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19 Sep, 2019 by Mariah betts
Loved the experience of working with Kellsie Singleton. She was great and made me feel comfortable throughout the entire process. She was on top of things and always stayed in touch and communicated everything with me so I always knew what was happening and where we were at in our case. Kellsie was very open and very caring about the situation. Highly recommend her as an awesome attorney! The biggest weight was lifted off my shoulders when we became a team. Thank you so much for the life changing experience!
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06 Aug, 2019 by Angel archuleta
These are the professionals
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03 Jul, 2019 by Melissa
Kellsie was amazing and we couldn't have hired a better attorney for the job with our case. She was very professional, knowledgeable, but also very friendly and easy to work with. She was honest and transparent with us through the entire process which made us feel like we were a team. Her communication skills are superb and if I had a question she quickly responded. Having Kellsie on our team made me extremely confident going into court as she was very well prepared. I will shout her recommendation from the rooftops!
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31 Dec, 2020 by Rose
I consulted with Ryan Wright on a variety of legal matters. He is very skilled and practices in several areas of law- which is so helpful to his clients. He also practices throughout Wyoming, which I thought was impressive. I would highly recommend him to any of friends or family that needed legal representation. He is friendly, dedicated and smart- all the things you want in an attorney.
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17 Dec, 2020 by Daniel
I haven't (luckily) had too many run-ins with law enforcement, but when I did, as an out of town traveler in WY, I was terrified. It was a product of unfortunate circumstance, and I didn't know where to turn and what to do.
I feared that if I contracted a lawyer, (s)he'd take an arm and a leg and leave me to still pay heavy court fines without any result. But I also realized that I needed one, and after a few weeks of deep research, I landed on Ryan Wright.
Initially, his education and reviews sold me on the firm, but from the beginning it was clear to me that I had made an excellent decision for one of the most stressful moments in my life. Ryan, from the get go, was intelligent, a keen listener, and shrewd in his approach. He has an excellent understanding of the law as well as intuition for nuance, and – most importantly – goes wayyyy above and beyond to ensure that his clients have the best deal possible. He did that for me than anyone I've ever hired, at a very fair (and even slightly below market) price.
In the end, I got a pocket deferral, which to laypeople (such as myself) is the equivalent of the holy grail in court results – it happens very, very rarely. Don’t get me wrong – Ryan never guaranteed that result (he couldn’t – no lawyer can – due to the element of chance) but I have no doubt in my mind that he did every single thing in his power to make that happen.
If you’re debating whether Ryan is a sound choice – I hope this review puts your mind at ease. I’d choose him as my lawyer 10/10 times, and I am by nature someone cautious and slow to build trust with.
Thank you Ryan, for everything :)
Happy holidays to you, your family, and the Wright Law Firm family!
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06 Nov, 2020 by Jennifer
Mr. Wright was amazing! Super friendly and knowledgeable. I highly recommend him for all business related matters.
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21 Jul, 2018 by Susan
Made the divorce process simple and quick. Kept in touch all the way through.
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03 Jan, 2018 by Brian
Darin was absolutely amazing as my divorce attorney. He made it a painful process very simple.
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01 Jan, 2018 by Rex
Darin is more than an attorney. He is a friend. He cares about the case, but more importantly he cares about the welfare of his client. He is currently helping me in a tough case against one of the toughest attorney's in Wyoming. He hasn't backed down or played games with the other side. I am confident we will win!!!
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11 Oct, 2018 by Sarah
My husband and I couldn't be more pleased with Wallace Stock. He has many years of experience and knows the system very well. We were able to successfully gain custody of my step son with the help and knowledge of Wallace Stock. Wallace was able to get everything pushed through in a very timely manner and the presentation and documentation in court was absolutely phenomenal. I am so very thankful for Wallace and all of the staff who work with him. I honestly believe with Wallace Stock we would not be where we are today. I recommend Wallace to anyone looking for a lawyer in regards to divorce, family and child custody cases. You definitely wont find a better lawyer!
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31 Mar, 2016 by Robert
Mr. Wallace Stock and his team performed remarkably when he represented my wife and I for a child custody case. Mr. Stock is ethical, hard working, determined, positive and professional. We were very impressed with is ability to communicate our case and testimony to the judge. His ability in the court room exceeded our expectations. He understands the importance of client/attorney relationship and how this can strengthen ones case as demonstrated in his ability to make our interests his priority. His sincere desire to perform well was shown in his overwhelming preparation for our court appearance. He consistently demonstrated extensive commitment and expert law advice before, during and after our court proceedings. We definitely felt that we were a priority for him and his staff throughout our tenure. Additionally, we learned that Mr. Stock has an excellent rapport and is well respected throughout the lawyer community. We are humbled and pleased to be represented by such a professional attorney and law firm. It is with great pleasure and confidence that I recommend Mr. Stock and his team for anyone seeking representation for family law.
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14 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
Mr. Melchoir was the first attorney we contacted who knew exactly how to handle an adoption from Nebraska. This was a relative, whose mother was unable to care for her son and whose birth father had never met him. He handled every step with integrity and respect, ensuring that both birth parents fully understood their individual decisions to relinquish their rights AND had their own separate legal representation so there could be no challenges against the adoption in the future. Handling an adoption across state lines is particularly cumbersome, and he made it seem easy (after multiple other attorneys seemed confused and muddled). Mr. Melchoir made it possible for a lost little boy to be adopted into our loving home.
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26 Apr, 2015 by Kevin
I hired Steve when my ex wife moved out of state and expected to take our children with Her. I appreciated the fact that Steve had a plan from the beginning, he clearly knew how to win and did so with integrity. He was always responsive to my questions and in the end, he helped me gain full custody of my three children. He was very expensive, but he was worth it. I can never thank him enough.
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20 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
Rendy, she is very active and responsive as far as contacting her! She is fiesty , furious, intelligent and very helpful! She had my DFS case dismissed almost immediately! Thank you Rendy
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06 Jun, 2018 by Billy
I can't say enough good things about Abby Fournier and Linda Steiner. This is the first time I've had to hire an attorney. Abby was amazing, from the first phone call til my case was settled. Extremely professional, prompt, helpful and empathetic to my situation. She was up against a very unprofessional, unethical attorney, and Abby rocked it. I always had complete confidence & trust in her, and Linda was a great teammate with her. Their billing was very fair. I recommend them w/out hesitation.
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09 Sep, 2024 by Marc bjerring
The Freeburg Law team (Alex and co) are true professionals. They provide provide sage, level-headed advice and I highly recommend them to anyone who's looking for a trustworthy ally.
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06 Sep, 2024 by Zachary bagley
Super friendly team! The communication throughout the whole process, as well the help understanding everything that was going on was huge for me! Would highly recommend!
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05 Sep, 2024 by Intercontinental freight lines
Alex helped me fight dishonest former employer in court over payment compensation.Long story short, we won that battle. Would highly recomend his service
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16 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
I had the privilege of working with Crystal, and I can confidently say she is the best attorney I’ve ever hired. From start to finish, she delivered exactly what she promised, and always on time. Her insights and advice were consistently precise, giving me complete confidence throughout the entire process.
What stood out most was her exceptional communication—she ensured I was never left in the dark. Whether through updates or quick responses to my questions, Crystal was always accessible, professional, and patient. Her dedication to my case was evident, and I felt fully supported every step of the way.
If you need a reliable, knowledgeable, and responsive attorney, I wholeheartedly recommend Crystal for any legal matter you may encounter
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04 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
Crystal provided me with professional representation. She resolved my case in a timely manner and accomplished goals which resulted with an excellent outcome. She was knowledgeable, empathetic and supportive in finding a resolution to this matter. She was easy to get a hold of and answer any questions I had. She was reasonably priced and also willing to accept payments if needed. I would highly recommend Crystal for legal representation.
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04 Mar, 2024 by Stephen
Crystal is an incredible attorney! She has the ability to take in all the information and provide concise, actionable counsel in a timely manner. Her knowledgeable, professional nature greatly compliments her overall direct approach.
Despite her busy schedule, Crystal always made me a priority and consistently put in the work to help me solve the issue at hand. Her guidance has proved invaluable in helping me navigate starting my own business and I will absolutely go to Crystal with any and all legal concerns in the future.
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02 Sep, 2023 by Lisa beamer
Nick is a fantastic lawyer. Very personable and knowledgeable. He is great with education on legacy wealth planning and he did an excellent job with our business incorporation.
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14 Apr, 2022 by Heather robles
Jenny is a very professional and passionate lawyer. Without the help of her and her team, I probably wouldn't have ended up with the best outcome for my children. We faced many challenges, but she didn't falter and kept me reasonable during many issues. Her knowledge of the law and passion for my case was beyond impressive. I truly believe they are the best law firm in Cheyenne. These are the reasons I will always recommend Lance & Hall for any legal matters.
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13 Apr, 2022 by Stephen kroner
I cannot say enough about how great an attorney Jenny Hall is. She fights for what is right and legitimately cares about my children and what is best for them. She is a bulldog in the courtroom and I cannot imagine there is a single opposing client that has enjoyed an encounter with her because of how effective she is. Jenny is very passionate about her clients and it shows in the quality of her work and the dedication she applies to the case. She is a champion for fathers and the best at what she does. We are so grateful we found her.
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18 Apr, 2024 by Chloe crumbliss
Paige was an absolute amazing lawyer for the case I had. Paige was very professional and very realistic about the situation. Paige handled my high emotions very well as there were several times I was very emotional and needed to be reasoned with in order to get the best outcome for my child. Paige is attentive and detail oriented. I will recommend to her everyone I meet that needs the help of an attorney.
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18 Apr, 2024 by Chloe
Paige was an absolute amazing lawyer for the case I had. Paige was very professional and very realistic about the situation. Paige handled my high emotions very well as there were several times I was very emotional and needed to be reasoned with in order to get the best outcome for my child. Paige is attentive and detail oriented. I will recommend to her everyone I meet that needs the help of an attorney.
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15 Feb, 2024 by Lorri
Paige was absolutely wonderful to work with, during a very difficult process. She was very professional, yet sympathetic to my needs and my situation. She was very responsive and kept me in the loop during every step. She was very reliable and efficient throughout my entire divorce process.
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16 Apr, 2023 by Balynda k foster
25 Nov, 2022 by Melinda redenius
Smart capable, caring counselors of law.
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09 Jun, 2022 by Heather shoemaker
Great to work with, professional, competent
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30 Sep, 2024 by Cathy may
Josh Case worked on my divorce. It was extremely stressful. There were days that I did not even want to work or review on my divorce case and just ignore it, but Josh did everything in his power to help me feel less anxious about it. He worked countless hours in such a calm & sufficient manner. Me and the other party went back-and-forth for a year. Josh MADE SURE that I was not just agreeing to whatever (to get it over with) he MADE SURE I was pleased with the all the offers put on the table. My case is finally closed and done with. THANK YOU Josh for helping me in one of the most difficult times in my life!
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06 Sep, 2024 by Bryce hull
Josh and Melissa were very helpful and resolved my case faster than anticipated with the desired outcome in a nightmare situation. Couldn’t be more grateful for them!
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06 Sep, 2024 by Larry w.
All went well.
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30 Sep, 2024 by Cathy may
Josh Case worked on my divorce. It was extremely stressful. There were days that I did not even want to work or review on my divorce case and just ignore it, but Josh did everything in his power to help me feel less anxious about it. He worked countless hours in such a calm & sufficient manner. Me and the other party went back-and-forth for a year. Josh MADE SURE that I was not just agreeing to whatever (to get it over with) he MADE SURE I was pleased with the all the offers put on the table. My case is finally closed and done with. THANK YOU Josh for helping me in one of the most difficult times in my life!
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06 Sep, 2024 by Bryce hull
Josh and Melissa were very helpful and resolved my case faster than anticipated with the desired outcome in a nightmare situation. Couldn’t be more grateful for them!
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06 Sep, 2024 by Larry w.
All went well.
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08 Oct, 2024 by Eunice west
Best of the Best
Where do i even begin. I had to take time writing this to make sure i got everything i should appreciate this lawfirm with. Jackson and Ojeda LLC was very professional and knowledgeable when it came to my so complicated case that can easily be that one off case. Monique and her paralegal Heather specifically were a beacon of hope for me at a time where my options appeared limited and the likelihood of a satisfactory resolution seemed like a dream. She was calm, collected, empathetic and she offered emotional succor to me that i will never forget. Though it may seem trivial, her sense of humor was all i needed to bring light of a difficult situation. The so many times i wanted to throw in the towel, she became a pillar of strength and assurance that no matter how long it will take or the outcome she would be there till the end and she was. She steered me in the right direction and helped me determine what was in the best interest for me and my children and she was right. She will have your back even when you are low and down. At one point she paid for my hotel room for the night when i was low and never asked to be paid back. She made a volatile situation calm and brought an outstanding outcome after what seemed impossible and after the final courtdate all parties involved were happy and satisfied with her work which is very rare but we all felt like winners. She is tough when needed and even then she does so with grace. The respect she gets from both opposing counsel and the judiciary is all you need to know that you found the right attorney. Monique Ojeda of Jackson and Ojeda LLC was the absolute best decision i made when choosing a legal team. If you are looking for a straight foreward,intelligent, honest and knowledgeable attorney that is skilled in balancing the legal and delicate aspects of a complicated family situation, look no further than Monique Ojeda with Jackson and Ojeda LLC.
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06 Sep, 2024 by Deedy homan
Laura Jackson is not only a fantastic attorney, she is one of the kindest people I have ever met. Her and her team are very knowledgeable, helpful, and wonderful to work with. They will go above and beyond to help you with your legal needs.
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19 Aug, 2024 by Bethany mccraken
There on top of stuff and they help alot
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09 Aug, 2024 by Josh “bigdaddytoph” wheeler
Mr. Jared Crecelius and Ms. Perla Hostettler are a highly esteemed and accomplished legal team. They provided invaluable assistance during my divorce proceedings, demonstrating unwavering support and expertise throughout the challenging process. I wholeheartedly recommend their services to anyone seeking legal representation in divorce matters. As a resident of Casper, I sought out Mr. Crecelius specifically for his reputation as a tenacious advocate who fiercely defends his clients' interests. Without reservation, I endorse their services and hold them in the highest regard.
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09 Aug, 2024 by Wheeler campaign
The legal team provided exceptional support during a challenging divorce. Their expertise and guidance instilled confidence and security throughout the process. While I do not plan to remarry, I value the ongoing professional relationship we have established. They are highly skilled and a pleasure to work with. I highly recommend their services.
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09 Aug, 2024 by Eric royston
i called the Olsen legal group to set up my trust.
they did a great lob.
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09 Aug, 2024 by Josh “bigdaddytoph” wheeler
Mr. Jared Crecelius and Ms. Perla Hostettler are a highly esteemed and accomplished legal team. They provided invaluable assistance during my divorce proceedings, demonstrating unwavering support and expertise throughout the challenging process. I wholeheartedly recommend their services to anyone seeking legal representation in divorce matters. As a resident of Casper, I sought out Mr. Crecelius specifically for his reputation as a tenacious advocate who fiercely defends his clients' interests. Without reservation, I endorse their services and hold them in the highest regard.
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09 Aug, 2024 by Wheeler campaign
The legal team provided exceptional support during a challenging divorce. Their expertise and guidance instilled confidence and security throughout the process. While I do not plan to remarry, I value the ongoing professional relationship we have established. They are highly skilled and a pleasure to work with. I highly recommend their services.
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09 Aug, 2024 by Eric royston
i called the Olsen legal group to set up my trust.
they did a great lob.
Read more
09 Aug, 2024 by Josh “bigdaddytoph” wheeler
Mr. Jared Crecelius and Ms. Perla Hostettler are a highly esteemed and accomplished legal team. They provided invaluable assistance during my divorce proceedings, demonstrating unwavering support and expertise throughout the challenging process. I wholeheartedly recommend their services to anyone seeking legal representation in divorce matters. As a resident of Casper, I sought out Mr. Crecelius specifically for his reputation as a tenacious advocate who fiercely defends his clients' interests. Without reservation, I endorse their services and hold them in the highest regard.
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09 Aug, 2024 by Wheeler campaign
The legal team provided exceptional support during a challenging divorce. Their expertise and guidance instilled confidence and security throughout the process. While I do not plan to remarry, I value the ongoing professional relationship we have established. They are highly skilled and a pleasure to work with. I highly recommend their services.
Read more
09 Aug, 2024 by Eric royston
i called the Olsen legal group to set up my trust.
they did a great lob.
Read more
09 Aug, 2024 by Josh “bigdaddytoph” wheeler
Mr. Jared Crecelius and Ms. Perla Hostettler are a highly esteemed and accomplished legal team. They provided invaluable assistance during my divorce proceedings, demonstrating unwavering support and expertise throughout the challenging process. I wholeheartedly recommend their services to anyone seeking legal representation in divorce matters. As a resident of Casper, I sought out Mr. Crecelius specifically for his reputation as a tenacious advocate who fiercely defends his clients' interests. Without reservation, I endorse their services and hold them in the highest regard.
Read more
09 Aug, 2024 by Wheeler campaign
The legal team provided exceptional support during a challenging divorce. Their expertise and guidance instilled confidence and security throughout the process. While I do not plan to remarry, I value the ongoing professional relationship we have established. They are highly skilled and a pleasure to work with. I highly recommend their services.
Read more
09 Aug, 2024 by Eric royston
i called the Olsen legal group to set up my trust.
they did a great lob.
Read more
08 Oct, 2024 by Eunice west
Best of the Best
Where do i even begin. I had to take time writing this to make sure i got everything i should appreciate this lawfirm with. Jackson and Ojeda LLC was very professional and knowledgeable when it came to my so complicated case that can easily be that one off case. Monique and her paralegal Heather specifically were a beacon of hope for me at a time where my options appeared limited and the likelihood of a satisfactory resolution seemed like a dream. She was calm, collected, empathetic and she offered emotional succor to me that i will never forget. Though it may seem trivial, her sense of humor was all i needed to bring light of a difficult situation. The so many times i wanted to throw in the towel, she became a pillar of strength and assurance that no matter how long it will take or the outcome she would be there till the end and she was. She steered me in the right direction and helped me determine what was in the best interest for me and my children and she was right. She will have your back even when you are low and down. At one point she paid for my hotel room for the night when i was low and never asked to be paid back. She made a volatile situation calm and brought an outstanding outcome after what seemed impossible and after the final courtdate all parties involved were happy and satisfied with her work which is very rare but we all felt like winners. She is tough when needed and even then she does so with grace. The respect she gets from both opposing counsel and the judiciary is all you need to know that you found the right attorney. Monique Ojeda of Jackson and Ojeda LLC was the absolute best decision i made when choosing a legal team. If you are looking for a straight foreward,intelligent, honest and knowledgeable attorney that is skilled in balancing the legal and delicate aspects of a complicated family situation, look no further than Monique Ojeda with Jackson and Ojeda LLC.
Read more
16 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
I am a Mom who had false accusations against me regarding my parenting abilities. It was an extremely frightening experience and was due to an ex-husband’s wife making false claims.
However, after retaining Monique and her team, I was extremely relieved by their competence and diligence.
They were aggressive in court and compassionate toward myself and my situation.
After they cleared my name, my son and I have an amazingly close relationship. I now have two beautiful granddaughters and I truly believe this wouldn’t have been possible had my awesome attorney not stood her ground and proved he should not have been in the environment he was at that time.
I will be forever grateful and recommend this entire staff to anybody being falsely accused.
Thank you Monique!
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06 Sep, 2024 by Deedy homan
Laura Jackson is not only a fantastic attorney, she is one of the kindest people I have ever met. Her and her team are very knowledgeable, helpful, and wonderful to work with. They will go above and beyond to help you with your legal needs.
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27 Oct, 2023 by Gwenna fitzgerald
A gentleman and a caring fair man.
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19 Sep, 2020 by Gary weathermon
Wally stock is a foundation of Cheyenne.. his life's dedication is for people in need.
He will never do you wrong but will represent you to all his ability.
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11 Aug, 2018 by Elijah tousignant
Good man. Very fair.
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16 Nov, 2018 by Anonymous
I would pay double and find an attorney that will represent your best interest, I was very disappointed by her snide remarks and lack of knowledge of single parents.
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21 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
My daughter got herself into trouble 1000 miles from home and I was at a loss for who to hire to help her. I looked at many attorneys based in the Cheyenne area and decided to go with Beth, She has a great Resume and got many great reviews from colleagues. She also has broad knowledge of the law which is a plus. Well to be completely honest I am glad I hired her. Even though we live 1000 miles away she was genuinely caring and timely. By the time I had drove out there she had researched the specifics of the case and was able to help secure bond for my daughter even though the circumstances with the case were less than ideal. Lets just say I would highly recommend.......
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09 Feb, 2024 by Willie
I like to say, I had this lawyer when I was in my teens and she’s been good to me there’s times and I should’ve been gone. She kept me out. She’s been on my side ever since and I don’t got nothing bad to say about her her if she don’t get with you right then she will get to you you have to be patient. She is a very good lawyer and that’s all I got to say is I wouldn’t ask for nobody else but her for myself.
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09 Nov, 2017 by Anonymous
She is very flaky and irresponsible. Never responded to emails or phone messages. Didn't know the law at all. Forgot to show up to a hearing. Very disorganized. Lost my file.
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11 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
Very slow to respond to emails, and sometimes I would not get a response back at all. Did not provide good guidance of which direction would be beneficial to take. Her answers were very vague and I felt like she was not on my side.
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26 Nov, 2013 by Anonymous
Becky is highly incompetent. She was easily dominated by the other attorney. She was unprepared and late on pretty much everything she was responsible for. I did most of the leg work on preparing information and research for my case. To the point she even complimented me only for it to be ignored. She was even late on her billing invoices. Eventually it became clear she wanted off my case. These violations are so offending that I am seriously considering filing a complaint to the Bar Association. She argued mute points and often appeared to forget she worked for me. I encourage all of you to find another attorney. This is your life, your children's lives. I would even go so far as to recommend my ex's attorney over Becky. Believe me or not but can you take the chance?
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12 Mar, 2013 by Anonymous
She uses delay tactics on behalf of her clients to stall cases, causing irreparable damage to l involved. She fails to respond in a timely manner to the other attorneys the the cases she represents and makes promises to the magistrates that she does not follow through on (such as filing paperwork when promised). She also for not come prepared to cases with all the information needs to thorough examine witnesses, which would easily be done with simple web searches.
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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.
