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01 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
Foss was very thorough in everything he did from investigation to validating facts to learning the personalities of the court and DA. He obviously had learned much over his years in practice and had a plan, but was not so rigid that he did not adjust with the situation. Always thinking ahead, he was prepared for different possibilities in each instance. A very intelligent gentleman who used good manners and remained calm at every turn. He was interested in hearing our input about the case and answering any questions we had. He communicated, even over communicated, to make sure we understood. Although the case was long, he was just as engaged at the end as at the beginning. We felt like we mattered to him as people and not just another win he could chalk up. We hope to never need his services again, but wouldn't hesitate a moment to engage him if the need arose.
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04 Jun, 2024 by Jesse harless
After some searching, I found Foss Hodges and set up a time and an interview. Foss wanted to meet the entire family and the friends anyone who could show up, Foss began to introduce himself and more importantly wanted to know about me and my family. Foss cared it was the first time I had spoken to someone who wanted to actually hear from my family and was willing to speak with them about the case to help ease any confusion we may have. Also, a huge plus was he wanted to work with experts, and he had some of his own including wanting to give the one I had in mind a call and to at least learn with them. Foss gave us a checklist to do with everything he needed and as well as anything we thought would help him in any way. Then we went to work, we were a team working towards one goal and that was to prove my innocence and to put my family back together. Foss Hodges first act of business is very unique, it's to stop and indictment if it hasn’t been indicted already. He states very clearly, I can't promise you anything but the fact I will give you the best effort and I am going to put in the work. Any lawyer that tells you they can promise you a dropped case or an innocent verdict is something to pay attention to because that is not a thing. Foss then asks me to take a polygraph and then came to my house personally to do a walk through and see my house and exactly how the incident transpired. Foss took the extra steps to fully understand what happened and educated himself about the step by step instead of just taking my statement and that’s it. Foss wants to be there and see it with his own eyes, then after that he wants to try to meet the District Attorney to stop the Indictment if possible. We waited a year and a half it felt like before the DA responded to him then she would talk about meeting and then leave the office and someone else would get the case, or it would be “lost” for a few months then a new DA would take it and not respond to him all over again. Foss was persistent and never stopped with the correspondence to try to get a meeting to show the binder he built with all of his hard work and the expert testimonies with the polygraph test and all the Character reference letters with photos of the family and all. Foss kept my family updated and was very frequent with phone calls and if you had a rough time, you could just call him to talk, he was there for me and my wife in a time where we didn’t know what to do. Foss fought for my life for 3 years he won a bond modification to get me home to my family then 8 months later he went on to meet with the DA over my case and she dropped all charges over a six-minute phone call with my wife. Foss Hodges gave me my life back I have never seen anyone care or work so hard for anyone in my life, he was exceeding and doing things every lawyer I worked with before was just not there. I would trust Foss hodges with my life again and I am telling you if you are uncertain about the situation you are in and if you are reading this, I know your scared like I was. Please just give him a call and at the very least listen to what he has to say let him hear your story and then let him work for you like he did for me. He can't promise you the same outcome as me but that’s what he told me too and here I am writing this review after being free from the nightmare with a healthy family working on my master's because of this man. I owe him my life.
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30 Mar, 2024 by Jonathan
I really appreciate all of the hard work and dedication that Foss put into my case I could absolutely not have asked for anyone better to have represented me. He made sure he’s there with me step-by-step through the entire process and made sure to keep me updated on everything that was going on in the case I felt like I was in the best possible hands. I can absolutely not thank him enough, and I can absolutely not recommend him enough.
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08 May, 2023 by Diana p
I've had a very good experience with working with Blue and his staff. Everyone cared about doing a good job for my case and I received prompt responses to my questions. I appreciate Blue's guidance and the whole office's dedication for my case.
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24 Dec, 2022 by Anonymous
I highly recommend Blue Spruell and his legal team! He is a very knowledgable in all legal matters for divorce and separation. He responds in a timely matter and is passionate about taking care of his clients. I really appreciate everything he has done for me and my family. Thank you Blue!
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27 Jun, 2022 by Bertrand
Blue did a great job. He was responsive, attentive gave great advice and resolved an issue that has been a challenge for years.
He also redid i wills.
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17 Aug, 2024 by Ps
21 Sep, 2022 by Pat tucker
Thank you Mr. Edwards for a great ESTATE PLANNING experience. You explained everything in a way that was easy for me to understand. I feel like a load has been lifted.
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25 May, 2022 by William cook
02 Oct, 2019 by Elizabeth
Elizabeth Marum is unmatched - with her extensive, in-depth knowledge of family law, her passion and drive to work through the tough issues, her ability to compromise when appropriate, and her compassion for families, she is a powerhouse to have on your side. Her rates are comparable to other attorneys in the area and she uses her paralegals wisely. I hired Elizabeth Marum to handle my divorce and I am very happy that I chose her to represent me.
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27 Sep, 2019 by Brad
Honestly, I wouldnt use anyone else. My experience was as great as a terrible time in my life could have been. Ms. Marum gave brilliant guidance and offered solutions that I wouldnt have thought of otherwise. She was able to get to the bottom of what I truly wanted and needed for my young son and I. There were very delicate issues dealing with addiction, but Ms. Marum was able to navigate those issues well and provided support for the fact that I wanted to give my ex every opportunity to see our son, but wanted the security of making sure that relationship was a safe and healthy one. I honestly would recommend Ms. Marum to anyone navigating a difficult or complex divorce.
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11 Apr, 2014 by Lauren
Mrs. Marum made me feel very comfortable during a difficult time in my life. The divorce process went as smoothly as possible thanks to her. I highly recommend her services for all family law issues.
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26 Jan, 2015 by Da'mon
Attorney Burns is an outstanding attorney , She is very knowledgeable and thorough. She is straight forward and will have your best interest at heart. She has proven herself to be dependable, informative and effective. I will definitely recommend her to others.
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23 Jan, 2015 by Stephanie lee
Ms. Burns is a powerhouse attorney. She dedicates her time and energy to make sure your legal needs are handled with the utmost care. Her attention to detail and thoroughness, no matter how big or small the job, stands out the most to me. It has definitely been a pleasure working with Ms. Burns.
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23 Jan, 2015 by Alexis
Ms. Burns demonstrates good judgment, diligence, and integrity in her life and law practice. Burns is caring and a good listener, two essential traits for an effective law practitioner.
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24 Jan, 2016 by Christine
I would highly recommend Stephen Berk. I presented him with a difficult DUI case, and he got me a better deal than I could have imagined. He also won my administrative case, and I did not lose my license. He was extremely thorough and very knowledgeable.
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01 Sep, 2015 by Carl
My wife and I were more than impressed w/ Mr. Berk. Being from out of state, calling to retain on short notice, he took the time to speak w/ me about my civil litigation issue. We flew into Atl, GA met w/ Mr. Berk AFTER HOURS. Explained everything in great detail. No rush, no pressure. Answered all our questions. Met him in court next morning, everything went exactly as he stated. He is awesome. My wife and I left Atlanta, GA feeling relieved, safe, and confident. Excellent follow up. Direct, to the point, honest. No "SUGAR COATING". This is how it is, and how it will be. Thank you Mr. Berk. Carl n Kathy
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04 Mar, 2015 by Jason
Stephen J. Berk did an excellent job with my case. Being an unusual case with varying factors, Stephen was extremely professional and knowledgeable with regards to the law in helping us win our case. He reviewed my situation and dedicated his time to finding the right argument. I would recommend Stephen to anyone looking for an attorney dedicated to helping his client win their case.
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14 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
Very conversational and easy to talk to. Answered all of my questions with good detail. Called within 5 mins of request.
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25 Sep, 2015 by Steven
If you’re looking for a very capable lawyer, then I highly recommend Mr. Stephen M. Gibbs. Mr. Gibbs has helped me get through a divorce and all the various documents and data required, make my will, living will (Georgia Advance Directive for Healthcare), and Power of Attorney documents. While working with Mr. Gibbs I was very impressed with his analytical skills, judgment, creativity, research and interpersonal skills, logical thinking ability, and communication skills. His ability to explain legal terminology, processes, and requirements to non-legal minds (like mine), enabled me to feel relaxed, and participate fully in the complicated legal processes and requirements. Mr. Gibbs is the lawyer who I speak with first on any legal matter.
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31 Jul, 2015 by Lmb
I have used mr. gibbs' services for 8 years and during this time he has displayed the utmost professionalism, courtesy and dedication to getting results. I would highly recommend mr. gibbs' to anyone needing a solid attorney with many years of experience.
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19 Feb, 2016 by Martin
Ms. Kim represented me for my divorce and child custody issues. She got me the results I was looking for. I have had some bad experiences with lawyers and she was the best. Very straight forward and knows her stuff.
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19 Feb, 2016 by Melanie
Hands down Kimberly is awesome and trustworthy. Any questions I may have had she gave me answers that I could understand. I felt she was really concerned about what was best for me and my daughter in my divorce case not about her fees which are very reasonable. If I ever need another lawyer she will be my 1st call.
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17 Feb, 2016 by Anonymous
I hired attorney Blackwell for a family case. She was very professional and knowledgeable. She walked me through the entire process and made everything very simple. She told me what to expect and I received the outcome I was looking for. I have referred her to my friends.
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29 Oct, 2009 by Anonymous
William allows time for all answers to be thoroughly discussed, no matter what. His professionalism is superb and knowledge of the law is unsurpassed. He has represented our family for over 35 years on many different levels and has always managed to keep our objectives at heart. In addition to personal affairs, William also represented my late husband's business in many respects. William is reliable, honest and will do anything it takes to help our family and I'm sure he will do the same for anyone he represents.
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06 Aug, 2009 by Anonymous
My husband and I have used William Zachary's services twice for my husband's corporation. We found him to be extremely knowledgeable and thorough. He has always given us straightforward, practical advice regarding business law.
I appreciated his advice so much that I have and would continue to recommend him to my own clients.
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30 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
Trinity is Excellent and we look forward to her assistance.
Trinity took our case over and Wow! We are so impressed and would recommend Trinity to Everyone.
Thank you Trinity for the care and concern!
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07 Jan, 2022 by Greg
Trinity helped clarify a messy situation, got the matter to court, and the judge awarded more time for discovery. Total success. Thanks again
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27 Dec, 2015 by Anonymous
I have used Michael for two separate issues: former employer and HOA dispute. He did a great job understanding both sides and advising me on the next step. He also had timely communication. Best of all he wouldn't give up. We were able to resolve both issues without court. Big thanks to Michael.
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28 Jun, 2017 by Annie
Ms. Yoxall was very responsive, respectful, & friendly. Within 24 hours, she reviewed my case & offered expert advice during my free consulation. She even called me in the evening after a long day in court! She seems to be a very dedicated & detailed attorney who looks at actions speaking louder thank words! I recommend her to you!
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02 Oct, 2020 by Rodney
Professional and got some results. Fights hard for her clients and knows how to navigate that tricky system.
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14 Apr, 2016 by Tiffany
Jessica Buchanan was my cousin's lawyer and she represented her wonderfully. I was very impressed with house great she handle her case and how quickly she was placed back with the family anything that I need I could call Jessica and she would take care of if you want a great lawyer who not only represent you to the best of her ability but also puts her heart into it so I suggest Jessica she is absolutely amazing
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29 Jun, 2021 by Anonymous
During my very difficult divorce, Leslie remained completely impartial to us parents and focused on my children. She is there to advocate for the children, not side with the parents. She is absolutely fantastic. I can’t recommend her enough. She was able to see very clearly what was happening, and kept my children safe and ultimately with me.
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18 Apr, 2023 by Bill christian
Extremely professional organization
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10 Aug, 2022 by Lou robinson
A friend referred us to Brooks for our estate planning needs. He is knowledgeable, thoughtful, and thorough. He provided options to accomplish our goals and answered all of our questions clearly and concisely. Brooks has a very pleasant manner and made the entire process quite accessible. We highly recommend him as a true partner in this experience.
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27 Feb, 2022 by Doug kertscher
Brooks did a very thorough job for a reasonable price. Was easy to deal with him and his office staff. Highly recommend.
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18 Apr, 2023 by Bill christian
Extremely professional organization
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10 Aug, 2022 by Lou robinson
A friend referred us to Brooks for our estate planning needs. He is knowledgeable, thoughtful, and thorough. He provided options to accomplish our goals and answered all of our questions clearly and concisely. Brooks has a very pleasant manner and made the entire process quite accessible. We highly recommend him as a true partner in this experience.
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27 Feb, 2022 by Doug kertscher
Brooks did a very thorough job for a reasonable price. Was easy to deal with him and his office staff. Highly recommend.
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18 Apr, 2023 by Bill christian
Extremely professional organization
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10 Aug, 2022 by Lou robinson
A friend referred us to Brooks for our estate planning needs. He is knowledgeable, thoughtful, and thorough. He provided options to accomplish our goals and answered all of our questions clearly and concisely. Brooks has a very pleasant manner and made the entire process quite accessible. We highly recommend him as a true partner in this experience.
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27 Feb, 2022 by Doug kertscher
Brooks did a very thorough job for a reasonable price. Was easy to deal with him and his office staff. Highly recommend.
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18 Apr, 2023 by Bill christian
Extremely professional organization
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10 Aug, 2022 by Lou robinson
A friend referred us to Brooks for our estate planning needs. He is knowledgeable, thoughtful, and thorough. He provided options to accomplish our goals and answered all of our questions clearly and concisely. Brooks has a very pleasant manner and made the entire process quite accessible. We highly recommend him as a true partner in this experience.
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27 Feb, 2022 by Doug kertscher
Brooks did a very thorough job for a reasonable price. Was easy to deal with him and his office staff. Highly recommend.
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18 Apr, 2023 by Bill christian
Extremely professional organization
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10 Aug, 2022 by Lou robinson
A friend referred us to Brooks for our estate planning needs. He is knowledgeable, thoughtful, and thorough. He provided options to accomplish our goals and answered all of our questions clearly and concisely. Brooks has a very pleasant manner and made the entire process quite accessible. We highly recommend him as a true partner in this experience.
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27 Feb, 2022 by Doug kertscher
Brooks did a very thorough job for a reasonable price. Was easy to deal with him and his office staff. Highly recommend.
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18 Apr, 2023 by Bill christian
Extremely professional organization
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10 Aug, 2022 by Lou robinson
A friend referred us to Brooks for our estate planning needs. He is knowledgeable, thoughtful, and thorough. He provided options to accomplish our goals and answered all of our questions clearly and concisely. Brooks has a very pleasant manner and made the entire process quite accessible. We highly recommend him as a true partner in this experience.
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27 Feb, 2022 by Doug kertscher
Brooks did a very thorough job for a reasonable price. Was easy to deal with him and his office staff. Highly recommend.
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15 Sep, 2024 by Teresa perez
15 Sep, 2024 by Deisi gonzalez
15 Sep, 2024 by Jose
03 Sep, 2024 by Charles brown
28 Aug, 2024 by Rogere senat
The associates at Merritt and Merritt are very, friendly and caring. Dayna was extremely helpful and efficient in handling my car accident case. She really cared about the outcome of my case and cares about my personal situation. I appreciate the care that was shown to me. Thank you!
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28 Aug, 2024 by Lanya longmire
They are really helpful though the whole process
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03 Sep, 2024 by Charles brown
28 Aug, 2024 by Rogere senat
The associates at Merritt and Merritt are very, friendly and caring. Dayna was extremely helpful and efficient in handling my car accident case. She really cared about the outcome of my case and cares about my personal situation. I appreciate the care that was shown to me. Thank you!
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28 Aug, 2024 by Lanya longmire
They are really helpful though the whole process
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16 Sep, 2024 by Cynthia middleton-coard
I had the honor to have a consultation today with Mr. Daniel DeWoskin, Esq. about a court case. Mr. DeWoskin and his team are the best in the ATL/Decatur area. He provided clear, concise and helpful information to me. I felt confident with a plan forward. Mr. DeWoskin was thorough, quickly helped me to accessed all options and I am grateful for him and his team. Ms. Somee, did the initial paperwork gathering and was professional, friendly and helpful as well. Give them a call - You will not regret it. A+A+A+A+A+A+ Service
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12 Aug, 2024 by Elizabeth crumley
I highly recommend The DeWoskin Law Firm. They provided excellent service with incredible results. Dan and Michelle kept me updated throughout the whole process and I didn't have to do anything. Dan will fight for you and I honestly can't believe what he was able to do for me. I am extremely happy with Dan and his team. If you find yourself needing a lawyer, you should call Dan and you won't be disappointed. Thanks again!
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02 Aug, 2024 by Summer schmidt
15 Sep, 2024 by Teresa perez
15 Sep, 2024 by Deisi gonzalez
15 Sep, 2024 by Jose
24 Sep, 2024 by Dana stone deubel
Thank you Radford Scott LLP for your help and support through our time of need! Thank you, Grace! We couldn't have gone through this process without Grace Starling by our side! Her level of knowledge, her empathy, honesty, skill in her craft, and professionalism were essential for our success! This process was so stressful and frightening for my husband and I, and to be able to move through it with Grace by our side was a blessing. I highly recommend for anyone in need of legal help or support to contact Radford Scott and Grace. Thank you again for everything! We are so grateful!
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19 Sep, 2024 by Alee strickland
Grace was so easy to work with and always answered any questions I had! (In a timely manner too! I never felt like I was left hanging!)
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10 Sep, 2024 by H f
I had a paid consultation which was very disappointing. I have no issue with the attorney saying I don't have a claim as that's his job. Where I take issue is being asked for supporting documentation and none of it being reviewed ahead of the call. I was then rushed through a complicated situation that displays long-term harassment and told there was nothing that could be done. I felt like I paid $415 and put together hours of documentation for nothing. It was disheartening to say the least.
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24 Sep, 2024 by Dana stone deubel
Thank you Radford Scott LLP for your help and support through our time of need! Thank you, Grace! We couldn't have gone through this process without Grace Starling by our side! Her level of knowledge, her empathy, honesty, skill in her craft, and professionalism were essential for our success! This process was so stressful and frightening for my husband and I, and to be able to move through it with Grace by our side was a blessing. I highly recommend for anyone in need of legal help or support to contact Radford Scott and Grace. Thank you again for everything! We are so grateful!
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19 Sep, 2024 by Alee strickland
Grace was so easy to work with and always answered any questions I had! (In a timely manner too! I never felt like I was left hanging!)
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10 Sep, 2024 by H f
I had a paid consultation which was very disappointing. I have no issue with the attorney saying I don't have a claim as that's his job. Where I take issue is being asked for supporting documentation and none of it being reviewed ahead of the call. I was then rushed through a complicated situation that displays long-term harassment and told there was nothing that could be done. I felt like I paid $415 and put together hours of documentation for nothing. It was disheartening to say the least.
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15 Sep, 2024 by Teresa perez
15 Sep, 2024 by Deisi gonzalez
15 Sep, 2024 by Jose
15 Sep, 2024 by Teresa perez
15 Sep, 2024 by Deisi gonzalez
15 Sep, 2024 by Jose
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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.
