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25 Feb, 2025 by Jane doe
Extremely unprofessional! They will argue with you more than they argue to save you in court. Full of excuses and not willing to fulfill their end of the deal. You are better off going with a court appointed because with these guys you will end up with a court appointed in the end any way!.. Good luck to anyone that has chosen such poor representation!!! 😕
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10 Feb, 2025 by Rose tima
Judge Deborah Ford is an amazing person who really cares about her job and clients. She went above and beyond to help me with my case. She’s very nice, thoughtful, and one of the most beautiful people that you could ever meet from the outside and inside. She’s very understanding and she truly cares about winning the case and defending you. She has been working in the court room most of her life, and her mom was a former judge as well so she grew up discussing laws on daily basis. Hands down she’s the best attorney anyone could ever ask like she really knows what she’s doing and she is a very trustworthy person. I wish I can give her a 100 stars not only 5 stars because this woman truly deserves a statue built for her!❤️
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16 Jan, 2025 by Wanda riley
Attorney Todd Perkins is one of the best Attorneys in Detroit, Michigan. Everyone at his law firm is very serious about helping their clients. Counselor Perkins represented my loved one to the best of his expertise and ability. The outcome was exactly what we wanted and prayed for. God Bless The Perkins Law firm so they may continue doing what they do the best. Highly recommended!
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25 Feb, 2025 by Jane doe
Extremely unprofessional! They will argue with you more than they argue to save you in court. Full of excuses and not willing to fulfill their end of the deal. You are better off going with a court appointed because with these guys you will end up with a court appointed in the end any way!.. Good luck to anyone that has chosen such poor representation!!! 😕
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10 Feb, 2025 by Rose tima
Judge Deborah Ford is an amazing person who really cares about her job and clients. She went above and beyond to help me with my case. She’s very nice, thoughtful, and one of the most beautiful people that you could ever meet from the outside and inside. She’s very understanding and she truly cares about winning the case and defending you. She has been working in the court room most of her life, and her mom was a former judge as well so she grew up discussing laws on daily basis. Hands down she’s the best attorney anyone could ever ask like she really knows what she’s doing and she is a very trustworthy person. I wish I can give her a 100 stars not only 5 stars because this woman truly deserves a statue built for her!❤️
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16 Jan, 2025 by Wanda riley
Attorney Todd Perkins is one of the best Attorneys in Detroit, Michigan. Everyone at his law firm is very serious about helping their clients. Counselor Perkins represented my loved one to the best of his expertise and ability. The outcome was exactly what we wanted and prayed for. God Bless The Perkins Law firm so they may continue doing what they do the best. Highly recommended!
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23 Jan, 2025 by King diesel
OMG! I met an honest Attorney! Mr.Howrd was the nicest man! He listened intently and answered all my questions! In the end he told me to hold on to my money, (which I brought to give him) He was able to explain to me what I had to do on my own! What a wonderful human being! May the good Lord continue to bless this man and his family!
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30 May, 2024 by Billy&rose younce
12 Dec, 2023 by Doris higgs
Great business
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20 May, 2024 by Christopher millisor
Sean has been a great person throughout this whole process. When I spoke to him 1st time he brought peace to me. I have not been trouble before so I did not know what to expect. Well he has brought me so much light to my case . I would recommend him to anybody he is a great guy and gives it to you straight forward. I will be forever grateful for him.
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09 May, 2024 by Anonymous
Unprofessional attitude towards his clients and lacks the communication skills needed to be a lawyer I heard from him once my whole case. Overall I would NEVER recommend him to anyone.
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28 Mar, 2018 by Sarah
He did fantastic with my case. I had many charges against me and he worked extremely hard to make sure my record would stay clean. He is a fantastic hardworking attorney! I could not thank him enough for everything he has done for me and my family!
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09 Jul, 2021 by Megan
Nicole communicates very poorly by failing to read e-mails properly, failing to take notes during face-to-face meetings and remember what has been previously discussed and/or agreed upon with her clients. This results in over communication; the constant state of readdressing what has already been communicated which leads to inefficient work and billing for said time. Nicole also fails to communicate any information within a timely manner in regards to time processed towards the paid retainer, when your work has exceeded said retainer and additional expenses that have been accrued. In addition to this, paperwork that was said to be mailed by Nicole or her office were frequently not received or delayed for months. This was not just an experience of myself as her client but also the experience with the court and third party.
Nicole also failed to show up on time to every single court appearance. She would in fact phone the court and let them know she was running behind so our case would not be called while waiting for her to get there however this message was not relayed to her client.
Overall, Nicole was able to help in my child custody and parenting time circumstances however her high fees do not reflect the quality of work expected and her frequent excuses created a client-attorney relationship in which there was no trust. Ultimately, it was the two year gap between exceeding her retainer and receiving a first (and hefty) invoice for her additional services that ended our relationship. My final thoughts would be that this situation must not be unique to my sole experience.
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27 Jul, 2014 by Leander
Enough good can not be said for meticulous, professional and aggressive manner in which Nicole handled an apposing counsel that would lie and make up disruptions, a judge that was so out of control that she was removed from the bench (during my case) a mediator that lied and produced a false and biased report and my ex who threatened her of a few occasions. When asserting my rights, Nicole was threatened with arrest by our Judge but she continued to speak defying the threat because it was clear that the Judge was trying to ignore and violate my constitutional rights. In short, my case, which she fought for 4 years and is now over, was nothing short of an explosive train wreck. Nicole stuck with it, she stayed in the fight even appealing my case to the court of appeals. We ended up back in court and I eventually won custody. Nicole has a very sharp mind for detail and recollection of dates and events. This makes her very efficient in her capacity as an attorney. One day, while being herself and providing dates and documents from memory, our Judge, who seemed slightly aggravated by her claim, ended up calling her ability "amazing".
That is how I will recall and describe her representation, "AMAZING.
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17 Feb, 2012 by Anonymous
My case is one of extreme disbelief and disorder. Nicole brought order as she is keenly aware of all court rules and family law. My case file is over 2 thousand pages long (10 years) and she knew each file, name and it's contents without the time that most attorneys take to look things up.
I was impressed to see that she was more familiar with my documents and their contents than I was.
Nicole knows the law, and the courts' procedures.
Another thing that i appreciated was that in our initial consult, she outlined the way that things would go even guaranteeing me a right that had been denied for a year. Things have progressed as she said that they would. She's a straight shooter.
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19 Apr, 2023 by Anonymous
Gut was telling me somethings was off, and he talks down to his clients. Rude.
I typed in google, " signs of a bad attorney.. " everything on the list applied to him.
I suggest look elsewhere . Dont waste thousands on emails.
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03 Dec, 2021 by Ric
Steve is a no non-sense attorney. You have an objective and he gets you there. He was instrumental in all my affairs, from divorce, rental affairs and settling a family real-estate issue that no other lawyer could end. Thank you Steve for being a professional. If you want it done, and done right, call Steve.
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20 May, 2019 by Milo osten
11 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
Yeah I believe the first review, I'm in the midst of living that same nightmare right now, with the nice guy, but, scenario seems he's gave up on our case as well, always sending assistant to court and now we're getting court appointed results! Sad
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05 Aug, 2015 by Sherry
I would undoubtedly recommend Mr. Nasser. He is certainly very knowledgeable and one of the best lawyers that I have come across. He dealt with utmost precision and tactic. He was very responsive to all my concerns, kept me well informed about the possible strategies and was very compassionate. The verdict was in our favor and he was able to negotiate the best possible deal. I am truly thankful to him. I would definitely refer him to all my friends and family.
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03 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
I am truly thankful for this opportunity to write this review on my attorney Mohammed Nasser. He certainly went above and beyond all of my expectations on my matter. Specifically, I retained him on my criminal matter and thanks to his tireless and unrelenting dedication, he was able to garner an unbelievable resolve, in what appeared to be a guaranteed felony conviction.
He is an amazing individual and an extraordinary attorney. He was extremely professional, responsive and dedicated to my absolute satisfaction.
I am very satisfied with his representation and his level expertise is second to none.
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12 Mar, 2024 by Paul youngs
The receptionist for the law school has never heard of Law Review?... what is going on up there? It's ok though, because she was also a total B!#@#.
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12 Jan, 2024 by Jake beitzel
Great school.
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13 Nov, 2021 by Waled alkharbi
02 Oct, 2019 by Loren
Unfortunately I've had numerous rather negative encounters with law enforcement and the judicial system over the years. Each time I employed John and he was always able to get the absolute best possible plea bargain. His services are very fairly priced and he always dedicates his entire skill set to his clients. I would highly recommend John.
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13 Sep, 2017 by Stephanie
I hired John Goldpaugh to publically defend me for a misdemeanor I was trying to fight a few months back. He seemed rushed and uncaring to my situation, I spoke with him briefly (about five minutes two times) and both times I felt as though he wasn't really listening to me or letting me get a word in edgewise. At one point he laughed at me in court when I was explaining my situation to the judge. Lawyers are supposed to fight for your rights and help you better understand the law. After my sentence was passed I did more research on my own, realizing that the results could have been more in my favor but this man simply did NOT care. Even though he is a public defender I was still paying him for his time and honestly felt like I had paid for nothing and as someone who doesn't know the law, could have gotten the same results without him. Think twice before engaging this man in representing you.
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12 Feb, 2016 by Nick
John was referred to me from a mutual friend and we met at the jail i was being detained. Upon meeting him i felt very confident he was the Attorney for the job. We ended up going to court 5-6 times he was always on time and ready to get to business. What impressed me the most is he was always willing to to the necessary work and NOT settle for the easiest and quickest outcome. From what i seen with his interactions with the 3-4 prosecutors and the 2 judges he dealt with he i very well respected and i would say he seemed to almost be friends with them. If you need a lawyer in the Metro Detroit area John is with out a doubt the one i would recommend.
Nick
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18 Feb, 2025 by Chelsea heckathorn
I had the privilege of working with Ven Johnson Law, and I can confidently say that they are a top-tier legal team dedicated to fighting for your protection and justice. They take the time to listen to your story and explain every step of the process.
What truly sets them apart is their unwavering commitment to their clients. They don’t treat you like just another case – they genuinely care about your well-being and work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome.
If you're in need of legal representation that will fight for your rights and work relentlessly for your justice, I wholeheartedly recommend Ven Johnson Law.
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26 Dec, 2024 by Cassandra thelen
I was provided with Ven's information from another trusted attorney through my insurance agency. Ven, Tom, and Mike were incredible to work with for a little over a year. My husband was hit by a semi-driver on his way to pick up our two young boys. Tom was at my house within a few days of the initial phone call (which was well over a two hour drive for him). He sat with me in my home and listened to all the details. He then explained in detail what it would look like signing on with them, as well as what this type of case would look like. Looking back, that information at that first meeting was extremely informative and things went exactly how they said. I felt prepared every single step of the way due to these professionals.
These three men were able to win with their expertise which was significant. However, they were just as concerned with our well-being and checking in on me and my sons with how we were doing throughout the entire court case. As well as making sure I was protected through the courts.
I would recommended them to anyone. The way they fought in court and were there by my side every step of the way is something I will never forget. They have reached out with just 'checking in' and 'thinking of you' texts after the court dates. Which made me feel more like a person and not just a case/number to them.
I had two court cases going on at the time we worked together; one with them and one through my county. They were present and helpful as they could be with the other case.
I am forever grateful to all three of these attorney's and their staff. I never felt alone and I was always kept in the loop via email, text, and phone calls.
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11 Dec, 2024 by Mike mumford
Complete professionals through and through. Every person I had the pleasure of dealing with at the firm was excellent and I could not ask for a better result.
If you are having any thoughts and need help in this area call them.
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07 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
She was out of her league as my divorce attorney. She was more talk than actual bite. She also overcharged me and attempted to get more at the end. I would not recommend her as a divorce attorney.
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22 Oct, 2016 by Jason
She's a very creative attorney and I have been using her for almost 15 years. She's handled everything from real Estate, Business and Criminal Defense when I got in trouble couple times. she is a pleasure to work with and has even helped me outside our contractual agreement when we found out that they made a mistake in the court. Highly recommended five out of five stars, keep up the good work Rosemary.
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11 Sep, 2013 by Julius
I was referred to Ms.daher a little over 14years ago and in that time frame
I've had to retain her numerous times. Ms.daher have helped me on multiple
occasions an not once was I disappointed with the outcome of the service she
provided nor the outcome of the situation Ms.daher represented me in.
Ms.Daher just recently resolved a matter that went on for a good 12 months,she fought
long an hard to get me the best possible resolution and I was delighted of the outcome.
I can truly say ; I was blessed to have ran across such a very smart hard working lawyer as herself,
that will go to bat to make sure justice is served.
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26 Sep, 2018 by Mary
Margaret took my case in the 11th hour after the attorney I shared with my husband filed documents with the court that contained financial payments to him that we had not discussed. Margaret was a compassionate advocate for me during a time of vulnerability.
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23 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
1st settlement draft showed me getting $40,000.00 and when she submitted the final draft if was omitted and I did NOT receive the $40,000.00. Margaret Tobin also sought to hurt me personally and she did by turning a false claim against my credit report. She was paid in full up front the price she quoted me
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18 Sep, 2014 by Anonymous
If you want a professional lawyer with a knowledgeable staff...she is your first and only stop! Ms. Tobin has a vast conception of the law by far can't be beat....Very professional and stern in Court...she can handle any attorney out there and she does it well.
I recommend her to anyone who wants a quality and professional edge on divorce. She doesn't play around.
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14 Jul, 2023 by Gerald dziedzic
👍👍
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25 Mar, 2023 by Sierra lanier
Used him for a motorcycle accident, he never paid my medical bills which he was supposed to do since I went to the doctor he picked then he also shorted me several thousand dollars from my settlement. Never informed me of my deposition day and time so he called me 2 hours beforehand to show up. He never wore anything but a sweatsuit. This man is a CROOK
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16 May, 2022 by Karen larazri
Cheryl is amazing! She works with you and helps you through everything. She makes everything so much easier. I would recommend her to anyone!
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22 Apr, 2022 by Sharyl douglas
Great attorney
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02 Mar, 2022 by Lunden englen
Marvin Barnett does an awesome job as an aggressive attorney. He fights for you when your in battle and with effort to win your case. He is educated and have several degrees in law. Very thorough and highly recommend
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10 Sep, 2020 by Chuck black
Best lawyer I've ever seen. He is extraordinarily talented.
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19 Jan, 2022 by Ann
We hired Todd Inniss for my husband. He did an excellent job getting our case taken care of . Even with Covid he and his assistant did everything they could to get our case done . Always prompt on calling back when we had a question . I would definitely recommend his firm to anyone that asked .
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20 Jan, 2021 by Jeffrey
Thank you to Mr. Todd Inniss. My child support cases were closed because pf the persistent work of you , and your Assistant Ms. Kassandra Banks. I owed a high five figures in arrears. Now I'm down to a few thousand dollars. I have my life back thanks to you guys. They were worth the money spent!!!!!
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04 Nov, 2019 by Steven
Mr Innis got me though some rough times dealing with my ex-wife!! He was diligent and ready for every situation thrown at me from my wife’s attorney. He would contact me with any new changes and explained what will happen and what my choices are!! I thank him for getting me though the roughest time I’ve ever experience!!
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18 Feb, 2025 by Chelsea heckathorn
I had the privilege of working with Ven Johnson Law, and I can confidently say that they are a top-tier legal team dedicated to fighting for your protection and justice. They take the time to listen to your story and explain every step of the process.
What truly sets them apart is their unwavering commitment to their clients. They don’t treat you like just another case – they genuinely care about your well-being and work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome.
If you're in need of legal representation that will fight for your rights and work relentlessly for your justice, I wholeheartedly recommend Ven Johnson Law.
Read more
26 Dec, 2024 by Cassandra thelen
I was provided with Ven's information from another trusted attorney through my insurance agency. Ven, Tom, and Mike were incredible to work with for a little over a year. My husband was hit by a semi-driver on his way to pick up our two young boys. Tom was at my house within a few days of the initial phone call (which was well over a two hour drive for him). He sat with me in my home and listened to all the details. He then explained in detail what it would look like signing on with them, as well as what this type of case would look like. Looking back, that information at that first meeting was extremely informative and things went exactly how they said. I felt prepared every single step of the way due to these professionals.
These three men were able to win with their expertise which was significant. However, they were just as concerned with our well-being and checking in on me and my sons with how we were doing throughout the entire court case. As well as making sure I was protected through the courts.
I would recommended them to anyone. The way they fought in court and were there by my side every step of the way is something I will never forget. They have reached out with just 'checking in' and 'thinking of you' texts after the court dates. Which made me feel more like a person and not just a case/number to them.
I had two court cases going on at the time we worked together; one with them and one through my county. They were present and helpful as they could be with the other case.
I am forever grateful to all three of these attorney's and their staff. I never felt alone and I was always kept in the loop via email, text, and phone calls.
Read more
11 Dec, 2024 by Mike mumford
Complete professionals through and through. Every person I had the pleasure of dealing with at the firm was excellent and I could not ask for a better result.
If you are having any thoughts and need help in this area call them.
Read more
18 Feb, 2025 by Chelsea heckathorn
I had the privilege of working with Ven Johnson Law, and I can confidently say that they are a top-tier legal team dedicated to fighting for your protection and justice. They take the time to listen to your story and explain every step of the process.
What truly sets them apart is their unwavering commitment to their clients. They don’t treat you like just another case – they genuinely care about your well-being and work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome.
If you're in need of legal representation that will fight for your rights and work relentlessly for your justice, I wholeheartedly recommend Ven Johnson Law.
Read more
26 Dec, 2024 by Cassandra thelen
I was provided with Ven's information from another trusted attorney through my insurance agency. Ven, Tom, and Mike were incredible to work with for a little over a year. My husband was hit by a semi-driver on his way to pick up our two young boys. Tom was at my house within a few days of the initial phone call (which was well over a two hour drive for him). He sat with me in my home and listened to all the details. He then explained in detail what it would look like signing on with them, as well as what this type of case would look like. Looking back, that information at that first meeting was extremely informative and things went exactly how they said. I felt prepared every single step of the way due to these professionals.
These three men were able to win with their expertise which was significant. However, they were just as concerned with our well-being and checking in on me and my sons with how we were doing throughout the entire court case. As well as making sure I was protected through the courts.
I would recommended them to anyone. The way they fought in court and were there by my side every step of the way is something I will never forget. They have reached out with just 'checking in' and 'thinking of you' texts after the court dates. Which made me feel more like a person and not just a case/number to them.
I had two court cases going on at the time we worked together; one with them and one through my county. They were present and helpful as they could be with the other case.
I am forever grateful to all three of these attorney's and their staff. I never felt alone and I was always kept in the loop via email, text, and phone calls.
Read more
11 Dec, 2024 by Mike mumford
Complete professionals through and through. Every person I had the pleasure of dealing with at the firm was excellent and I could not ask for a better result.
If you are having any thoughts and need help in this area call them.
Read more
17 Oct, 2024 by Tonia nolan
Wayne County Criminal Justice Center ..Awful set up. MONEY WASTED ON DESIGN.Parking is a nightmare. employees SHOULD park out in outer Lots they gave them front row service. There is NO drop offs for the elderly that cannot walk far. NO CLOSE HANDICAP. They have to park in the same lot as ALL visitor across the street from the jail. Parking is very very limited. God forbid there ever be an emergency and have to exit the building !! they only give you one hallway with double doors to exit the building FOR EVERYONE!!!! Let me say that again small two double doors for every person needing to exit that building in an emergency. shame on the city of Detroit for using all of our money for such a crappy setup. Not only that the inmates have no windows no idea if it's day or night no outside access to a yard to be somewhat human. I know that criminals need to serve their time but my goodness they are not caged animals. No wonder people cannot get reformed because they are treated like caged Lab Rats.SHAME ON YOU MAYOR!!! YOU CAN DO BETTER!
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06 Aug, 2024 by Amanda alexander
They won't answer the phone I am currently here at the building and no one is opening the door. No one has called me back I have left several messages
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12 Aug, 2023 by Amiri lampley
04 Nov, 2022 by Erica jackson
YAY! So excited for Attorney Bruce Rice!!!
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19 Oct, 2021 by Sharon w
08 Feb, 2021 by Christine kelly
04 Nov, 2022 by Erica jackson
YAY! So excited for Attorney Bruce Rice!!!
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19 Oct, 2021 by Sharon w
08 Feb, 2021 by Christine kelly
04 Nov, 2022 by Erica jackson
YAY! So excited for Attorney Bruce Rice!!!
Read more
19 Oct, 2021 by Sharon w
08 Feb, 2021 by Christine kelly
04 Nov, 2022 by Erica jackson
YAY! So excited for Attorney Bruce Rice!!!
Read more
19 Oct, 2021 by Sharon w
08 Feb, 2021 by Christine kelly
04 Nov, 2022 by Erica jackson
YAY! So excited for Attorney Bruce Rice!!!
Read more
19 Oct, 2021 by Sharon w
08 Feb, 2021 by Christine kelly
04 Nov, 2022 by Erica jackson
YAY! So excited for Attorney Bruce Rice!!!
Read more
19 Oct, 2021 by Sharon w
08 Feb, 2021 by Christine kelly
04 Nov, 2022 by Erica jackson
YAY! So excited for Attorney Bruce Rice!!!
Read more
19 Oct, 2021 by Sharon w
08 Feb, 2021 by Christine kelly
04 Nov, 2022 by Erica jackson
YAY! So excited for Attorney Bruce Rice!!!
Read more
19 Oct, 2021 by Sharon w
08 Feb, 2021 by Christine kelly
04 Nov, 2022 by Erica jackson
YAY! So excited for Attorney Bruce Rice!!!
Read more
19 Oct, 2021 by Sharon w
08 Feb, 2021 by Christine kelly
04 Nov, 2022 by Erica jackson
YAY! So excited for Attorney Bruce Rice!!!
Read more
19 Oct, 2021 by Sharon w
08 Feb, 2021 by Christine kelly
04 Nov, 2022 by Erica jackson
YAY! So excited for Attorney Bruce Rice!!!
Read more
19 Oct, 2021 by Sharon w
08 Feb, 2021 by Christine kelly
04 Nov, 2022 by Erica jackson
YAY! So excited for Attorney Bruce Rice!!!
Read more
19 Oct, 2021 by Sharon w
08 Feb, 2021 by Christine kelly
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
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.
