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09 Nov, 2024 by Julius hernandez
06 May, 2024 by Joshua solis
These guys told me I didn’t have to show up to a court hearing and I got a warrant for my arrest as a result
You’d think the lawyers you hired would know enough to tell you what you do and don’t need to do
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05 May, 2024 by Suenita thomas
You couldn’t have a better firm representing you - Mario is THAT lawyer! He knows the law and he knows it well. He’s all in, all the time. Every moment matters. Every detail matters. No second he invests in your case is wasted. He acts with unstoppable urgency when needed. In court, he grabs your attention with intensity and purpose. His litigation presence will pierce your soul. It’s rare and trust me, it cannot be replicated. I couldn’t ask for a better legal team - Mario, Mona and Lisset
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02 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
I hired Josh Northam expecting him to be my advocate.I feel he was very weak with the mediator, a retired judge of his choosing, as well as with the opposing attorney. I trusted Mr. Northam to review all documents from opposing council and correct poorly worded or untrue statements before having me sign off on them. I was shocked and angered when a document from opposing attorney had a bold face lie and was passed to me to sign. I feel Mr. Northam should have objected to it, sent it back, and at very least know how I would react to such and untruth 9 months into the divorce. Yes. That's right. 9 months and $30,000 for an uncomplicated (one house paid in full, no debt) divorce. Feeling very let down.
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27 Oct, 2023 by Kayla scott
Complete JOKE! They filed suit without our permission. They do not communicate at all. They do not follow directions. And they lie! Horrible service. Do not use them unless you want your situation to get worse.
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24 Oct, 2023 by David pena
Did not show up to court. Lost all our paperwork and emailed copies 3 times. Resending not a big deal but annoying. Communication through out the whole process was horrible. Now we lost the case and it's very hard to over turn. He has promised to return our money in payments. First check was denied by the bank. And now he says I forgot. I have the emails to prove it.
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16 Nov, 2024 by Amber marshall
THESE PEOPLE ARE THE WORST!! I'M ACTUALLY PAYING MORE ON THE DAMN TICKET AND COULD HAVE HAD A BETTER RESULT IF I WENT INTO COURT MY DAMN SELF!!! DO NOT AND I MEAN DO NOT HIRE THESE GUYS!!! $175 FOR WHAT ... YOU TO TAKE CARE OF IT RIGHT.... NOT COST ME MORE MONEY
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25 Sep, 2024 by Ayla price
Martin RUEDA was a great help after all. I had two class A misdemeanors and he got them dismissed. We started off shaky, but ultimately he did exactly what I needed him to do. Hopefully I won’t need him again, but if I do I would definitely use him again. 👍🏾
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30 Jul, 2024 by Harry gallagher jr
The absolute worst traffic attorneys I’ve ever hired and I’ve had my fair share of speeding tickets
The reason to hire an attorney wa so was so busy that I couldn’t deal with the court I needed help and these absolute fools took my money and that was the end of it I’ve had to deal with everything myself and it was worse because I thought the matters was handled I basically paid them to tell me what I know and there is no refunds only bad attitudes
I did my differed disposition after they accepted the first deal that came through even though I wanted to fight it
After completing it my attorneys I’ve used in the past normally send it it to the court and handle everything from there but when I told the attorney I finished my defensive driving all they said was cool good luck and I had to figure out the rest on my own
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03 Mar, 2025 by Marlenee zavala
They did a great amazing good job and I highly truly recommend them and I just want to say thank you to them for everything and I really appreciate them for everything and I highly recommend them and I appreciate them ❣️❣️💓💓😇😇
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19 Feb, 2025 by Freddy romano
Muy bueno servicios. Mi compensación fue más de lo que esperaba . Bien recomendado.
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17 Feb, 2025 by Antonio salazar
Excelente trabajo realmente fue muy rápido pensé que sería en 1 año o algo así y solo me tomo 3 meses para ver mi caso ganado
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03 Mar, 2025 by Marlenee zavala
They did a great amazing good job and I highly truly recommend them and I just want to say thank you to them for everything and I really appreciate them for everything and I highly recommend them and I appreciate them ❣️❣️💓💓😇😇
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19 Feb, 2025 by Freddy romano
Muy bueno servicios. Mi compensación fue más de lo que esperaba . Bien recomendado.
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17 Feb, 2025 by Antonio salazar
Excelente trabajo realmente fue muy rápido pensé que sería en 1 año o algo así y solo me tomo 3 meses para ver mi caso ganado
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30 Oct, 2024 by John b. polk
I cannot say enough great things about Melinda as a mediator! She's creative, skilled, thorough, and a total pro! Thank you, Melinda. Can't wait to do it again!
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29 Oct, 2024 by Brian sanford
Great law firm!
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25 Oct, 2024 by Blake vincent
Would highly recommend Melinda Eitzen and her team. I have several colleagues who have recommended and worked with her on many types of legal issues from Divorce to Custody issues.
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06 Nov, 2024 by Jason hardy
Doug, Lynda and the entire team were fabulous! They resolved our issues quickly and i couldn’t be happier. Thanks for everything!
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06 Oct, 2024 by Joel burger
16 Jun, 2024 by Patrick van pelt
Super dedicated legal counsel!
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03 May, 2024 by Manuel tellez
I am absolutely 100% pleased with how the ONDA team handled my case. My attorney, Caroline Near, provided an extremely robust legal defense, fighting hard on my behalf while being empathetic to my situation.
It's true what they say: going through a divorce is one of the most traumatic events you can experience. That's why you need an attorney like Caroline in your corner. She will guide you through the complexities of the legal process with compassion and expertise.
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15 Aug, 2023 by Holly draper
Brad LaMorgese is an exceptional appellate attorney and litigator. I have worked with him on several appellate cases and could not think any higher of him as a lawyer and as a person.
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04 Apr, 2023 by Brian uhlmer
This firm hired Scott Rewak, one of the most incompetent attorneys I have ever met in my life, thus everyone who can possibly think of avoiding them, should.
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03 May, 2024 by Manuel tellez
I am absolutely 100% pleased with how the ONDA team handled my case. My attorney, Caroline Near, provided an extremely robust legal defense, fighting hard on my behalf while being empathetic to my situation.
It's true what they say: going through a divorce is one of the most traumatic events you can experience. That's why you need an attorney like Caroline in your corner. She will guide you through the complexities of the legal process with compassion and expertise.
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15 Aug, 2023 by Holly draper
Brad LaMorgese is an exceptional appellate attorney and litigator. I have worked with him on several appellate cases and could not think any higher of him as a lawyer and as a person.
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04 Apr, 2023 by Brian uhlmer
This firm hired Scott Rewak, one of the most incompetent attorneys I have ever met in my life, thus everyone who can possibly think of avoiding them, should.
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03 Dec, 2024 by Patricia russell
Great service, very friendly . Keep you updated on everything. Definitely recommend Ward.
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14 Oct, 2024 by Maria salgado
Was very helpful very informative keep us up dated
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14 Mar, 2024 by Kristopher guillaume
Charles Frazer review saved me a ton of time
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03 Dec, 2024 by Patricia russell
Great service, very friendly . Keep you updated on everything. Definitely recommend Ward.
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14 Oct, 2024 by Maria salgado
Was very helpful very informative keep us up dated
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14 Mar, 2024 by Kristopher guillaume
Charles Frazer review saved me a ton of time
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13 Jan, 2025 by David pack
Sometimes legal teams speak in their own languages but working with John and his team they eased the process and we achieved positive results. The firm has a variety of lawyers to handle different types of lawsuits so I highly recommend them to achieve Great results. They communicate on a very regular basis both via email and phone calls.
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10 Jan, 2025 by Eric kerpens
Superior Client Services! Daryl Sinkule is the best there is. He has the experience to know when to do what to result in the very best outcome possible.
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25 Dec, 2024 by Brianna fountain
Amazing. Eric is by far one of the best and smartest attorneys I have ever come across. I did my consultation Thursday. He filed my case Friday and I got a settlement Monday. He is amazing!!! I wish I could give this place 10 starts because they truly put their best foot forward in what they do!!!
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27 Feb, 2025 by Joyce hinkson
Very professional, they handled my case, as if I was a family member. They were very compassionate to my needs and very understanding they were able to do wonders for me than the attorney that I had hired 11 years ago to handle the case that they did for me and was able to have everything to be wrapped up within a 36 month term so I am very pleased with Tom Thomas legal very good company and I would use them over and over and over again also after two years had come and gone I was needing to talk with my creditor and they would not talk to me. I had called them twice And they said oh you have an attorney on file we cannot talk to you. I waited two years went by and I called Tom Thompson legal last week. They took my car. They didn’t have to go in and ask a lot of questions. They apparently knew who I was. I guess everything showed up on the screen. They just kindly said we will get on this And you could call the creditors on Monday and everything will be taken care of true enough. I actually waited until Tuesday and everything was taken care of so I just love this company and I just picked them out like basically trying to find a needle in a haystack so hey, I found that needle and it didn’t take long and this company is Great. They were perfect. They were a perfect fit for my needs thank you so if y’all need a legal advice or service. Please speak with Tom Thompson and see if they are that fit for you. Y’all just go ahead on and have yourselves a great day and thank you thank you thank you, Tom Thompson legal😊
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26 Feb, 2025 by Anthony west
Things didn’t go as expected at first, but Tom personally reached out to me and went above and beyond to make things right. His help exceeded my expectations, and I truly appreciate his effort.
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25 Feb, 2025 by Lori leon
Mr Tom Thomas represented me in a judgement and took it to court and we won. I very pleased with the outcome. Keep up the good work. God bless you and thank you.
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12 Sep, 2023 by Gary
I had the privilege of being represented by Mrs. Hope in Dallas, Texas. First and foremost, Leslie possesses an unparalleled mastery of family law. She wields words with the precision of a surgeon, crafting legal arguments that are not only irrefutable but often leave the opposition in awe. Her courtroom presence is a testament to her rhetorical prowess; every sentence is a work of art.
Leslie leaves no stone unturned in her pursuit for her clients. She is meticulous in her research, leaving no detail unexamined and that is what makes her so extraordinary. Hope Family Law is unwavering in their commitment to clients' best interests and will stop at nothing to ensure that justice is served. Leslie Hope is the lawyer you want in your corner.
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01 Mar, 2019 by Mike
Leslie represented me during my divorce and was a pleasure to work with. She explained the process well and provided excellent service. She also provided valuable insight on how to manage the process going forward and being a responsible co-parent. I highly recommend her services.
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26 Feb, 2019 by Jose
Leslie was a great family law attorney. She is very knowledgeable in family law and takes a very level approach in wanting to do what’s in her clients best interest. She is respected by her peers and is able to help you in complicated cases. She can be counted on to give you timely advice as well as discussing all the options that are available for you. Great lawyer and a great ethical person!
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04 May, 2022 by Anonymous
Avoid this scum bag lawyer at all cost. She will tell you everything you want to hear and promise you the world. Then she will charge you 5 to 10 times as much and not get the results you want. Wasted a year with her and her team and I am in a worse position then what I was before I hired them.
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11 Jun, 2019 by Daniel
Since graduating from Stanford Business School in 2004, I’ve hired countless lawyers. Rebecca Rowan is simply the best. She helped me navigate through a tough divorce. And later helped me craft and execute a prenup. If you want to sleep better at night, hire Rebecca. It will be the best investment you ever made.
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04 Jun, 2019 by Israel
I want say thank you to Rebbeca Rowan, if you want the job done right and to the point use Rebbeca she will take care of you and get you want you want.Thank you Rebbeca and the whole team. If you need a lawyer to do custody and divorce Rebbeca Rowan is the one you need, i had hard case against my ex and I come out smelling like a ROSE. !!!!
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10 Oct, 2024 by Ken cambron
I have personally used John as my lawyer on two different occasions and couldn’t be more pleased with the work he done on both of my cases. He was eager to address any concerns that I had and always kept me in the know. I personally will not hesitate to seek his services if needed and you shouldn’t either!
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10 Oct, 2024 by Sharon johnson
Anyone needing legal representation cannot go wrong with John Cook. He goes over and above to get the best possible outcome for his clients. Consistently gets the best outcome and is never afraid to go to trial. His knowledge of DWI cases, makes him the best choice for an attorney to represent you.
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16 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
I'm a current client of Mrs. Burkman but will be taking my business elsewhere for future needs. Mrs. Burkman might have been a good choice for immigration needs several years ago but that is no longer true. This office has become completely unprofessional and just plain rude. The staff carries on with private innapropriate conversation while completing your paperwork & act like you aren't sitting across from them. It worries me how little attention they pay to the very sensitive paperwork they are filling out while carrying on with their conversations.
The last straw was today when I went to pick up my permit. I knew the office closed at 5pm but ran into heavy traffic when I got off work. I called when I was parking bc it was getting close to 5 and wanted to let them know I was there. The girl who answered the phone said they couldn't wait bc they closed at 5 and were leaving, even though I told her I was in the lobby! When I arrived at the doors it was 4:56 and they had locked the doors! I couldn't believe they locked up early just to avoid helping me. It would have takeno maybe 2 minutes for them to give me my permit at the most. I can't believe she has such unkind mean hearted people working in her office. I will be looking for a new lawyer IMMEDIATELY.
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30 Oct, 2024 by John b. polk
I cannot say enough great things about Melinda as a mediator! She's creative, skilled, thorough, and a total pro! Thank you, Melinda. Can't wait to do it again!
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29 Oct, 2024 by Brian sanford
Great law firm!
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25 Oct, 2024 by Blake vincent
Would highly recommend Melinda Eitzen and her team. I have several colleagues who have recommended and worked with her on many types of legal issues from Divorce to Custody issues.
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30 Oct, 2024 by John b. polk
I cannot say enough great things about Melinda as a mediator! She's creative, skilled, thorough, and a total pro! Thank you, Melinda. Can't wait to do it again!
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29 Oct, 2024 by Brian sanford
Great law firm!
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25 Oct, 2024 by Blake vincent
Would highly recommend Melinda Eitzen and her team. I have several colleagues who have recommended and worked with her on many types of legal issues from Divorce to Custody issues.
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30 Oct, 2024 by John b. polk
I cannot say enough great things about Melinda as a mediator! She's creative, skilled, thorough, and a total pro! Thank you, Melinda. Can't wait to do it again!
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29 Oct, 2024 by Brian sanford
Great law firm!
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25 Oct, 2024 by Blake vincent
Would highly recommend Melinda Eitzen and her team. I have several colleagues who have recommended and worked with her on many types of legal issues from Divorce to Custody issues.
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27 Feb, 2025 by Brooke martine
My husband requested help and this company said they do not do payment plans , they would not work with him to give him a payment plan. Charged 250$ to take the case 1500$ to take ticket from the city court to the county court. Then charged 2590 $ that they will not agree to a payment. Spent a lot of money in this company and they refused to help. Kept saying it’s one lawyer, then 2 weeks later a different lawyer name and now the 3rd time the name of the lawyer changed. The case was tossed around to different people and cares more about making money of cdl drivers rather than helping.
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25 Feb, 2025 by Demetrius rodriguez
Had a ticket from 2007 I got while in Texas. Never took care of it because I live in another state and had moved several times. Finally decided to take care of it and Tkach was able to get all charges dismissed. I would highly recommend this firm. Thank you for taking care of this for me.
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18 Feb, 2025 by Guests
Brothers and Sisters, a good attorney here! That's all I'm going to say. ~Tonia R.
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08 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
Never prepared and always asking for more money. Could not remember my case. Lost my case , very incompetent. Her assistant clueless and Never relays important documents or messages. Excuses after excuses..
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30 Apr, 2016 by Amy
We are so grateful for Ms. Lomenick. Since we have hired her, she has been attentive and very thorough! Ms. Lomenick listens and absorbs very complicated information so well. She also was amazing during our very stressful court date!
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03 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
It's been months and have not heard back from this attorney about an ongoing child support/visitation battle. I have been getting more information from my ex and her attorney than my own!
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17 May, 2024 by Anonymous
Justin was opposing counsel in my family court case. I am a 5'8'', plus size, muscular, educated, professional woman who was mentally, physically and financially abused by my daughters father. Justin, trying to intimidate me into settling, said to my lawyer... "I mean, come on- you don't really think she is afraid of him do you? Look at her! I'm afraid of her!" As if someone of my size or intelligence could not be abused. A family lawyer with this sort of thought processing is everything that is wrong with our family court system.
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28 Apr, 2024 by Joe klein
This man molested many children and needs to be stopped.
He is a child sexual addict!!!!
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17 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
Lies, cheats, steals to get what he wants.
CPS is also part of the plan…run!
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08 Apr, 2024 by Baba sharfuddin khan
04 Apr, 2024 by Mike hinojosa
RASHEE RICE GOIN TO PRISON WITH THIS LAW FIRM
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06 Feb, 2024 by Katina murphy
06 Feb, 2024 by Aric asplund
We've been partnering with Underwood Perkins for several years now for business legal matters, and the experience has been nothing short of exceptional. From the outset, their team has demonstrated an understanding of our needs and provided advice that has been instrumental in navigating the complexities of our industry. The professionalism, diligence, and expertise shown by everyone at Underwood Perkins, especially Brandon, have not only resulted in outstanding work on our behalf but have also contributed to our company's success and peace of mind.
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15 Mar, 2022 by Taylor touma
Paulette Mueller made my grandmothers estate go broke, made her delinquent on her taxes (simply did not file) cancelled our homeowners insurance and accepted only roughly 8k on a full coverage 250k+ policy which has led to black mold growing in the home my grandparents built by hand making my baby very sick. Made disgusting remarks about our home upon inspection in regards to a guardianship proceeding while we remained polite and courteous despite the situation, and now, at the ripe age of 21 I am in therapy full time over the horrific consequences she and (others involved) caused that have now fallen upon my shoulders. I am utterly disappointed, and heartbroken. I will never be the same. My grandmother died in vain, under ungodly amounts of stress. May God guide Paulette to have a heart full of empathy and compassion towards her future victims. Only the Lord knows the amount of trauma and havoc she reaped on my beautiful grandmother. May God guide her to remain in a mindset of kindness, and fairness, as I wouldn’t wish this turmoil on anyone. But as my grandmother would want me to live, I forgive her. I only hope for her growth and progress in a positive direction for the future. I. Will. Never. Be. The. Same. I am gone. At the age of 21, I am now a shell of who I once was. The person that raised me from diapers, put me into college, got my first car, carried herself in such a generous and Godly manner, died in vain. May God rest her beautiful soul, because now her pain and stressors have become an everyday part of my life. The only human beings that loved me unconditionally, my grandparents(parents), are now dead and gone forever, and I am alone in this scary world. I hope Paulette can see my review as more than a mere critique but an insight to my new reality, and hopefully, some of what I said will invite a new presence of good faith to her future clients, not only for the benefit of them, but for her conscious as well. I was just a kid. God, what did we do to deserve this?
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23 Sep, 2021 by Casey page
Very legit law firm. I worked with Elisa and she was very responsive and professional. She was very qualified and really knew her stuff. Highly recommend Underwood Perkins.
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12 Oct, 2018 by Ut ndg
11 Sep, 2018 by Gulam mohamme hussain
30 Jun, 2018 by Spear shadex
17 Oct, 2024 by Jimmy
04 Sep, 2024 by Ahmed eddarhri
عمل رائع و مكتب ممتاز
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30 Jul, 2024 by Lia arriaga
We are highly satisfied with the legal service we received from this law firm. Awesome customer service. Everyone in the office is quite professional & friendly.
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3.7
6 Reviews
20 Jun, 2024 by Michael puente
POS lawyer who doesn’t have your back does the filing and that’s it doesn’t ask for specific information that the court asks for and got my bankruptcy dismissed never has Time to talk on the phone nor does he call back when I set up appointments by phone he clearly doesn’t give a dam about his clients !!!
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25 May, 2023 by Carlos villasenor
The Newark Firm was great. Everyone was very helpful and friendly. Highly recommend.
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24 May, 2023 by Tracie witt
A Newark Law Firm was very helpful. I highly recommend them.
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19 Jun, 2024 by Yassine k
In retrospect I had a very bad experience with Mr. Lake and I deeply regret hiring him. He was either not honest or not a good attorney, either case, best to avoid him.
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14 May, 2024 by Joe k
Chris Lake is not a good attorney in my opinion. He has mentioned his own mother's divorce multiple times and it shows... he clearly supports the mother in divorce cases even if he is representing the father. This happened to me and many other fathers who were represented by Mr. Lake. He is also incapable of taking any criticism or negative feedback in a constructive way and will just try to blame it on you or someone else. Instead of doing what you want he does what he thinks is best. He also stated negstive things against me in court as a way to make me seem humble and that ended up backfiring. Chris of course blamed it on the judge. He needs to realize many many families have now been adversely affected by his interference. You will be remembered Mr. Lake as a unprofessional and incompetent attorney and an unethical person.
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09 Mar, 2024 by Swapna k
Wilson Lake Savage Law firm, led by Mr. Tracey Gajak, Ms. Anita Savage, and Ms. Hailey Merz, provided exceptional legal representation in my recent divorce case. Their professionalism, empathy, and expertise immediately put me at ease. They prioritized my well-being, combining legal acumen with genuine compassion to tailor a personalized legal strategy. Their responsiveness and accessibility ensured I felt supported and informed throughout the process. Their mastery of divorce law, attention to detail, and creative solutions not only resulted in the most favorable outcome that far exceeded my expectations, but also instrumental in quick closure of my case. I am honored to recommend them to anyone in need of divorce representation.
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07 Mar, 2020 by Karima
Mr. Rowe is an honest, competent, and an excellent attorney. I did not trust lawyers before I met him, and now i would not go to anyone else.
He has drawn a will and probate for my now deceased husband, he was very thorough and precise. He has also represented me when my landlord was neglecting the property and trying to rip me out of my deposit. I have referred my family and friends to him and everyone was impressed with his work.
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09 Nov, 2018 by Anonymous
He is honest and a real lawyer who loves his work and do his work like the way it should be. Because of lawyers like him this profession is still respected otherwise now a days many other attorneys has ruined the image of this profession.
I hired Mr. Pete and he worked on my case as he is me. He deeply involve himself in his client's case and pay full attention to it. Another best quality in him is that if your case is not good then he will simply tell you to not waste money and time.
He is a champion. He knows the law very well. He want his clients happy & successfull.
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20 Jun, 2018 by Anonymous
Mr. Rowe did not fulfill the terms of our attorney/client agreement; in fact he made my case worse and I have to hire new counsel to represent me. I am trying to get my money back and filing a grievance with the Texas Bar Association.
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30 Oct, 2024 by John b. polk
I cannot say enough great things about Melinda as a mediator! She's creative, skilled, thorough, and a total pro! Thank you, Melinda. Can't wait to do it again!
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29 Oct, 2024 by Brian sanford
Great law firm!
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25 Oct, 2024 by Blake vincent
Would highly recommend Melinda Eitzen and her team. I have several colleagues who have recommended and worked with her on many types of legal issues from Divorce to Custody issues.
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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.
