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19 Aug, 2024 by Praveen harikumar
Kyle McKay did an excellent job with our Estate Planning and Trust creation. He is very knowledgeable and experienced, made us at ease by simplifying and patiently explaining this otherwise complex process, and was great to work with. The whole process was very smooth, and I will always recommend and personally refer Kyle for any future related professional services. Thank You Kyle!
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15 Jul, 2024 by Merrill nelson
Our experience with The Mckay Law Firm was excellent! Kyle was very efficient and pleasant to work with. We would highly recommend them.
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29 May, 2024 by Shalini viswanathan
It was pleasure working with Kyle. He was patient and precisely answered all our questions. His knowledge and clear articulation of the process made the entire estate planning process smooth. I highly recommend him to anyone who needs estate planning to be done.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Matt seeker
Shelby was a wonderful help! She explained everything I needed to know about the process and was very patient. I feel so much better after talking to her.
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08 Aug, 2024 by Shay peoples
Traffic Law Hotline and Shelby are completely Amazing!!!! They are so helpful, knowledgeable, and it takes less than 5 minutes! Thank you for all you do!
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01 Aug, 2024 by Shannon litt
Eliana was very helpful to me during a trying time in my life. Her good judgement and sound advice helped me move forward out of a difficult situation. She really listened to me and was able to provide knowledgeable feedback of the law that I needed. Highly recommend!
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13 Sep, 2024 by Steve tucker
After working with Mike at NLH my faith in lawyers has been restored. Mike did exactly what I needed, in a timely and very courteous manner, and then even went above and beyond to make matters right for me. If there were 10 stars I would give him and NLH that. Thank you Mike!
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06 Jul, 2024 by Noelle grace
Would highly recommend Mike Hamlin and his staff/team. They have been incredibly helpful and professional in helping me navigate my auto accident claim.
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14 May, 2024 by Anita horner
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23 Aug, 2021 by Cathy
John puts his heart into taking care of his clients, and his dedication shows. He is a brilliant lawyer, but even more importantly, he is a good and kind man.
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13 Aug, 2021 by Anonymous
I found John on Avvo and I am glad I hired him. He made me see things clearly and explained step by step. I had no clue what I was going to face. He was very reassuring. He is very prompt in getting back to me and always one step ahead of the situation. I really appreciate everything he did for me. I highly recommend him for everyone. He is a wonderful attorney. Thanks John.
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12 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
I had the pleasure to work with John for my prenup. He was very helpful, professional and patient throughout the process. Highly recommend to anyone who needs legal assistance!!
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24 Mar, 2020 by Tina
Mike was phenomenal throughput the entire process of my divorce. He was compassionate, patient, professional but also very honest with what we needed to do in order to have the best possible outcome. He has extensive experience and has complete knowledge of the law. I would highly recommend his legal services to anyone in the area.
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30 Dec, 2013 by Celeste
Three words ,Amazing trial attorney ! I have retained Mike for my family law case On two occasions and he is Diligent at representing His clients . He goes above and beyond what My expectations were and I am truly thankful To have retained him to represent me and the best interest Of my child. I would highly recommend him to Anyone in a highly contested Custody case.
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23 Nov, 2013 by The cain family
Mike handled a family custody case for my husband and he was phenomenal in his approach with opposing counsel, he had indefinite knowledge of the law and always ensured a respectful presentation of facts to the courts. Mike exudes a trustworthy disposition from the moment he takes your case and it doesn't take long to know he was the right hire! Great attorney that can ensure all of your expectations are realistic and fights like a champ to win your case!!!
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29 Oct, 2014 by James
Mr. Spalding handled my divorce. He is calm and easy to talk to. He represented me completely and kept the process manageable in a bad situation.
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26 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
Tony was my divorce attorney. Throughout the process he was very fair-minded and cost conscious. He is not one to fight just to fight, especially if it's a battle you are not likely to win. He appeared to have a good working relationship with the various judges we had, which felt like a good sign to me. Only one small frustration was that, being new to this process, I was often hoping for a little more advice. He will answer your questions but rarely offer an opinion. Regardless it is obvious he is focused on the best possible outcome for his client and client's children. No one ever 'wins' in a divorce, but Tony keeps it a fair as possible. I highly recommend him.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Vincent gaffigan
My wife and I worked with Chris Cox to create a comprehensive estate plan. He was highly knowledgeable and took the time to understand our situation, think through various "what if" situations and provide recommendations that were incredibly helpful. The process was very straight forward and he remained super responsive to all our follow up questions. He also took time to make certain we understood "next steps" around how to fund our trust. We would highly recommend Chris to anyone looking for estate planning services. Amazing experience!
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05 Sep, 2024 by Kelly kramer
Chris guided me through the Will and Trust process, answering every question I had. Highly recommend the firm!
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30 Aug, 2024 by Ron arnold
I think this attorney needs more experience under his belt. Wasted my time in a case. Couldn’t take the time to read, or understand documentation correctly. I wouldn’t recommend him to anyone. Took a chance on him, and he bailed after having clear proof from 5 different doctors. He said that he wasn’t experienced enough or has the resources for my case. That I needed to seek a larger law firm with more experienced in malpractice attorney’s. Wow!!
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17 Oct, 2024 by Steven carrico
Always a great team, well prepared and thorough. Grateful for their services!
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22 Aug, 2024 by Brittany krichner
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16 Aug, 2024 by Laura rommel
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17 Oct, 2024 by Steven carrico
Always a great team, well prepared and thorough. Grateful for their services!
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22 Aug, 2024 by Brittany krichner
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16 Aug, 2024 by Laura rommel
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17 Oct, 2024 by Steven carrico
Always a great team, well prepared and thorough. Grateful for their services!
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22 Aug, 2024 by Brittany krichner
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16 Aug, 2024 by Laura rommel
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15 Jan, 2019 by Breanna
Words can’t describe how awesome susan is. For two years she has fought by my side for me to get full custody of my son. She’s incredible and she was always treating me like a second mom would. She has always been there for me whenever I needed her or if I was scared she made me feel better. I will highly recommend her as a lawyer in family court because she will get you results!
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11 Nov, 2015 by Frances
Susan has helped me with my trust, estate planning and many other issues that I have had to deal with after the passing of my husband in January of 2012. I have used her services on a number of times in the past few years and always have full confidence in her. She has always been very professional and compassionate.
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26 Jan, 2015 by Stephanie
Mrs. Hamra made the best use of both of our time helping me keep costs under control while achieving the desired outcome. I would definitely recommend her - she was great to work with.
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14 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
I went to this firm to protect my rights when separating from my handicapped wife (mainly for financial reasons). I found this firm after an internet search, and like every other man out there, saw that they catered to men and the man’s rights. I wanted this process to be amicable and fair, but I also did not want to pay maintenance. However, Erin made me bitter and made me feel entitled to more than I deserved. They will do anything to undermine the other spouse in the situation by discrediting them. She convinced me that my handicapped wife should be able to work and that I didn’t really owe her anything after a nearly 30 year marriage. This has been a terrible experience, leaving me feeling like a complete dirtbag. Since we were only separating for financial reasons (knowing that it could be changed to a divorce if need be) I had hoped we would be able to maintain some kind of relationship and maybe even work on reconciliation at some point. Instead, I am now not only estranged from my wife but have lost my children as well. The rest of my family (my parents and two brothers and sisters) also are extremely upset with me. I have lost life long friends over this and have lost the respect of so many others. Our adult children will not see me and haven’t spoken to me in over a year in a half. They also have written me the “Dear John” letter stating their displeasure with me and stating they are cutting ties with me and wish to no longer have a relationship with me. If you are completely devout of all compassion for others and want an absolute unethical shark then this firm is for you. If you are a reasonable human being and have any compassion STAY AWAY
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21 Aug, 2018 by Harold
I requested her to make an offer to settle a dispute involving statutory interest. She did not do as I asked. She did some paper work and just wanted to wait on the opposing lawyer. All this did was leave me in limbo. She didn't answer phone call or emails until I her boss. The attorney that replaced her did as asked and my case is now settled.
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07 Nov, 2016 by Kevin blaxton
Divorce is never a fun event to go through in life for anyone. It is a very emotional period for anyone going through it and if the wrong decisions are made it can wreak havoc in both your personal and financial life for many years to come. I learned this the hard way when I initially went through my divorce without representation thinking I could trust my ex-spouse and that we would have an amicable separation and agree to equitable time with our daughter. Unfortunately, that was a mistake that I paid for dearly in my emotional and financial health as well as that of my daughter’s. Fortunately, it is never too late to turn a wrong into a right. I am a very loving father of my daughter and all I wanted was to have equal time with her but I did not get that during the first divorce proceeding when I was unrepresented by counsel. Instead, I lost all custody and almost all my rights to my daughter. Luckily, after calling upon numerous attorneys that specialize in my very unique case I was able to retain Susan Hais and Erin Zielinkski of Hais, Hais & Goldberger, P.C. Choosing a law firm is THE most important decision you will ever make that could significantly alter the outcome of your divorce case. Having been through what I have been through, which was a very tough case and mountain to climb at the beginning, I am very proud to say that due to the untiring efforts and amazing legal strategy of Hais, Hais & Goldberger, P.C., I successfully had my original divorce decree voided by the court. As I was told by other prominent divorce attorneys the odds of a divorce decree being voided are less than a two percent chance. However, through the dedication and untiring work of Susan Hais and Erin Zielinksi we made it happen. Most importantly, I now have joint legal and physical custody of my daughter and have ensured that my daughter will not grow up without her Dad. I am FOREVER grateful for the difference that Hais, Hais & Goldberger, P.C., has made to my life and my daughter’s life. From the time you enter their office and you are warmly greeted by their receptionist, Nancy, through the initial consultation and all the way through litigation this firm HAS YOUR BACK and will not sacrifice or leave any rock unturned to ensure the best outcome. I felt all the way through the process that it wasn’t just my attorneys Susan and Erin working for me but it was the entire law firm working to win my case. They knew how high the stakes were in my case and the impact it could have on the future of my daughter. When you need the best of the best in family law there is no comparison to the attorneys at Hais, Hais & Goldberger, P.C. As a former military officer, I proudly give them the title of Top Gun in family law practice and providing the best experience.
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13 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
When we started trying to get pregnant we had Dara draw up a contract. Everything seemed fine. A few weeks before the due date, we attempted to contact Dara to begin the process for my wife adopting our children. Dara was nowhere to be found. We tried calling, emailing and even stopped by her office for at least a month with no response. When she finally contacted us she told us she had been out of town for a death of a family member. We met with her and had everything ready to go. She promised she was turning everything in the next day and she would update us weekly. Almost a month passed with no word. Once again we emailed and called with no response. After weeks she called and pretended like nothing had happened and proceeded to tell us a signature had been overlooked so nothing was even processed. At that point we decided she would no longer be our lawyer. She gave us our file and our money back. My wife easily could have adopted our kids by the time they were 6 months but because of her we were starting all over at that point. Please save yourself the trouble and do NOT use her. She lacks professionalism and is unreliable.
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20 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
I really believed Dara would represent my modification and custody case well. However, I can never get in contact with her to get an update or idea of where my case stands. She let a service deadline expire without having the other party served. I have paid her and yet I still have had to physically go to her her office and sit and wait for her to come out in order to make contact with her as she refuse to return any of my calls and emails. I have wasted time, energy and money in a case that I will now have to completely re start and re pay another attorney. I have literally begged her to call or email me back. I never in a million years would think an educated professional would behave in such a manner.
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09 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous
There is yet another case of this lawyer not responding to calls, not returning calls and not being trustworthy. Our daughter has had to acquire the services of another lawyer after months of delays due to this lawyer not returning calls. To be fair, the case was done but the ex husband was totally non responsive and has failed to act on any of the court orders. To follow up and get resolve has been impossible as this attorney has refused to reply to any calls - even after the Missouri Bar has been involved. Whatever Dara Strickland has been doing, she has no interest in her law-firm at this point. Do not use her.
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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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

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