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17 May, 2024 by Terri sullivan
02 Mar, 2024 by Melissa “bipolar bear” smith
06 Feb, 2024 by Erin deliman
23 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
Mary Ann Thinnes has handled multiple cases on my behalf. She has proven to be assertive as needed and informative during my case. She is an experienced attorney in the Dayton Area. Highly Recommended.
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07 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
Mary Ann handled my divorce & neglected to tell me that I could have asked my husband to pay for our child's college as part of the agreement. She had a very harsh manner that made it difficult to communicate.
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13 Oct, 2015 by Anonymous
I got this lawyer through Legal Aid of Western Ohio, they referred him to me. I gave him a lot of money to represent me and we talked about making motions and getting custody within 2 years. He made it an absolute promise that I would have my children in the beginning, he said he had done this many times before. After all this time and much money his promises were not fulfilled. There was an instance he didn't show up in court and another instance he told me that the court case was cancelled and then attended it without me. I asked him to file motions on my behalf that I feel would have helped me win the case and he told me that he was 'completely powerless' and 'is not the type of lawyer to file motions'. I really felt abandoned by him and that I had invested my money for no reason. On one occasion the court date had been moved, he was notified and was supposed to notify me, he didn't, so I showed up in court only to be calling him and asking him where he was. Then he explained it was cancelled and he forgot to tell me. What kind of lawyer says "I don't file motions?"
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26 Aug, 2010 by Anonymous
found through a recommendation, will use again
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12 Sep, 2018 by Anonymous
Brian Huelsman was appointed to me as a public defender. I had contacted his office as well as he by phone prior to my hearing. He made no attempt to contact me prior to my hearing, I was only able to consult with him after court proceedings had begun the day of my hearing. At that time there was no to time to review or discuss the charges I faced, he only relayed the information put forth by the prosecutor, he did not provide any advice or opinion he only wanted to know if I wanted to plead guilty or a to schedule a trial date. I ask what good is a public defender who has no inclination of providing advice let alone a defense?
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10 Aug, 2014 by Will
Mr. Huelsman is a GREAT attorney. He kept me well informed about my case and got me the best deal law would allow. I would recommend him with the highest confidence and will retain him again if ever necessary.
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02 Feb, 2022 by Ann
He's a very honest and guinuine man. He actually cares about helping people and does make sure to get paperwork and court dates. Never lied and was very straight forward! He helped change my life!
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18 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
He told me he would do a conference on the day of the hearing prior to the hearing.. That did not take place which had a detrimental effect on the outcome. Then claimed that the phone call about the conference was the conference!
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26 Jan, 2022 by Michael dillon
Arragant
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06 Aug, 2021 by Destiny ballein
He’s a fraud he took a thousand dollars an did nothing as a guardian of Leiden he seen the mother once an father twice made one report an didn’t show up but to one court date an missed the rest. He did nothing in the child’s best interest he never showed up to any visits or did random stops at the house as a lawyer he dose the bare minimum to make a payment he does not understand his job or role of a guardian of linden I wouldn’t never recommend his as any kind of lawyer
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22 Sep, 2020 by Zach burge
01 Aug, 2023 by Regina sharpe
Dalma Grandjean showed up 45 minutes late to court, with her hair messed up, stack of ruffled papers, completely unprepared, provided no defense and told me to plea guilty resulting in the judge charging me horribly.... After she had been paid many thousands of dollars to defend me.
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14 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
James “Jim” Miller, is a con artist. He was fired from his last few jobs for stealing money. Look up EGCC Jim Miller...he stole money!!!! Never hire him.
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27 Jan, 2020 by Charles garland
01 Aug, 2023 by Regina sharpe
Dalma Grandjean showed up 45 minutes late to court, with her hair messed up, stack of ruffled papers, completely unprepared, provided no defense and told me to plea guilty resulting in the judge charging me horribly.... After she had been paid many thousands of dollars to defend me.
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27 Jan, 2020 by Charles garland
15 Jan, 2020 by Carlos salas
22 Aug, 2022 by Darryl thomas
I had the honor to meet Tom eight years ago. I'm forever thankful that I have him as my legal representation. He has assisted me in small matters that other big name lawyers, such Vanoy and Gil Switala, we're unwilling to do. His background and expertise is profound. He also has an excellent reputation among the judges in the Miami Valley area. He is very efficient in providing appropriate costing legal representation and has assisted my whole entire family with all types of issues, even the small claims court and traffic offenses. For Tom, to not have a phone tree of paralegals and secretaries to decide if he wants to take your call, He has remained throughout the years to be productive, efficient, and not "too big" for his loyal and long lasting clients. I don't know what the other reviews are even talking about, however, while I was deployed Tom handled matters while I was fighting for this country and assisted my wife. I'm honored to have him as my lawyer, and privileged to serve a country with Thomas Manning, ESQ practicing law. Tom Manning is my "Lincoln Lawyer", however he is better than a Lincoln Lawyer. Thank you Tom for nine years of representation, sir!!!
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03 Jul, 2018 by Renee
I hired Tom Manning to represent me in family court. He did very little to help. He had another lawyer that had no knowledge of my case show up in his place the day of court. Nothing went the way it should until I fired him and hired a lawyer that went in and cleaned house. I would never recommend Manning.
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21 Mar, 2010 by Anonymous
Since he does not have his business address, I cannot confirm this is the same attorney; however, if your Thomas Manning uses a PO Box as his address --- this is likely him. This guy PAINFULLY slow to do anything. His knowledge in the field of DIVORCE is sub-par...when told to leave things conditions out of a dissolution agreement...he disregards the clients wishes and enters the information ... causing delays and rework at the clients expense. I would NOT recommend this using this attorney for a dissolution let alone a divorce.
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15 Dec, 2023 by Lori wilson
Extremely expensive for services provided..Non-communicative. Finally, I had to seek other legal council to distribute irrevocable trust funds from an estate. Felt like my business not important to the firm.
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07 Nov, 2023 by Bradley bohus
Rude, inconsiderate, incompetent law firm.
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06 Nov, 2023 by Naiz vega
10 Oct, 2022 by Alicia
Sarah is an amazing lawyer and I wouldn’t hire anyone else! She kept me updated with everything going on and she was so professional. I would definitely hire her again in the future if needed!
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05 Aug, 2021 by Anonymous
As others in her review had mentioned, her and the paralegal Peggy returned calls or emails. I felt as though she did not fight for me at all. Paralegal Peggy was borderline rude with answers and advice when I couldn't get thru to Ms. Decker-Hall. I believe she is not with Fox Law anymore, but where ever she lands at, STAY AWAY!
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08 Jun, 2021 by Anonymous
I hired her October 8
To fight my kids mom who took off to Vegas with the kids!
The day I hired her I told her I was in a crunch for time.
Only for her to wait till the last possible day I could file!
When it came time for court she showed up right at the time of my court
The phone call the night before didn’t ask 1 time if I was good with dates!!!!!!!!!!!
Soon as she walked into court she asked my gf if I was good with dates!!!
I had till the 26 to file
I told her the 28 from what I was told
Needless to say if she would have done her job and filed within a week of me hiring her I would have won!!
But now I’m out the money for filing and something else
Which I find a bunch of bs seems how you never had time to call me or do your job
Do yourself a favor and don’t even think about hiring her
Waste of your time & money
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27 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
I do not like to disparage another person, but the management of my case was continually unprofessional. Simple things like failing to bring proof of my income to a temporary orders hearing—the most essential document— requesting multiple times the same document that I had previously sent and blaming me when the other party expressed frustration for her mishandling papers. She didn’t respond to emailed concerns. She scapegoated me to the other party as I saw in conversation threads and only skimmed my messages regularly as I could see by her response—one time acting very dramatic about the shock of something I mentioned in a previous email she replied casually to when later it was an issue for the other party. At 35 days to the trial, I confronted her on various concerns which I had previous brought up and that second opinions from other lawyers seperately identified where she was failing. She withdrew that day as counsel rather than demonstrating accountability and maturely responding to my concerns and I was left to myself at the trial. The outcome was dismal because of her unethical behavior and my family with many children is permanently harmed.
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20 Mar, 2022 by Kevin
I used Duff back in 2006 for a divorce. The case lasted 2 years and cost me a fortune. She did not answer phone calls or emails. She does not have her clients best interest at heart. She is a scammer who makes deals with other attorneys depending on whose turn it is to win. I am still paying in some aspects of life due to her negligence.
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28 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
I hired Trisha for my divorce. She did not return calls or emails usually for weeks. When I did sit down with her, she was brusk and did not take my concerns seriously. I felt like she was more interested in playing nice with the other attorney than advocating for what was most important for my child. In the end, I have an agreement that is so poorly written, that no one can figure out what should happen. Several lawyers have also told me how inappropriate the agreement Trisha pushed me into is for my situation.
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09 Oct, 2021 by Dee
Did his job very poorly. Did NOT do what was in the best interest of the child despite everything he knew. Thankfully our heavenly father stepped in and had the parenting modified. Very unprofessional
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23 Aug, 2013 by Darrick
After taking my money his zeal to go out and get information was poor. He showed very poor skill of communication ,being a skilled professional . his knowledge of the law was not as sharp as one to charge the amount of money he received from me. He had me to dig up my own evidence to defend myself. I seen his laziness from the beginning to the end of my case, which by the way he loss. I felt it was because he didn't,t prepare.
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31 Aug, 2012 by Jade
Once Ben Swift received the retainer in my child custody case, his concern waned. He was unresponsive to calls or emails from me and once missed a filing deadline. Needless to say, my child custody case had devastating results. I had to settle for an unfair decision. Once I took my business elsewhere, I had to spend thousands of dollars to undo the damage Ben's laziness and ignorance of the law cost myself and my daughter. Fortunately, a true professional was able to rectify this case. I would never recommend Ben's services (and I use the term loosely).
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26 Oct, 2019 by Anonymous
Unbelievable high fee, $3,500, he requires for work he does not perform. He could not even or was too lazy to find our previous court case that was relevant to our current case, which would have lessened the punishment. We had to find that ourselves and send it to him! Do not be per sumptuous that the more money you spend the better result you’ll receive. I saw these two bad reviews of his and chose to ignore them because someone I knew used Brian and seemed to have received a decent result, only to find out they spent way more than our $3500.I also know of another person who used a different attorney for only $1000 and received a huge positive result. The two other cases that I am referring to were for the same charge as ours, OVI. Brian obviously does not keep in mind that a referral basis is necessary for his business.
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27 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
Hired this man. Was a huge mistake. Cost a fortune. Was charged for his mistakes. I think this man has no soul.
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16 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
Best way I can describe him is that he is a "better call Saul" lawyer. He didn't care about me, my particular case or my wishes. He did VERY little work for A LOT of money. The only reason he even has one star is because I had to put at least one. He has made it more difficult to get the things I want when it could have been easy to get it to begin, he just didn't want to put in the effort.
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22 Mar, 2024 by Florida33181
This is my opinion and based on my 5 months of being a client. I really felt I was given what I wanted to hear from Steve when I questioned him about representing me as my new lawyer in my divorce case. He was responsive for the first two months via email and phone calls and even texts. Then everything changed and I don't know why. My calls and emails went unreturned for weeks and his admin would tell me she was working on getting a con call set up and then nothing. I would call back in a week and receive more excuses. The opposing counsel is difficult at best to deal with and in my opinion just pushed Steve around. I was forced to file an extension of my 2009 taxes because of lawyers from both sides. My case did not move along and we were not prepared to go to trial so I had to eventually find new counsel.
In my opinion I would not recommend Steve for a divorce lawyer and would suggest you find a lawyer who specializes in Family Law
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10 Dec, 2013 by Dennis
I hired Steve for OVI charges. His fee was 3500.00, but what I got for that I believe I could have done just as well arguing for myself. He was on time to the several court hearings, but that is about the only positive thing that I could say with my experience with the man. Each time we met at the court , he would go behind closed doors to talk to the prosecutor which is probably the norm. He didn't hardly explain anything to me afterwards about what went on or what was said. As I write this review, I'm still waiting for him to return two previous phone calls that I made to his office within the last week. He hasn't returned one of them. After the court sessions, he would just state let's go home and told me when we were suppose to meet again. In the end, I feel he didn't fight near hard enough for me. I think I was basically an easy payday for him. I don't feel he explain my situation well enough to the prosecutor or judge. In my opinion, Steven didn't me justice in the court room and it cost me a lot of money.
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20 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
I give this guy a big fat NOPE. He took $350 from us to write a letter on our behalf. He never wrote the letter and we never again heard from him. We tried to contact him, and even went by his office - he had closed up shop and was nowhere to be found.
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06 Jun, 2012 by Unhappy with henke
I hired Mr Henke to handle a case for me. He did not accompany me to the deposition or keep me up to date with my case. Approximately 1 week before we went to trial he decided to review the case and suddenly was not aware of things that were disclosed in the preliminary documents and the transcription of my deposition. He advised me that I should not continue on with the case due the attractive nuisance laws in the state of Ohio. Apparently there were not enough comparable cases to support our claim. He told me that it was in my best interest to not continue to trial because we would likely lose. I spent approximately 1 year dealing with this drama and was advised to walk away owing him approximately $4000 additional to what I had already paid during the course of the case. When I went to court for my final hearing to drop the case he sent his previous partner with me. His partner told me that he had advised him not to take the case initially and that he responded with "it's easy money one way or another". Wow!!! I had a tragic event in my life and it was just easy money. I don't see how the man can live with himself. I have talked with other attorneys since this event and was told by those attorneys that I would have more than likely won regardless. I realize that no amount of money was going to make me happy again, but I felt that the parties responsible should have been held responsible and had I had an attorney who participated in my case during the entire course, things would have ended differently.
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24 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
Haven't heard any response from him in four months. Left 4 phone messages, he's always "out of the office". Wrote 20 emails, multiple questions regarding my case. Even asked for a statement of services rendered aprox a month ago and have yet to receive that. It seams he is avoiding any communication with me and would NOT recommend him to anyone I know.
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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.
