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19 Nov, 2024 by Kylee white
I am not a client, but a defendant in a case with T.J. Samson Community Hospital which this firm represents. This case is about collections which I talked to Crystal in billing about today. I’d like to first say, I am not upset my hospital bills were turned over to collections, and have no problem paying for them. I started out nice and eager to figure this all out and start paying my bills, however from the second the call started she was rude and carried a condescending tone. I have never dealt with a matter like this before, therefor I didn’t know what was expected of me, but I do know what’s expected of her considering she works in public service. Much like a child, she was quick to cut me off, talked to me like I was an imbecile, and raised her voice when I called her out for the way she was speaking to me. I am usually not one to complain but the matter was as simple as needing to know what payment to make and where and she could not get through a 5 minute conversation without being bitter and cold, even refusing my phone call when I had tried to reach her again to figure out what payment I agreed to. Although I cannot speak to the attorneys capabilities or manners, I’ve read the other reviews and it seems as though this place lacks severe communication skills and common decency.
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18 Nov, 2024 by Katerin garrido
10/10 recommend Mr. Mathis. He answered all our questions regardless how small they were and was super quick in answering back emails. I trusted him with my immigration process and have no regrets! We even moved across the country while our case was still pending, and Mr. Mathis was still able to represent us. He transitioned smoothly and did not make the distance affect his way of working for us in the case. We cannot thank him enough for the job he did!
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31 Oct, 2024 by Ivan rex
I called for a consultation or appointment. The front desk misheard me and stated they do not handle employment cases that would be a Davidson county matter. As I started to correct myself she hung up on me.
Won't know what the lawyers are like if I can't get past reception.
Quite rude.
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19 Nov, 2024 by Kylee white
I am not a client, but a defendant in a case with T.J. Samson Community Hospital which this firm represents. This case is about collections which I talked to Crystal in billing about today. I’d like to first say, I am not upset my hospital bills were turned over to collections, and have no problem paying for them. I started out nice and eager to figure this all out and start paying my bills, however from the second the call started she was rude and carried a condescending tone. I have never dealt with a matter like this before, therefor I didn’t know what was expected of me, but I do know what’s expected of her considering she works in public service. Much like a child, she was quick to cut me off, talked to me like I was an imbecile, and raised her voice when I called her out for the way she was speaking to me. I am usually not one to complain but the matter was as simple as needing to know what payment to make and where and she could not get through a 5 minute conversation without being bitter and cold, even refusing my phone call when I had tried to reach her again to figure out what payment I agreed to. Although I cannot speak to the attorneys capabilities or manners, I’ve read the other reviews and it seems as though this place lacks severe communication skills and common decency.
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18 Nov, 2024 by Katerin garrido
10/10 recommend Mr. Mathis. He answered all our questions regardless how small they were and was super quick in answering back emails. I trusted him with my immigration process and have no regrets! We even moved across the country while our case was still pending, and Mr. Mathis was still able to represent us. He transitioned smoothly and did not make the distance affect his way of working for us in the case. We cannot thank him enough for the job he did!
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31 Oct, 2024 by Ivan rex
I called for a consultation or appointment. The front desk misheard me and stated they do not handle employment cases that would be a Davidson county matter. As I started to correct myself she hung up on me.
Won't know what the lawyers are like if I can't get past reception.
Quite rude.
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19 Dec, 2024 by Steven finley
11 Dec, 2024 by Han han
Thanks attorney Jennifer Scribner, she's very attentive, detail and very easy to communicate with to resolve the case. Im very pleased with her hard working effort toward my case..I am glad I found her online from the beginning with 5 stars...I'm glad I make the right decision...I would recommend Mrs. Jennifer Scribner, once again thank you much
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25 Oct, 2024 by Ronnie hoover
Started out with Matthew Armstrong. My very first Mediation he was not at Mediation to give me guidance on anything. When trying to contact him, he was never available.
At my last mediation I got transfered over to Justin and lets just say it was no different. Went to court, he left the court room to "go get a drink". While he was out of the court room the judge called for my case. I was there, opposing counsel was there but my Lawyer was not. I got charged an extra hour due to him "going to get a drink". Got that somewhat resolved. I asked about my record and getting it esponged. He said he would check on that. To this day the charges that I had on my record, that I paid for to have esponged off my record are still there. Havent heard a word from the lawyer on what is going on with it and its been over 6 months since Ive paid to have the charges esponged.
They do not communicate with their clients at all.
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19 Dec, 2024 by Steven finley
11 Dec, 2024 by Han han
Thanks attorney Jennifer Scribner, she's very attentive, detail and very easy to communicate with to resolve the case. Im very pleased with her hard working effort toward my case..I am glad I found her online from the beginning with 5 stars...I'm glad I make the right decision...I would recommend Mrs. Jennifer Scribner, once again thank you much
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25 Oct, 2024 by Ronnie hoover
Started out with Matthew Armstrong. My very first Mediation he was not at Mediation to give me guidance on anything. When trying to contact him, he was never available.
At my last mediation I got transfered over to Justin and lets just say it was no different. Went to court, he left the court room to "go get a drink". While he was out of the court room the judge called for my case. I was there, opposing counsel was there but my Lawyer was not. I got charged an extra hour due to him "going to get a drink". Got that somewhat resolved. I asked about my record and getting it esponged. He said he would check on that. To this day the charges that I had on my record, that I paid for to have esponged off my record are still there. Havent heard a word from the lawyer on what is going on with it and its been over 6 months since Ive paid to have the charges esponged.
They do not communicate with their clients at all.
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3.9
7 Reviews
4.0
13 Reviews
30 Aug, 2024 by Bri jensen
22 Jan, 2024 by Samuel bisciglia
Mr. Williamson and his team were a pleasure to work with. They were very helpful in setting realistic expectations and always willing to help me understand the processes and where things were at. I would recommend
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15 Feb, 2023 by Ramos ramirez-espiritu
No hay servicios para traduccion al espanol, muy grosero y antipatico
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19 Aug, 2020 by B
I was recently involved in a legal proceeding. Ms. Knight seemed extremely caring and personable. She is thorough in her work and was always available with my questions and concerns. I would definitely recommend Ms. Knight.
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15 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
Ms. Knight was very professional from the time we met until the resolution of my family law issues. She was very thorough and communicated with me throughout the process. I felt confident stepping into the courtroom with Ms. Knight as my advocate. My confidence was validated after she helped bring my issue to a successful resolution.
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06 Jul, 2016 by Gail
I have used Tracy Knight as my attorney on two completely unrelated occasions: once for my estate planning, and secondly when I found myself being criticized for my job performance after being sexually assaulted in my workplace. She was fine for my estate planning; I knew what I wanted and she drew up the necessary paperwork for my will and advanced directive. Where she really excelled, however, was at employment law. She warned me ahead of time that if my employer began to focus on my job performance and then fired me, she could no longer be of assistance. Her predictions were, unfortunately absolutely on the money. My employer began to criticize my job performance and then fired me based upon my performance review. Despite 12 years of successful work, I was forced to retire because I was no longer employed. A lesser attorney would have taken my case (and my money), lost the case, and I would have been much worse off than I am. I am grateful for her integrity, honesty, and knowledge of employment law. She receives my highest recommendation."
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20 Feb, 2022 by Nadia
I got his information from a friend. I spoke to his Assistant paralegal and she made me an appointment. I went to see him and he spoke to me for a few minutes. Told the front lady how much to charge me. Didn’t wanted to listen to everything or some of what I wanted to say. Then walked out of the office to go get his lunch and I sat there and waited for him. When he came back he asked if I had already paid and stared to walk upstairs. I asked him what if this person tries to harm me. He said just call me. In this instance it did happen and guess what they don’t have a voice mail or anyone to talk to after hours. I called so many times about my case and the paralegal lady said he is the one you spoke to so he will call you back. He never did. One day I was threatened by this person and I called him and he said call the cops. I did call them. I took care of this whole situation by myself and I went to his office in Nov 2021. Do you think they once called and asked if everything was okay or did I needed help. I come from a family of lawyers, I didn’t wanted to get my family involved in this because it was my mess and I wanted to take care of it on my own. They made me a portal. Guess what nothing was loaded on it. I paid them cash and guess what nothing was done. Please I highly suggest you research before you hire someone out there are plenty of resources online. Don’t waste your hard earned money.
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05 Aug, 2020 by Anonymous
Mr Olson is God sent, he is compassionate & understands the bond between a pet & her owner. My mini horse was sold by a woman in Southside Tn. Who was only to keep my horse while I go to Canada to take care of my mom.... She heartlessly, sold my baby, on Craigslist & say , she does not know where my horse is at. Mr Olson & Claire his paralegal has been awesome in trying to find my baby & will do all to the full extent of the law to make sure , justice is served!! Our case is still open, but seeing how thorough , efficient, professional, caring & kind , Mr Olson, Claire, his paralegal, Diane & Adrienne are.... I do highly recommendi them to anyone who is in need of a great lawyer!! Thank u Mr Olson & staff!! U r the best!!!
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15 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
I had heard that Mark was a good attorney by a friend. He referred him to me. I hired him for divorce matters with child custody.
He was months behind on filing correct paperwork, and his office is disorganized. He used MyCase to provide you with documents but they were never timely.
He talked about other clients loudly, and in front of other clients. I've walked into the office and there he was gossiping about an opposing attorney's personal issues and a former client In the waiting area! This was shocking and highly unprofessional.
His staff was rude and lied to me for Mark and about my case. My calls and emails had been ignored for weeks.
When I took my file to my new attorney, I found out that little to nothing had been done on my case, and things that were supposed to be filed weren't. My ex almost won a significant advantage because of that!!
Don't make the same mistake I did!
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19 Nov, 2024 by Kylee white
I am not a client, but a defendant in a case with T.J. Samson Community Hospital which this firm represents. This case is about collections which I talked to Crystal in billing about today. I’d like to first say, I am not upset my hospital bills were turned over to collections, and have no problem paying for them. I started out nice and eager to figure this all out and start paying my bills, however from the second the call started she was rude and carried a condescending tone. I have never dealt with a matter like this before, therefor I didn’t know what was expected of me, but I do know what’s expected of her considering she works in public service. Much like a child, she was quick to cut me off, talked to me like I was an imbecile, and raised her voice when I called her out for the way she was speaking to me. I am usually not one to complain but the matter was as simple as needing to know what payment to make and where and she could not get through a 5 minute conversation without being bitter and cold, even refusing my phone call when I had tried to reach her again to figure out what payment I agreed to. Although I cannot speak to the attorneys capabilities or manners, I’ve read the other reviews and it seems as though this place lacks severe communication skills and common decency.
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18 Nov, 2024 by Katerin garrido
10/10 recommend Mr. Mathis. He answered all our questions regardless how small they were and was super quick in answering back emails. I trusted him with my immigration process and have no regrets! We even moved across the country while our case was still pending, and Mr. Mathis was still able to represent us. He transitioned smoothly and did not make the distance affect his way of working for us in the case. We cannot thank him enough for the job he did!
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31 Oct, 2024 by Ivan rex
I called for a consultation or appointment. The front desk misheard me and stated they do not handle employment cases that would be a Davidson county matter. As I started to correct myself she hung up on me.
Won't know what the lawyers are like if I can't get past reception.
Quite rude.
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26 Mar, 2024 by Kathy
Jef represented my daughter and throughout the duration of the case, he was always there. There wasn’t a moment we felt that we were just a number or overlooked. The outcome was better than we ever hoped for, and that is solely due to Jeff’s hard work and great reputation. Tim, his partner was also incredible and helpful. Not a better firm in the world.
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20 Aug, 2019 by Anonymous
Non responsive , irresponsible time management , etc. hired this gentleman and paid $1,000 before ever meeting him. After being rescheduled 3 times due to him “ being busy /sick/ out of the office I knew then and there he wouldn’t be able to properly represent me. While waiting in the waiting room , On our well awaited first meeting , I was groped on by another client of his whom was around the age of 60-70. I didn’t press charges since the other ladies in office were so sweet about removing me from the area he was in. Properly settled and appreciated. I wish I could say the same for my experience with the attorney I hired. I was rushed in my first meeting. I believe it lasted 3 mins before being abruptly told “ to reschedule since he was busy for another court date “ after that any phone calls in regard to my case and or emails were never answered and I never saw him again. My case was dropped by him about 8 days prior to my docket call ...If you’re looking for an attorney that is on top of his game , responsive , there for you , and has great time management , then he’s not going to be the right person for you. I had a simple harassment case and now have another attorney. If I had seen these reviews prior to hiring I would’ve went with someone else. Mr. Clemmons was very responsible in picking up his pieces in dropping my case last minute and offered wonderful alternative routes as well as was responsive in a very timely manner. If you need to hire anyone from this firm I’d suggest clemmons , sensing , but not grimes. I just don’t think I got what I wished which was to be represented wonderfully.
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08 Nov, 2017 by Elizabeth
Jeff, did an amazing job, representing me. He immediately just into action once, we told him everything that happened, and help me get my baby back the same day. If it wasn’t for him, I’d have to wait, but with his quick thinking, we got him back. I️ would definitely recommend, and have him represent me again.
THANK YOU SO MUCH!
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08 Jan, 2022 by Robert
The front desk and staff are the worst. Ryan will continue to avoid you. It's sad that this once good law firm is now just another place that feeds off the scraps of great law firms. Soldiers and spouses beware. Get anyone but this law firm to handle your case
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03 Jan, 2022 by Kyle
They screen calls, the paralegal and front desk clerk are by far the most unprofessional two people I have met. An I used Ryan McFarland personally 2 years ago as my attorney. Unless you're an attorney yourself they try to belittle and speak down to you. After over 2 months of emails and sending paperwork that needs to be signed per a final divorce degree they will string you along and make no attempts to remedy the situation. If you're a woman and love having another woman treat you like a child this is the best place for you to go. If not I wouldn't bother looking one second more into this company for any type of fast legal process.
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05 Nov, 2019 by Anonymous
I fully entrusted Ryan McFarland. He stated to me when I first retained him, “I will see you through this to the end”. That provided me with so much hope and encouragement then. In my experience with this attorney and his office, is more often than not there are a LOT of communication break downs. Being left in the dark not knowing and uncertain of things. I would ask questions and sometimes they would go unanswered. The last communication breakdown resulted in, Ryan McFarland, resigning from my case. This happened without warning, I was lead to believe I was going in for an appointment to discuss the process and start the preparations for the divorce trial with children and domestic abuse involved. To my surprise, I get there, to be turned away. Now, during the holidays having to pay a whole new retainer fee for a new attorney to pick up where someone else left off. I personally, only want someone to represent me that stands true to their word and actually follows through. From my experience, if you’re looking to hire someone that is dedicated, has great communication skills, also has assistants and paralegals that have excellent communication skills and that will actually see you through the end of your case. Ryan McFarland isn’t the attorney to hire.
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10 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
My ex and I split up and I tried to work out things and be amicable, but you know some people everything fight. That's what this was a fight. Unlike the 2 other reviews for me, John was a bulldog. He made sure I got the agreement I wanted and nothing that I did not. He kept me informed, emailed me consistently, and scheduled appointments around my schedule. Then when my ex refused to pay child support he fought in court to ensure I did. After the judge revoked his visitation I was sued by his parents for grandparents rights. I was angry and of course sad because I felt wronged by his family. After fighting that John was honest with me that we were going to win, but did I want that, for my child? Did I want my bitterness to impact his life? Those aren't his words of course they're mine, but he made me realize that my inlaws weren't the problem, my ex was and they did kick him out of their house when they found out he was using which was my issue all along. So I called my mother-in-law, we cried, and we worked it out. Most lawyers may not have been so blunt, but it saved my relationship with them. Although my ex is not around I am still close to my inlaws, even since I've remarried. He was on top of it for me and I'd hire him again if the need arose.
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07 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
I hired John to assist in establish a parenting plan. His knowledge was somewhat good but when it actually came time for trial it seemed as if he was not prepared for the case. Also in numerous attempts to contact him via email and phone calls to ask questions pertaining to the judgement they went unanswered.
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09 Dec, 2013 by Kathryn
Good legal mind good legal strategies but awful manners. He is very sarcastic and has an odd sense of humor. He told two other attorneys what we spoke about which I found odd since he is a grown man and I am a housewife. I guess gossip is gossip. He has a real smartmouth on him but he knows his stuff when it comes to the law.
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16 Oct, 2017 by Curtis
We hired James Phillips to help our son who is in the Navy currently going through separation.He has been our attorney and has been there for us over the past four and a half months. He has always made himself available to us despite his hectic schedule helping others in the military. He has provided us with not only legal expertise but also personal reassuring advice to get us through the most difficult time in our lives. I would without any doubts recommend James Phillips to any active member of the military to represent them and fight for their benefits they rightly deserve.
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09 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
I hired Mr Phillips to submit and represent me in an appeal for an upgrade in my military discharge. I was optimistic on my initial consultation due to his advise. After paying his full fee of 3K, I never received any written communication. Little to no service rendered
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27 May, 2016 by Samantha
Mr. Phillips has been a very important part of my life for a short time however, it has felt like a lifetime. Being in the district we were in, things were on a very slow roll and my stress levels were at extreme levels but Mr. Phillips continuously keep me reassured things would be ok. He has a grand knowledge of the law and the local system. If ever I need ANY type of legal help, this would be the man I return to! Never a dull moment, Jaime and Tiffony! Thanks for everything!!!
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02 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
She is only there for political reason. It is sad to know she choose what looks good to her instead of doing what’s right. To be honest most of our country has become that way. To many folks care about more about what they look like instead of just doing what’s right. There is only one judge in this world and we all have to answer to him. So I will pray for you.
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25 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
Judge olita failed to be fair and impartial. She held the one side accountable for a violation of an order. How ever very shortly after the other party had been in contempt many times and she through it all out with out taking the evidence in to account. I believe this judge is done being on the bench and needs and thorough examination on values in the judiciary system.
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24 Jul, 2023 by Bill
In 20220 my divorce was finalized. Because of Katherine Olita my ex-wife was granted full custody. I had proof of my ex's then-husband hospitalizing my children multiple times, evidence of my ex drinking and using drugs in front of my children, and my ex-wife leaving the infant children home alone to go sleep with other men. She knew my ex-wife because at the time she was employed at Montgomery County Sheriffs' office. Because of this, she would not allow me to speak, only my ex-wife. My ex-wife alleged, with absolutely no evidence, that I killed a dog, and Olita wrote "The court finds this detrimental to the children" again with absolutely no evidence. Because Olita granted my ex-wife full custody, my children had to witness her trying to kill her husband with their baseball bat. The witnessed their mom go to jail. They have also been moved around four times with their mom and are now currently moving again. Katherine Olita acts as if she cares so much about family law, and adoptions but she has absolutely no problem ripping families apart and permanently causing trauma to small children, just to benefit a friend. The best part of all this is that my ex-wife tried to get an order of protection against me to prevent me from seeing my daughter prior to deployment. Judge Olita would have been the judge but as soon as she saw all the charges my ex-wife had (assault, and custodial interference) she recused herself because she realized she made a bad choice and did not want her name on it.
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24 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
If i was able to give her no stars I would. VERY EVIL lady and does no works. Makes excuses of why she couldn't get things done. She worked on my case for 9 mths. All she cares about is getting paid and will find the most expensive way to charge you. I had to get another lawyer.. DO NOT HIRE THIS MONSTER
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04 Dec, 2013 by Anonymous
I used Ms. Evans for my divorce, because one of my friends used her (for an uncontested divorce) and said it was quick and easy. My divorce was contested, and I was prepared to be in it for the long haul. However, i wasn't prepared for the astronomical fees charged by Ms. Evans, and how she ate up nearly $10k in a year and got ZERO results. By the time my divorce went to trial, I could no longer afford her services. After I dropped her, she somehow worked the books to reflect that I owed $2000 more dollars, and she didn't do anything. There was no mediation, and all the money was eaten up by her paralegals constantly calling me and filling out arbitrary paperwork for me, OVER AND OVER. None of it was necessary or mattered in the divorce. None of it was requested by the judge. Once I dropped her as my attorney, she went back and canceled all my court dates, and when I complained, she had them reset, and then CHARGED ME AGAIN. Do not go here unless you're prepared to pay. She is vicious, and will fight, but she will also fight you for your arm, leg, and first born child to pay her fees, and she'll make sure to double charge and pad the bill.
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23 Aug, 2013 by Anonymous
This attorney was recommended by a friend, she was the "ROARING LIONESS" in court. She went WAY above and beyond the call of duty to make my situation turn out in my favor. Her drive is unmatched, she was a STAND out in a room of more than 7 (court appointed) attorneys in the room. She was the ONLY one that wld stand up to DCS. They rest of them wanted to follow "normal" procedures for DCS. Contact me if you have ANY questions..
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15 Aug, 2013 by Anonymous
Don't bother. A complete waste of time and money. He is very unmotivated and acts as if you are "bothering" him when you call to follow up on your case. He was not passionate, compassionate, or aggressive and made it very clear that he was happy to take my money but when it was time to work he did the minimum. He did not keep me informed and I often had to call him multiple times and leave multiple messages. Lesson learned.
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29 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
This attorney will not contact you or if you're in jail will not come visit you or have any contact with you before court dates and will say they have no proof and then he changed on a case after almost 3 years and let someone else take over the case who no one knew to handle the case . I've never seen anything like this in my life . Lack of communication with clients
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FAQs
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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:
-
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.
