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14 Nov, 2023 by Fr jeffrey jean
Bien
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31 Dec, 2019 by Ronda c. smith-porter
08 Aug, 2024 by Thomas hitchcock
08 May, 2024 by Anonymous
This lady was the judge friend appointed advocate. In a 2yr period she met w/my child 3 times for a whopping total of 1.75hrs. She allowed the other parent to state she spent “ample time” getting to know the child and observe both households & not dispute it. She knew that was a lie. This lady leans towards the mom and all the BS she puts into the atmosphere. If Sheri is ever appointed advocate for your child, take my advice and request another 1! She just wants your $.
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05 Jul, 2023 by Reyad elsadek
24 May, 2023 by Dennis
First attorney did nothing for me. He told me give up thinking I'll ever gain custody. I fired him and found Matthew. Within a week I had temporary custody and ultimately custody. Matthew was tremendous during the entire process. I've recommended him several times and all those who took my advice later thanked me. Each and everyone was beyond happy with Matthew.
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13 Mar, 2022 by Anonymous
Any cursory search of Matt on the internet will show that he is more concerned with attending social galas and generally being a big shot than representing the children he is supposed to be protecting at this advanced stage of his life/career. His only purpose at this point is to use his ties with the Court to secure fees for his firm. Any humility or professionalism that he may have brought to the table while at Jeffery Leving has left town a long time ago. Don't get involved with this guy.
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06 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
Matt seems like a good guy but doesn’t seem qualified to represent children which encompasses much of his practice in his role as a court appointed lawyer in contentious divorces. Every family case has their own set of unique circumstances but Matt seems to apply recommendations based on a one size fits all view of the law. I don’t know if he has his own kids but you would hope someone in his position would have empathy of the needs of the children he represents based on his own personal experience. I know 60 is probably the new 40; but, do yourself a favor and find a 40 year old who gives a crap about you.
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24 Oct, 2023 by Dorothy glodo
My experience working with Cindy Cannizzaro has been extremely positive with all questions being answered in ways I can understand. Cindy has so much experience and knowledge. I feel like she is very honoring to what my mother has requested and is able to offer well explained advice and options with understanding of certain life situations. Each visit was a warm and welcome experience.
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29 Jul, 2022 by Art h
Used this co before did very
Well then, have new case to be handled. Called explained problem 1 week ago never called back, even telling me dont worry?
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01 Jul, 2020 by Daniela d
12 Apr, 2024 by Amy lilliebridge
09 Feb, 2024 by Jasmine jimenez
Took a veteran as a client and then left the case. The veteran was described as starved into submission by Jeffrey Strange in a court transcript in that case. #badapples
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18 Aug, 2022 by Joey nemeth
Patterson Law Firm was efficient and reliable in their communication about my case and worked with me to the very end to address my needs. I would recommend this law firm to my friends and family.
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24 May, 2024 by Paula johnson
I had an amazing experience with Affordable Legal. The team made my chapter 7 filing a very smooth process! Great service and great price only $598.00 Don’t hesitate give them a call and get your fresh start.
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23 May, 2024 by Erica hardaway825
Sue has worked on a few cases of mine over the years and she's the best! Always professional, makes sure I understand everything, she's extremely patient, caring and kind!
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08 Mar, 2021 by Jasmine brown
They don’t respond they are terrible it’s truly sad they are out here making your life harder and not easier. I’ve been calling and emailing nonstop since November no call back no email. NOTHING. They moved the office and didn’t even tell me I had to call the trustee to get an address on them. I’m literally sitting here crying because I’m tired of being on the bus with my 3 small children! They won’t return anything to help me get a car or anything! At this point I’m about to report them to EVERYONE I can until I’m done dealing with these low down lying unprofessional people! They played with the right one😃
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05 May, 2023 by Jamie lowe
First I would like to share my gratitude for great amount of compassion and professionalism that Julita and Magda provided for my family and property sale. The sale was very cumbersome. Magda maintained an open line of communication and timely response to questions and pertinent matters. I strongly recommend utilizing them for all of your real estate needs. Thank you for all that you have done.
Sincerely,
Jamie Lowe
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10 Aug, 2022 by Karla moreira araya
Julita represented us in our very first home purchase and we appreciate how clear she made the process for us, timely email communication and a lot of paperwork explaining. Would absolutely recommend!
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27 Apr, 2022 by Tom gasiewski
VERY UNPROFESSIONAL!!!! I lost $2000 after closing thanks to them
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08 Apr, 2023 by Nubia -
Best divorce lawyer. Within a month I was divorced. He is tough and thorough. I recommend him to everyone. Secretary does take a while to answer or call back since he’s a one person operation but the results speak for themselves.
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18 Mar, 2023 by Olga
Best Lawyer in Chicago, Ed has helped me with my divorce and was hands on throughout the whole case. He has also helped my family and friends with their criminal charges.
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01 Aug, 2022 by Hector barajas
This lawyer knows how to take advantage of the Hispanic community he’ll take your money but never help you out on the case would never recommend.!!!
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24 May, 2024 by Paula johnson
I had an amazing experience with Affordable Legal. The team made my chapter 7 filing a very smooth process! Great service and great price only $598.00 Don’t hesitate give them a call and get your fresh start.
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23 May, 2024 by Erica hardaway825
Sue has worked on a few cases of mine over the years and she's the best! Always professional, makes sure I understand everything, she's extremely patient, caring and kind!
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03 May, 2024 by Brian susman
Won't let you in to speak with anyone, even current clients
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17 Jul, 2024 by Gary burch
My lawyer Jason Robb was amazing these people changed my life completely got my criminal convictions & Felonies along with misdemeanors expunged free of charge I’m prouder too say I am no longer a felony be patient with them they will go the length to get the job done I recommend Jason Robb he means business
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13 Jul, 2024 by Amber wilson
These people are a GODSEND!!!
They got my criminal record expunged effortlessly!
I got nothing but great things to say about these people!
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30 May, 2024 by Antonio adams
Great Lawyers and program, They manage to expunge my criminal and sealed one case wasn't expungable, I been able seek employment, Now I'm able support myself and family
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20 Mar, 2024 by Marecki
no good :)
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24 Oct, 2023 by Jay fal
10 Mar, 2023 by Timothy limer
Great law firm and a very nice office building
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20 Mar, 2024 by Marecki
no good :)
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24 Oct, 2023 by Jay fal
10 Mar, 2023 by Timothy limer
Great law firm and a very nice office building
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18 Jun, 2021 by Anonymous
She said she would prepare the divorce settle agreement. She didn't. She said she would calculate the monthly child support figure. She didn't. I can go on and on. Ended up using all the other side has prepared. It nothing but do as little as possible and charge thousands of $ for it. Stay Away!
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26 Dec, 2015 by Anonymous
I hired Caroline after a referral from a friend. She really stepped up and stepped in when things got ugly. Her rapport with the Judges, knowledge and expertise are exemplary. I'm shocked at some of the other reviews. Maybe they are referring to the other Caroline Kaplan, as there are two. This one now has offices in Vernon Hills and I'd hire her again for post settlement matters. She communicates well and is responsive in a timely manner. Excellent attorney!
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23 Jan, 2015 by Serena
My personal experience with Caroline was great. She was an awesome lawyer in my divorce case. She will not settle until you're satisfied. She has great knowledge and has been practicing law for many years. She is very feisty and doesn't mind putting up a fight. I would recommend her to anyone that really needs help. You get what you pay for and I believe her time and effort was worth every bit of money that I put in to hiring her. Thanks lady!
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08 May, 2019 by Mary
I came to Nicole as a referral from a domestic abuse advocate. I had already been divorced a few years and was terrified of going BACK into court with my ex. But I felt I had been given no choice. My ex did not agree with a medical diagnosis and treatment for our son. A condition my son had since birth and the same doctors since birth. I thought that this would be a no -brainer. I met with Nicole and was assured that this would be something that she could handle. Due to my very limited income, I was told that I would need to do a lot of the LEG WORK myself to keep the cost down. I did just that. I spent 3 months collecting documents, and following the direction of NICOLES ASSISTANT! Who happened to be a god send. I will just call her M. M was in court with me, answering calls and walking me through this legal mine field. As we got deeper into the battle I heard less and less from Nicole. At one point my son needed a medical procedure that 4 doctors agreed on and wrote letters on behalf of. M had spoken with ex's attorney and it was agreed that my son could have the procedure. I urged M to have it written into a court order. I was shocked that I had to come up with this idea. M was sweet but very inexperienced. Court order written. Day of procedure comes. Ex shows up at hospital and demands that the procedure is stopped. I call M. She never told me to bring the court order. So my son was pulled out of the medical procedure still under anesthesia. Nothing was done to punish or hold him accountable. Nicole never explained how or why this was allowed. At that point I didn't know who to be more angry with, my ex or Nicole. After all I was not paying my ex with the misguided belief that he was going to protect my son. I was paying Nicole. Nicole barely participated in my case. M was there at every turn. I did start to receive calls from Nicole when the retainer ran low. Now Nicole was front and center. As a matter of fact, Nicole only came to two court appearances. The first one and the one where she left my case because I stopped paying her. There were to many missteps, unreturned calls, emails and misinformation. Not to mention the fact that she took a very stressful situation and made it much worse. She didn't answer questions. I constantly had to chase down answers and when I needed her to explain or clarify, she became angry and condescending. This women is not on anyone's side except her own. I highly recommend you go pro se before you consider hiring NICOLE L. CENTRACCHIO.
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20 Nov, 2017 by Rhonda
It is my privilege to highly recommend Nicole Centracchio, an excellent lawyer and her wonderful staff There are not enough words to describe how appreciative I am for the outstanding job Nicole and her group did with my divorce case. She was concise, professional and kind. Ms. Centracchio not only gets things done but has an innate understanding of what you and your family are going through. She formulated an effective strategy and left behind the drama.
I was in a difficult marriage that lasted 26 years and originally was represented by a different lawyer where the drama, fear and heartache I went through during this time period was awful. After my ex husband's lawyer quit on him I took the opportunity to also get someone else to represent me. My prayers were answered when a counselor recommended Ms. Centracchio and I hired her as my new attorney.
From the moment Nicole took my case things became fair and relevant. I got my life back and I again believed in the judicial system. Nicole Centracchio is my hero and the most wonderful lawyer and person. She is revered by me and I am indebted to her for her wisdom, dedication, hard work and decency. Her fabulous staff was like no other and treated me with respect. The culmination of this group gave me a voice and a future for myself and my daughters.
God heard me and sent this amazing individual to use her skills to right so many wrongs. She made it possible to help me financially and emotionally while also upholding the Constitution and Laws of the United States. Forever grateful and forever my hero, noble and good....Nicole Centracchio Counselor at Law.
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15 Apr, 2017 by Zyeala
I thought that writing a review of my attorney Nicole Centracchio would be easy be but it isn't. THERE ARE TOO MANY WORDS TO DESCRIBE HER! Nicole is the epitome of a servant who works very diligently to ensure that her clients are knowledgeable, comfortable, and suited with the appropriate legal armor to take on any divorce and custody situation.
I was referred to Nicole in September of 2013. I was so desperate to find someone who would listen to my story without judgement. After calling her office, we scheduled a meeting to discuss the issues in my divorce/custody case. We soon discovered that my case was one of a kind. I immediately felt comfortable with Nicole’s professionalism and confidence that we would come out victorious one way or another. That day I left her office feeling as if a burden had been lifted from me and with her help I would fly to victory. Not to mention that together we would make history as we unveiled a twist to an INTERNATIONAL ISSUE.
For four years, Nicole worked to ensure that the best interest of my son was top priority. She was very efficient with all communications and made sure that my questions were answered. I literally put my life in Nicole’s hand and watched her gently guide me through the most emotional phase of my life. Nicole’s confidence was warmth to my chill, and I DID NOT BREAK.
I AM SO GRATEFUL for your humble servanthood, compassion, dedications, and patience. March 23rd will forever be a monumental day of VICTORY for me.
I believe that God comes in many forms and He sends his angels to serve………….servant well done!
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20 Apr, 2020 by Raynard
Ms. Brown is a great attorney and made herself available for me continuously during the time she represented me. I wish she still was in private practice again. Hopefully since she's in the public defenders office she may be able to handle my brother's appeal.
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29 Oct, 2012 by Anonymous
Ms. Brown was an amazing attorney. She made her self available to meet with me on the weekends and after business hours to discuss my son's case and answered all my questions. She got his case reduced from a Class X felony to a class 4 felony and got my son probation so he was able to come home the same day.
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04 Sep, 2012 by Douglas
I actually hired her on an acquaintance's recommendation. She informed me that my case would take at least 3 mos. from the beginning and I accepted that. However, after that period of time, I had a very difficult time trying to reach her for updates on my case. I called her twice within a two week period. No response. After about 3 weeks, 2 more calls and a text message informing her that I was willing to terminate our agreement (including a refund of any monies remaining) she finally left me a message. She apologized for the lack of response and said that one of the messages she did not receive and the other thing that happened was she gave a "sticky note" to her assistance and that it apparently fell off the assistant's computer monitor. However, the portion of the message concerning my case was inaudible so I called her twice to try to get clarification of what was said. No answer, no response. I called a third time approximately 2 weeks later and was able to speak to her. I finally got my update, however, I was not pleased with the way I had been ignored. I voiced my displeasure (with no profanity or voice raising) and her response was she did not appreciate the way I was speaking to her. I decided to terminate our agreement.
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10 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous
Naila has worked with me on a family law case for some time now. We each handle different aspects of the case. During the case, she promptly answered questions, communicated clearly the major issues, and handled court proceedings in the most cost effective manner possible. Her work saved our client thousands of dollars in legal expenses. She helped our client through the divorce, assisted them with all of their custody issues. Set a workable visitation schedule. Assisted us with new estate planning documents to accommodate the clients new needs. She even followed up at the end to ensure nothing else was needed. I would and have recommended her for a number of new clients.
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09 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous
Naila's good skill at presenting with confidence gave me much initial hope and faith in the outcomes from our work together. Unfortunately, these were compromised by her misleading advise; missing court dates; frequently rounding up my bills, and negotiation with opposing council contradicting her own advise and our agreed course of action. Her poor performance cost me a lot of money and marked negatively my entire case for years to come.
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26 Aug, 2014 by Anonymous
I am an attorney as well, but I have no expertise in divorce litigation. So, in December 2013, when I was going through a potential divorce involving a host of complex issues, I called Naila. In less than a month, Naila had filed my divorce action. While Naila fought hard to protect my rights, she also always informed me of my options and encouraged me to do what I felt was best. As an attorney, I know how hard it can be to let a client participate in that decision-making process. It requires a lot of skill and confidence. She was responsive and explained things in very simple terms.
Ultimately, I reconciled and my wife and I did not get divorced. I think things would have gone very differently had I not had such a great attorney in my corner. Naila was there through the reconciliation process as well, offering advice and recommending possible options to smooth the transition. Whether you are going through a divorce, separation, custody battle, or just want to make sure you protect your interests in a family dispute, this is one heck of a great ally to have on your side. I give her my absolute highest recommendation.
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13 Mar, 2023 by Lisa jackson-pope
05 Jan, 2021 by Laura william
21 Feb, 2020 by El jones
Melvin brooks let Bridget Jones forged my signature in a lawsuite and did nothing about it im filing a ARDC complaint against him he is the worst lawyer ever he stated in open court he didn't know me or any of my siblings but he represented us
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02 Jul, 2014 by Sera
I met with Doug and he took a few notes about my divorce case. I gave him $500 for my retainer fee, and then decided not to hire him. He refused to return my money, and did absolutely nothing for me! Horrible person!!! Do not hire him!
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18 Nov, 2012 by Mike
I had him for a DUI in 1985 he charged me $300 bucks. He did a great Job . I never lost my
license or went to jail. He was very affordable. At that time I was not able to afford more.
I also hired him for a chapter 7 Bankruptcy and he did a great job. I paid another $300 bucks
for that.
You deal with him only
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10 Aug, 2011 by Dan
This man listens well. He never leaves his client uninformed. He is an agressive fighter. I used his services for both of my divorces. Both my ex's hated him. Mr Smith always goes the extra mile. He is no nonsense in the courtroom. He promply gets back to you anytime of the day or night.
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29 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
During the period that Mr. Daw represented me, he was not responsive to my requests for information and I did not feel that I was getting accurate information regarding the court proceedings. After I terminated Mr. Daw's representation, I learned that much of the information he had provided to me regarding the Court proceedings was inaccurate and incomplete.
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18 Nov, 2013 by Rick
Divorce is a very difficult time and getting referrals for the right divorce attorneys can be difficult. You cannot go wrong with Debbie Carder or Tim Daw. They make a great team. My experience with them spans from 2003 to 2013.
What I have learned is that you want a very good, focused divorce attorney. SDF has about 40 divorce attorneys and that provides Tim/Debbie an ability to ask questions of others in her firm when some unusual issues or approaches emerged. I also tell everyone that the high billing rates that SDF charges is worth it because you save money by getting the right answer the first time and access to insight on judges and opposing consul that is invaluable. The large number of cases this team has under its belt gives them real insight into possible outcomes and, thus, strategies to employ.
Debbie works very closely with Tim Daw. Tim is one of the 4 or 5 full equity partners in SDF. I worked with Tim much more in the first go around back in 2003-2005. They work great together, covering when necessary for each other, and figuring out who is best for different issues, judges, opposing attorneys etc. It was worth the money and reassuring to bounce our complicated issues and approach off Tim, too. Even after the divorce is final, you will likely have questions pop up or need a pre-nup if you remarry.
I referred a PwC partner to Debbie and Tim, and he has thanked me on a number of occasions for the referral.
Over the last 18months, my ex has filed 9 different motions, legal actions of some kind in our last legal battle. Debbie and Tim won every one of them. We recently inked a final settlement!!
A few other points on this team :
1. Debbie is an outstanding writer - I mean VERY good!
2. Tim/Debbie do care about their clients’ costs and do not unnecessarily run up legal bills. Tim does a great job as the senior guy getting involved only when needed or as a second review of a particularly important document. It was well worth the money for his review for my peace of mind that all bases were covered. Debbie and Tim worked this out behind the scenes so it did not take much time.
3. They works most weekends and nights, so my concerns were addressed promptly
4. Even if I did not like it, they would tell me their professional legal opinion in a very calm experienced way (believe me I did some yelling and screaming as the cases dragged out due to crazy legal stuff). They are unbelievably professional and quality-oriented. Both Tim and Debbie just tells it like it is based on their experience.
5. Debbie is expensive to use in this way, but she could probably double for a divorce therapist when you just need to vent and have no one else to talk to or who wants to listen anymore!
6. Tim/Debbie understands complex financial matters.
7. They will bring in an expert from another office and even another firm when needed. The client focus and willingness to do the right thing reminds me of my years at Arthur Andersen and the global teamwork we used.
8. Tim has a great recall of facts and case law which saves research time when he just knows the answers.
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06 Oct, 2011 by Terry
In my opinion, Tim is one of the best lawyers in his field. Along with his incredible team, I was treated with the utmost respect and dignity while trying to navigate the rough waters of a divorce. Tims knowledge and command of the laws affecting my case were a tremendous asset to me. I am a lucky man to have found him and he brought my case to a very happy conclusion. Thank you Tim.
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18 Nov, 2024 by Andriy hryhoryshyn
18 Nov, 2024 by Jeff pink
Bradford and Elizabeth have helped us with multiple closings over the past five years. Always accessible, responsible, and competent. We could ask for nothing more in these stress filled transactions.
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18 Nov, 2024 by Nicolette o'connor
18 Nov, 2024 by Andriy hryhoryshyn
18 Nov, 2024 by Jeff pink
Bradford and Elizabeth have helped us with multiple closings over the past five years. Always accessible, responsible, and competent. We could ask for nothing more in these stress filled transactions.
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18 Nov, 2024 by Nicolette o'connor
12 Nov, 2020 by Carme
I contacted Rebecca after my second attorney withdrew and never progressed on my case. After 2+ years of trying to finish my highly contentious divorce, Rebecca got it done in 3 months!! that's why I call her "THE CLOSER"!
She is intelligent, extremely knowledgeable, well respected in the courtroom, but most of honest, compassionate and kind. Her attention to my case and response time to my emails were always timely, professional and detailed.
My kids and I were truly blessed to have her help us get through this.
We are forever grateful and would 100% recommend her and her firm.
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11 Nov, 2020 by Anonymous
This attorney like stated in reviews will just try to take you for your money. She doesn't care about the beat interest of a client but her own personal financial gain!
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13 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
I was referred by a friend and was not disappointed. Rebecca was no nonsense and direct , yet very easy to work with. She was quick in response to all messages, getting divorced through a pandemic with the world shut down went as smoothly as it could under the circumstances. I would refer her to anyone in need!
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01 Apr, 2024 by Bob
MR.WHITE HELPED MY WIFE THROUGH A VERY DIFFICULT TIME WHEN HER MOM DIED.OUTSTANDING COMPASSION &RESULTS WHERE WONDERFUL!!!THANK YOU !!
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19 Dec, 2009 by Anonymous
William rarely kept in touch, and when pressed for information he often times spoke down to me in a rude tone. In retrospect, I feel as though I had poor representation and could have done far better with a more thoughtful attorney not resting on his laurels as it was clear in my case that the opposing counsel cared more for their client than my own. Alas, I was misguided to believe that hiring a top-notch firm would result in top-notch results. To his credit, he has decent people under his employ who showed the respect needed in very dark times and even said more than once that he is balanced out by those folks.
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09 Jul, 2024 by Martha zambrano
30 Apr, 2024 by Gene f
Just got off the phone. May be a scam. They came recommended from 3 law firms & the person who picked up was rude and said she couldn't help. Suspicious......
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21 Feb, 2024 by Ch lin
You guys need to get it together if your going to offer a service as delicate as immigration services. We come to you not begging but trusting that you have our best interest at heart and that you at least care. I will not let Anyone push me around just because you claim to offer Help. Get a better person to answer your phone calls an not place people on hold for 10 plus minutes. I don’t not recommend y’all to anyone.
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09 Jul, 2024 by Martha zambrano
30 Apr, 2024 by Gene f
Just got off the phone. May be a scam. They came recommended from 3 law firms & the person who picked up was rude and said she couldn't help. Suspicious......
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21 Feb, 2024 by Ch lin
You guys need to get it together if your going to offer a service as delicate as immigration services. We come to you not begging but trusting that you have our best interest at heart and that you at least care. I will not let Anyone push me around just because you claim to offer Help. Get a better person to answer your phone calls an not place people on hold for 10 plus minutes. I don’t not recommend y’all to anyone.
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24 May, 2024 by Paula johnson
I had an amazing experience with Affordable Legal. The team made my chapter 7 filing a very smooth process! Great service and great price only $598.00 Don’t hesitate give them a call and get your fresh start.
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23 May, 2024 by Erica hardaway825
Sue has worked on a few cases of mine over the years and she's the best! Always professional, makes sure I understand everything, she's extremely patient, caring and kind!
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08 Mar, 2021 by Jasmine brown
They don’t respond they are terrible it’s truly sad they are out here making your life harder and not easier. I’ve been calling and emailing nonstop since November no call back no email. NOTHING. They moved the office and didn’t even tell me I had to call the trustee to get an address on them. I’m literally sitting here crying because I’m tired of being on the bus with my 3 small children! They won’t return anything to help me get a car or anything! At this point I’m about to report them to EVERYONE I can until I’m done dealing with these low down lying unprofessional people! They played with the right one😃
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23 Oct, 2024 by Chris puranen
28 Apr, 2022 by Nicholas kokoris
Jim Branit of Litchfield might be one of the best, toughest and most knowledgeable litigators in Chicago. I've been placing lawyers since 1987 and Branit and Litchfield come very highly recommended by Juristech.
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11 May, 2020 by Eric suarez
23 Oct, 2024 by Chris puranen
28 Apr, 2022 by Nicholas kokoris
Jim Branit of Litchfield might be one of the best, toughest and most knowledgeable litigators in Chicago. I've been placing lawyers since 1987 and Branit and Litchfield come very highly recommended by Juristech.
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11 May, 2020 by Eric suarez
18 Nov, 2024 by Andriy hryhoryshyn
18 Nov, 2024 by Jeff pink
Bradford and Elizabeth have helped us with multiple closings over the past five years. Always accessible, responsible, and competent. We could ask for nothing more in these stress filled transactions.
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18 Nov, 2024 by Nicolette o'connor
19 Jul, 2024 by Nida otr shows
TOTAL WASTE AKA CHICAGO LAW MAGAZINE, NEVER HELP ME WITH ANYTHING, NEVER RETURN CALLS, EMAILS.. THEIR STORIES ARE VOID OF MEANING AND MAKE NO SENSE AT ALL ANYWAYS...
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20 Oct, 2023 by Reception- family lawyer las vegas
We used this service back in June. We requested publication and the initial person I spoke to was very rude. I ended up emailing them at a later date and got a condescending email from someone on the team. The only delightful person I spoke with was Natasha. She was very kind on the phone and went out of her way to try and help. In regards to the actual service they charged over $900 which is the most we have probably ever paid for a publication. Considering the attitude of some of the staff I didn't find the price equivalent to the service ,but our firm decided to go ahead and just use them anyway. When it came time to pay our firm didn't have a card so we were going to express ship a check. The staff proceeded to tell us that the mail doesn't get checked often so they don't know when it would be received. We found this company unwilling to be helpful and rude, with an exception of Natasha.
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19 Jul, 2021 by Tylene white
The company information system is swift and precise.
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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:
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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.
