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26 Feb, 2025 by Jeannie kurtzhalts
Jennifer Snyder was amazing - very professional and knowledgeable and made us feel comfortable in a stressful situation and the outcome was just what we hoped for. She was also available and really listened - we were right to put our trust in her.
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23 Nov, 2024 by Alejandra santillan
Robert is one of the best lawyers, he got me out a sticky situation, he knows all the laws, He left the judge speechless, today was my court and today he closed my case, I wanna say thank you so much, he is fast in 2 weeks he finished, definitely recommend him, no matter what situation your in, he’ll help you out .
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08 Nov, 2024 by Brenden brankin
Really delivered when no other law firm even wanted to take my call...... 5 stars all the way!
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16 Feb, 2025 by Patrick lange
I recently used Michael and his firm to help my client who was acquiring a heating and air company. They were incredibly thorough and handled this acquisition immediately. I would highly recommend him and his team.
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01 Feb, 2025 by Maria isabel lara vargas
Phillip Turner es el mejor abogado que he podido conocer. Gracias!
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15 Jan, 2025 by Delaney hockey
We are a not for profit organization. It is a hockey school for deaf and hard of hearing players.
Marcus & Boxerman has been very helpful within our organization. The firm is professional, attentive and resourceful. Emails and phone calls are returned right away and the personal attention from the firm is appreciated. Marcus & Boxerman has helped us with a large scope of projects from waivers to updating our bylaws. Great firm to partner with for your business/organization!
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22 Feb, 2025 by Katherine davidson
I had a case with them several years ago. This firm did OK work on my case. I could tell they are a high volume personal injury firm. They did adequate work on my case, and I was happy with what I walked away with.
I regret not going back to them. Instead, I tried another firm (and instead left kind of a nasty, albeit truthful comment on their Google review board.).
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20 Feb, 2025 by Damian lindsey
I swear if I can give 0 stars I would, this firm has been handling my case since 2023, and I dun had 3 different lawyers while dealing with my case WHY??? I don’t know they don’t communicate with their clients AT ALL and I’ve been lied to multiple times about my offer status. I will not recommend this firm to anyone ESPECIALLY due to their lack of communication with their attorneys. I’m looking for a good law firm to go through I am willing to start my process over at this point it’ll be worth it. And I will comment a review via google and Facebook until I see some results 💯
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17 Feb, 2025 by Mao yin
11 Feb, 2025 by Raul martinez jr.
As a former Chicago native I knew a local, professional and reputable legal team was going to be essential for me. Especially since I was out of state. David and Colette’s attentiveness, clear lines of communication often times within the hour were very helpful. They had insightful suggestions which cleared up any questions and concerns I had throughout the process. The legal team at Merel family law is worth the investment.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Alex estrada
23 Jan, 2025 by Richard seals
11 Feb, 2025 by Raul martinez jr.
As a former Chicago native I knew a local, professional and reputable legal team was going to be essential for me. Especially since I was out of state. David and Colette’s attentiveness, clear lines of communication often times within the hour were very helpful. They had insightful suggestions which cleared up any questions and concerns I had throughout the process. The legal team at Merel family law is worth the investment.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Alex estrada
23 Jan, 2025 by Richard seals
11 Feb, 2025 by Raul martinez jr.
As a former Chicago native I knew a local, professional and reputable legal team was going to be essential for me. Especially since I was out of state. David and Colette’s attentiveness, clear lines of communication often times within the hour were very helpful. They had insightful suggestions which cleared up any questions and concerns I had throughout the process. The legal team at Merel family law is worth the investment.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Alex estrada
23 Jan, 2025 by Richard seals
16 Feb, 2025 by Patrick lange
I recently used Michael and his firm to help my client who was acquiring a heating and air company. They were incredibly thorough and handled this acquisition immediately. I would highly recommend him and his team.
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01 Feb, 2025 by Maria isabel lara vargas
Phillip Turner es el mejor abogado que he podido conocer. Gracias!
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15 Jan, 2025 by Delaney hockey
We are a not for profit organization. It is a hockey school for deaf and hard of hearing players.
Marcus & Boxerman has been very helpful within our organization. The firm is professional, attentive and resourceful. Emails and phone calls are returned right away and the personal attention from the firm is appreciated. Marcus & Boxerman has helped us with a large scope of projects from waivers to updating our bylaws. Great firm to partner with for your business/organization!
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5.0
21 Reviews
4.5
138 Reviews
12 Dec, 2024 by Stacy minton
They worked hard on my slip and fall injury case. I received more than I anticipated for my case and I hope my case causes changes in safety at the store my slip and fall injuries occurred due to spills left unattended with no signs warning caution to the slip hazards.
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12 Dec, 2024 by Justin frederiksen
John and his team are top tier, from start to finish they took care of me and did what they had to do to make sure I was taken care of and that my case was won. I’d highly recommend them to anyone and everyone!
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01 Dec, 2024 by Emily thibon
John Cichon and Jackie Cichon were incredibly helpful. Not only were they both extremely compassionate but they communicated through each step of the process. You will not find a better law-firm that cares about you and will get the best possible results for you! 5 stars!
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25 Feb, 2025 by Gina cobb
They worked hard to get us a settlement that was fair and speedy. Great advice and great listeners.
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22 Feb, 2025 by Kaitlyn crisan
Going into this process across the country was scary, and my first attorney failed me, which is how I found this law firm. MIKAYLA AND MORGAN ARE AMAZING!! I can not thank them enough for effortlessly defending me and parenting rights. They have truly brought peace and unification back to my family. If you feel at a loss or don't know where to start when it comes to custody agreements and divorce I strongly recommend this duo! If you both don't know yet. I am so completely grateful to you both and what you have done for my family! If I could give 10 stars I would!
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10 Feb, 2025 by Arden b fortner
I’m very happy I chose them to help me with my divorce and highly recommend them.
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16 Feb, 2025 by Patrick lange
I recently used Michael and his firm to help my client who was acquiring a heating and air company. They were incredibly thorough and handled this acquisition immediately. I would highly recommend him and his team.
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01 Feb, 2025 by Maria isabel lara vargas
Phillip Turner es el mejor abogado que he podido conocer. Gracias!
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15 Jan, 2025 by Delaney hockey
We are a not for profit organization. It is a hockey school for deaf and hard of hearing players.
Marcus & Boxerman has been very helpful within our organization. The firm is professional, attentive and resourceful. Emails and phone calls are returned right away and the personal attention from the firm is appreciated. Marcus & Boxerman has helped us with a large scope of projects from waivers to updating our bylaws. Great firm to partner with for your business/organization!
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25 Feb, 2025 by Gina cobb
They worked hard to get us a settlement that was fair and speedy. Great advice and great listeners.
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22 Feb, 2025 by Kaitlyn crisan
Going into this process across the country was scary, and my first attorney failed me, which is how I found this law firm. MIKAYLA AND MORGAN ARE AMAZING!! I can not thank them enough for effortlessly defending me and parenting rights. They have truly brought peace and unification back to my family. If you feel at a loss or don't know where to start when it comes to custody agreements and divorce I strongly recommend this duo! If you both don't know yet. I am so completely grateful to you both and what you have done for my family! If I could give 10 stars I would!
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10 Feb, 2025 by Arden b fortner
I’m very happy I chose them to help me with my divorce and highly recommend them.
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09 Jan, 2025 by Adrian
12 Nov, 2024 by Mike parent
I contacted James to help with a defamation case. He handled it perfectly; I was totally happy with the resolution. I'd recommend James to anyone looking for a lawyer, without hesitation!
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30 Aug, 2024 by Molly spooner
I would recommend James DiTommaso to anyone looking for an attorney. As someone who has had the privilege of maintaining the belief that people are mostly good, I was shocked and humiliated when I found out that I was the victim of fraud. I needed a communicative and supportive lawyer to believe in my case, and intellectually, I benefited from one who took the time to teach me the language of the laws that serve to protect consumers like me. Despite having done so much research in order to make an intelligent purchase, I was in need of someone who could explain how frequent these schemes are, and to learn how and why the average consumer is unaware of the loopholes and omissions upon which these criminals rely. I am very grateful to have had a knowledgeable person help me feel less like a hapless victim.
Mine was a small case with relatively few billable hours, but given the constant access I had to the office, and given James' frequent communications and solicitous care, one would never have known. At the onset, he defined what he wanted to win, and despite their reluctance to pay, he spent the time necessary to help me win. I feel much, much better, and I am grateful to James for fighting on my behalf.
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25 Feb, 2025 by Gina cobb
They worked hard to get us a settlement that was fair and speedy. Great advice and great listeners.
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22 Feb, 2025 by Kaitlyn crisan
Going into this process across the country was scary, and my first attorney failed me, which is how I found this law firm. MIKAYLA AND MORGAN ARE AMAZING!! I can not thank them enough for effortlessly defending me and parenting rights. They have truly brought peace and unification back to my family. If you feel at a loss or don't know where to start when it comes to custody agreements and divorce I strongly recommend this duo! If you both don't know yet. I am so completely grateful to you both and what you have done for my family! If I could give 10 stars I would!
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10 Feb, 2025 by Arden b fortner
I’m very happy I chose them to help me with my divorce and highly recommend them.
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16 Feb, 2025 by Patrick lange
I recently used Michael and his firm to help my client who was acquiring a heating and air company. They were incredibly thorough and handled this acquisition immediately. I would highly recommend him and his team.
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01 Feb, 2025 by Maria isabel lara vargas
Phillip Turner es el mejor abogado que he podido conocer. Gracias!
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15 Jan, 2025 by Delaney hockey
We are a not for profit organization. It is a hockey school for deaf and hard of hearing players.
Marcus & Boxerman has been very helpful within our organization. The firm is professional, attentive and resourceful. Emails and phone calls are returned right away and the personal attention from the firm is appreciated. Marcus & Boxerman has helped us with a large scope of projects from waivers to updating our bylaws. Great firm to partner with for your business/organization!
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16 Feb, 2025 by Patrick lange
I recently used Michael and his firm to help my client who was acquiring a heating and air company. They were incredibly thorough and handled this acquisition immediately. I would highly recommend him and his team.
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01 Feb, 2025 by Maria isabel lara vargas
Phillip Turner es el mejor abogado que he podido conocer. Gracias!
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15 Jan, 2025 by Delaney hockey
We are a not for profit organization. It is a hockey school for deaf and hard of hearing players.
Marcus & Boxerman has been very helpful within our organization. The firm is professional, attentive and resourceful. Emails and phone calls are returned right away and the personal attention from the firm is appreciated. Marcus & Boxerman has helped us with a large scope of projects from waivers to updating our bylaws. Great firm to partner with for your business/organization!
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21 Nov, 2024 by Erica fugate
David of David Gray Law Office was nothing short of a godsend during one of the most challenging times of my life. After my father's passing, I was faced with the devastating reality of having only two days before facing eviction. With just a single phone call and a brief explanation of my situation, David sprang into action and saved my home. His dedication and expertise exceeded anything I could have ever hoped for in an attorney.
David's empathy, compassion, and unwavering work ethic set him apart in a way I doubt I'll ever encounter again. Thanks to him, my family and I have a place to call home, and I cannot begin to express the depth of our gratitude. Mr. Gray, no words can truly capture the immense appreciation we will always hold for you. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
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04 Oct, 2024 by M moro
Jonas Hwang is newly representing my ex-husband in our post decree divorce case. I am ProSe.
Eventhough I informed him about my ex husband's health condition, which prevents him to make sane financial and personal decisions, Mr.Hwang has not taken it (yet) in consideration and has not stopped taking an unethical advantage of my ex husband's illness, to make profit on our sad family situation. My ex, our 2 children and I have been subjected to this treatment for the past 7 years from different attorneys. Mr.Hwang himself is a well educated kind hearted young man, experiencing a stressful life event, which affects his emotions and work performance. Mr.Hwang has a good seed and a great potential. He may benefit from taking time off to handle his family situation and to steady his performance..all good intentions (words) must be followed by proper actions. Developing solid selfawareness, honesty, and integrity in ACTIONS would enrich his professional status as well as using his nice communication skills and conscience to do more mediation than ligitation. (Under pressure things tend to get worse). I hope he will choose to work on a fair, just and timely resolution of the case instead of supporting, enabling and abusing my ex husband's behavior disorder (immoral actions).
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23 Sep, 2024 by Colleen finnerman
13 Dec, 2024 by Giyu tomioka
Can’t say enough about Lindsey, one of the kindest most professional people that I have ever had the pleasure of working with. I hope i don’t get injured again, but if so, I definitely know who I’m calling.
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13 Dec, 2024 by Brett kennett
Lindsey was clear about what she was going to do and what I should do in my case. She answered all questions about health and employment and everything went smoothly to get where I am today. Thanks Lindsey.
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18 Nov, 2024 by Alex dykas
The Sheppard Law Firm is one of the best law firms in Chicago from my personal experiences. Mr. Sheppard has defended me two times with previous cases and both times I've been extremely satisfied with the results. Mr. Sheppard does everything he can to protect your freedom get the results you please. I highly recommend Sheppard law firm to anyone who needs an amazing lawyer that can help turn your whole situation around. He truly is one of the best!
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13 Dec, 2024 by Giyu tomioka
Can’t say enough about Lindsey, one of the kindest most professional people that I have ever had the pleasure of working with. I hope i don’t get injured again, but if so, I definitely know who I’m calling.
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13 Dec, 2024 by Brett kennett
Lindsey was clear about what she was going to do and what I should do in my case. She answered all questions about health and employment and everything went smoothly to get where I am today. Thanks Lindsey.
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18 Nov, 2024 by Alex dykas
The Sheppard Law Firm is one of the best law firms in Chicago from my personal experiences. Mr. Sheppard has defended me two times with previous cases and both times I've been extremely satisfied with the results. Mr. Sheppard does everything he can to protect your freedom get the results you please. I highly recommend Sheppard law firm to anyone who needs an amazing lawyer that can help turn your whole situation around. He truly is one of the best!
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02 Jan, 2025 by Damian chaplin
I worked with Keating Law offices and the attorney that helped me was Jack Dassow. I had searched a while for a law firm, and no one would take my case, but Jack and his team believed in me and was able to help me. I was able to get the most amount of settlement per the type of case. I was also able to get compensation for my Bike as well. Hopefully I won't have any issue in the future with any more accidents but if I do I will definitely be giving them a call. Really great law firm and team!!!
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17 Dec, 2024 by Kristina
It was interesting case, but Neil Schelhammer was great.
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08 Nov, 2024 by Jacque hymes
I highly recommend Vaziri Law, very respectful, patient and knowledgeable.
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30 Nov, 2024 by Anonymous
Divorce is a painful experience both financially and mentally. Amy made one of the darkest moments of my life manageable. I don’t know how I would’ve survived this awful experience without her. Amy fought for me and did so while being conscientious about preserving my assets. She gave it to me straight - I always knew where I stood in the eyes of the court. She’s a master trial attorney, an expert negotiator, and a kind human being. I highly recommend Amy Jonaitis!
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23 Nov, 2024 by Michael o'meara
Howard Wise and I are colleagues and I have known him for many years. He is a top-notch criminal defense lawyer who is also a former prosecutor. His decades of experience matters. 5 stars all the way for Mr. Wise.
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02 Nov, 2024 by Jen
Amy is extremely knowledgeable and upfront with you! She makes sure you understand what is happening during the process and is very compassionate. I have recommended Amy countless times and will continue to!! She is one of the good ones!!!
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26 Aug, 2023 by Cyrille laurens
John and Isabella helped us with selling and buying properties, getting citizenship and a will. Every time they explained the whole process very clearly and were so quick to answer all our questions. Great experience until the next time! Thanks!!
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08 Jul, 2023 by Sandy gavin
He is the best man for the job , he will go above and beyond to help you get your dream, I recommend him to anyone that needs help
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13 Sep, 2018 by Sonia plascencia
23 Nov, 2024 by Michael o'meara
Howard Wise and I are colleagues and I have known him for many years. He is a top-notch criminal defense lawyer who is also a former prosecutor. His decades of experience matters. 5 stars all the way for Mr. Wise.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Jose castrejon
Great service and understanding of legal matter came with a demand letter in days very fast and efficient will come back if I ever get in any legal trouble
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01 Aug, 2024 by Tamika vinson-reid
We contacted Washington Law Offices to handle an issue of inhabitability due to a pest infestation issue. Attorney Washington was responsive, compassionate and keenly aware of our legal rights in this situation under Illinois law. After assessing the situation, she drafted a demand letter within days and positioned us to successfully move out without any legal repercussion or retaliation from the property management company. I would highly recommend her services as she is extremely well suited to represent in the realm of tenant/property management disputes.
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14 Nov, 2024 by Adk developers
I had the pleasure of working with Lane Brown, who represented me in a challenging case, and I couldn’t be more impressed with the service provided. They were incredibly responsive throughout the entire process, always keeping me informed and addressing my concerns promptly. Their expertise and dedication really stood out, especially considering the complexities of the case. Thanks to Lane Brown hard work, we were able to navigate through it successfully. I highly recommend Lane Brown for anyone in need of top-notch legal representation!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Rob hadlow
Beautiful office here in Deerfield and the team is awesome. Everyone from the secretaries to the lawyers you'll meet with are very friendly and down to earth. It really helps to be able to relate to the team that's going to be defending you legally.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Jon judkins
I purchased a car in the last year (I won't name the brand) that needed to be brought back for a recall, however, before they announced the recall I got into an accident because of the issue (sticky gas pedal). I called Lake Cook Law Group & they handled everything. They've been a huge help. Thank you guys!
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24 Jan, 2025 by Adam kooperman
Michael Kelber is an amazing Patent Attorney who covers all the bases every time.
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18 Nov, 2024 by Amin ali
26 Jul, 2024 by Louis prima
If you're looking for great quality customer service and great response for your property tax appeals this is the place for you
David Appel
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19 Dec, 2024 by James horne
Negligence, withholding medical records, and multiple issues addressed with not only the facility, but the IDPH and Illinois Department of Aging - saying I have a case. To not only tell me once, twice but THREE TIMES they couldn’t help me or my aunt. They are injury lawyers, so if you’re looking to vocalize and stop negligence and abuse, don’t choose this firm for your elderly loved one. They didn’t have to tell me 3 times, and they didn’t have to say I have a “potential” case. SENIOR JUSTICE for who? Highly unlikely to recommend. Don’t say your elderly abuse lawyers if you’re not. Waste of time and effort. BY THE WAY, she died.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Frank romano
Really great team! Couldn't be easier to work with. Laid back and approachable, and at the same time, very knowledgable and serious about their work. You won't be disappointed with these guys batting for you.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Corey olson
We recently collaborated with Michael, David, and Alex at Senior Justice, and it was a really fun experience. They’re professional, yet super personable, which made the whole day fly by. The team was easy to work with, laid-back, and made our time working together smooth and enjoyable. A great group to collaborate with, and obviously very knowledgeable in their area of expertise.
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13 Dec, 2024 by Giyu tomioka
Can’t say enough about Lindsey, one of the kindest most professional people that I have ever had the pleasure of working with. I hope i don’t get injured again, but if so, I definitely know who I’m calling.
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13 Dec, 2024 by Brett kennett
Lindsey was clear about what she was going to do and what I should do in my case. She answered all questions about health and employment and everything went smoothly to get where I am today. Thanks Lindsey.
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18 Nov, 2024 by Alex dykas
The Sheppard Law Firm is one of the best law firms in Chicago from my personal experiences. Mr. Sheppard has defended me two times with previous cases and both times I've been extremely satisfied with the results. Mr. Sheppard does everything he can to protect your freedom get the results you please. I highly recommend Sheppard law firm to anyone who needs an amazing lawyer that can help turn your whole situation around. He truly is one of the best!
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13 Dec, 2024 by Liz t
It was great to work with Maria Merman and the Ankin Law Office team. I am grateful for all of their legal guidance and assistance and the outcome they achieved for me in my case.
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12 Dec, 2024 by Tom anthony
Thank you Telly Liapis for all your help.
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12 Dec, 2024 by Tionne guthrie
Ankin Law really held my hand throughout this entire process, and I really appreciate the time and effort everyone put into winning my case while I was away at school. Especially, Telly Liapis. Thank you so much!
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23 Nov, 2024 by Michael o'meara
Howard Wise and I are colleagues and I have known him for many years. He is a top-notch criminal defense lawyer who is also a former prosecutor. His decades of experience matters. 5 stars all the way for Mr. Wise.
Read more
20 Aug, 2024 by Jose castrejon
Great service and understanding of legal matter came with a demand letter in days very fast and efficient will come back if I ever get in any legal trouble
Read more
01 Aug, 2024 by Tamika vinson-reid
We contacted Washington Law Offices to handle an issue of inhabitability due to a pest infestation issue. Attorney Washington was responsive, compassionate and keenly aware of our legal rights in this situation under Illinois law. After assessing the situation, she drafted a demand letter within days and positioned us to successfully move out without any legal repercussion or retaliation from the property management company. I would highly recommend her services as she is extremely well suited to represent in the realm of tenant/property management disputes.
Read more
18 Dec, 2024 by Solutions a to b
Called in. Left multiple messages. Discussed case details with firm - firm didn't call back. Perhaps conflict of interest. No courtesy. they have my case details!!!
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18 Dec, 2024 by Amir contractor
Excellent attorneys very skilled and attentive to customer needs.
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12 Dec, 2024 by Michele ross
I had a medical malpractice complaint against a Dr who left me disabled. It was not a complication of the surgery. He damaged an area that he should not have been any where close to. The expert was weak and really didn’t look at all the facts. They lied to me about going to trial. They did not even get the injury correct. When I read the depositions I thought they were working for the physician. I wish I never had hired them. I haven’t been able to work since the injury and we spent a good portion of our savings on Dr bills. They dropped my case after 5 years and it’s been impossible to find a new lawyer. I’m now trying to get a job and no one wants to hire a nurse who’s disabled and has been out of work for seven years. Not only has this physician ruined my entire life but these lawyers didn’t know enough about nerve injuries to take the case. They also printed up a fake trial date on a court document and gave it to me to make me believe we were going to trial. Who does that?
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4.8
234 Reviews
02 Jan, 2025 by Damian chaplin
I worked with Keating Law offices and the attorney that helped me was Jack Dassow. I had searched a while for a law firm, and no one would take my case, but Jack and his team believed in me and was able to help me. I was able to get the most amount of settlement per the type of case. I was also able to get compensation for my Bike as well. Hopefully I won't have any issue in the future with any more accidents but if I do I will definitely be giving them a call. Really great law firm and team!!!
Read more
17 Dec, 2024 by Kristina
It was interesting case, but Neil Schelhammer was great.
Read more
08 Nov, 2024 by Jacque hymes
I highly recommend Vaziri Law, very respectful, patient and knowledgeable.
Read more
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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.
