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10 Apr, 2017 by Dannielle
I have been the recipient of an angry ex who has dragged me and our children thru the court "ringer" for over 2 years. I started with attorneys that touted many awards and years of experience. I wrongly associated high hourly rates with superior service. I couldn't have been more wrong. Frustrated with the family law system, I was going to go Pro se in family court to preserve any finances for an appeal that my ex had filed with the Western District.
A quick manuever from the opposing side landed me with 4 motions to take place in one day, within 1 weeks notice, during a time that I had a pre-existing conflict. I contacted Elisha and explained my situation. She herself had very little time to prepare, but showed such compassion for me and my situation that she agreed to represent me.
Wow! Words cannot explain how wonderful she has been. She demonstrated an excellent understanding of Missouri law. She told me what my options were with such limited notice and the inability to be present for that specific hearing. She then proceeded quickly to set me up for success. She filed the correct responses/motions within a couple of days. At the hearing, she genuinely spoke on my behalf expressing to the court everything that I wanted to say, but in superb legal lingo that I would not have been equipped with. Her phenomenal representation resulted in all of the motions going the way that I wanted.
Impressively, Elisha also used her quick thinking and ability to grasp what was in my best interest; to handle a curve ball that the opposing team threw at the hearing (having not been discussed between us prior).
I wish I had found Elisha years ago. I have no doubt that she would have prevented so much of the extra heartache and grief associated with my previous choice of outrageously priced attorneys who cared very little for me. I believe that my previous attorneys just saw me as a cash cow. Over two years too late, this lesson wasn't learned in time for me. But for anyone reading this, maybe it can help you. If you want someone who actually cares for you, respects your money, and fights on your behalf using incredible law knowledge- then I highly recommend Elisha Gilmore.
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01 Apr, 2017 by Luke
Excellent legal knowledge and very supportive not just legally but emotionally. Elisha has gone above and beyond during my fight against my vindictive soon to be ex wife. Providing excellent legal service to defend this exparte that is being used to keep my children from me. Even when the opposing lawyer was being difficult Elisha kept me in the loop and answered any questions I had promptly. Case is still ongoing but I am now getting time with my children and I owe it all to this law group. Friendly, professional and overall excellent! Highly recommend!
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01 Apr, 2017 by Ed
Elisha went on and above for our case. she was good about keeping us updated. would Highly recommend her for an attorney if one is needed.. she will definitely get our business again if she is needed. Thanks Elisha for all you helped with me and my fiance case...
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03 Nov, 2023 by Steve
When I to see Richard Hicks, I was upset about a bad business deal I went through. Things were heated and I really wanted to sue the opposition. Richard calmed me down and got me thinking straight. He told me to stay out of court and that I had very little chance of success with my case. Richard was a straight shooter and instead of just taking my money like a typical attorney, he chose to do the right thing. The problems from the business side ended up working out its own. If you ever needed anything legally, you should consult with Mr. Hicks.
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27 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
He helped me through some pretty rough situations. When it comes to finding someone to handle your legal matters, there's no one I'd trust more than Richard Hicks.
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29 Aug, 2013 by Anonymous
Richard is one of the best trial lawyers I know. I have watched him since law school and have tried very hard to emulate him. Juries respond to Richard because he is always passionate and sincere. He is also a gifted communicator and knows how to present his case in a way that captures your attention. I have never hesitated when recommending Richard to my friends.
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05 Jul, 2024 by D5 blood
The best attorney I have known in my life ,Matt is full of compation,and will fight for his people I'm sending everyone I know to Mr Dresner ,in the entertainment business , respectfully, D5 BLOOD
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08 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
He helped me when nobody else would.
Mr. Dresner I still owe you a coffee/lunch.
I do hope you are doing well sir.
Thank you for helping me with the case. You're the best.
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29 Aug, 2018 by Jean
Matt was very good at explaining the law. I had never been through a divorce before, and needed "coaching" on many issues. He also talked with my unpleasant ex-husband as well as met with him to finalize the case. Overall, VERY GOOD.
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16 Nov, 2015 by Anonymous
Malia has been an excellent lawyer throughout my custody case. She is a very ethical lawyer. She has the best interest of her client in mind. I was recommended by a friend, to hire her. I would absolutely recommend her to others as well.
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26 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
Chris helped me with a criminal matter. He kept me well informed every step of the way and I was very satisfied with the results.
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17 May, 2024 by Braden tyrer
Always professional and reliable! Chris is always prompt too. Thank you!
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13 May, 2024 by Drew sells
I highly recommend hiring Nicole to help guide you through whatever legal representation you need. She is very personable and communicated thoroughly, getting me from point A to point B in a timely manner. My favorite part was the status updates. Nicole kept me informed through the entire process. Top notch service!
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08 May, 2024 by Aliyyah beckman
Highly recommend Nicole Smith! She reached out and got my boyfriends case dropped for him free of charge and refused a $100 tip. I wouldn't expect any less from an office that a state representative runs, fantastic team! Thank you
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30 Sep, 2024 by Ed gongaware
We have really enjoyed working with Rachael Kennedy on estate planning and such. She will be the one we will contact if we need legal advice. She did an excellent job. We owe her our gratitude.
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25 Aug, 2024 by Dana grimm
Upon feeling overwhelmed on what to do with an inheritance I began contacting lawyer after lawyer just to try to get some insight. Rachel Kennedy was the last person on my list I was done and fed up until I got a hold of the gal who makes her appointments. She was so pleasant and helpful, along with being the only actual person I was able to talk to that day, she scheduled me an appointment approximately 2 weeks out much to my surprise, Rachel Kennedy contacted me that afternoon. Even after explaining I didn't know what I needed to do or if I'd even have enough money to retain her services she gladly gave me a lot of useful advice. She was so generous with her time as well as knowledgeable about my predicament. I found her to be very genuine and helpful without benefiting anything from it. It's not often run into people like that anymore. Although I didn't end up needing to retain an attorney for the situation I can easily say she will be the first person I contact for future situations. Thank you Rachel for all your information and point me in the right direction and not making me feel stupid for not knowing anything. I greatly appreciate your time and it was a pleasure talking to you.
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22 Aug, 2024 by Ann brown
Rachael is wonderful!! She was very helpful and answered all of my questions with a knowledgeable easy to understand explanation. I definitely recommend her for all Life and Estate Planning needs.
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03 May, 2024 by Jay sowash
Professional, personal, knowledgeable......You cannot go wrong with Nathan Jones. If you want comfort with an attorney, you will be extremely pleased if you choose this route.
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13 Apr, 2024 by Carol gaggini|
Nathan Joes assisted my husband & I in updating our Will. We felt that he was knowledgeable, professional, caring & thoughtful in his approach. He & his staff provided smooth, timely, and reasonable priced service.
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10 Apr, 2024 by Sue horner
Their add is misleading. They told me to google another lawyer, they don’t do probate.
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12 Jul, 2024 by Richelle range
Schultz & Myers worked very close with me and ran me through everything as it was happening. Also I always got an answered phone call or a quick response after leaving a message. I highly recommend them.
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12 Jul, 2024 by Kelly chamberlain
Excellent Law Firm!⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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17 Apr, 2024 by Margaret irvin
Exceptional advice eliminating a lot of stressa
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12 Jul, 2024 by Richelle range
Schultz & Myers worked very close with me and ran me through everything as it was happening. Also I always got an answered phone call or a quick response after leaving a message. I highly recommend them.
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12 Jul, 2024 by Kelly chamberlain
Excellent Law Firm!⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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17 Apr, 2024 by Margaret irvin
Exceptional advice eliminating a lot of stressa
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14 May, 2024 by Morrigan carpenter
14 Mar, 2024 by Carrie haslag
John is a good man and an excellent attorney.
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22 Aug, 2023 by Cody mordica
It's never enjoyable to have you talk to an attorney, but John was honest and upfront about everything. I sought counsel for my divorce Roodhouse law firm did a great job helping me through the entire process. Great folks!
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12 Jul, 2024 by Richelle range
Schultz & Myers worked very close with me and ran me through everything as it was happening. Also I always got an answered phone call or a quick response after leaving a message. I highly recommend them.
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12 Jul, 2024 by Kelly chamberlain
Excellent Law Firm!⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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17 Apr, 2024 by Margaret irvin
Exceptional advice eliminating a lot of stressa
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26 Apr, 2024 by Tommy gilmore
05 Apr, 2024 by R g
Casey Elliott provided top-notch legal service to a friend of mine who was an Air Force veteran with cancer and in hospice care. Casey came to the Hospitals at both Boone and later at VA to get the information needed and to get the necessary legal documents executed by him in a timely manner. Because of her speedy assistance, when my friend passed away only weeks later he did so with the peace of mind that his legal affairs were in good order and that his wife would also be in good legal shape. I am glad I was able to help my friend become a client of Casey and am writing this review on his behalf.
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13 Mar, 2024 by Carl slate
06 Jun, 2023 by Angela esteb o'brian
18 Dec, 2021 by Ryan oldenburg
06 Nov, 2021 by Kara venne
No way
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12 Feb, 2024 by Stefanie
Communication was very lacking, this firm dropped the ball multiple times, my case was about to be dropped because they had not delivered the signed paperwork in time, that they had been sitting on for weeks. Sleeth did not have to mediate or negotiate anything on my behalf because it was uncontested, my greatest challenge was Sleeth himself because he decided to file my divorce on what he wanted, without consulting me on the changes, and I knew it was terms my ex husband wouldn’t agree to, I had to insist Sleeth to change it back to what I wanted. I felt like I had to shoulder my divorce by myself. Please, spend your money elsewhere.
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02 Jun, 2015 by Benjamin
I had Brian work on a mechanics lien for work that we had completed on a commercial property. He was very knowledgeable and walked us through the process. After informing the property owner that we had contacted an attorney we no longer needed to file, but I have every confidence in Brians abilities and excellent service.
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02 Jun, 2015 by Aaron
Brian has been there for any of my legal questions and concerns. He has brought comfort as well as very sound legal advice for me and my family. Whenever I need anything he is willing to go above and beyond what is expected to help me feel comfortable with certain situations.
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27 Aug, 2024 by Ryan mccreery
He helped me regarding a traffic citation. Definitely recommend!
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15 Apr, 2024 by Kelly
Lorrie is the best attorney in Boone county bar none there is no one even close if you want a lawyer that cares about you and that gets results the please contact Lorrie Kline the one true Attorney who truly cares
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04 Apr, 2024 by Eric allison
I used Lorri for a a ex parte case where I was the petitioner. I hired her in hopes that the full order would be granted. I had evidence of the defendant violating the ex parte, which wasn’t even brought up in court. Felt like I had a better shot of getting the full order had I had proper counsel. Literally the worst $775 I’ve ever spent. I actually felt like Lorri was working for the defendant.
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27 Aug, 2024 by Ryan mccreery
He helped me regarding a traffic citation. Definitely recommend!
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15 Apr, 2024 by Kelly
Lorrie is the best attorney in Boone county bar none there is no one even close if you want a lawyer that cares about you and that gets results the please contact Lorrie Kline the one true Attorney who truly cares
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04 Apr, 2024 by Eric allison
I used Lorri for a a ex parte case where I was the petitioner. I hired her in hopes that the full order would be granted. I had evidence of the defendant violating the ex parte, which wasn’t even brought up in court. Felt like I had a better shot of getting the full order had I had proper counsel. Literally the worst $775 I’ve ever spent. I actually felt like Lorri was working for the defendant.
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11 Oct, 2024 by Beth krieger
Anna is so authentic and genuine. Such an intelligent person. She is compassionate and not afraid to put reality on the table. I really like her, not just as an attorney, but as a wonderful human!
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08 Aug, 2024 by Carrie mccardie
Amy Salladay has been a fantastic attorney to work with. In a maintenance modification case, Amy is not only highly knowledgeable, but she demonstrated great creativity in her approach to my case. All of my questions were always answered with great clarity. She kept me informed every step of the way, which gave me great peace of mind. Amy’s courtroom demeanor and presence are top-notch and speak volumes in a trial setting. She thoroughly reviewed all of the evidence in my case. She prepared an exceptional strategy that ultimately tipped the scale in my favor for the final court judgment, which exceeded my expectations of no longer paying spousal maintenance. I highly recommend Amy Salladay and her team at Columbia Family Law Group. Thank you so much for everything you have done - Jason and Carrie
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15 Jul, 2024 by Jordawn boyd
11 Oct, 2024 by Beth krieger
Anna is so authentic and genuine. Such an intelligent person. She is compassionate and not afraid to put reality on the table. I really like her, not just as an attorney, but as a wonderful human!
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08 Aug, 2024 by Carrie mccardie
Amy Salladay has been a fantastic attorney to work with. In a maintenance modification case, Amy is not only highly knowledgeable, but she demonstrated great creativity in her approach to my case. All of my questions were always answered with great clarity. She kept me informed every step of the way, which gave me great peace of mind. Amy’s courtroom demeanor and presence are top-notch and speak volumes in a trial setting. She thoroughly reviewed all of the evidence in my case. She prepared an exceptional strategy that ultimately tipped the scale in my favor for the final court judgment, which exceeded my expectations of no longer paying spousal maintenance. I highly recommend Amy Salladay and her team at Columbia Family Law Group. Thank you so much for everything you have done - Jason and Carrie
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15 Jul, 2024 by Jordawn boyd
11 Oct, 2024 by Beth krieger
Anna is so authentic and genuine. Such an intelligent person. She is compassionate and not afraid to put reality on the table. I really like her, not just as an attorney, but as a wonderful human!
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08 Aug, 2024 by Carrie mccardie
Amy Salladay has been a fantastic attorney to work with. In a maintenance modification case, Amy is not only highly knowledgeable, but she demonstrated great creativity in her approach to my case. All of my questions were always answered with great clarity. She kept me informed every step of the way, which gave me great peace of mind. Amy’s courtroom demeanor and presence are top-notch and speak volumes in a trial setting. She thoroughly reviewed all of the evidence in my case. She prepared an exceptional strategy that ultimately tipped the scale in my favor for the final court judgment, which exceeded my expectations of no longer paying spousal maintenance. I highly recommend Amy Salladay and her team at Columbia Family Law Group. Thank you so much for everything you have done - Jason and Carrie
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01 Aug, 2024 by Jason and carrie
Amy Salladay has been a fantastic attorney to work with. In a maintenance modification case, Amy is not only highly knowledgeable, but she demonstrated great creativity in her approach to my case. All of my questions were always answered with great clarity. She kept me informed every step of the way, which gave me great peace of mind. Amy’s courtroom demeanor and presence are top-notch and speak volumes in a trial setting. She thoroughly reviewed all of the evidence in my case. She prepared an exceptional strategy that ultimately tipped the scale in my favor for the final court judgment, which exceeded my expectations of no longer paying spousal maintenance. I highly recommend Amy Salladay and her team at Columbia Family Law Group. Thank you so much for everything you have done - Jason and Carrie
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02 Jan, 2024 by Jakeb ray
Wow! No communication, no ACTION. In my opinion, not worth a dime. Dragged feet, doesn't return calls. and comes back 7 months later with a response. Par for the course. Just loo at the replies to her other reviews. Always someone else's fault.
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27 Jan, 2023 by Alyson o'donnell
Tana has been a wonderful skilled asset in working through complex legal questions, issues, and long term concerns. She has gone above and beyond to offer valid information to me whenever I need.
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13 Jan, 2023 by Chris guthrie
I had a long drawn out custody case pursuing custody of my son. Right before trial I had an attorney file a motion to withdraw so when I showed up to trial I had no attorney. I was forced into having a trial without an attorney or to set up some kind of visitation. So I had a zoom call with Tana explained my whole situation and she told me that she would take the case and I would be responsible to pay such and such amount. She did not follow through with her obligations as my attorney she never filed a form 14 to get the child support straightened out. She filed a continuance cause she was sick and showed up for one court date via through zoom and then filed a motion to withdraw. She did not help my case In anyway and she took my money then filed a motion to withdraw now I have to come up with all that money all over again and hire another attorney to pursue my rights as a father. I do NOT recommend any attorney that will do their client in the way Benner Law did me. Do not waste your money. She made thi gs sound good In my consultation but just took my money and ran with it.
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28 Mar, 2022 by Versa g
Connie was pleasant to work with, a busy woman with a beautiful soul and many cases and a lot on her plate. After purchasing a walther pk380 from a local pawnshop. I had accidentally fired my first bullet into a hotel TV. She helped me get an unlawful use of a weapon charge dropped, that was partially due to a manufacturing defect, there was a safety recall on the model gun I owned for some of them firing with safety on.. even though the serial number on the pistol that I had purchased was several thousand productions after the recall numbers, it still had this defect. She only accepted half of the money she had asked from me, as a Christmas gift. She has a stressful job and that kinda stress eats away at the working memory used for remembering where you put your keys or file folder pertaining to the current case. I could tell she had a heart of gold, and and was doing her best. We don't have long on this Earth and if patience offers a path to even the smallest amount of peace for another person here it's just the least we can do for them to respect their soul for being here with us. Thank you Connie for all you do.
-Brandon
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08 Feb, 2022 by Ron bliss
Awesome, website. Easy to navigate and leave message. Great Job.
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08 Dec, 2021 by Brianna dean
Pd Connie, money to file paperwork in my case. She never filed the papers and when I requested my money back and all of my paperwork she never called to discuss the issue.
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26 Apr, 2024 by Tommy gilmore
05 Apr, 2024 by R g
Casey Elliott provided top-notch legal service to a friend of mine who was an Air Force veteran with cancer and in hospice care. Casey came to the Hospitals at both Boone and later at VA to get the information needed and to get the necessary legal documents executed by him in a timely manner. Because of her speedy assistance, when my friend passed away only weeks later he did so with the peace of mind that his legal affairs were in good order and that his wife would also be in good legal shape. I am glad I was able to help my friend become a client of Casey and am writing this review on his behalf.
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13 Mar, 2024 by Carl slate
02 Jan, 2024 by Jakeb ray
Wow! No communication, no ACTION. In my opinion, not worth a dime. Dragged feet, doesn't return calls. and comes back 7 months later with a response. Par for the course. Just loo at the replies to her other reviews. Always someone else's fault.
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27 Jan, 2023 by Alyson o'donnell
Tana has been a wonderful skilled asset in working through complex legal questions, issues, and long term concerns. She has gone above and beyond to offer valid information to me whenever I need.
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13 Jan, 2023 by Chris guthrie
I had a long drawn out custody case pursuing custody of my son. Right before trial I had an attorney file a motion to withdraw so when I showed up to trial I had no attorney. I was forced into having a trial without an attorney or to set up some kind of visitation. So I had a zoom call with Tana explained my whole situation and she told me that she would take the case and I would be responsible to pay such and such amount. She did not follow through with her obligations as my attorney she never filed a form 14 to get the child support straightened out. She filed a continuance cause she was sick and showed up for one court date via through zoom and then filed a motion to withdraw. She did not help my case In anyway and she took my money then filed a motion to withdraw now I have to come up with all that money all over again and hire another attorney to pursue my rights as a father. I do NOT recommend any attorney that will do their client in the way Benner Law did me. Do not waste your money. She made thi gs sound good In my consultation but just took my money and ran with it.
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02 Aug, 2024 by Jami wallace
Emily shoemaker is amazing she is helpful, fast and efficient on returning email and phone calls.
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02 Aug, 2024 by Ashley walker
Emily is a wonderful attorney. She always replies fast and waste no time to jump in and fight hard for her client! She definitely works for you and with you!
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31 Jul, 2024 by Katie ahearn
If their was a option for no stars I would put it!! HIGHLY RECOMEND NOT USING THEM! They are highly unprofessional! Emily is not sympathetic to my case. This should have been a very easy cut and dry case! The GAL has even stepped in on multiple occasions to defend me and my son. As being the mom who has taken care of her son almost 10 years all by herself. Wasn't getting much positivity from Emily. I will say Nick her ex Assistant was ABSOLUTELY AMAZING! He was very kind, understood my situation, was very empathetic to my case and did everything in a timely manner. He even gave me words of encouragement telling me I am a great mom. As for Emily I will not refer anyone to her . She did not fight for me especially the way she should have. I didn't even get child support nor 10 years of back paid child support which should have been done. Every time I asked she kept pushing me of and saying it will be done by the end of the day and never was filed which should have been the first thing she should have done!
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02 Aug, 2024 by Jami wallace
Emily shoemaker is amazing she is helpful, fast and efficient on returning email and phone calls.
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02 Aug, 2024 by Ashley walker
Emily is a wonderful attorney. She always replies fast and waste no time to jump in and fight hard for her client! She definitely works for you and with you!
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31 Jul, 2024 by Katie ahearn
If their was a option for no stars I would put it!! HIGHLY RECOMEND NOT USING THEM! They are highly unprofessional! Emily is not sympathetic to my case. This should have been a very easy cut and dry case! The GAL has even stepped in on multiple occasions to defend me and my son. As being the mom who has taken care of her son almost 10 years all by herself. Wasn't getting much positivity from Emily. I will say Nick her ex Assistant was ABSOLUTELY AMAZING! He was very kind, understood my situation, was very empathetic to my case and did everything in a timely manner. He even gave me words of encouragement telling me I am a great mom. As for Emily I will not refer anyone to her . She did not fight for me especially the way she should have. I didn't even get child support nor 10 years of back paid child support which should have been done. Every time I asked she kept pushing me of and saying it will be done by the end of the day and never was filed which should have been the first thing she should have done!
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22 Aug, 2019 by Michelle
Took $1800 on retainer. Agreed on plan in office then changed what we wanted on Motion to Modify a child custody order. Charged us about $750 for what he did even though it was not what we hired him to do. Removed himself from our case when we disagreed with what he wrote and refused to refund our remaining retainer of about $1050. Apparently he tells you what you want to hear then does what he wants regardless of what you hire him for.
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22 Aug, 2019 by Anonymous
Matt really helped me out in a difficult time. He helped me through the whole process of my divorce and custody of my child. He also helped me navigate and with my fraud cases. I would highly recommend Matt for any divorce or custody matters.
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21 Aug, 2019 by Maggie
Matt was very helpful in explaining how the process would work to make sure I understood how everything went. He was amazing at keeping me informed through the whole process. Very easy to talk to! I would Highly recommend!!
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20 Oct, 2020 by Marvel
He takes cases to make money even though he doesn't do much if anything to prepare. Unprepared, unexpected cancel meetings or does not show up, etc. Leaves his hotel room door open walking around in his underwear (during the time of our trial). Unbelievable.
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19 Oct, 2017 by Bill
I couldn't disagree with the One star reviewer more. George was a member of the Mizzou faculty, but left the University and remains perhaps the lawyer in Columbia who can take a case against the University with a reasonable expectation of winning. If you case has no chance we will advise you accordingly. He felt my case was a wait and see; no I'm ready to hire him.
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18 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
Do not hire this lawyer. This lawyer is unethical and unqualified. For example, we discussed terms and conditions before we agreed on a contract. After signing the contract, he changed several key terms and conditions, including how the payments and fees were distributed, citing his right to change it under the contract. He barely did any preparation for the trial, just meeting me for a few hours the day before the trial. And nearly everything he did, he did to bolster the opposing side's case and weaken mine. When I confronted him on this, he refused to answer my questions. I have significant proof to what he did that I am willing to make available to anyone. Finally, although I told him to withdraw from my case, he "ignored" my email even though he had received it, continuing to speak with the opposing side's attorney. This person is an abomination to the legal field.
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30 Mar, 2023 by Kaitlin florek-winfield
phone is not a working number
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12 Jul, 2022 by Jon haes
No working phone
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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.
