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05 Oct, 2024 by Lynne zeidler
I live in Wisconsin and recently received a ticket in McHenry County, Illinois. Nold & Walsh guided me through the court process and represented me in multiple court appointments. With the guidance of Nold & Waish, I didn't have to make the trip for each court hearing. For a minimal fee, my ticket was reduced and will not reflect on my clean driving record. Of course, the State of Illinois received a generous payment from me!
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27 Sep, 2024 by Leo quicho
Dan worked tirelessly with my DUI case and got it reduced to supervision. With Pat joining him, these duo is an awesome team that will work your case to get you the best results.
I am extremely happy with their work! I highly recommend their services.
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22 Sep, 2024 by Carleta hale
I’m happy that my friends referred me to David after someone rear-ended me in a car accident. He was polite, patient, professional and always gave me a clear understanding how the process of my lawsuit was going. He wasn’t try to be like a salesman type lawyer. He was honest and told me exactly what I needed to know. I’m very pleased with the outcome of my settlement. Best referral I could ever receive.
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29 Feb, 2024 by Christos tagas
Great attorneys! They helped my family and I! Would definitely recommend
5 stars all the way
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28 Feb, 2024 by John oneill
I highly recommend Tom Spencer and his associates. They’re hard working and people oriented. Exactly what you want in this line of business.
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28 Feb, 2024 by Des mcbride
We have used Will Petsche for our real estate transactions and he has always been thorough, communicative and efficient.
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04 Sep, 2024 by Michael rasp
Great job and awesome to deal with and thank you
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28 Aug, 2024 by Carmen m
09 Aug, 2024 by Paul mendoza
29 Feb, 2024 by Christos tagas
Great attorneys! They helped my family and I! Would definitely recommend
5 stars all the way
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28 Feb, 2024 by John oneill
I highly recommend Tom Spencer and his associates. They’re hard working and people oriented. Exactly what you want in this line of business.
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28 Feb, 2024 by Des mcbride
We have used Will Petsche for our real estate transactions and he has always been thorough, communicative and efficient.
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29 Feb, 2024 by Christos tagas
Great attorneys! They helped my family and I! Would definitely recommend
5 stars all the way
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28 Feb, 2024 by John oneill
I highly recommend Tom Spencer and his associates. They’re hard working and people oriented. Exactly what you want in this line of business.
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28 Feb, 2024 by Des mcbride
We have used Will Petsche for our real estate transactions and he has always been thorough, communicative and efficient.
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07 Aug, 2020 by Anonymous
I was trying to contact Tim Brown and the messenger popped up. I wrote a short explanation of my issue. The person on the other end started asking me questions that had nothing to do with trying to get Lawyer Brown like personal and financial info. So be aware, this is NOT where you want to get in touch with your lawyer. Make sure to filter your search down to the specific lawyer's actual website.
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11 Jul, 2018 by Ruthie
I chose Tim because of his stellar reviews! I was not disappointed. Tim is one of the most honest attorneys I have ever had the pleasure of working with. He guided me thru a difficult time in my life with integrity and honesty. He is the man to hire!
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14 Feb, 2018 by Sandi
Timothy Brown did a great job for us. I was very nervous and scared to go through with Bankruptcy. First time I went to his office he was so friendly and helpful. He put my mind at ease. Always was there and NEVER made me feel anything I asked or said was wrong. He made the process very easy. Gave me all the options and explained everything so I could understand. I would HIGHLY recommend him he was there from beginning to end and always treated us friendly and made us not afraid of what we were doing.
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08 Jan, 2018 by Richard
Tamara was recommended to assist us with our Estate Planning. She stepped us through all of our options with thorough explanations. She made this difficult process easy for us. Tamara was very knowledgeable and pleasant to work with. She was always available for additional questions. I would highly recommend her for any estate planning needs.
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29 Dec, 2017 by Kathy
I was referred to Tamara to update my revocable trust, estate plan and documents, and to assist in placing my assets into trust. Working with her was a sincere pleasure in an area where I needed expertise and guidance. Immediately, she understood the details of my concerns, discussed alternative estate planning options, and soon furnished a comprehensive set of documents for review. The process went very smoothly and I am grateful to have had the opportunity to meet and work with Tamara. With her broad range of legal experience, I would certainly call on her in the future.
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27 Dec, 2017 by Paula
Tamara was an excellent resource for establishing an irrevocable trust. She was well organized, communicated exactly what she would do, exactly what we needed to provide and exactly what we needed to do. As a result the trust was created and funded quickly. What I thought would be a long drawn out and complex process was quite the opposite.
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02 Apr, 2024 by Jennifer kress
SIMPLY THE BEST!!!
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27 May, 2023 by Lacey thomson
Jerry was great! Highly recommend him to anyone especially first time buyers.
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29 Jan, 2023 by Anne majewski md
Great attorney
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29 Apr, 2022 by Angela
We received a recommendation for Bruett, Reyes, and Thornton. Jonathan Thornton did our will and trust. He spent an hour on the phone explaining EVERYTHING to us. We contacted other folks that really shrugged us off after 5 minutes. I feel very confident in his ability and his guidance. Met everyone in the office. They are young, dedicated lawyers. I highly recommend them. I am so happy that we got the opportunity to meet and work with him!
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04 May, 2021 by Anonymous
Jonathan was very thorough and detailed throughout my case. He spearheaded my divorce case and successfully pushed the case past the finish line despite the opposing counsels poor communication and unprofessional demeanor. Jonathan gave me so much peace about the case and I felt at ease about every single step of the process. When Jonathan took over my divorce case, it was the middle of the pandemic and he pressed on and executed each step diligently and accurately despite the extra hurdles that were presented due to the pandemic. I would hands down, 100% recommend him! He’s professional, considerate, thorough, timely, responds quickly and treats people with respect.
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11 Nov, 2019 by Kenneth
Jonathan was really friendly, thorough, competent, etc. in asking the correct questions and then summarizing the law in IL about wills and trusts. He then completed our wills, trust, power of attorneys in just a few days. I highly recommend him.
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22 Jun, 2022 by Joseph
I was referred to Paulette and was told that she was the best in McHenry County, and always ensures that her clients were treated fairly. Well this was an understatement. Paulette went above and beyond. Perhaps the thing that impressed me most about Paulette was nothing was "sugar coated". She was very straight forward, direct, insightful, and told me what to expect each step of the way.
Going thru the separation and divorce from start to finish, Paulette kept me informed of each step and what the options were and what the risks were. There were no empty promises made just to keep the client happy which I know sometimes occurs when seeking counsel. Since this was the first time going through a divorce I had many questions and to be honest, a little scared. When calling the office, Paulette took the time to make sure I understood everything that was going on along with all of the ramifications of both side’s decisions and requests. She kept the entire proceeding on track and the other attorney on task. I cannot say anything but positive comments here in regards to the top notch representation that I had. Please contact Paulette. You will not be disappointed in your choice.
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21 Jun, 2022 by Jean
Paulette is a honest and knowledgeable attorney that I retained for my divorce case with my very difficult ex. Paulette has stood up for me every step of the way. I had a difficult and emotional case and was happy to have her on my side. She has continued to help me fight against my ex trying to reduce child support and maintenance. I highly recommend Paulette.
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21 Jun, 2022 by Eric
Paulette was a savior to me. She was my second attorney who I retained because my first one was a brain dead moron. She was able to salvage the damage he did to me, and through much perseverance, was able to get my divorce resolved much faster than I had thought possible. This is because she does not stand for the other attorney sidelining issues and dodging required responses to the court. The process was not always easy, but I appreciated her candor with me and laying out all my options. When I saw her in action during the deposition I knew that she would win for me if we ended up in court. Luckily my ex was treated to Paulette's courtroom prowess early. After the deposition she finally agreed to settle. Specifically citing the deposition as her motivator! As such, I feel like my money was well spent and I got the best deal possible. Thanks Paulette!
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08 Sep, 2023 by Janice
Rhonda did an excellent job on my case. I have no complaints and nothing but praise for her hard work. She kept me calm and focused throughout the case. I was informed of charges upfront. She explained to me what to expect and always answered my questions. I highly recommend using Rhonda.
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05 May, 2016 by Jay
I hired Rhonda to represent me for a follow-up divorce related matter. My prior experience with the original divorce attorney left me feeling that they were fine with the administrative aspects of the case, and pleasant to work with, but it mostly felt like I was working with a divorce "production house."
With Rhonda, however, the contrast was striking. She showed a genuine human interest in my situation, helped me develop a strategy, and positively challenged my assumptions. I really felt that I had a partner. Moreover, she remembered the details from our previous conversations each time we spoke. I would highly recommend her.
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10 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
Ms. Rosenthal handled my case expertly and with care. She answered all my questions and took care of everything for me. Whenever she could, she gave me the option to handle some of the paperwork myself so I could save money rather than her doing it for me. She listened to me and made sure I was taken care of during all steps of the process. She was responsive to my questions and I would use her again if it became necessary. Best experience ever with a lawyer.
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24 Feb, 2020 by Corinne
I was represented by another firm for 7 months with no results and no end in sight. I had Celeste take a second look at my family case and after my consult, I decided to hire her. My case was closed in under 2 months. She is understanding, takes the time to explain everything, very punctual, and knows how to fight for you as her client. I would highly recommend her and appreciate everything she did for my family and I.
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30 Jan, 2020 by Tricia
Celeste Kinney has the patients of a saint and treats people with complete kindness. Very professional and down to earth all at the same time. I trust Celeste with my family affairs and as my Real estate needs.
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28 May, 2019 by Tricia
Working with Celeste was a Breeze! We hired her to help with the closing of our home and she made the process so much less stressful. We had a few hiccups along the way that could have become a catastrophe and she didn’t allow that to happen. When we sell our home we will absolutely hire her again. Absolutely recommend!
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28 Aug, 2018 by Alyssa
Robin is a great lawyer & person. She strives to make sure you’re happy in the end. She’s very smart and caring. She went above and beyond to get my case resolved and fast. She does not give up! Highly recommend!
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06 Jul, 2018 by Natalie
I have only ever had reliable, honest and positive work come from Robin. In the case of child abuse she showed strong support to a victim. Robin is amazing with the effort she puts in, an tho we did not always see eye to eye, she puts in as much as possible to help come to an agreement. Honest, dedication, an hard work is all I've seen from Robin Berry.
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14 May, 2015 by Tommy
Robin was able to take my case back in 2010 and fought for me at every chance she could at every court appearance. She always kept me up to date with every court date and informed me of everything going on. Robin is more than just an attorney but a new found friend of my family. She will fight for you and never give up.
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31 Aug, 2021 by Juni
I was in search of an attorney to help me with a mortgage assumption (transferring my mortgage loan to a family member) and was pretty confused about what I even needed help doing. I was referred to the office from a realtor friend. Elizabeth answered my email super quickly and was right to work helping me get started. Although Elizabeth had informed me she and her office colleagues are not in the realm of mortgage assumptions - she did help me tremendously. Enough so that I’m sad she couldn’t help me all the way - I know she would have done a wonderful job if she were able to. Thank You Elizabeth!
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19 Jul, 2021 by Katrina
Elizabeth Dalton handled the closing of our home and I would recommend her to anyone needing a real estate lawyer. She answered all of our questions and was very timely with responses to phone calls, texts, or emails!
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29 Aug, 2013 by Jeffrey
Excellent Attorney. Was prompt, excellent follow through and completely professional. Ever mindful of the costs related to defending a client, Sarah was efficient, detail oriented, creative and went beyond my expectations for a positive resolution. Personally I am not a fan of the profession, but when you need an attorney, you want someone like Sarah. Quiet, intelligent, and with the ability to strike like a pit bull terrier when representing her client.
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06 Sep, 2014 by Melissa
When I first met with Cliff Lund I was contemplating divorce. He was kind enough to meet with me and explain the process as well as inform me of my rights as a stay at home mother. Needless to say I was extremely nervous but he immediately made me feel comfortable. Over the next year I contacted him many times with questions and concerns. He returned my calls and emails promptly even though I was yet to be an actual client. He never seemed bothered or put out. He did not fit the negative stereo type that I was expecting in an attorney.
After a year I proceeded with my divorce and Cliff represented me. Anyone who has been through a divorce knows that it is not a lot of fun. Cliff was always available to me to address my worries and to calm my fears. Again, he took my calls and responded to my emails quickly. He advised me in a professional yet human way which made the process that much more bearable. Cliff looked out for my best interests as well as those of my children. He really looked out for all of us, including my ex-husband. I wanted a fair and equitable divorce and he guided me through the process and made it happen.
I have been divorced now for several months and I continue to contact him when an issue arises. He says it is never a bother. I will and have recommended Mr. Lund to anyone looking for an attorney who is a person first, lawyer second. I will seek his services in the future anytime I am in need of legal assistance.
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03 Oct, 2012 by Jerry
From the first time that my wife and I met with Mr. Kelly, he gave us a feeling of confidence, and my being an engineer this is something difficult to achieve with me. He listened to everything we had to say and never once gave us the feeling that there was a timer going, as with some other lawyers. He was very thorough in going over the pros and cons of doing the estate planning and what we wanted to achieve by doing this. He went over in detail everything we talked about and made sure that we understood everything. We were very impressed with his knowledge and warm and caring attitude.
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5.0
167 Reviews
04 Sep, 2024 by Michael rasp
Great job and awesome to deal with and thank you
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28 Aug, 2024 by Carmen m
09 Aug, 2024 by Paul mendoza
26 Dec, 2023 by Holly stirk
I cannot say enough good things about Brian M. Radke, PC attorney. My late mother hired Brian to write her Will and Deed of trust and as my mother's executor I am so glad that she choose Brian for her last Will and Real Estate needs. Brian not only is an excellent attorney for Wills and Real Estate but he also gave our family the highest level of customer service throughout a very stressful time. I highly recommend Brian M. Radke PC.
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27 Jun, 2022 by Brian kraenzle
Brian is very professional, hard working, and extremely prompt. I've used him twice now for closing on a house. I will use him again and I highly recommend his services.
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30 Oct, 2021 by Keith rodgers
Brian was my lawyer during the sale of my property. He always got back to me promptly with answers to my questions. I would use him again.
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20 Sep, 2024 by Dorota
I highly recommend Nathan Reyes as an attorney. Nathan has been able to stay calm while being intentional and fighting for me during an extremely tumultuous divorce. He listens and truly cares about his clients. Thank you Nathan you are very appreciated during this difficult time.
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04 Sep, 2024 by Michael rasp
Great job and awesome to deal with and thank you
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28 Aug, 2024 by Carmen m
09 Aug, 2024 by Paul mendoza
04 Sep, 2024 by Michael rasp
Great job and awesome to deal with and thank you
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28 Aug, 2024 by Carmen m
09 Aug, 2024 by Paul mendoza
25 Jun, 2024 by Christopher murdock
We leveraged Keith durning a real estate transaction. He provided excellent advice, materials and guidance. His knowledge and famarilirhy with transactions helped to guide our responses and allowed us to achieve a higher total sale price than we would have without him. Highly recommended, services far exceed our expectations.
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23 May, 2024 by Jennifer camper
Keith was great to work with. Very kind and supportive. He was always very quick with responding to my calls or emails. I really felt he cared and really helped ease my fears. All around, he was great to work with!
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27 Mar, 2024 by Elizabeth gafka
I highly recommend Keith and his team. He was my lawyer when I was selling my house in 2022. They made the process smooth and easy. They were on top of everything and helped me with anything questions or concerns I had in a timely fashion. Definitely contact him if you are in need of a lawyer.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Abdirahman haji
I called Mr. Dickson for a consultation and he provided excellent service. I would recommend working with him.
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02 Oct, 2024 by Michelle thompson
I reccomend this firm very quick to answer phones great advice very honest
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27 Sep, 2024 by John hohol sr
Mr John Dickson, answered our message promptly. Took time to explain paperwork, he was very professional and patient.
I would definitely recommend Mr. Dickson very highly.
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5.0
20 Reviews
4.5
28 Reviews
20 Feb, 2024 by Jordan
Called Jeannie for an order of Protection. My hopefully soon to be ex husband is abusive and is an alcoholic. I was apprehensive after reading some reviews but after the first meeting with her, I felt a million times better and could tell that she was nothing like what was said. Jeannie took the time to explain to me not only legal aspects of my order of protection and divorce, but the entire process and what to expect. calls or emails are always responded to in a timely manner. She was amazing at my hearing for the order of protection and I can’t imagine anyone else assisting me in family cases. Thank you Jeannie and her team for all your hard work!!
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11 Feb, 2024 by Jennifer 555
Jeannie Ridings is the BEST! She handled my case with professionalism. She was reliable, honest, tough, and always made herself available. Jeannie was recommended by turning point and there is definately a reason for that! She took a difficult case and finalized the best possible outcome. I would recommend her everytime.
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11 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
Jeannie Ridings was a AMAZING attorney for my custody case. She was knowledgeable, reliable and TOUGH as nails in the courtroom! She makes the games STOP! Jeannie executed the case andin the end everyones best interrests were made top priority. She and her staff were straight forward, honest, and timely. I would recommend her to anyone going though a difficult case and otherwise.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Abdirahman haji
I called Mr. Dickson for a consultation and he provided excellent service. I would recommend working with him.
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02 Oct, 2024 by Michelle thompson
I reccomend this firm very quick to answer phones great advice very honest
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27 Sep, 2024 by John hohol sr
Mr John Dickson, answered our message promptly. Took time to explain paperwork, he was very professional and patient.
I would definitely recommend Mr. Dickson very highly.
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11 Feb, 2024 by Jennifer 555
Jeannie Ridings is the BEST! She handled my case with professionalism. She was reliable, honest, tough, and always made herself available. Jeannie was recommended by turning point and there is definately a reason for that! She took a difficult case and finalized the best possible outcome. I would recommend her everytime.
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07 Dec, 2023 by Carl justin smith (dj los - the people's dj)
Good attorneys. Definitely would recommend.
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28 Jul, 2023 by Angela lancaster
07 Aug, 2024 by Adam hamilton
Arlo is great to work with!
He guided me in understanding the process of trademarking my business name. I’m confident and excited moving forward. I highly recommend working with Arlo.
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02 Aug, 2024 by Denise sowder
Andrew and Arlo were wonderful to work with! I represented the seller on a real estate transaction, and they were very professional, efficient, and easy to communicate with. They had the drive to get the job closed even though several hurdles came up during the transaction. I cannot recommend enough!
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29 Apr, 2024 by Jack petras
Arlo, Andrew, & Beth are great!
They take the time to listen to you about what’s important to you in passing money to your heirs. They’re very knowledgeable on estate planning laws. They even know the minute differences in law between different counties in IL and what to avoid.
They have a streamlined process in place which makes putting your essential estate documents in place easy. And they charge a fair and reasonable price.
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18 Feb, 2024 by Elizabeth nachman
I recently had the privilege of working with an outstanding family law attorney, and I cannot express enough how grateful I am for their exceptional service. From the moment I reached out to them, they demonstrated a deep understanding of my situation and provided the guidance and support I needed throughout the entire process.
First and foremost, their expertise in family law was evident. They were well-versed in all aspects of family law, including divorce and child custody. Their knowledge and experience allowed them to navigate the complexities of my case with utmost professionalism.
What truly sets this attorney apart is their compassionate approach. They genuinely cared about my well-being and the well-being of my family. They took the time to listen to my concerns, answer my questions, and alleviate any anxieties I had about the legal proceedings. Their empathetic nature made me feel heard and supported during a difficult time.
Communication was a key factor in my positive experience. The attorney was always prompt in responding to my emails and phone calls. They kept me informed about the progress of my case, explained legal terms in a way that was easy to understand, and ensured that I was involved in the decision-making process. This level of transparency and accessibility was greatly appreciated.
When we entered the courtroom, the attorney displayed impressive courtroom skills. They were confident, prepared, and persuasive. Their ability to articulate complex legal arguments and present evidence was truly remarkable. It was evident that they had a deep understanding of family law and were committed to fighting for the best possible outcome for their clients.
Not only did this attorney provide exceptional legal representation, but they also went above and beyond to offer emotional support and guidance. They understood the emotional toll that family law cases can have on individuals and families, and they provided the reassurance and encouragement I needed to stay strong throughout the process.
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend this family law attorney to anyone in need of expert legal representation and compassionate support. Their knowledge, professionalism, and dedication to their clients make them an invaluable asset. If you are searching for a family law attorney who will tirelessly advocate for your rights and provide the guidance you need, I recommend Law Office of Jolanta Zinevich.
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15 Feb, 2024 by Paul gizel
Jolanta is an exceptional attorney who excels in handling domestic legal matters. Her patience and attentiveness towards her clients are truly commendable. She takes the time to listen to their concerns and ensures that they feel heard and understood throughout the legal process. Jolanta's expertise and familiarity with the field of law are evident in her meticulous approach to each case. She provides comprehensive guidance and support, making her clients feel confident and informed every step of the way. Without hesitation, I highly recommend Jolanta to anyone seeking assistance with their domestic legal needs.
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15 Feb, 2024 by Gazelle office
Jolanta is an excellent attorney to work with. We are appreciative that she uses us to take care of her process serving in investigative needs.
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22 Aug, 2024 by Scott johnson
21 Aug, 2024 by Laís titton
If you are looking for a a well stablished law firm in Crystal Lake and/or McHenry County area, I highly recommend BGL. The attorneys are extremely professional and the staff is amazing, always a pleasure to work with them!
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12 Aug, 2024 by Bernabe aguilar
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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.
