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21 Feb, 2024 by Roy
Couselor Kelpak is a well organized Lawler, thoughtful congenial and ready to take on the task and kept me informed on status well. I rate Counsel Kelpak as a top Lawler - Highests Raking
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14 Nov, 2023 by Sean
Mr. Klepak made my divorce process very simple. He told me our plan of action, told me the cost of everything up front, and made constant contact with me along the way for any changes or just to update me. Would highly recommend.
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15 Sep, 2023 by Horst
I added my wives name to a rental house we own .
Gary took care of the property deed. And Gary got it all taken care of and I did not have to worry about a thing. Will use Gary for my future needs.
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18 Nov, 2024 by Carol b
15 Nov, 2024 by Megan mclemore
Valerie is very knowledgeable in what she does and made the whole process very easy.
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14 Nov, 2024 by Janice mark
Services were very professional, staff were very friendly and helpful. Thank you for assisting me.
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17 Jan, 2025 by Steven jesus tambo pirela
Did great on My car accidente
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16 Jan, 2025 by Jalynn truss
He did a great job with helping me after my car accident.
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15 Jan, 2025 by Lai
Did an excellent job with helping me with my car accident , friendly and resourceful
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15 Jan, 2025 by Lauren
I can’t thank Mr Poydasheff and Mrs. Hearn enough for walking me through the whole process and providing the utmost kind and positive approach to everything thrown their way. 13/10 recommend using their services!
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23 Oct, 2024 by Ulunda baker
Thank you to this team for the care, compassion and kindness that you showed to me and my family today. The family matter process is not easy. It’s emotional and hard but you made it easier for us. I would highly recommend your practice to other families.
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24 Sep, 2024 by Jodi mccardle
Rob and his Team are excellent and very professional. Highly recommend them for Custody case
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14 Nov, 2024 by Texas lss
Mr. Sikes and his team worked very hard on my two different cases in 2019 and 2024. The outcomes were beyond my expectations. His experience and professionalism are outstanding. Macie is very detailed on every document from me and the other side. She made my packet perfect. Mrs. Jenny was very helpful to my cases as well. Her contribution helped me to win the cases. I strongly recommend this office.
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03 Jun, 2024 by Ryan harrison
Mr.Sikes is an incredible lawyer who genuinely cares. Mr.Sikes is a true professional who knows how to win for his clients both in and out of the courtroom. I recommend Mr.Sikes to anyone who needs the absolute best legal representation.
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18 Feb, 2024 by Jessica scialabba
20 Jun, 2013 by Anonymous
From start to finish professional personal care was given to us and our case. I can't possibly say enough good about this firm.
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24 Oct, 2024 by Kathy addison
After denials and losing everything from 3 years of fighting, Ellen and Annette tolerated a “very beat down and frustrated me”. Approval happened based upon original diagnosis! Guess you just have to have the best on your side!
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23 Oct, 2024 by Matt clayton
I've had the pleasure of working with PWMC and I am thoroughly impressed by their professionalism, character, and reputation. From the moment I met Brandon and worked with Brooke at PWMC Cares, they exhibited a level of dedication and integrity that is rare in today's legal landscape.
The attorneys at PWMC are not only exceptionally knowledgeable and skilled in their respective areas of law, but they also genuinely care about their clients and their community.
Their reputation in the community is well-deserved.
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02 Jul, 2024 by Daniel hord
Incredible group of people supporting our community in so many ways! They are trustworthy in all they do.
They support our public safety departments in Columbus and make us feel so appreciated.
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06 Dec, 2024 by Tonya keith
Met with John today and he thoroughly explained the process and answered any questions that we had. He was very professional, knowledgeable and courteous. Very nice man.
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02 Dec, 2024 by Sadie royal
John came out to visit me this morning answered all my questions and listened to all of my concerns
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20 Nov, 2024 by Quanevius marshall
I had with John today and he was very organized and helped with all the questions me and my family had while dealing with our case. I would recommend John to any one. John even communicated with me after hours, worked around my schedule to help me =) thank you so much John.
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06 Nov, 2019 by Lisa
Mr. Dodgen has made time for two consultations with me on a case I will pursue in the very near future. He is honest and trustworthy. He listened to my concerns and provided answers and advice best suited to my individual needs. This is the attorney I will be hiring to take my case, and I highly recommend that you do the same.
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01 Feb, 2018 by Christi
He was very polite and willing to hear me out on my current situation and gave me the advice I needed. Definitely will be using him in the future!
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01 Sep, 2016 by Anthony
I had hired the services of Mr. Hirsch in July of 2014. To my recollection, he had asked for a $2,500 retainer, plus the standard additional fees for court costs and document preparation. To make a ,as everyone knows, long story short, the total cost for everything came to be around $6,000-$6,500. My divorce case of course was not your standard one. The divorce part was held in the state of Texas, while only the custody of 'one' of the children was held here in Georgia. The mothers' father was a Texas lawyer, so it turned into hailstorm of inter-state arguments between Mr. Hirsch and the grandfather. Due to this endeavour, and having to pay support to the spouse, my finances were a very big issue and most of the time I was unable to pay Mr. Hirsch on time. Mr. Hirsch still kept me as his client and won me 'full' custody of my son. Hiring a lawyer is NOT easy on the wallet, but with over 65 years of solid experience in the field of family law, I very highly recommend Mr. Hirsch. Easy 10 of 10!!
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18 Sep, 2021 by Roy burney
Very professional and they carry out details to a T..
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16 Oct, 2019 by Damisha johnson
23 Jul, 2019 by Family hall
Easily accessible as a driver.
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19 Aug, 2024 by Nikholas johnson
Unprofessional, no sense of urgency, lacks communication and racist. Highly disappointed with this organization. I️ recommend finding another unbiased organization that will represent you without judgement and only love of the profession.
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17 Aug, 2024 by Isaac wills
Short story: Mr. Morgan got my felony dropped down to a misdemeanor with NO JAIL TIME. Long story: I cant stress enough how well Mr. Morgan handled my case. It was rocky due to the State being the one pressing charges on me. I was on bond for Felony Terroristic Threats and Acts for about 3 years. Ive since gotten my life together and was having issues getting a good job still with a pending felony charge and all. I contacted Ted’s office as he’s been on my case from the beginning and stated it was best to wait it out, however I needed something done soon. He handled my case with urgency and got in contact with the ADA, and got them to agree to me pleading to a misdemeanor and doing some probation time. After a month tops, we had a court day set and I had a date to make my plea. Once getting to court, he discussed with me how things would go and how to handle myself in front of the judge. After 4 hours of waiting through other cases, it was my turn. Super nervous, but I was confident in Mr. Morgans abilities. After going through normal procedures with the case, the Judge agreed to the terms set forth by Mr. Morgan and the state’s ADA. I AM FELONY FREE, and after a year of pretty relaxed probation, I will be a free man. I can garuntee I’ll never be back in court. But if worst comes to worst, I’ll have Mr. Morgan by my side.
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08 Jun, 2024 by Tony griffin
I had the pleasure of working with Ted and Candy at Ted Morgan Law, and I couldn't be more impressed with their professionalism and expertise. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted warmly by Candy and made to feel welcome.
Ted was incredibly knowledgeable and took the time to understand my situation thoroughly. He listened attentively to my concerns and provided clear, concise legal advice.
I would highly recommend Ted Morgan to anyone in need of legal services. Thank you to the entire team for your outstanding work!
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17 Jan, 2025 by Steven jesus tambo pirela
Did great on My car accidente
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16 Jan, 2025 by Jalynn truss
He did a great job with helping me after my car accident.
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15 Jan, 2025 by Lai
Did an excellent job with helping me with my car accident , friendly and resourceful
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17 Jan, 2025 by Steven jesus tambo pirela
Did great on My car accidente
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16 Jan, 2025 by Jalynn truss
He did a great job with helping me after my car accident.
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15 Jan, 2025 by Lai
Did an excellent job with helping me with my car accident , friendly and resourceful
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5.0
20 Reviews
3.8
134 Reviews
30 Jul, 2024 by Cory little
Well I brought my case to Mr. Phillips …and was honest and straight to the point. He gave me advice on how this case was going to turn out and it did. So I would recommend him if you wanting someone who’s has the knowledge and experience.
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22 Jun, 2024 by The son
TERRIBLE LAWYER!!!!! I paid this lady 3000$ almost 1 1/2 yr ago, never answers the phone, or returns my calls and a very inconsiderate person. Last time I spoke with her she called at 5 in the afternoon telling me we had emergency court the next day....but that didn't happen either....also while speaking with her during this same day she said " I'm going to mail you a packet to fill out"..... guess what never got the package.....I went to this lady to get joint custody of my kids. Never thought she was the type to take advantage of you but fooled me...Once she gets your money you won't hear from her again...What crazy is I'm learning that other attorneys in Columbus say the same thing about her, that she's a terrible attorney ....SO I WOULD ADVISE ANYONE SEEKING HELP FROM HER " DONT" .....JUST READ THE OTHER REVIEWS, THEY PRETTY MUCH SAY TJE SAME THING SAYING....ALSO HER LICENSE HAS BEEN SUSPENDED IN GA ....HMMM...I WONDER WHY!!!!!
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11 Jun, 2024 by Britney harris
Hired her for a custody case I 2019. She hardly ever answered emails or phone calls. Sent me a bill saying she worked 11 hours in one day on my case which used almost my entire retainer. They sent me a bill asking for more money and when asked about the 11 hours in one day when we didn’t even have court she corrected it told me I owed more and never actually sent me a correct statement on what she actually used the retainer for. When confronted she told me I needed to hire a new attorney. She’s currently suspended from the bar for not responding to them this is her second suspension for not responding to bar. Please do your self a favor and hire someone else from the start.
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23 Oct, 2024 by Ulunda baker
Thank you to this team for the care, compassion and kindness that you showed to me and my family today. The family matter process is not easy. It’s emotional and hard but you made it easier for us. I would highly recommend your practice to other families.
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24 Sep, 2024 by Jodi mccardle
Rob and his Team are excellent and very professional. Highly recommend them for Custody case
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14 Aug, 2024 by Jeffrey massey
18 Dec, 2024 by Nya jones
Rude, called to ask some questions and he just cut me off and saying no that he will not answer any questions. He could have been a lil more empathetic and respectful but yes he is rude.
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19 Nov, 2024 by Anonymous
Lawyer was not very professional and demonstrated the following problems: lateness. Seemed not very interested in solving my problems. very small firm....like just him
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17 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
Rude! Not professional- cheap for a reason - but runs up the bill when your stuck. not effective - not efficient late to meetings late to court - read other review and make the decision carefully- ASK around
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29 Jul, 2024 by Tony shirley
30 Mar, 2024 by Maria faith lenoire
27 Feb, 2024 by Catherine stanton-schmoll
Karen Earley is a great real estate attorney. Easy to work with.
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23 Oct, 2024 by Ulunda baker
Thank you to this team for the care, compassion and kindness that you showed to me and my family today. The family matter process is not easy. It’s emotional and hard but you made it easier for us. I would highly recommend your practice to other families.
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24 Sep, 2024 by Jodi mccardle
Rob and his Team are excellent and very professional. Highly recommend them for Custody case
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14 Aug, 2024 by Jeffrey massey
31 Jan, 2024 by Thomas
I wholeheartedly recommend Attorney Stacy Bondurant for her exceptional legal services. Stacy and her team represented me in a complex and emotionally challenging custody case, where she demonstrated unparalleled professionalism, expertise, and compassion.
From the onset, Stacy exhibited a deep understanding of family law and a genuine concern for the well-being of my young family member. Her approach was both strategic and empathetic, ensuring that every aspect of the case was handled with the utmost care and attention to detail. Stacy's ability to navigate the legal system with such skill and dedication was truly impressive.
What sets Stacy's and her team apart is their exceptional communication skills. They kept me informed throughout the process, explaining legal terms and procedures in a way that was easy to understand. The teams responsiveness and availability to address my concerns and questions made a significant difference during this stressful period.
Stacy's advocacy was instrumental in achieving a favorable outcome – securing full custody of my young family member. Her commitment to my case and her determination in the courtroom were nothing short of remarkable.
I am deeply grateful for Stacy's representation and would recommend her without reservation to anyone seeking a compassionate, skilled, and effective attorney. Her commitment to her clients and her expertise in family law are truly commendable.
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02 Oct, 2019 by Anonymous
Typically, I'm not an online reviewer. This one, however, is absolutely worth writing and long overdue. Almost 10 years ago, Stacy Bondurant began representing me in a civil matter. Since then, my case has unfortunately persisted taking many unexpected twists and turns. From the immediate onset, Ms. Bondurant and her assistant, Kristine, have advocated continuously on my behalf. Through the years she has most certainly proven to be tried and true. She is easily accessible. She is honest and forthcoming yet compassionate. She listens to and addresses all of my concerns. She exercises sound judgement and gives wise guidance. In fact, I've never encountered an unfavorable outcome as a result of her advice. Most of all, she is dedicated and has persevered on my case giving exceptional overall service that has not wavered. Words can't express my gratitude to Ms. Bondurant and her assistant, Kristine. My family, without a doubt, has been blessed from their years of faithful, hard work. In today's world filled with uncertainties, I'm sure of this very thing. If you’re in need of an attorney, try Stacy Bondurant. She does not disappoint!
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29 Sep, 2019 by Christian
Let me be clear...anyone with anything negative to say about Stacy is simply angry because they had their false expectations of a situation that was destined to fail to begin with. If you have done everything in your power to do things the right way in your situation, then your outcome has a better chance of being a positive one for you.
Stacy is a straightforward, no-nonsense individual. The moment she told me that her main priority in my case was my child, I knew hands down she was the right one for the job. After going through a series of custody battles for ten years, she was the only one that truly cared about the well being of my son. She fought hard for my baby. I am truly thankful I found her. I implore anyone reading this, if you want someone to fight for you and your family...Stacy is without a doubt your choice.
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14 Nov, 2019 by Tony
Angela Seller's was great for me. She was honest, up front, no nonsense , sympathetic to my needs. Always called and emailed me back. I had many compactions with my case that they worked through . She and Vickie worked my Family law civil case tirelessly with a fair outcome for me. I highly recommend Angela Seller's and Vickie . I have several attorneys in Columbus and she is no doubt the best .
Tony Marano
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22 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
Angela helped us with a child custody case. She is a no nonsense "just the facts please" take care of business, attorney that knows what she is doing. She has done her homework and knows the law. Things worked out for us as we had hoped.
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27 Jan, 2017 by Anonymous
From the very first phone conversation I had with Angela, I knew she was the lawyer for me. I live out of state so all our conversations were thru email and over the phone and I have never felt more comfortable about the decision of hiring her. I did travel to Georgia for the hearing. She is tough and I could tell very dedicated. She fought hard for me and my grandkids and our outcome was great. I would definitely refer her and her firm to anyone needing to hire a civil lawyer.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Culllivesmatter support the cause
Needed help with a case and was super helpful over the phone and smeared all my questions
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12 May, 2024 by Estella mccall
My sister recommended Mr Cohn to me. She said "he will fight for you." He helped me get divorced from my cheating POS husband in a timely manner. He gave excellent advice and did not judge me when I had to bash in my husband's mistress' windows. He even recommended a useful lawyer to help get me off with an expungement. Just make sure you don't go over time in your meetings.
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14 Jun, 2023 by Olivia l
My sister-in-law was referred to this office through the legal team of her employer which is a Fortune 500 company. She has had 2 consultation appointments with this office of which they have called the day of the appointment to reschedule. Today was the second or third reschedule which the young lady said it was due to weather as it is storming out. I advised my sister to let them know that she cannot keep taking off from work, due the office rescheduling the consultations. The young lady was not willing to try to work with her to fit her schedule, either she would have to fit their schedule or refer back to her referring team to find someone else. As their only offers in office consultations, they do not offer over the phone consultations. If this office is this nonchalant and inconsistent before you are actually a client, imagine being a client of Attorney Cohn. I cannot speak for the attorney; however, the staff running the office is speaking volumes for me. I would definitely look elsewhere for legal counsel, especially if you are looking for a divorce attempting to protect yourself and your children from a dangerous environment or person.
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30 Jul, 2024 by Cory little
Well I brought my case to Mr. Phillips …and was honest and straight to the point. He gave me advice on how this case was going to turn out and it did. So I would recommend him if you wanting someone who’s has the knowledge and experience.
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22 Jun, 2024 by The son
TERRIBLE LAWYER!!!!! I paid this lady 3000$ almost 1 1/2 yr ago, never answers the phone, or returns my calls and a very inconsiderate person. Last time I spoke with her she called at 5 in the afternoon telling me we had emergency court the next day....but that didn't happen either....also while speaking with her during this same day she said " I'm going to mail you a packet to fill out"..... guess what never got the package.....I went to this lady to get joint custody of my kids. Never thought she was the type to take advantage of you but fooled me...Once she gets your money you won't hear from her again...What crazy is I'm learning that other attorneys in Columbus say the same thing about her, that she's a terrible attorney ....SO I WOULD ADVISE ANYONE SEEKING HELP FROM HER " DONT" .....JUST READ THE OTHER REVIEWS, THEY PRETTY MUCH SAY TJE SAME THING SAYING....ALSO HER LICENSE HAS BEEN SUSPENDED IN GA ....HMMM...I WONDER WHY!!!!!
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11 Jun, 2024 by Britney harris
Hired her for a custody case I 2019. She hardly ever answered emails or phone calls. Sent me a bill saying she worked 11 hours in one day on my case which used almost my entire retainer. They sent me a bill asking for more money and when asked about the 11 hours in one day when we didn’t even have court she corrected it told me I owed more and never actually sent me a correct statement on what she actually used the retainer for. When confronted she told me I needed to hire a new attorney. She’s currently suspended from the bar for not responding to them this is her second suspension for not responding to bar. Please do your self a favor and hire someone else from the start.
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01 Oct, 2024 by Michael loston
I went in to see Mr abell and I felt all was lost. I had not been able to see my kids for 5 months. Mr. Abell assured me that everything would be OK. him and his team got busy and got me the results that was needed. I read some of the reviews on here. And it may seem like he is not working for you. Because he don’t agree with everything we feel to be right. He does what’s in the best interest of the children involved!! And I for one appreciate the way him and his staff made me feel like I was family. I would recommend him to all my friends and family.
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08 May, 2024 by Jacqueline moffett
07 May, 2024 by Keith smith
Mr. Abell represented me for my case. He was great and reasonable to work with. Explained everything well and broke it down if needed. I really appreciate him and his time to represent me. Thanks again Mr. Abell.
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01 Oct, 2024 by Michael loston
I went in to see Mr abell and I felt all was lost. I had not been able to see my kids for 5 months. Mr. Abell assured me that everything would be OK. him and his team got busy and got me the results that was needed. I read some of the reviews on here. And it may seem like he is not working for you. Because he don’t agree with everything we feel to be right. He does what’s in the best interest of the children involved!! And I for one appreciate the way him and his staff made me feel like I was family. I would recommend him to all my friends and family.
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08 May, 2024 by Jacqueline moffett
07 May, 2024 by Keith smith
Mr. Abell represented me for my case. He was great and reasonable to work with. Explained everything well and broke it down if needed. I really appreciate him and his time to represent me. Thanks again Mr. Abell.
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14 Aug, 2013 by Meisha
Attorney Hoffman and his Secretary Annette were both just great. I can remember on two occasions when they went above and beyond the call of service. First, Mr. Hoffman provided me with step by step instructions on how to proceed after I was served papers by the sheriff’s office on behalf of the creditor that was suing us. He had me come to his office and he printed out the answer form that I need to take with me to the court, to Answer the judgment. Secondly, On our way to our Bankruptcy court hearing My husband and I got lost, I called his office, very stressful because we were almost late on getting there, spoke with Annette she gave me directions, stayed on the phone with me until we got there, and when we turned the corner Attorney Hoffman was right at the door looking for us and gestured us in his direction, he said we were up next, a sense of relieve came over me, for we had made it on time. Thanks to Annette for being at the office to assist us on finding the place. I called Annette back to thank her for staying on the phone with me and understanding that I was very stressful at the time, she was very understanding, and as a matter of fact she said that she was texting Mr. Hoffman to let him know that we were lost but we were very close and should arrive very soon. Kudos to that Team!
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20 Jun, 2013 by Anonymous
My husband and I went to seek council for a bankruptcy. From the moment we made the appointment the service was a joke. We were lied to by one member of the staff, then for lack of any better explanation verbally assaulted and talked down to by his paralegal who then openly flirted with my husband in front of me and then told me how to raise my special needs child...keep in mind all of this after they couldn't even manage to get our names correct. The final nail in the coffin was when I was able to get Mr. Hoffman on the phone. I relayed to him the events of our meeting and expressed my concerns, not only for myself but for anyone else unlucky enough to come into his office when he is away, and his EXACT words to me were, "Well she will be the one handling your file so if you can't work with her find another lawyer." Having worked in the legal system all I can say is I am shocked. If you value yor time and money and have any sense of self worth I strongly urge you to seek council elsewhere.
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18 Jul, 2011 by Cross, eric
Pete is very professional. He takes a personal interest in his cases, maintains an honorable and timely approach to the practice of law. I highly recommend Pete Hoffman.
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02 Dec, 2022 by Katherinne
Oh man, I hired her in June. Finally in October I called because I wasn’t happy. Had no court date set up, no temporary orders. Probably 75% of my retainer was spent. I attempted to contact multiple times. At the end when I said I wanted to fire her, I got a call back within 24 hours. Was told I never reached out, I had documentation that I never received anything from her. Cherry on top, got charged $45 for the phone call where I fired her.
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08 Nov, 2021 by Estella
I made a divorce consult with Lynn Grogan weeks in advance-I’d heard she was a great attorney. Had no issues scheduling and even called the office to confirm after scheduling that my husband was not also consulting with her because he told me he was going to use her for his attorney. The office ASSURED me he had not been scheduled for a consult. Well, the DAY BEFORE our appointment she cancels because she had in fact met with my husband and had been retained by him. SHE WASTED MY TIME.
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18 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
The worst.. I was treated as if she were the opposing attorney. Talked down to and dismissed. She is arrogant and rude. You would be better off doing your on divorce.
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21 Apr, 2017 by Eddie woodhouse
I was referred to Ms. Hardy after another attorney had screwed me over in a divorce. She was very professional and compassionate. Got my divorce completed in a timely manner. The price she charged me was very reasonable compared to the other attorneys I spoke with. She was always available when I called if not she called me right. Her staff was exceptional. I would highly recommend Ms. Hardy.
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24 Aug, 2016 by Bradley
Maxine is outstanding in domestic matters. Caring, insightful, great in court, a good communicator, and extremely knowledgeable. I would not hesitate to recommend her, and have done so a number of times to friends, all of whom have been pleased.
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17 Jul, 2014 by Anonymous
Never go to Maxine Hardy! She over charges you and then does absolutely nothing she is supposed to do. They screwed up my papers which stalled my case even more then Maxine had already done. She is the sorriest excuse for a lawyer I have ever seen in my entire life. I now have hired another lawyer to help get my well deserved money back and to get what I paid Maxine to do in the first place! Please do NOT waist your time and money.
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24 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
Leslie was recommended to me when my ex wanted to modify custody. An ad litem was appointed to review the custody and he did his part but Leslie did absolutely little to nothing except "talk" to me about what he was going to do but never did. I communicated with the ad litem directly. It took almost 5 years to end up where we started and that was no change in custody and over 5000.00. His assistant is very pompous and disrespectful. Unprofessional. Leslie doe not need to continue to take on cases and accept money when it is obvious that his case load is extremely out of balance. It is not fair at all to his new clients.....
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01 Dec, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr. Cohn was referred to me by a friend and she gave him high remarks. He did nothing for me, besides take my money. His paralegal that handled my case was extremely rude. I even informed him how she treats the clients, but it did not change her treatment towards me (or possibly others). He did such a horrible job that I had to hire a different attorney to take my ex back to court. Mr. Cohn is expensive and will have you make an appointment with him (after the first charge consultation) only to burn up your retainer and not actually do any "lawyering." If I knew then what I know now I would have filed a Board Complaint.
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14 Jan, 2016 by Ed
Leslie was my attorney when I went through a messy divorce. He shielded me from my wife and her attorney well. He is well versed and protected my assets. I recommend him.
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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:
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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.
