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10 Apr, 2024 by Marcus sharkey
Attorney Danielle was very knowledgeable helpful and had great communication throughout the whole process.Highly recommended will use again
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22 Mar, 2024 by Lucero lumbard
Jazmin work on my daughter’s behalf she’s awesomely knowledgeable and passionate about her work and her customer
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23 Jan, 2024 by Darcie mcgee
Attorney Jazmin Newton was efficient, helpful, thorough, and supportive while handling my divorce. She is extremely knowledgeable about all Iowa (and Illinois) laws regarding divorce and I felt confident that I was getting the best outcome possible in a difficult situation.
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10 Apr, 2024 by Marcus sharkey
Attorney Danielle was very knowledgeable helpful and had great communication throughout the whole process.Highly recommended will use again
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10 Apr, 2024 by Marcus sharkey
knowledgeable and very helpful. Well, organized and had great communication throughout the whole process. Highly recommend and will use again.
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22 Mar, 2024 by Lucero lumbard
Jazmin work on my daughter’s behalf she’s awesomely knowledgeable and passionate about her work and her customer
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09 Jul, 2024 by Noah p
27 Feb, 2024 by Jlisa rose
When it came time for me to find a lawyer last year, I contacted several attorneys via phone and left messages for at least ten. Only one called me back! Thank God it was Andrea Jaeger!
Andrea was able to hold my hand through a system that was hell-bent on serving up some injustice to me. I was informed of every process involved at every step in addition to feeling valued by my attorney. Andrea treated me as a human deserving of respect by listening to me and recognizing that I was not some kind of stereotypical criminal. In the end, Andrea did something for me that my previous lawyers should have done and did not - she did her job and made sure that my rights as a US Citizen were the foremost issue in this case. She challenged the validity of my case by spending hours preparing to do so. The end result? My case was dismissed in its entirety!
Most criminal attorneys will do their best to take the easiest path while simply assuming that their only responsibility is to get their client the lightest sentence. Andrea fought for me the entire way and provided me with all the options but confirmed her willingness to fight like hell to protect my interests!
I highly recommend Andrea Jaeger to anyone who is seeking an attorney that will always put the client ahead of anything else! Trust me on this! In my life, I have been represented by attorneys in at least 12 cases, both civil and criminal; most of whom are still practicing and have doled out tons of money to those lawyers. I would not rehire any of those other attorneys (with the exception of one but he is now a judge). But know this: If ever a situation emerges that mandates hiring an attorney, I would definitely re-hire the wonderfully competent, hard-working, client-centered Andrea Jaeger. She is worth every penny of her legal fees!
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07 Dec, 2022 by Heather vaughn
Andrea Jaeger helped us with my son‘s case. She is a tenacious lawyer, and just in the meetings you have with her you can see she’s full of energy like the energizer bunny. You really feel like she will put all that energy toward fighting for you when the time comes, she’s sympathetic to your emotions during such a scary time and I highly recommend her.
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05 Jan, 2022 by Jenn
Jennie was incredibly easy to work with. She has a very expansive knowledge base in regards to financials statements and ensuring you receive a fair settlement. She was professional, compassionate, trustworthy and assertive. I am very happy she was on my side! Going forward, should I need representation, I will not hesitate to call Jennie. Extremely satisfied with the outcome of my divorce settlement.
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14 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
My divorce and custody battle was one of the most drawn out, stressful processes because of some very large issues that occurred with my ex-husband. Jennie studied my case and knew my history and story inside out and backwards. She answered every question and took every issue very seriously. She worked tirelessly for me and the best interest of my daughter. She was the calm in the storm for me. Her level of integrity is outstanding. Jennie keeps things very real with you at all times and wants to make sure you are prepared for any outcome, but she will fight for you every step of the way. If I ever need an attorney for anything again, Jennie will be my first call. I truly would not recommend anyone else.
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14 Apr, 2021 by Jessica
Jennie is committed to providing excellent service. She has worked with me over the course of more than five years. She is responsive to email questions, patient with making sure the process makes sense and genuinely invested in making an effective case. I cannot recommend her enough.
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09 Nov, 2021 by Emily
Mr. Dane did an extremely thorough job explaining our options during bankruptcy proceedings, as well as advising on a secondary suit.
He worked with us with extreme flexibility, along with open communication, and took the time to explain, and made sure we were well informed and prepared. We were very impressed with Mr. Danes honestly and realistic legal counsel as it was detrimental to decisions made with our filings. We would highly recommended retaining Mr. Dane for counsel.
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28 Oct, 2021 by William
Jack was very helpful and straightforward from the beginning very optimistic but yet realistic. Jack is very easy to work with even with me being a common man.
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24 Jun, 2019 by Laura
Harold J Dane III was referred to my husband and I by another professional. We feel blessed to have met such a great attorney with wisdom, knowledge and integrity. He is professional and to the point, and yet still offered coffee & gum with a smile .This difficult time in our life was greatly handled by a man who is truly honest, supportive and respectful. I cannot say enough about him for the short time I have know him, but I will refer him as a number one choice as a trusted and confident attorney. Thank you Jack and much success
Jeff and Laura
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06 Jul, 2023 by Aaron c.
I’ve used the David Franks team for all my personal and business needs for over 5 years. They are very responsive and provide a great service for a reasonable fee. I recommend them often.
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27 Jul, 2019 by K. and j.
Mr. Franks is a pleasure to work with! He was able to make us feel comfortable from the very first meeting. His explanations of "legal terms"are easy to follow along with, and actually made the whole process totally enjoyable! We highly recommend David J. Franks, and his team!
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10 Jul, 2019 by Tom
This lawyer, Mr. David Franks is a no nonsense, straight forward honest man to work with. Glad I took my estate planning to him.
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14 Oct, 2020 by Kathy
Carrie recently helped us with two real estate closings. Carrie and her assistant kept us informed about what was needed and took care of all the scheduling. The helped resolve all of the "hiccups" and made sure we stayed calm. She did a great job and I'd recommend her!
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29 Jan, 2019 by Dawn
Carrie has helped me in the past with custody and more recently with an adoption. I felt Carrie was dependable, genuine, helpful, experienced, and gave great advice. I highly recommend her!
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24 Jan, 2019 by Rhonda
I met Carrie in 1999. She was my ex-husband's attorney. She helped him get custody of my daughter away from me. After that I knew she was good. If she could get my daughter away from me after I fought tooth and nail to keep her that's all I needed to know. In 2003 I needed an attorney so, I called Carrie's office. She was surprised to see me. She asked me if it was in regards to my ex-husband because that would be a conflict of interest. I said no. Right after that my current husband passed away. Carrie was both compassionate and professional. She was sympathetic and helped me through this tragic time. I have never forgotten it. I refer everyone who asks me about an attorney to her.
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30 Jun, 2023 by Arthur winstein
Top of the line with a long history of honesty, integrity and excellence.
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17 Apr, 2021 by Michael meyer
30 Sep, 2020 by Don estes
02 Sep, 2024 by Juan granja
Grisham did a awesome job she help me with my daughter Guardianship I Recommend her to anybody. Thank you Grisham 😊
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01 Aug, 2024 by Jen
Angela was fantastic! She was quick to reply and jumped right in. In my case, she was able to get charges dismissed. I would highly recommend!!
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30 Jul, 2024 by Tricia k
My college student son got pulled over with alcohol in his car (Un opened, but he was underage) as well as speeding and several other small charges, which lead to his arrest. This was on a Sunday evening. We live in Illinois. Upon bailing him out I searched the web for lawyers around the location he got pulled over. That's how we found Angela. I was frantic as my son has never been in trouble and we didnt want to risk his enrollment in a special program at his college. I emailed her law office and recieved a reply within an hour from her. On a Sunday. After 6pm. Unheard of with lawyers. Angela has been available every step of the way from day 1 via text and email, which was so important to me. She was able to get his charges dismissed. She knew what he needed to do prior to the courts asking for it so he was completly prepared. I highly recommend her.
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02 Nov, 2023 by Psychic echosunrise
Thank you for your help Candy! I appreciate it!
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08 Aug, 2023 by Drivebywire222
09 May, 2021 by Cassie mccloy
18 May, 2024 by Anthony shiltz
21 Feb, 2024 by Ceecee bradley
12 Jan, 2024 by Stephanie paxton
Barbara Wallace and her assistant Johanna went above and beyond to help us with our time sensitive case. Barb was recommended to us from another attorney. We reached out to her office and was treated with respect and empathy due to short notice. They tried to fit us in to her schedule any way possible. Barb and Johanna understood our circumstance and tried to accommodate what they could to help. To do service like they did speaks volumes about the dedication to thier future clients.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Jimi williams
John goes above and beyond for his clients! He is by far the best attorney I've ever had, & I've had a few! There's no other attorney in the Quad Cities I'd trust with my life! Furthermore, his prices are very reasonable! Look no further you've found the best in the business!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Shelia thompson
Nice place. Friendly people
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08 Jul, 2024 by Charles ashley
If you need a good lawyer give John a call is rates are reasonable
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28 Aug, 2024 by Jimi williams
John goes above and beyond for his clients! He is by far the best attorney I've ever had, & I've had a few! There's no other attorney in the Quad Cities I'd trust with my life! Furthermore, his prices are very reasonable! Look no further you've found the best in the business!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Shelia thompson
Nice place. Friendly people
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08 Jul, 2024 by Charles ashley
If you need a good lawyer give John a call is rates are reasonable
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17 Jul, 2024 by Lanette kay
Great communication, professional and knowledgeable. Nate and Kris explained every step very clearly. Would highly recommend!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Mario diaz
08 Jul, 2024 by Jim garcia
Everyone hears of marriage nightmares , well I had one . After a a short marriage and lengthy divorce and custody case filled with false accusations and slander . My case was lengthy, emotional, Nate navigated me through it , while my now ex wife put up every road block and dragged it out . Nate knows what’s important and what’s not , he knows the system and the courts . He won for me and was superior to my ex wife’s lawyer and got me the time I deserve with my daughter. I’d recommend him and use him again , but I pray that I won’t need too .
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17 Jul, 2024 by Lanette kay
Great communication, professional and knowledgeable. Nate and Kris explained every step very clearly. Would highly recommend!
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25 Mar, 2024 by Richard schnoor
Great person also not a robot doesn't play well with opposing lawyers thank god we have a great working RELATIONSHIP to get my painful divorce over ( married thirty years cant shut ALL FEELINGS OFF) Maria knows the business and will get you what you are intitled to (we all want everything ) i give her six stars sinserely Richard K Schnoor
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23 Mar, 2024 by Daisy
Nate is an absolute sweetheart. He really helped me understand and process what I was going through. Not only as an attorney, but as well as a friend. He’s been around the block once or twice. Maybe even a few times. Trust me, you’ll be in good hands once you sign on with him. He’s extremely well educated, poised, and most importantly…kindhearted. No one could ever make me hate him. If I could do it all over, just to meet him for the first time once more, I would. I’d take every ounce of heartbreak 10 times over, as long as Nate would be by my side. He’s an honorable man. Definitely the way to go for your legal needs.
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17 Jul, 2024 by Lanette kay
Great communication, professional and knowledgeable. Nate and Kris explained every step very clearly. Would highly recommend!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Mike montgomery
08 Jul, 2024 by Jim garcia
Everyone hears of marriage nightmares , well I had one . After a a short marriage and lengthy divorce and custody case filled with false accusations and slander . My case was lengthy, emotional, Nate navigated me through it , while my now ex wife put up every road block and dragged it out . Nate knows what’s important and what’s not , he knows the system and the courts . He won for me and was superior to my ex wife’s lawyer and got me the time I deserve with my daughter. I’d recommend him and use him again , but I pray that I won’t need too .
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07 Apr, 2024 by Sm
Very strategic, knows the law better than most, keeps expectations grounded, fights hard for her clients, impeccable ability to overcome the odds. Very mindful and considerate, and makes time to grasp your case history to ensure positive outcomes in Court. Breanne commands respect in the Court Room, and I cannot say enough good things about how she has represented me. I considered myself extremely fortunate to have an attorney of such extraordinary caliber. I highly recommend Breanne, no attorney in the Quad Cities that can match her expertise in Family Law,
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27 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
She explained everything that was going to happen, she went into detail about everything, she made sure I was comfortable with everything...I recommend her to everyone I know
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08 May, 2020 by Anonymous
I had contacted the office for a consult with her. I had a quick overview with her and she asked for what information I had on case. I spent a considerable amount of time sending an email and attaching files to get her familiar with my case. She stated if sent soon enough she would contact same day back or the next. Weeks later I sent a touch base email to make sure I didn’t get overlooked honestly. I stated I understand not every case is for every lawyer and an appropriate we are not interested would be appreciated if so. I never even got a follow up email. That is poor practice in a firm. I think that’s a great indication of how things would have gone if I had retained her.I provided the foundation for an honesty police and nothing. Chose wisely on someone who is true to their words.
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18 Sep, 2023 by Terri
Absolutely worthless! Unorganized! Dropped us before the end of the divorce! Stole my $7,500. Don't waste your money!
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15 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
Alicia was absolutely amazing from the initial meeting through the trial. She was professional, persistent and poised in the moments leading up to the trial as well as continuing to care for me and keep me as calm as one can be before going into the court room. She will forever be my number one choice for a Lawyer.
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18 Aug, 2017 by Keith
I was going through a difficult divorce and Alicia took my case, after another lawyer was just saying what I wanted to hear, writing letters, and taking my money. I am a Father of two children, and my X-Wife was trying to limit me to minimal visitation. Alicia took charge, fought for me and my children, and did exactly what she said she would do. She is professional, diligent, knows the law, and will fight like a bulldog as your attorney.
Alicia is a tough, compassionate professional that will tell you the truth about your case, and she will work as if it was her butt on the line.
What did my case involve? I was going through a tough divorce, with two young children. My now X-Wife was fired from her employment due to affair within company. My X, who was making equal money at time, was trying to play the system, by not looking for gainful employment till after court proceedings to get the most possible support out of me. I was being painted as a distant Father, who didn't even understand what my children ate for breakfast. She was trying to force me to be an every other weekend Father, and limit any future decisions with my children.
With the help of Alicia I was able to garner full 50-50 joint physical custody with my two, and fair equitable terms on support.
During the process Alicia laid out what she felt I was entitled to under the law. She listened to my wants and needs. After hearing me, she laid out the possible traps of some of my ideas long term, and we came up with a game plan to fight for my goals.
If you are ever in the position of needing an attorney for a divorce, I can't think of a better professional. I would recommend her 100% to any of my friends or family if they were ever in need of her services.
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3.9
15 Reviews
3.0
6 Reviews
07 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Run. Fast. Unless you’re a man or have an easy case. For a 5k retainer, this woman can re victimize you too! Turns out, after speaking to multiple women, I’m not the only one who has had the same experience with her. You hire a lawyer to fight for you. No matter what. She could have cared less to understand my husbands behavior and the impact it had on me and our children and instead of fighting for me, she gave into anything he and his lawyer wanted. I wish I would never have been recommended to her. Please, do not use her. I wouldn’t wish her representation on my worst enemy.
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09 Feb, 2024 by Tony
14 Dec, 2023 by Theblackjoanrivers
Called here on two differebt days woman answer phone on day 1 take my short story takea my numbers says she will have her call me back an nothing. Day 2 called back same thing short story take my info no call i have a civil rights lawsuit an these office is playing weird games so dont waste your time here i can see not this isnt a law firm that stands on buissness another bad business in davenport
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30 Aug, 2024 by Kathryn knepel
16 Jan, 2024 by Jacob swarts
27 Nov, 2023 by Julie converse
Jennifer Olsen does not care about what happens to the Children. I was not a client of hers but I know 2 separate cases that were her clients and she could care less what kind of parent she's representing or what kind of parent she is giving major visitations to. Go with someone who cares and it's not Jennifer Olsen!
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22 Jul, 2023 by Zachary burroughs
People say she is expensive. But the truth is you get what you pay for. I truly believe that I would not have custody of my kids if it wasn't for coming here.
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04 Jul, 2023 by Scott martin
Not the right expertise
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07 Mar, 2023 by Julie colburn
Great legal help! I'd never use anyone else.
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11 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
I see this is a common theme here, so if you want in on a lawsuit against Steve, contact me at
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24 May, 2022 by Sabrina
Stephen Fieweger is amazing! He won my case in less than 2 months. My old lawyer took 2 years. He was so easy to work with. I am eternally grateful to have such a great person on my side. He always returned calls and answered any questions. He worked very hard on my case and knew exactly what he was doing.
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15 Oct, 2021 by Lisa
Mr. Fieweger was highly recommended to me. I was not disappointed. He was well versed, communicated effectively, and was able to resolve my issue fairly. His charming and quirky secretary's warmth and kindness will not soon be forgotten. I hope to never need another lawyer, but if I do I will definitely choose him again.
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28 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
I really wish I read the reviews before hiring him. The final straw was the way he talked to me. He is a very rude man. He blew through my retainer and started we weren't even close to being done. When I asked about it, he stated it will only cost more if I keep asking questions. I fired him and now I hope someone reads this and talks to other lawyers before hiring him.
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19 Oct, 2022 by Anonymous
All he wanted was money, money, money... I was giving him my whole checks...I got behind one payment and he used it to drop my case, then had the nerve to try and suit me but it was thrown out. He will take your money!! And do nothing for you! I wish I would have read the reviews on him..
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03 May, 2022 by Jessika
I am very impressed by how quickly Eric and his team were able to review all of the documents and information regarding my situation (I must add that my situation is very complex and unique) and within days he was on the same page as I completely understood the issues. Within a week Eric took action in my case and has been fighting in my defense ever since. Eric is on top of things, responds in a timely manner, is always very professional, his staff is always friendly when interacting with me, and most importantly he has remained loyal to me. It is hard to find a lawyer that works for you and stays loyal to you. I have hired several different lawyers for my situation and either they want to take the easy way out by taking shortcuts, or they would to talk me into doing things I don't want to do, or doing things I didn't know about just to avoid the extra energy it took to satisfy my wishes during my case and Eric is the first attorney out of them all that I am completely satisfied with. So satisfied that I hired him for another case that I am currently dealing with, he is currently working on 3 cases of mine and I couldn't be more relieved. Eric is very intelligent, and firm when handling matters involving my cases. Eric respects my requests and is always honest and direct when providing me with answers or information regarding my case. Eric's services are not cheap, but it's money well spent and well deserved. Once hired, Eric completed more progress on my case in less than a week, than any other attorney has the entire time (almost a year).
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22 Feb, 2024 by Melissa kunaschk
*Friend is now in jail because of Dircks* = Friend went to court date on 2/16/24 and Dircks NEVER showed up!! Friend is now serving on a Violation of Probation that my friend already served for his OWI and case was dismissed on 1/19/24. If Dircks had ACTUALLY shown up, my friend wouldn't have been put in jail!!
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07 Aug, 2023 by Gayann wright
Lost a will
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01 May, 2021 by All creatures
Never return calls
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27 Sep, 2011 by Bob
Worst service ever. kept stringing me along. never filed motions or decrees when he said he did. My opinion is he doesn't care about his clients.
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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.
