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25 Apr, 2024 by Tina & kazen
We started the process of adopting our twin great nieces when they were 8 months old. Our first lawyer basically stole our retainer and did nothing and did not even inform us the case was dismissed. In seeking a new attorney we stumbled upon Mrs. Delvaille through my husband's company program. We called and spoke of our situation and she advised it was not her specialty. We continued searching. The next day she called us back and told us that our story touched her and if we would allow her to, she would like to take our case with the understanding it would also be a learning process for her. BEST decision we ever made. It took 2 years from the time we began with her (girls were 3 at that time) and though we had some setbacks due to the uncooperative legal system and judge, last week (4/16/2024) our family was finally, legally, complete!!! She was always very responsive to any and all questions we had. Even though this was not her specialty she soared through it like a pro. She sought out guidance from other legal professionals when needed. Even though our case is resolved I am pretty sure Tamisha will always be a part of our family now!
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28 Mar, 2024 by Daniel jiya
From the moment I reached out to the Tamisha Delvaille Law Firm, I was met with a level of professionalism and promptness that truly set the stage for the entire experience. Tamisha Delvaille, the beacon of this exceptional firm, handled my case with a combination of speed, efficiency, and unparalleled legal acumen that not only exceeded my expectations but also profoundly impacted my outlook on legal support and advocacy. Tamisha’s approach to my situation was nothing short of remarkable. Her depth of knowledge in the legal field was evident from our very first interaction. She demonstrated an exceptional ability to navigate the complexities of the law with ease, ensuring that every aspect of my case was addressed with meticulous attention to detail. Her commitment to excellence was clear in every document drafted, every strategy formulated, and every advice given. What stood out most, however, was Tamisha’s responsiveness. In a world where time is often of the essence, Tamisha’s ability to provide swift, yet thorough responses to my queries and concerns was a breath of fresh air. She ensured that I was well-informed and comfortable with each step of the legal process, making what could have been a daunting experience, smooth and stress-free. Her professionalism extends beyond her legal expertise. Tamisha’s interpersonal skills and empathetic nature made me feel valued and respected as a client. Her dedication to my case felt personal, as if she was fighting for a member of her own family. This level of care and commitment is a rare find in any industry. All of these and more make her an invaluable asset to any result-oriented firm, family, or individual. I am beyond grateful for her support and will consistently recommend Tamisha to those in search of top-tier legal representation. Without a doubt, she has earned my 10-star review and my utmost respect. God bless you...
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21 Feb, 2024 by William
Tamisha Delvaille is highly professional. Not only helped She lead my case like a boss. I now sleep much better….
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03 Apr, 2024 by Matthew jackson
Very personable , explains things clearly , puts you at ease. Really knows his stuff.
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11 Jun, 2022 by Jacqueline penha
Nice, helpful and caring about the community.
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02 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
Ms. Thiebeau represented me through my divorce and custody battle. In a world where many attorneys seem to focus mainly on money and loose site of how divorce and child custody issues affect their clients.... Ms. Thiebeau is NOT one of them. She the perfect blend of "motherly love" and assertiveness that anyone going through these life changing events needs. I feel she developed relationships with her clients to help them see the light at the end of the tunnel and to stay focused on the important things, providing much needed redirection when her client is operating out of anger, hurt or any other emotion that may be counter productive to the end goal. She has truely been a blessing for my family and I. Inside the courtroom she is very professional and effective. I have always felt well represented. I would strongly recommend Ms. Thiebeau to anyone seeing an attorney for divorce or child custody cases. In doing so, you can feel confident that you have true support every step of the way.
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09 Jul, 2018 by Vanessa
With previous legal services I've had, Mr. Ruiz left a remarkable lasting impression with me. He returned phone calls and emails promptly, informed me of any developments of my case, and appeared in court by my side on time and prepared. Also, he was respectful and compassionate towards my situation. I definitely would hire him again and highly recommend him to others.
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07 Jul, 2018 by Buster
Mr Ruiz assisted in the adoptation of my grand kids. He made the process fast and easy. I would recommend his services
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07 Jul, 2018 by Anonymous
Daniel was extremely helpful and knowledgeable in what I needed. He gets to the point and did an excellent job with my case. I would refer him to anyone on a divorce case and I have referred him to several people so far.
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06 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
My suit was a simple modification not contested just trying to change the schedule to provide for more time with my son and holidays. Sarah tried this case in 2023 and got it dismissed. Every month I handed her my monthly income replenishing a $2000 retainer she billed to its entirety ,plus a $5,000 retainer. She got my case dismissed sadly not only had this case stayed on the docket for over a year she failed to file a response ontime with proper documentation leading to dismissal . Prior to trial she required a large lump sum for trial retainer. In the paper work it said for contested hearings they filed a response stating not enough evidence which Sarah did not give enough evidence that was given to her. She threw a fit about me not making an effort to pay and all the while a wire was in progress. She only had five years experience and it was apparent that she lacked rules of evidence, punctuality for deadlines , experience and true rules of knowledge and ethics. She got my case dismissed after all that money and time which allowed for me to go another year without holidays in my current order and a visitation schedule that damaged my son. At this point I had sold my home my cars . She offered to refile the case. I allowed her because I didn’t have the money for a new retainer at that time …. I was charged again for services already rendered, information input already in my case file. She did work with me on payment of an agreed amount of $500/ month until balance was paid. I paid every month. During mediation she was late the mediator was late as well they both were not present but 30 mins. when I didn’t agree to the terms being given and the other side was not agreeable for the very issue I was raising to court more time with my son well she told me she was thinking of dropping me. She was trying to get me to settle for only more child support and exclusive educational rights that the other party took back. I told her clarify if in fact she was dropping me and the facts. The sleepy mediator wanted another day of mediation. I told her no it was not coming to an agreement.She told me I couldn’t request an emphasis. It is my experience when there is money trouble Sarah looks for a way out and she sabotages what u need. At this point she caused some significant damage to my case as I was left without counsel we were a week from trial and she made some crucial mistakes… she agreed to a pass at a compel hearing when opposing counsel had not submitted the information she never filed a compel…she moved my case it one month out without discussing with me…which damaged my case never spoke to me about it until I brought it up. She Booked a very expensive mediator which I contacted her office to get information to and about . I was told she was out of the office and they didn’t know her schedule. She made accusations in an email that were offensive and I started looking into Sarah a little more. This mediator had horrible reviews and Sarah was making errors in my case that may not be fixed . Other clients had gone through the same. I could not afford that payment of 600 plus 500 in two weeks. In the end Sarah waited three weeks to call me back. She decided to waive all attorney fees owed after She did drop me after making a mess of my case . I was lucky enough to find two attorneys out of six willing to review all damage and help repair it if not non suit it. One had fired her early in her career. They will work with me but this was a nightmare do your research as her google reviews have been taken down. I have knowledge there are other cases that have faced the same trouble as my own and it’s sad. Harris county is corrupt and not easy. I would never choose Sarah again because I believe she hurt my case. I may have to nonsuit it and my child may suffer more.
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13 Jul, 2022 by Melanie bragg
I have worked with Sarah Pollard on a number of cases and I feel she is qualified, dedicated, and just a new breed of up and coming lawyers that go the distance for their clients. She leaves no stone unturned in pursuing a good result for her clients. I would highly recommend her because of her values and work ethics. I use her as Of Counsel on some of my more complicated matters.
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02 May, 2020 by Anonymous
I hired Ms. Sarah Pollard as my divorce lawyer. She was knowledgable and reliable throughout the entire process. She drafted all the documents efficiently and clearly explained to me what each document meant. I especially appreciated her flexibility and diligence in researching changes in court processes due to the pandemic.
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20 Sep, 2021 by Anonymous
Provides poor advise, willing to share former client details, and is more interested in taking your money and looking good than actually helping with the case.
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28 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous
Sherea Vitelli presented herself as a professional, caring & hardworking family law attorney to me. She explained that she chose to leave a prestigious law firm to work from home so she could be with her children more. She struck me as genuine & I retained her for $2500.00 to represent me in my divorce. Sherea Vitelli actually DRAGGED her feet when she had the opportunity to obtain a default against my ex-husband when he failed to show up to the very first court hearing. Sherea Vitelli communicated with his lawyer and the two of them decided to let it slide and reschedule. It was then that I knew divorces go on as long as the lawyers want them to. Sherea Vitelli produced a good initial write up of my terms, form letters on my behalf. The night before my very first actual court appearance ( after the initial had been reset per his & mines’ lawyers decision to drag things out), Ms Vitelli emailed me I would need to pay her $1500 in the morning if she was to represent me. I phoned her that evening to discuss what kind of prepping I needed to answer questions appropriately and move forward, all I could hear was her screaming at her children, she gave me none of her time & actually made me feel like I was a big pain in her ass. No prepping, even though she had told me we would do this. I had a very bad taste in my mouth. I fired her & retained an amazing lawyer who fought for me & we had a much better experience. I am so happy I found my new lawyer, just feel bad about Sherea Vitelli refusing to refund ANY of my $2500.00 while I had to fire her in a court of law and she actually flirted with the judge. She’s disgusting , no real morals except when they serve her own interests.
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03 Nov, 2015 by Anonymous
I hired Sherea for my divorce then again to file a motion of enforcement which turned into a 3 year long cps battle. We had our ups and downs but Sherea won our case. And after 3 very long years, I got my babies back. If you want an attorney that is aggressive and will go to hell and back with you despite what everyone else says, I highly recommend Mrs. Vitelli.
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07 Oct, 2015 by Matt
Jennifer just blew me off. Did not respond or talk to me about my divorce case for 2 months, pretty much right after I paid. She did not inform me we had a court date until the night before our 9am time. I was out of town and could not make it. Judge ruled harshly against me, gave everything to my wife and ordered me to pay all court fees and lawyers for both sides. I never heard from her since the night before that date and only found out about any of it when my ex wife informed me she was taking my car. I had to get divorce decree and info on my own. I still have not heard from her and filed a complaint with the Texas bar.
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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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

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