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04 Mar, 2021 by Lucia
An Outstanding Family Lawyer that impacted my family's life: Attorney Jennifer Morse showed integrity, diligence, impressive and comprehensive knowledge, and experience in her practice. Her professional ethics are exemplary. Attorney Jennifer Morse also possesses strong interpersonal communication skills. She listens and has been patient and compassionate when working with my family and me. Attorney Jennifer Morse is objective in her judgments and has educated me in legal issues about my case when working with my family and me. Attorney Jennifer Morse brought joy to my life and my family, and her contribution has been priceless. We will never forget! Thank you!
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08 Nov, 2020 by Tova
Jennifer Miller-Morse was my attorney thru my divorce. Her guidance, communication were clear and timely. Her expertise made the process smooth. I truly felt she and her staff had my best interest in mind. I received the outcome that I had needed.
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04 Aug, 2020 by Anonymous
Have been working with Jennifer for nearly two years in a complicated divorce with custody issues. We have the best outcome for all parties. She navigated difficult waters with impeccable sophistication and determination, always putting emphasis on what is best for my 7 year old now, and in the long run, without being a fear monger. She clearly is in Family law for the best of reasons. She is one of the most ethical attorneys I have ever worked with. I can not recommend her enough. So easy to talk to. Her paralegal Deb is incredible as well.
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23 Mar, 2024 by Prescott
I knew of others who have hired Daniel , some with some tricky circumstances and they all came out on top. I followed suit and I am pleased I did. My divorce was finalized very fast, professionally and with a good outcome. Thank you Daniel.
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27 Dec, 2023 by Emma
My divorce was long and ugly. Daniel picked up my difficult case. He takes no BS and immediately realized the personality of the person we were up against. As a huge surprise and the best Christmas gift Daniel settled my case days before Christmas. I highly recommend him.
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15 Sep, 2023 by Monica lane thompson
Worked with Him and he helped me legally. I would trust him with anything!
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30 Apr, 2023 by Anonymous
Earlier this year, I contacted Ms. Downey for help with a family situation involving my dog. I had spent a whole week calling lawyer after lawyer, and due to the nature of the case and the fact I knew nothing about legal proceedings, I was pretty overwhelmed. Finally, I was referred to Ms. Downey, and I was immediately blown away by her compassion, in-depth knowledge, and proactivity. I talked to her for almost an hour, and she could not have been kinder or more understanding. We were able to "resolve" the situation in a timely manner, and she would check in afterwards to see if I had any updates. When the same situation was escalated a few months later, Ms. Downey came to the rescue once again. I truly cannot say enough good things about Ms. Downey. She's professional, diligent, and never leaves you in the dark. Importantly for me and my case, she is also a lover of animals. When I was initially searching for lawyers, I got the sense that many of them didn't really "get" it, but Ms. Downey had no problem seeing just how much my dog meant to me. She possesses a high degree of emotional intelligence, and that is, in my opinion, the core of what makes someone a good lawyer. My case wasn't flashy, and the stakes were high only to me. Regardless, Ms. Downey took all of my concerns seriously, and I knew with certainty that she cared about my dog and me. We are so lucky to have found such a wonderful person and lawyer, and I will recommend Ms. Downey to anyone who needs representation in family or animal law.
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23 Mar, 2023 by John
I am not even a paying client of Margherita. I called her for a telephone consultation. She listened to my quick 2 minute overview of my legal needs, and she immediately jumped in with legal advice and guidance for my situation. I have consulted with numerous other lawyers for my situation (to find the right lawyer for my needs). Margherita was leaps and bounds more vested and passionate about my case than anyone else I've spoken to (reminder, I haven't paid her $1). I greatly appreciated her caring about ME, my concerns and my priorities for my legal situation, even in the one phone consultation call we had.
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21 Feb, 2023 by Angie
Margherita is beyond 5 stars !! She is extremely intelligent and knowledgeable . She Fights for her client’s rights and believes in justice for her clients and their families . She is caring, dedicated , trustworthy and goes above and beyond expectations !!
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27 Feb, 2024 by Melissa
She's transparent always watches out for your best interest in family law. She has been a wonderful person to work with. Would highly recommend her.
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26 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
I consulted with Ms Pike regarding a family law issue and found her to be extremely professional, courteous and above all, knowledgeable regarding my concerns. I highly recommend her.
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13 Nov, 2008 by Anonymous
Robin Molan is an excellent attorney. She is very bright and fight very hard for her clients.
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05 Apr, 2024 by Bernierose rose
Glenn A. Ziegler answered all my questions with great clarity and patience. He kept me informed every step of the way, which gave me great peace of mind. I am very grateful to this lawyer for his unwavering support throughout my case. He has shown exceptional commitment.
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04 Apr, 2024 by Jeff cacossa
Great experience, Glenn was super helpful and a pleasure to work with. Thank you!!
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16 Feb, 2024 by Alexandra camacho
Thank you for all your help with my case.you were very understanding and patient with me. You are very helpful and exceeded my expectations. Thank you and if I need a lawyer in the future I would call you, and recommend you to anyone. Thank you Alexandra Walker
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02 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
I have numerous concerns to address, but I'm uncertain where to commence. I was a client of Attorney Daniel Ifill, who unfortunately, compromised my trust. His unprofessional and inattentive handling of my divorce case led to unnecessary complications, including a near-contempt charge for failing to submit critical documents requested by the Judge. Initially, I sought his expertise during a vulnerable period, struggling with depression, and was drawn to his firm through online research and positive reviews. However, his representation proved ineffective, prioritizing financial gain over meaningful progress, prompting me to terminate our professional relationship. I regret engaging Mr. Daniel's services due to several concerns. Firstly, I provided him with financial support to ensure my case received optimal representation and guidance. However, his primary interest seemed to be financial gain rather than facilitating a smooth legal process. Furthermore, he failed to maintain adequate communication, neglecting to update me on the judge's requests, case developments, and potential outcomes. His contact was typically limited to requests for additional payment. As a senior citizen and diligent worker, I struggled financially, working over 100 hours per month to meet my obligations, including Mr. Daniel's fees. Despite my economic hardship, his lack of effort yielded no results and nearly led to my arrest due to unsubmitted documents. My financial obligations to Mr. Daniel led to delinquency on bills and mortgage payments. After an extended work stretch and severe health issues, I requested Mr. Daniel consider revising our payment arrangement, factoring in my compromised health and substantial payments already made. He stated that his response would be to discontinue handling my case and withhold my original critical documents related to my assets until I fulfilled his financial demands. Regrettably, I continue to be without my critical original documents and have borne substantial financial losses, with no resolution, resulting in the need to engage the services of another divorce lawyer at additional expense. Prospective clients of divorce attorneys should undertake diligent research before making a hiring decision to guarantee their case receives optimal handling. When seeking legal representation, exercise diligence to avoid financial mismanagement and subpar service. My experience was underwhelming, marked by perceived dishonesty and financial exploitation, resulting in a zero-star assessment. I advise others navigating divorce to proceed with caution.
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31 Jul, 2024 by Carlos
I currently have Mr. IFill representing me in my paternity case. He is very responsive, (under 24 hours), and honest biller.
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26 Jul, 2024 by Anonymous
We hired attorney Ifill for a custody and domestic violence dispute. My son was accused of some pretty awful things by his ex and we were able to reunite with the child and get the charges dismissed!! This attorney is our HERO! He was in constant contact with us and was so compassionate and listened to all of our needs. I cannot possibly thank him enough!! I highly recommend him if you want to win your child custody case, he is by far the best attorney out there. Thank you for all you did, you are a miracle worker!
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16 Dec, 2022 by Amy
Ms. Flowers handled my divorce and provided me with excellent guidance at a very difficult time in my life. She is extremely knowledgeable and compassionate and resolved my case with a great result! Highly recommended!
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05 Jul, 2015 by Lynn
Ms. Flowers handled my families estate planning needs. She is extremely knowledgeable and fair. She spent time assisting my brothers, my sister and myself understand the importance and value of a full estate plan. We felt very comfortable with Ms. Flowers and the entire process was seamless. I would highly recommend her to everyone I know!
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14 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous
Ms. Flowers handled my divorce. My ex-husband and myself thought that it would be in our best interest to retain two separate lawyers. After meeting with Ms. Flowers we were both so impressed with her knowledge of the law and her ability to explain the facts we decided to proceed with the process using Ms. Flowers only. Once you take the emotional factor out of the divorce process, which is difficult to do, the law is the law. Mr. Flowers explained what each of us were entitled to and helped us come to terms with many difficult decisions, including our child custody agreement. We could call her day or night and on weekends if need be. She was responsive, and truly seemed to have our best interest at heart. She was not only professional, but had compassion for us and our situation. I had friends that were in and out of court for over a year incurring thousands of dollars worth of "billable hours". My divorce took less than three months to finalize. I will forever be grateful to Ms. Flowers for making a very sad situation a little easier!!!!!! If anyone is in need of an excellent divorce attorney I would highly recommend Cheryl B. Flowers.
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What a Family Law Lawyer Can Do for You

A family law lawyer provides legal services related to family relationships, including marriage, divorce, child custody, and adoption. Family lawyers help clients navigate emotionally charged legal issues, providing guidance and representation in disputes that affect spouses, children, and parents. Whether you're going through a divorce, seeking custody of your children, or drafting a prenuptial agreement, a family law lawyer ensures your rights are protected and your interests are represented.

Family law attorneys often handle sensitive matters and offer objective legal advice, helping clients reach fair outcomes either through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.

When Should I Hire a Family Law Lawyer?

Hiring a family law lawyer is beneficial in several situations, especially when legal matters involve close personal relationships. Common reasons to hire a family law lawyer include:

  • Divorce or separation: When ending a marriage, a lawyer can help you navigate issues such as division of assets, spousal support, and child custody arrangements.
  • Child custody and visitation disputes: If you and your co-parent can't agree on custody or visitation, a lawyer can represent your interests and work toward a solution that benefits your children.
  • Child support: Whether you’re seeking child support or defending against a claim, a lawyer can help ensure the appropriate amount is calculated and enforced.
  • Prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: A lawyer can help draft or review agreements that protect your assets in case of divorce.
  • Adoption: Family law lawyers guide you through the legal process of adoption, ensuring that all requirements are met.
  • Domestic violence or restraining orders: If you're a victim of domestic violence or being falsely accused, a lawyer can help you obtain or challenge protective orders.
  • Paternity cases: If there are questions about the paternity of a child, a lawyer can help establish or dispute legal fatherhood.

Hiring a lawyer early can prevent issues from escalating, and they can offer you the best chance of achieving a favorable outcome in emotionally charged situations.

What Does a Family Law Lawyer Do?

A family law lawyer provides a wide range of services depending on your specific legal needs. Their responsibilities may include:

  • Advising on legal rights and options: Helping you understand your legal rights regarding divorce, child custody, support, and other family law issues.
  • Filing legal documents: Drafting and filing petitions, motions, and agreements with the court, such as divorce papers, custody agreements, or support orders.
  • Representing clients in court: Arguing your case in front of a judge if a settlement can’t be reached through negotiation or mediation.
  • Mediation and negotiation: Assisting with alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, to reach agreements on issues like custody, property division, and support without going to trial.
  • Enforcing court orders: Helping you enforce court orders related to child support, alimony, or custody if the other party fails to comply.
  • Drafting prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: Creating agreements that protect your assets in the event of a divorce.
  • Handling adoption proceedings: Ensuring that the legal process of adoption is followed, from filing paperwork to finalizing the adoption in court.

How Are Family Law Lawyers Paid?

Family law lawyers typically charge clients in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Common payment arrangements include:

  • Hourly rates: Most family lawyers charge by the hour, with rates varying based on experience and location. Clients are billed for the time spent working on their case, including consultations, court appearances, and document preparation.
  • Flat fees: For more straightforward legal services, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, some lawyers offer flat-fee arrangements.
  • Retainer fees: In cases that are expected to require significant time and attention, such as contentious custody battles, a lawyer may charge a retainer, which is an upfront payment that covers the initial costs of legal services. The lawyer then bills against the retainer as they work on your case.

The exact cost will depend on the complexity of your case and the lawyer’s fee structure, which should be discussed upfront.

How Much Does a Family Law Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a family law lawyer varies based on factors such as the lawyer's experience, the location, and the complexity of your case. Here are some general cost guidelines:

  • Hourly rates: Family law lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour, depending on their experience and the complexity of the case.
  • Flat fees: For simpler cases, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, fees may range from $1,000 to $5,000.
  • Retainers: For more complex matters, such as contested divorces or custody battles, lawyers may charge a retainer ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 or more. The lawyer will bill against the retainer for the work they do on your case.
  • Additional costs: You may also be responsible for additional costs, such as filing fees, mediation fees, or expert witness fees.

Always ask for a clear breakdown of the lawyer’s fees and any additional expenses during your consultation.

Top Questions to Ask a Family Law Lawyer

Before hiring a family law lawyer, it's important to ask questions to ensure they're the right fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:

  1. What experience do you have with family law cases like mine?
    Make sure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it's a contested divorce, child custody dispute, or adoption.
  2. How will you charge for your services?
    Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, a flat fee, or requires a retainer. Ask for an estimate of the total costs involved.
  3. What are the possible outcomes of my case?
    An experienced lawyer should be able to give you a general idea of what to expect based on the facts of your case.
  4. What is your approach to resolving disputes?
    Ask whether the lawyer tends to favor negotiation and mediation or whether they prefer to take cases to court. This can help you determine if their style matches your goals.
  5. How long do you expect my case to take?
    While it’s difficult to predict, the lawyer should give you an estimate based on similar cases.
  6. Who will be handling my case?
    In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may do much of the work, so make sure you understand who will be your main point of contact.

How to Check the Credibility of a Family Law Lawyer

To ensure you're hiring a reputable family law lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and reputation:

  • Check state bar association records: Verify that the lawyer is licensed to practice in your state and is in good standing with no disciplinary actions.
  • Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on websites like Avvo, Google, or Martindale-Hubbell. Previous clients can give you insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and success in family law cases.
  • Request references: Ask the lawyer for references from past clients who can speak to their experience with the lawyer.
  • Review their website or professional profile: Look at the lawyer’s background, case history, and areas of focus to ensure they have substantial experience in family law.
  • Look for professional memberships: Membership in reputable organizations, such as the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), can indicate a lawyer's expertise and dedication to family law.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To get the most out of your first consultation with a family law lawyer, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what you should bring:

  • Relevant documents: Bring any documents related to your case, such as marriage certificates, prenuptial agreements, financial records, custody agreements, or court orders.
  • List of assets and debts: For divorce cases, prepare a detailed list of all assets (e.g., homes, bank accounts, retirement funds) and debts (e.g., mortgages, loans, credit card balances).
  • Details of the family issue: Provide a written summary of the situation, including key dates and facts related to your divorce, custody dispute, or support issue.
  • Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions you have about the legal process, costs, and potential outcomes.
  • Your goals: Be prepared to discuss your objectives, such as custody arrangements, property division, or spousal support, so the lawyer understands your priorities.

Being organized and clear about your situation will help the lawyer evaluate your case more effectively and offer the best advice for moving forward.

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