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22 Aug, 2024 by Anthony clark
I needed help fast and Andrew came to my rescue. He worked fast and efficiently. My situation looked hopeless but God used Andrew to turn my situation around. Don’t look any further, all the help you need is right here.
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19 Aug, 2024 by Idella jackson
I love these guys they stay on top of you case's they also respond back quick when you call or text them and they are Affordable yes I would Recommend them
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19 Aug, 2024 by Raven tackett
Andrew did a great job handling my case he had great communication and kept me involved in every step, I highly recommend his services!
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22 Aug, 2024 by Anthony clark
I needed help fast and Andrew came to my rescue. He worked fast and efficiently. My situation looked hopeless but God used Andrew to turn my situation around. Don’t look any further, all the help you need is right here.
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19 Aug, 2024 by Idella jackson
I love these guys they stay on top of you case's they also respond back quick when you call or text them and they are Affordable yes I would Recommend them
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19 Aug, 2024 by Raven tackett
Andrew did a great job handling my case he had great communication and kept me involved in every step, I highly recommend his services!
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01 Aug, 2023 by Ryan frimel
I had a great experience with Matt and Kim. They were very efficient and thorough in explaining complex legal agreements and their practical implications. Matt was very responsive, practical, and knowledgeable. I’d certainly use them again and strongly recommend them for any future legal work. Thanks guys!
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13 Mar, 2023 by Cheryl westbrook
Kim Coleman is a very thorough and competent attorney who helped me navigate through a very difficult time in my life. She was very level-headed and her legal services were both reasonable and professional.
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22 Oct, 2021 by Binny joshi
31 Dec, 2023 by Laura
I have used Lisa in the past as my attorney, and thought that she did such a fantastic job. I hired her again in 2020 and have been using her for the better part of the last 3+ years for issues regarding the custody agreement/child support/general well being of my son. I think it says a lot that I have been working with her for so long when it is regards to something so important to me. I trust her! She is very knowledgeable specifically pertaining to family law and custody cases and has the experience that is needed to get things done. She is punctual in responding to emails/ phone calls and has an impeccable memory. I am always amazed at the details she remembers, even from things that happened years ago. I would highly recommend her to anyone. Thank you Lisa for all of the work that you continue to do for me and my family!
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25 Feb, 2023 by Anonymous
Lisa was competent, thorough and easy to work with. I highly recommend her.
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28 Dec, 2022 by Linda
Hiring an attorney can be unsettling as most have no idea of the lawyer’s quality. Lisa more than surpassed my expectations . She was retained to update our wills, health care directives etc. She was patient, thorough. And presented more practical solutions to some problems, all with a professional but pleasant manner. I certainly recommend her.
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01 Aug, 2023 by Ryan frimel
I had a great experience with Matt and Kim. They were very efficient and thorough in explaining complex legal agreements and their practical implications. Matt was very responsive, practical, and knowledgeable. I’d certainly use them again and strongly recommend them for any future legal work. Thanks guys!
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13 Mar, 2023 by Cheryl westbrook
Kim Coleman is a very thorough and competent attorney who helped me navigate through a very difficult time in my life. She was very level-headed and her legal services were both reasonable and professional.
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22 Oct, 2021 by Binny joshi
21 Mar, 2019 by Jeff
Richard, took my case and not only counsels reagrading the law but life in general. It says something when the judge you are pleading before stops and says this man did an amazing job to get you this plea bargain and you owe a big thank you. I know I do not just for the case but the advice he has given throughout it. Lucky to call him friend and would give him 10 stars if I could!
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23 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
Mr. Dempsey, Jr. was very helpful and knowledgeable. He listened to all my concerns and worked very hard to get me a good outcome for my case.
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24 Jun, 2014 by Anonymous
Mr. Dempsey managed to keep me from losing everything in my divorce. I expected very little and walked away from my divorce with almost everything. He is an amazing attorney and I'd highly recommend him!
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20 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
I asked her a few questions and she knew how to solve my case issues to explain it in a clear manner which gave me confidence to use her and to recommend her advise to others. She honestly helped me a lot.
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10 Jun, 2015 by Bob
Very professional, kept me informed regarding the progress of the case. When the other party was not willing to negotiate, Ms. Costas found other options to help solve my case. I would highly recommend
Ms. Costas to anyone. She would always respond to any phone calls or emails in less than a twenty four
hour period. One thing that really stood out to me was the fact that Ms. Costas would reply to me herself.
And through the whole process Ms. Costas stayed upbeat and positive.
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30 Jul, 2018 by Roger
Mr. Kershman represented me in my original divorce and a subsequent custody modification. I strongly recommend this firm. Mr. Kershman is very knowledgeable and responsive. My interests and the interests of my children were well represented. More than just going through the motions, Mr. Kershman worked strategically with deliberate thought given to even the smallest of details. My case was complex, but my attorney was confident and capable throughout.
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27 Feb, 2013 by Stephanie
I would recommend John to anyone going through a divorce. John provided me expert advice, clarity, and and sound decision making at a critical point in my life. My case was complex in the fact that my ex owned his own business, and John provided the insight to investigate all possibilities to ensure the maximum settlement that I deserved. John is incredibly trustworthy and truly represented my best interests - not just what he could bill for. Although the divorce was extremely painful, John's guidance, intelligence, and expertise delivered an ideal outcome in a terrible situation.
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31 May, 2016 by Clinton
I have used Gregory Brough several times over the last 15 years and have always been satisfied with the results. Even when my needs were not in an area of law he felt comfortable with, he researched the problem and found the attorney that could handle my legal needs. I have referred clients and friends to him and tthey have always come back and thanked me for the referral.
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11 Apr, 2014 by Peter
John was recommended to me by a co-worker. He helped me in managing my estate and making arrangements for my loved ones after I am gone. He's kind and helpful, all around a nice guy.
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09 Dec, 2019 by Beth
I have used Jim twice - once for a divorce 10 yrs ago and on another case recently and can't say enough good things about him!
Not only does he go to bat for you 1000%, but he comes up with innovative solutions to address each individual case. I switched to him mid-case this time (my mistake for not using him from the beginning) and my case went from night to day when I did!
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13 Aug, 2012 by Cindy
I have experienced Bill's services for family matters over the past 8 years. My most recent experience was with the settlement of my mothers estate. Prior to this he handled details of my dissolution of marriage. Bill is very detail oriented and staff are extremely helpful and professional. I recommend Bill based on my personal experiences - he showed attention to details and was very knowledgable about the options I had.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Latanya glamor & health
I thank them for keeping me updated.
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01 Sep, 2024 by Vanessa ramsey
Nikki is such a wonderful person and very professional. Her combination of kindness and expertise is truly impressive. :)
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28 Aug, 2024 by Mary ford hubbard
03 Sep, 2024 by Latanya glamor & health
I thank them for keeping me updated.
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01 Sep, 2024 by Vanessa ramsey
Nikki is such a wonderful person and very professional. Her combination of kindness and expertise is truly impressive. :)
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28 Aug, 2024 by Mary ford hubbard
30 Jul, 2024 by Nate blair
Been dealing with Mr. Roberts for almost a year now on some litigation. He did a fantastic job for me kept me in the loop made sure I understand the process always asked me if I had any questions and was very knowledgeable about the type of case that I was presenting They actually care about your concerns take time to listen definitely go to from here on out.
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21 May, 2024 by Matt giancristofaro
Chris and his team were fantastic in helping me with my case. They helped drive and handle all necessary procedures all while keeping me informed and in the loop. They were friendly, professional and made this entire process seamless.
I will absolutely return with any future needs and cannot recommend their services enough. Thank you again guys!
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07 May, 2024 by Wendy mcdevitt
Dan is a very influential attorney with a heart of gold. He's helped me tremendously.
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30 Jul, 2024 by Nate blair
Been dealing with Mr. Roberts for almost a year now on some litigation. He did a fantastic job for me kept me in the loop made sure I understand the process always asked me if I had any questions and was very knowledgeable about the type of case that I was presenting They actually care about your concerns take time to listen definitely go to from here on out.
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21 May, 2024 by Matt giancristofaro
Chris and his team were fantastic in helping me with my case. They helped drive and handle all necessary procedures all while keeping me informed and in the loop. They were friendly, professional and made this entire process seamless.
I will absolutely return with any future needs and cannot recommend their services enough. Thank you again guys!
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07 May, 2024 by Wendy mcdevitt
Dan is a very influential attorney with a heart of gold. He's helped me tremendously.
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30 Jul, 2024 by Nate blair
Been dealing with Mr. Roberts for almost a year now on some litigation. He did a fantastic job for me kept me in the loop made sure I understand the process always asked me if I had any questions and was very knowledgeable about the type of case that I was presenting They actually care about your concerns take time to listen definitely go to from here on out.
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21 May, 2024 by Matt giancristofaro
Chris and his team were fantastic in helping me with my case. They helped drive and handle all necessary procedures all while keeping me informed and in the loop. They were friendly, professional and made this entire process seamless.
I will absolutely return with any future needs and cannot recommend their services enough. Thank you again guys!
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07 May, 2024 by Wendy mcdevitt
Dan is a very influential attorney with a heart of gold. He's helped me tremendously.
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16 Sep, 2024 by Ricky politte
This lawyer handles really big accident cases in St Louis. He is a lawyer, accountant and has his masters in tax so he gets the injury cases for individuals that can never go back to work or individuals own a business and cannot run it due to injury. He specializes in valuations of massive loss. Thank goodness a firm like this exists.
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10 Sep, 2024 by Kasandra harmon
You are a great lawyer! Thank you.
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30 Aug, 2024 by Brandon whittley
Asked a trauma surgeon who operates on car accident victims who are the best injury lawyers that have taken his deposition. He said “by far” it was Mr Hoffmann. Interviewed several attorneys and this was a correct assessment. In a league of his own!
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16 Sep, 2024 by Ricky politte
This lawyer handles really big accident cases in St Louis. He is a lawyer, accountant and has his masters in tax so he gets the injury cases for individuals that can never go back to work or individuals own a business and cannot run it due to injury. He specializes in valuations of massive loss. Thank goodness a firm like this exists.
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10 Sep, 2024 by Kasandra harmon
You are a great lawyer! Thank you.
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30 Aug, 2024 by Brandon whittley
Asked a trauma surgeon who operates on car accident victims who are the best injury lawyers that have taken his deposition. He said “by far” it was Mr Hoffmann. Interviewed several attorneys and this was a correct assessment. In a league of his own!
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27 Sep, 2024 by Seth smith
I have always been a civic minded, very hard working and law abiding citizen, until my family ran into some financial issues because of the pandemic and inflation. We were sued by the First National Bank of Omaha because of late payments on a credit card, with little recourse but to find an attorney to help us. Mind you, this was almost ALL medical debt that had to be put on a credit card. Kris, and all his staff, were so kind, personable and helpful. These people believe in what they are doing and finding people a good settlement at a difficult and low period of life. Many kudos!!
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02 Sep, 2024 by Bethany
Ben is a compassionate and understanding attorney. Ben has stuck by my side through it all. A high conflict custody mess. He will help you navigate through sticky situations. Just know he’s truly there for you, like an attorney should be.
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07 Jun, 2024 by Neil burnett
Ben was really knowledgeable and sympathetic towards a dad in a tight situation and helped me navigate through a difficult custody battle. I would recommend him for anyone especially fathers that need legal help involving your children !!!
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23 Sep, 2024 by 拱扬丽
Mr Gordon Rea is a good, sincere and responsible attorney , he helped me a lot and solved the problem…..He considered my situation and gave me reasonable suggestions……thank him very much! When you have difficulties, I recommend you to hire him, he will help you solve the problem.
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23 Sep, 2024 by Yangli
Mr Gordon Rea is a good, sincere and responsible counselor, he helped me a lot and solved the problem…… He considered my situation and gave me reasonable suggestions…… Thank him very much!! When you have difficulties, I recommend you to hire him, he will help you solve the problem.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Sumit dhawan
Nalini and her team at MLO Law have been outstanding in handling my H-1 and TN visas with a 100% success rate. Their competence, diligence, and in-depth knowledge of immigration law are remarkable. Nalini clearly lays out all available options, carefully explaining the pros and cons, which greatly helped me make informed decisions as a client. Her team’s attention to detail and responsiveness throughout the process made a complex situation feel manageable. I strongly recommend MLO Law for anyone seeking reliable and expert legal assistance
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09 Sep, 2024 by Michael donini
Not a good lawyer! She disappeared and took my money. Promised a refund, it has not come through yet and don't answer my emails.
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06 Sep, 2024 by Christopher michaelis
Harry and Stephanie took care of our guardianship case expertly. They made it easy, understandable, and straightforward! They were also very accessible - super quick to answer e-mails.
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19 Aug, 2024 by Daniel & nancy hoover
We had an adoption done with Harry and he was straight forward and professional thru out the entire process highly recommend his services
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5.0
20 Reviews
4.7
52 Reviews
16 Aug, 2024 by Joshua klemp
I couldn't be more grateful to Doug and his firm for the help they gave me. Roundabout 2 years ago now, I was facing a pretty scary legal situation that dropped on me out of the blue, and was lucky enough to be introduced to Doug through a mutual friend. I'd never been in any kind of legal trouble, and I was completely freaked out and totally lost. He called right away, patiently explained the plan, was attentive, confident, trustworthy and just knew exactly what to do. I can't tell you how much better I felt just knowing that he was on my side. In the blink of an eye, he got the case against me dropped. Look, if you're in any kind of a legal bind, I honestly can't think of a better guy to have in your corner. Hire this man right now. He will help you. I promise.
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15 Jun, 2024 by Clb
Hiring Justin to counsel my divorce was a fabulous decision! His experience shines with his ability to listen and provide proper, detailed guidance for all of the options available. Justin has a friendly, candid approach that is exactly what I needed in order to navigate these unchartered waters. He is precise, timely and always prepared to move things along swiftly. Justin's tenure in the industry is admirable and allows him to move seamless through the process. My favorite aspect of Justin's is his commitment to communication. He responds promptly with support and gets right to the point! If you are serious about your decision to get a divorce and want dedicated representation, Justin is a fantastic choice to lead you to define the 'success' that is right for your situation.
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30 May, 2024 by Zena bui
Scott Kolker is a wonderful attorney! Highly recommend! He walked me through the process and helped me get the care that I needed through Physical therapy and Orthopedics. He is reliable and will answer any questions that you have.
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02 Sep, 2024 by Bethany
Ben is a compassionate and understanding attorney. Ben has stuck by my side through it all. A high conflict custody mess. He will help you navigate through sticky situations. Just know he’s truly there for you, like an attorney should be.
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07 Jun, 2024 by Neil burnett
Ben was really knowledgeable and sympathetic towards a dad in a tight situation and helped me navigate through a difficult custody battle. I would recommend him for anyone especially fathers that need legal help involving your children !!!
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07 Jun, 2024 by Zully kuster
Ben is very cool
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16 Jan, 2024 by John b
10 Aug, 2023 by Sarah duncan
We hired Tony for someone who was in desperate need for some great defense..that is what Tony delivered.
Aside from that, he’s just really a great down to earth guy! He made me comfortable from our first phone call. He’s a straight shooter and he will tell you how it is! I appreciated his transparency and the fact that he’s just really easy to work with. Down to earth and relatable! Would hire again!
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22 Dec, 2022 by Jack mehuff plz bitc (too quick sorry)
he's very good informative and keeps you up-to-date on your case and mr. mellencamp is FrankBoyer and I love you
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16 Oct, 2024 by Liza jungmeyer
Great guy, graciously helping. Kris was just a awesome.
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13 Oct, 2024 by Dc chute
Quick response and initial client intake.
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27 Sep, 2024 by Seth smith
I have always been a civic minded, very hard working and law abiding citizen, until my family ran into some financial issues because of the pandemic and inflation. We were sued by the First National Bank of Omaha because of late payments on a credit card, with little recourse but to find an attorney to help us. Mind you, this was almost ALL medical debt that had to be put on a credit card. Kris, and all his staff, were so kind, personable and helpful. These people believe in what they are doing and finding people a good settlement at a difficult and low period of life. Many kudos!!
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25 Jun, 2024 by Stanford coleman
19 Jun, 2024 by Phyllis robsham
Keane Law did a great job handling my legal matter. The team is very dedicated and knowledgeable in what they do while showing compassion for the client. The timeliness in communication was great appreciated ! I would highly recommend
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03 Jun, 2024 by M jeffery
Not only is the Keane Law team very dedicated and knowledgeable in what they do, but they are also very courteous and caring. They are very good at reaching out and keeping their clients informed. They did a great job in taking care of my son and I am at ease knowing that we have such a great team looking out for us in the next case. I Highly recommend Keane Law LLC.
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25 Apr, 2024 by Emil lulic
#1 Attorney
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13 Apr, 2024 by Brad stieren
09 Mar, 2024 by Demonica douglas
When I got into my accident I was lost and didn’t know which way to turn then a good friend of mine suggested Craig and when we met he made me feel comfortable about the situation and made sure I was pleased with my case but not only did he take care of my car accident case he also took care of some court matters I had as well I will recommend him to everyone
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14 Sep, 2024 by Stephen allmond
Mr. Smith was very helpful and knowledgeable. I recommend Mr. Smith to anyone.
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12 Sep, 2024 by Bryan krueger
I have known Rachna for years, working with her on multiple occasions when she was with the Jane Doe Advocacy Center. Therefore, when I decided to get a divorce, it was a no-brainer to go to this acquaintance I had known for years. At first, my experience with The Lien Law Firm was excellent. You can make payments in installments, but they will start the proceedings once everything is collected. When I was able to get an in-person visit, everything went well.
Since 10/23/2022, I have been diligently pursuing my divorce proceedings.
Unfortunately, she was unavailable to take my call almost every time I called the office. I would leave a message for a callback, which I rarely received on multiple occasions. There were a couple of phone appointments that she missed, and I never received a callback.
The client portal is a joke because I have sent messages to Mrs. Lien, the office staff, or both and never received a response.
It has taken a little longer because initially, I had a paternity test involved in my divorce proceedings, and they would need to try and serve her. This was difficult because she was not living in the same state as I, and I did not have an exact address for her.
Eventually, divorce paperwork was completed in June 2023—multiple attempts to contact afterward without responses.
On October 24, 2023, I had a phone appointment, and she said she could not find my wife to serve her. I provided updated info that I was able to find, and she said I could hire a PI in Florida, which could cost me a couple thousand dollars more. She also provided me with the information of three aggressive lawyers if I still wanted to try to track her down.
On January 25, 2024, I went to the courthouse on other business. While there, I checked out the status of my case, and I was informed that it was on the dismissal pile. I made a follow-up appointment in February, which she missed.
I eventually was able to get an in-person appointment on June 14, 2024, and decided to forgo the paternity test and finish the divorce. I had to refile the paperwork because it was dismissed in January. She said it was left on the dismissal pile on purpose to see if my wife would come out of the woodwork and be caught and served.
It is now September 12, 2024, and multiple attempts to contact her since the June meeting have failed. I am still in limbo on whether she has resubmitted my divorce paperwork or not.
This has been an extremely frustrating and draining experience. Another reason not to get married.
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27 Aug, 2024 by Maria marino
Absolutely the best lawyer ever !
I have had a few different lawyers through child custody and modification cases and he is by far the best I’ve ever had super quick to communicate with you gets the job done doesn’t dawdle very reasonably priced very honest and just a good person in general he is not one of those money, hungry lawyers he actually cares ! You won’t ever regret hiring him !
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10 Oct, 2024 by Cody thomas
Joe was available, targeted, and effective.
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08 Oct, 2024 by Lazarus nunley (bklaz)
Dan is an excellent attorney. He took my case, was honest with me my situation and the possibilities. He's also a very personal man they shows a genuine interest me, not only as client but also as a person. Likewise, the office staff are very professional and courteous. Dan Juengel should be your first round professional Attorney pick.
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18 Sep, 2024 by Sandra phillips
Joe Flees was absolutely amazing! He took the time to explain everything thoroughly and was always available to answer my questions. His dedication and hard work were evident throughout the entire process. I couldn't be happier. Highly recommend!
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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.
