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18 Sep, 2024 by Kenney hammonds
Awesome outstanding professional service. They carefully listened to my concerns very respectful
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04 Jan, 2024 by Crissy
06 Jul, 2023 by Carla thomas
Attorney Thomas was so good to me... and FOR me. I would not have been able to do this without her. She brought a hard road to an excellent ending... which enabled me a wonderful start to a new life. Thank you so much.
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25 Jan, 2025 by Krystal nash
14 Jan, 2025 by Rachel
I am writing this review because of my personal experience and phonecall I had with the supervisor named Allison. I believe this agency is racist to wards Jewish people, extremely unprofessional, and compulsive liars. I do not recommend this agency. Seek out legal assistance from a probono attorney if you're Jewish because this racist agency will not assist you.
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03 Dec, 2024 by Nathan minter
25 Jan, 2025 by Krystal nash
14 Jan, 2025 by Rachel
I am writing this review because of my personal experience and phonecall I had with the supervisor named Allison. I believe this agency is racist to wards Jewish people, extremely unprofessional, and compulsive liars. I do not recommend this agency. Seek out legal assistance from a probono attorney if you're Jewish because this racist agency will not assist you.
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03 Dec, 2024 by Nathan minter
25 Jan, 2025 by Krystal nash
14 Jan, 2025 by Rachel
I am writing this review because of my personal experience and phonecall I had with the supervisor named Allison. I believe this agency is racist to wards Jewish people, extremely unprofessional, and compulsive liars. I do not recommend this agency. Seek out legal assistance from a probono attorney if you're Jewish because this racist agency will not assist you.
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03 Dec, 2024 by Nathan minter
25 Jan, 2025 by Krystal nash
14 Jan, 2025 by Rachel
I am writing this review because of my personal experience and phonecall I had with the supervisor named Allison. I believe this agency is racist to wards Jewish people, extremely unprofessional, and compulsive liars. I do not recommend this agency. Seek out legal assistance from a probono attorney if you're Jewish because this racist agency will not assist you.
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03 Dec, 2024 by Nathan minter
17 Sep, 2024 by Zachary stewart
GET THERE BEFORE 3:45pm OR GET A DOOR SLAMMED IN YOUR FACE.
I just had a terrible interaction with one of the clerks that works there that shut the door in my face, literally, I could have stuck my hand out to stop it, but I didn’t. So I knocked. I was informed they close at 3:45. “I don’t get paid after 4” is what she told me.
Their website says nothing about closing at 3:45pm. The person I talked to on the phone this morning said they’re open 8am - 4pm.
This has been a negative experience made especially awful thanks to an incredibly rude worker. I hope you can find better staff in the future.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Justin rose
08 Jul, 2024 by Denice west
17 Sep, 2024 by Zachary stewart
GET THERE BEFORE 3:45pm OR GET A DOOR SLAMMED IN YOUR FACE.
I just had a terrible interaction with one of the clerks that works there that shut the door in my face, literally, I could have stuck my hand out to stop it, but I didn’t. So I knocked. I was informed they close at 3:45. “I don’t get paid after 4” is what she told me.
Their website says nothing about closing at 3:45pm. The person I talked to on the phone this morning said they’re open 8am - 4pm.
This has been a negative experience made especially awful thanks to an incredibly rude worker. I hope you can find better staff in the future.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Justin rose
08 Jul, 2024 by Denice west
17 Sep, 2024 by Zachary stewart
GET THERE BEFORE 3:45pm OR GET A DOOR SLAMMED IN YOUR FACE.
I just had a terrible interaction with one of the clerks that works there that shut the door in my face, literally, I could have stuck my hand out to stop it, but I didn’t. So I knocked. I was informed they close at 3:45. “I don’t get paid after 4” is what she told me.
Their website says nothing about closing at 3:45pm. The person I talked to on the phone this morning said they’re open 8am - 4pm.
This has been a negative experience made especially awful thanks to an incredibly rude worker. I hope you can find better staff in the future.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Justin rose
08 Jul, 2024 by Denice west
17 Sep, 2024 by Zachary stewart
GET THERE BEFORE 3:45pm OR GET A DOOR SLAMMED IN YOUR FACE.
I just had a terrible interaction with one of the clerks that works there that shut the door in my face, literally, I could have stuck my hand out to stop it, but I didn’t. So I knocked. I was informed they close at 3:45. “I don’t get paid after 4” is what she told me.
Their website says nothing about closing at 3:45pm. The person I talked to on the phone this morning said they’re open 8am - 4pm.
This has been a negative experience made especially awful thanks to an incredibly rude worker. I hope you can find better staff in the future.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Justin rose
08 Jul, 2024 by Denice west
17 Sep, 2024 by Zachary stewart
GET THERE BEFORE 3:45pm OR GET A DOOR SLAMMED IN YOUR FACE.
I just had a terrible interaction with one of the clerks that works there that shut the door in my face, literally, I could have stuck my hand out to stop it, but I didn’t. So I knocked. I was informed they close at 3:45. “I don’t get paid after 4” is what she told me.
Their website says nothing about closing at 3:45pm. The person I talked to on the phone this morning said they’re open 8am - 4pm.
This has been a negative experience made especially awful thanks to an incredibly rude worker. I hope you can find better staff in the future.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Justin rose
08 Jul, 2024 by Denice west
17 Sep, 2024 by Zachary stewart
GET THERE BEFORE 3:45pm OR GET A DOOR SLAMMED IN YOUR FACE.
I just had a terrible interaction with one of the clerks that works there that shut the door in my face, literally, I could have stuck my hand out to stop it, but I didn’t. So I knocked. I was informed they close at 3:45. “I don’t get paid after 4” is what she told me.
Their website says nothing about closing at 3:45pm. The person I talked to on the phone this morning said they’re open 8am - 4pm.
This has been a negative experience made especially awful thanks to an incredibly rude worker. I hope you can find better staff in the future.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Justin rose
08 Jul, 2024 by Denice west
17 Sep, 2024 by Zachary stewart
GET THERE BEFORE 3:45pm OR GET A DOOR SLAMMED IN YOUR FACE.
I just had a terrible interaction with one of the clerks that works there that shut the door in my face, literally, I could have stuck my hand out to stop it, but I didn’t. So I knocked. I was informed they close at 3:45. “I don’t get paid after 4” is what she told me.
Their website says nothing about closing at 3:45pm. The person I talked to on the phone this morning said they’re open 8am - 4pm.
This has been a negative experience made especially awful thanks to an incredibly rude worker. I hope you can find better staff in the future.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Justin rose
08 Jul, 2024 by Denice west
17 Sep, 2024 by Zachary stewart
GET THERE BEFORE 3:45pm OR GET A DOOR SLAMMED IN YOUR FACE.
I just had a terrible interaction with one of the clerks that works there that shut the door in my face, literally, I could have stuck my hand out to stop it, but I didn’t. So I knocked. I was informed they close at 3:45. “I don’t get paid after 4” is what she told me.
Their website says nothing about closing at 3:45pm. The person I talked to on the phone this morning said they’re open 8am - 4pm.
This has been a negative experience made especially awful thanks to an incredibly rude worker. I hope you can find better staff in the future.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Justin rose
08 Jul, 2024 by Denice west
17 Sep, 2024 by Zachary stewart
GET THERE BEFORE 3:45pm OR GET A DOOR SLAMMED IN YOUR FACE.
I just had a terrible interaction with one of the clerks that works there that shut the door in my face, literally, I could have stuck my hand out to stop it, but I didn’t. So I knocked. I was informed they close at 3:45. “I don’t get paid after 4” is what she told me.
Their website says nothing about closing at 3:45pm. The person I talked to on the phone this morning said they’re open 8am - 4pm.
This has been a negative experience made especially awful thanks to an incredibly rude worker. I hope you can find better staff in the future.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Justin rose
08 Jul, 2024 by Denice west
17 Sep, 2024 by Zachary stewart
GET THERE BEFORE 3:45pm OR GET A DOOR SLAMMED IN YOUR FACE.
I just had a terrible interaction with one of the clerks that works there that shut the door in my face, literally, I could have stuck my hand out to stop it, but I didn’t. So I knocked. I was informed they close at 3:45. “I don’t get paid after 4” is what she told me.
Their website says nothing about closing at 3:45pm. The person I talked to on the phone this morning said they’re open 8am - 4pm.
This has been a negative experience made especially awful thanks to an incredibly rude worker. I hope you can find better staff in the future.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Justin rose
08 Jul, 2024 by Denice west
17 Sep, 2024 by Zachary stewart
GET THERE BEFORE 3:45pm OR GET A DOOR SLAMMED IN YOUR FACE.
I just had a terrible interaction with one of the clerks that works there that shut the door in my face, literally, I could have stuck my hand out to stop it, but I didn’t. So I knocked. I was informed they close at 3:45. “I don’t get paid after 4” is what she told me.
Their website says nothing about closing at 3:45pm. The person I talked to on the phone this morning said they’re open 8am - 4pm.
This has been a negative experience made especially awful thanks to an incredibly rude worker. I hope you can find better staff in the future.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Justin rose
08 Jul, 2024 by Denice west
17 Sep, 2024 by Zachary stewart
GET THERE BEFORE 3:45pm OR GET A DOOR SLAMMED IN YOUR FACE.
I just had a terrible interaction with one of the clerks that works there that shut the door in my face, literally, I could have stuck my hand out to stop it, but I didn’t. So I knocked. I was informed they close at 3:45. “I don’t get paid after 4” is what she told me.
Their website says nothing about closing at 3:45pm. The person I talked to on the phone this morning said they’re open 8am - 4pm.
This has been a negative experience made especially awful thanks to an incredibly rude worker. I hope you can find better staff in the future.
Read more
06 May, 2024 by Jazzmyne wesley
I just called to obtain information on how to get eloped and get a marriage license. When calling it rang about 20 times before she answered the phone and she was extremely rude and not helpful at all. She wouldn’t even let me get a word out and said they couldn’t help me with the marriage license application and i need to google who to call. wow extremely helpful right? I’m really disappointed. I read reviews before calling and hoped you guys would do better than that with your customer service. Extremely disappointed.
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29 Apr, 2024 by Carrie savage-zimmerman
I dreaded having to contact the Hamilton Co. Probate Court in Ohio to obtain a much-needed document. I had attempted the action some years ago when documents were still on microfiche, resulting in frustration and subsequently, my abandoning the action entirely.
However, I had no cause for such trepidation or concern when I contacted Judge Winkler’s court recently. First, requests were streamlined and online, user-friendly with easy-to-follow directions.
Second, earlier today—a MONDAY—I received the nicest, most customer-friendly phone call I have ever received from any government employee to clarify my email request. DONNA was polite, helpful, and an absolute godsend in assisting me in getting the correct document in the quickest way possible.
I do hope Judge Winkler appreciates this wonderful employee who went above and beyond to accommodate me, a complete stranger. Donna deserves an Atta-girl commendation of some sort to honor her exemplary service as the front-line representative of Judge Winkler’s office.
In an age of seemingly voiceless, faceless government and fears of AI takeover, the reassuring personal contact with Donna was gratefully appreciated by this customer.
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25 Feb, 2022 by Emily
I’m very happy. Ivans got a sharp personality and I appreciate his help always.
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10 Feb, 2021 by Ronald
Ivan Tamarkin Destroyed my life by losing a discrimination/retaliation case against my employer. He left important evidence behind, allowed individuals from the City to testify without knowing what they were going to say. He did not properly defend me at all. It was a DEVASTATING LOSS. My family and I have suffered greatly!
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17 Jul, 2014 by Gabriel
Mr. Ivan Tamarkin, and his staff are exceptionally professional and courteous! He was there for every question, around every turn. I HIGHLY recommend him for legal counsel and representation. If your looking to put the law on your side, and have someone knowledgeable who actually cares about the person, look no further! He personally made a conceivably horrible experience relatively stress free... couldn't be happier!
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08 Sep, 2022 by Lynnette
Contacted Darlene about some urgent estate matters. She was very professional, understanding and helpful. Her work is thorough and precise. Takes the time to explain to you. Would hire again. Highly recommend
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20 Apr, 2015 by Rochelle
I spoke with Darlene briefly regarding the type of legal assistant that I needed. Although she was unable to assist me, she gave me names and numbers of lawyers that could.
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18 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
He lost me almost everything in my divorce. Do not hire this person unless you want to lose everything. I started wondering if he was taking money from my ex to screw me over. It was that bad.
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29 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
I paid Mark Eppley 7500 dollars to represent me in my divorce case and he was a no show never did anything for me never filed anything on my behalf just gave me the runaround every time. I've been trying to get my money back since may 14th he just keeps telling me he'll look into it and tells me it's been sent to me but it hasn't. I really hope he starts doing the right thing I'm not the first person he's done this to I'll be contacting the bar association.
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09 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
After thousands and thousands of dollars paid nothing was resolved. Hired a new lawyer and case was resolved immediately.
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24 Jan, 2024 by Grant
Michael handled my divorce-which was unfortunately contentious.
He is brilliant with all matters concerning finances, income, support, custody etc. I prevailed in all motions my ex filed of which there were several. I had a very vindictive pyschologically unbalanced ex with an equally vindictive lawyer.
His fees are very reasonable and the results are outstanding.
Beyond the above, he is a very friendly, patient, compassionate person who takes the time to explain the law and the glacial pace at which Hamilton County Domestic Relations court moves.
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04 Dec, 2019 by Anonymous
Michael gave excellent legal advice regarding a vexing problem I had, leading to a good solution. He really took the time to work with me, which I didn't find with two other lawyers I consulted. Highly recommend him.
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01 Nov, 2007 by Anonymous
Mike is a nice guy in person. His work is not professional. Spelling and grammar errors in documents that went uncorrected after months. Unresponsive to email and written changes. He did not do all the work promised: still waiting for quit claim deed to be drawn up and filed. Never sent me a copy of the final court decree.
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18 Jul, 2021 by Todd
Hired Nick and he failed me miserably at coming to a settlement with my spouse and was jaw dropping unprepared at trial.
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10 Jun, 2020 by Anonymous
Nicholas is incredibly prompt and very good natured, especially for a family law attorney. He makes you feel comfortable and walks you through every step of the divorce and custody process like a pro. He makes great recommendations and I trust him as my attorney. Thank you Nicholas.
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03 May, 2023 by Quinn
Geoff deserved a longer sentence. give that sick man life.
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21 Mar, 2023 by Its me k
No help from anyone... I will be homeless in a week, with kids...
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15 Mar, 2023 by Brian mailey
Wow Mrs. Ghiz you really disappointed me and my family in a sentence you handed down. Hurt us to our soul.
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17 Jan, 2024 by Jimmi
I have to definitely agree with the last Guys review. Jeff is the most rudest unprofessional lawyer I've ever talked to. He downplays your intelligence and basically tells you to fall on the sword and take what the Court gives you it's pretty bad when you fire a free attorney. He's a public defender for a reason apparently because nobody in their right mind would pay to have this clown represent them. If I could give him a negative 10 I would. Run and run fast if the Court's appoint this guy to your case.
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24 Mar, 2023 by Steve horton
I just got off the phone with this lawyer, he really tries to downplay your intelligence, and education. He is also found to be very rude as well, if I could his ratings will be -5 for me. I also wouldn't be surprise that the two reviews he has on here are people he knows, and I will be filing a grievance against this lawyer on the Ohio board of professional conduct.
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01 Aug, 2017 by Samantha
I have personally used Jeff Cutcher at least 3 times, and I recommended his services to at least 3 other people, my mother being one of them. He has been nothing but professional with myself and my family. He has gotten the job done everytime! Not once have I felt like he could have done anything different. I now consider him a friend and I will use him in the future should the need ever arise.
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25 Jan, 2019 by Wesley - us army retired
I have personally consulted with Michael of several occasions. He is a member of the Ohio Military Reserve, which is an all volunteer military organization of the state. He provides his legal services to the organization and 200+ soldiers at no cost. He also works with the Ohio National Guard volunteering his legal services. He has provided me help on several legal matters as well as a personal interview that I needed while attending college. He freely provides his legal assistance and has always been honored with the utmost respect. His concern and professionalism is consistently displayed to the soldiers and citizens of the great state of Ohio. I have served with Major(OH) Lanzillotta and his wife Major(OH) Mrs. Lanzillotta for over 10 years and and see them as nothing more that true professionals with the care and consideration for others. Michael Lanzillotta will always be the first person I contact for any legal matters even areas outside of his practice as I know he will always provide me with sound advice. Thank-you for you time!
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21 Jul, 2014 by Anonymous
Michael Lanzillotta took my money and has done nothing on my divorce case. I have called and left messages also sent text messages, he will not return my calls. This has been going on for two months. I also spoke with a former client and she experienced the same thing. Please do not give this person your hard earned money.
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09 Jul, 2022 by The chas man (c)
Decent guys on a personal level, but this Review is about the Professional Legal Services that I paid for.
Pros: Aggressive in the first two days.
Cons: Lacks communication, Lacks follow through, Lacks Aggressive Representation, Lacks Thorough Legal Counsel, Uses Deceptive Tactics Against Their Own Clients (as I was "ambushed" in their office with video that actually helped my case)...
I was not impressed with the representation that I received from this firm. Although the attorney stated to me at the end, "You should have never have been charged", he did little to nothing in showing that in the Courtroom, to the Prosecutor, or even to the Judge. The attorney spent more time trying to convince me to plead "Guilty" without being able to show me what law I broke. As one attorney expressed to me that the Judge pointed out "Show me the Crime", and no one was able to.
In one breath the attorney stated "The Judge asked what Defense Strategy I planned on using, and when I told her, she shook her head No"... Two weeks later, I inquired about the Defense Strategy, and the attorney stated "The Judge has not rendered a decision on that."... There were several instances like this, but it is always excused away by "That must have been an misunderstanding or miscommunication."
In the Motion To Suppress Hearing, the attorney was told by the Judge, "The statute you used to justify the Request To Suppress actually supports your Motion to be Denied.". The attorney had no idea what he was doing.
I sent repeated emails, texts, and left messages. However, my correspondence was rarely returned, even though I paid the agreed retainer on time, in full, and was completed early. I received a return call after weeks of waiting. The call I received was from an attorney that wasn't involved in the case. The attorney apologized on behalf of the representing attorney for not receiving the "Aggressive" representation that I paid for.
It has been 120 days since the "Sentencing Hearing", and I still have not received the Judge's written details in the order she imposed. The "Sentencing" is 30 Days over, and still no communication from anyone in this firm.
Due to not getting the Order In Writing from the Judge, my career has been destroyed, my livelihood taken from me, and no word from anyone at this firm.
If you want to get "Hosed" in Court; hire this firm.
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05 Jul, 2021 by Jess
24 Jul, 2019 by Justin henry
Great lawyer
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26 Dec, 2023 by Alicia
I was not told I was going to jail or even being sentenced. I broke the law so should be punished but not even a heads up. I was on probation for a similar charge and the judge said you did great on probation and I would recommend probation for you but you don't live here. I had just moved back into the area and had told Mr O'Connor that I was living back in the area. Blatantly lied to the judge. Wasted my time but always had his hands out. My father in law saw the sentencing and was just dumfounded by this guy.
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15 Aug, 2019 by Anonymous
I would not use this attorney again or recommend him to anyone. It was an extremely frustrating experience and most times I felt he was not working in my best interest. I feel he wasted my time and my money - after communicating to him that I no longer needed his services, I now have to hire another Attorney to do what he should have done. I would not want anyone else to have that same experience. When you are fighting to defend yourself, you need an unwavering ally - I did not find that in Michael.
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19 Sep, 2017 by Liz
I was referred to him by legal access and all I can say is that we wasted precious time and money with him to get custody of my son. He talked a really good game in the consultation but once we paid, it was extremely difficult to get him to communicate. He told me that the recent DV, drug abuse and theft charges my ex had weren't important and were merely hearsay, even with police reports. He obviously did not want to do any legwork. He did not believe in my custody fight and his work (if you can call it that) was subpar. He lied and said we didn't show up for the first pretrial even though we signed in twice. He waited days before I even knew what was said. He said I didn't need to show up to mediation because they weren't planning to. It's a good thing I went against his advice and did show up because they were there. In all, I am highly upset that the money I saved went to him for nothing. Upon retaining a different lawyer, things are moving my way and instead of hearing only what can't be done, I'm hearing what we can do. I have also learned that all lawyers should know the dozen or so things that these cases are judged on. And because this is the first I heard of these, I question if he really even knows what he's doing. Don't waste your money on him! Find someone who cares about you and your case and has years of experience. You and your child are worth more than he seems able to give!
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1.0
1 Reviews
25 Feb, 2023 by Sarah
Hired this attorney after a consultation which went well. Once hired, his actions and behavior were completely different. He claimed to know the magistrate and had these closed door meetings which I was against after the first one. Who knows what was said. After 6 months with zero action I fired him. Turns out he didn't even have the correct contract between he and I. He doesn't know what he's doing.
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28 Mar, 2022 by Anonymous
She doesn't respond unless legally threatened. Poor representation with a lot of money taken and no results
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16 Aug, 2021 by Shane
Jamie represented me back in 2010 in a domestic case at 800 Broadway and i beat my case. I would recommend her to anyone! She does an excellent job!
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24 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
Sent 54 email requests to move forward this past summer related to a custody issue and never got a response until the court ordered her to respond.
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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.
