 Oct, 2024 by Kenneth martinez
The Best Ever !
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21 Oct, 2024 by Derek cardona
Catherine and Marilyn helped every step of the way and completely delivered. I couldn't have asked for more. I would recommend, especially being a father in a child case they really helped me out.
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18 Oct, 2024 by Joni renee realty
Sal is extremely knowledgeable, educated and stays update on the ever-changing laws. I recommend working with him.
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04 Apr, 2023 by Anonymous
She was a horrible CFI. Yes, technically the review was in my favor (only because she knew she had no way of saying otherwise. I’m a good, stable mother), nonetheless she favored my ex husband, who abused me in every way. She gave him many opportunities such as outside opinions and text, email, and personal calls. I did not receive that same chance to talk and go over anything. She had to come to my house (3 hours away) and over charged me Meanwhile, my ex husband (her favorite) has been charged with felony crimes and DV (still pending). She should be forced to leave her CFI practice. She may be a good lawyer ( though I highly doubt it). If she had her way he would have custody of my kids. She doesn’t care about the facts and she doesn’t care about the kids or their wants and needs. She wants money. Nothing else.
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09 Mar, 2023 by Angie
I cannot speak to Ms. Shields as an attorney, but as a CFI I would never recommend her.
After 8 years of constant litigation initiated by his ex, and 17 months of litigation that included Ms. Shields CFI investigation, my husband retained full custody and decision making authority for his children AND was awarded relocation by the court in December 2022.
She is biased, unfair, and did not have an awareness of correct legal standard, which is concerning, as she is an attorney. She made a threat of filing a motion to try and force her uninformed opinion on my husband based solely on her communication with his ex; worked far outside the scope of her appointment and with no regard for the boundaries of her appointment; advised the opposing party on how to try and “win” her case; made false, erroneous, damaging and disparaging statements about me and my husband; and, baited my husband into saying negative things about his ex that she then used against him.
My husband (and by extension I) have been involved in constant litigation with his ex for 8 years through the entirety of which he has retained primary custody and sole decision making for their children. Ms. Shields did not even consider that very basic fact during the investigation.
But don’t take my word for it.
Here are a few statements about Ms. Shields from the public court order (names of minor children, professionals and/or witnesses have been removed for privacy):
• The CFI took issue with Father’s home even though no caseworker or other professional has found that his home is unsafe.
• The CFI gave Mother 30 days’ notice for a home visit and Father 13 hours.
• [Psychologist] felt compelled to clarify the CFI’s false reference to their conversation about stepmother’s appropriate communication that the CFI indicated was excessive.
• In hindsight, the change of therapists was not only not endangering as alleged by the CFI but was clearly in the best interests of [the minor child].
• [Work Product Review Professional] noted that the CFI disregarded Father’s primary role for the last 6 years.
• The CFI exceeded the scope of the order appointing her by opining about decision-making and recommending a change in the majority parent when the only motion pending was the relocation motion and a request to change Mother’s dinner visit.
• The CFI did not notify Father that she intended to investigate a change in majority parent or decision-making.
• The CFI also failed to maintain objectivity.
• She inappropriately read the previous CFI report before completing her investigation.
• A CFI report is supposed to be a “brief assessment that is nonintrusive, efficient and cost effective” (CJD 04-08) (the CFI report here fails to meet any of those criteria).
• Neither the CFI nor the PRE considered the significance of Father’s primary role.
• She did an interactional with Mother and the children but not with Father.
• She demonstrated no awareness of the correct legal standard according to [the Work Product Review Professional].
• She gave advice to Mother on how to achieve primary parenting.
• She did not make good faith efforts to reach [the Psychologist] or [the Family Therapist], one of Father’s collaterals.
• She testified that Father said he hated Mother’s guts when it was she who suggested that both parties hate each other.
• She spent more time reviewing Mother’s materials and with Mother than with Father.
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03 Mar, 2022 by Jennifer
Bonnie was so helpful with an attorney opinion letter for our common law marriage. She was able to complete a quick interview and develop the letter quickly, so we were able to close on our new home ahead of schedule. I highly recommend her!
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17 Dec, 2024 by Kelsie henry
Bonnie was so meticulous, amd detailed with her report that it sincerely changed our families life for the better ! We felt very understood and heard. I will be recommending Bonnie to anyone in a similar situation to ours !
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02 Jun, 2024 by Steven valdez
Sue is an amazing person and attorney! I have just started working with her on my case but I agree with what everyone else has said. She is my trusted source for legal advice from now on!
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07 May, 2024 by Hieu tran
Great service with my case. I will definitely call Sue again for other legal matters.
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21 Oct, 2024 by Derek cardona
Catherine and Marilyn helped every step of the way and completely delivered. I couldn't have asked for more. I would recommend, especially being a father in a child case they really helped me out.
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18 Oct, 2024 by Joni renee realty
Sal is extremely knowledgeable, educated and stays update on the ever-changing laws. I recommend working with him.
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24 Jul, 2024 by Mark cohen
I am an experienced lawyer, but no longer handle residential landlord/tenant litigation. When I needed help for a rental property I own, I knew I was not up to date on recent changes to Colorado landlord/tenant laws. Sal personally returned my call promptly and quickly drafted the necessary documents for me. It was a pleasure working with him.
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21 Oct, 2024 by Derek cardona
Catherine and Marilyn helped every step of the way and completely delivered. I couldn't have asked for more. I would recommend, especially being a father in a child case they really helped me out.
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18 Oct, 2024 by Joni renee realty
Sal is extremely knowledgeable, educated and stays update on the ever-changing laws. I recommend working with him.
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24 Jul, 2024 by Mark cohen
I am an experienced lawyer, but no longer handle residential landlord/tenant litigation. When I needed help for a rental property I own, I knew I was not up to date on recent changes to Colorado landlord/tenant laws. Sal personally returned my call promptly and quickly drafted the necessary documents for me. It was a pleasure working with him.
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10 May, 2024 by Abel
Hiring Randy was a complete waste of time, like flushing money down the drain. It was a simple case about my government 401k and retirement. After 8 months of 1 hearing and continuous status hearings I fired randy and hired another attorney. During my 1 hour consultation the new attorney did more in 1 hour then Randy did in 8 months. The next status meeting an agreement was reached and settled. Randy had even forgotten that during the first hearing the judge rewarded me with 8 months of back pay maintenance only because the opposing attorney had asked me a question. It had nothing to do with randy. On my last hearing with Randy he was yelling and belligerent with the judge. The judge scolded him and at that point I figured I was losing my case. on that hearing I had given Randy a check for 1,000.00 dollars two weeks later he was calling me asking me for the 1,000.00 dollar check. I told him I gave it to him, my wife checked our back account and he had cashed the check. I fired him shortly after that. After my new attorney notified him that he had been fired. He sent me a bill for another 1,600.00. That would have put me at or near10,000.00 for a simple court case. Please do not trust your money with him. He just care about himself.
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03 Feb, 2024 by John
Worst decision I've ever made, Randy is only worried about himself and your money. Save yourself the time and money and go with someone else. You'll thank me later.
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15 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
Randy Onge is very rude, condescending and verbally abusive. I will not recommend working with him at all. He threatened I would go to jail because I wouldn't let him do what he wanted with my divorce case. He worked for the opposing counsel by not submitting my documents on time and tried to make me responsible for their attorney fees. Will be discussing with women advocate group and the Colorado Bar association because he needs to be stopped.
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05 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
She dropped me near the end of my case and demanded payment at the end. I tried to negotiate the amount owed, bug she would not budge. She was completely heartless and cold. I would not recommend.
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09 Feb, 2022 by Shelby
Christelle Beck represented me for a child custody and child support case. She was phenomenal and the opposing counsel didnt stand a chance. She was organized, prepared and ready for the fight. I went from barely seeing my children and having to pay child support to getting nearly full custody, and receiving child support. She also obtain back child support and parenting time that was stolen from me by the other parent.
Ms. Beck is amazing and I offer my fully confident recommendation of her.
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30 Sep, 2020 by Anonymous
I too had Christelle Beck represent me in my child support case. This woman is a complete idiot. She dragged my case on for years, alleviating me of $70,000. This was a simple child support case that a later attorney settled for me for under 10k when she resigned from my case. The judge called her to her bench without microphones on and when she walked back she started packing up her papers and stuffed them in her briefcase and hustled out of the courtroom. I seriously question the “Super Lawyers” panel for giving her this title of Super Lawyer” she is a fraud... she is weak... she is only there to take her clients money. If you hire her, this will happen to you as well. I speak from experience as she ruined me financially. These reviews on here about how great she is, are fake. This woman is a complete joke. I watched her lunch get eaten for her by opposing counsel. She got embarrassed over and over. It was sad to watch as she was confused and lost in the process. Do not hire this incompetent excuse for a lawyer.
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17 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Michael did not give us any real help on The QDRO process, basically took our money, never returned phone calls when we had questions about the process and directions. We had to use our divorce attorney to help us with the whole process. It was the worst decision to hire him for legal services!!!! I should have known better when he wanted all of the money up front! Took over 1 month to get it all done then again no help in the end.
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13 Sep, 2023 by Justin
Did not clearly explain the QDRO process and continued to work with a legal team that did not represent me
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19 Jul, 2023 by Jay
Michael worked for Cordell/Cordell last year when I hired him. He lied, misrepresented, colluded with opposing counsel, over-billed, and ultimately withdrew from my case before my court date. I was alone without representation on my day and got slayed.
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27 May, 2023 by Kc g
It is such a shame to see a brand new mom being charged with a felony. She sleeps with her child on the first night home and instead of showing empathy, you charge her? Do you not think she is punishing herself every second for this accident? What is happening to this world? Anyone involved in this should really take a hard look at themselves. Shameful.
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24 Feb, 2020 by Brenda helton
My experience with denver d as office and detectives and victims advicates after my son was murdered was above and beyond what i expected i give them all my thanks.appreciation and respect to you all
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08 Jan, 2020 by Victoria s
The district attorney refused to take a clear fraud case. A babysitter steals a check and writes herself a $1000 check forges a signature and the DA sees no clear case ??!?!!? That’s ridiculous. I’m no law expert but I think starting with forgery and larceny charges is a good place.
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FAQs
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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.
