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Amanda N. Gamble, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Edmonds, WA with 29 reviews
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48,63
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
20 Reviews
Google Maps
5.0
9 Reviews
star star star star star
11 Dec, 2024 by Diana cruz
Dimitra Scott at Beresford Booth Law Office is truly exceptional. She made my adoption process so much less stressful, which is no small feat given how complex and emotional it can be. Dimitra is incredibly kind, compassionate, and hardworking. Thanks to her efficiency and attention to detail, even though my adoption happened so quickly. She made sure every aspect was taken care of, allowing me to focus on the most important part: meeting and getting to know my newborn son. From the first consultation to the finalization of the adoption, Dimitra consistently demonstrated deep expertise and genuine care for my case. I couldn’t have asked for a better attorney to guide me through such an important life event. If you’re looking for someone who is not only a skilled lawyer but also a caring advocate, I highly recommend Dimitra Scott.
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28 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
My case was handled with care and protection and clear instructions. It's overwhelming to need legal support and Amanda and her team at Beresford helped make the process understandable and worked with me to fight for what was right. My outcome was successful, resulting in major peace of mind.
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25 Oct, 2024 by Tim cook
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Mackenzie Owen Bretz, experienced Family Law attorney in Edmonds, WA with 14 reviews
Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
44,16
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
5 Reviews
Google Maps
5.0
9 Reviews
star star star star star
11 Dec, 2024 by Diana cruz
Dimitra Scott at Beresford Booth Law Office is truly exceptional. She made my adoption process so much less stressful, which is no small feat given how complex and emotional it can be. Dimitra is incredibly kind, compassionate, and hardworking. Thanks to her efficiency and attention to detail, even though my adoption happened so quickly. She made sure every aspect was taken care of, allowing me to focus on the most important part: meeting and getting to know my newborn son. From the first consultation to the finalization of the adoption, Dimitra consistently demonstrated deep expertise and genuine care for my case. I couldn’t have asked for a better attorney to guide me through such an important life event. If you’re looking for someone who is not only a skilled lawyer but also a caring advocate, I highly recommend Dimitra Scott.
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25 Oct, 2024 by Tim cook
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21 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
I recently had the pleasure of working with Mackenzie during my divorce proceedings, and I cannot recommend her highly enough. From the very beginning, Mackenzie demonstrated exceptional professionalism, empathy, and expertise. She was always available to answer my questions and provided clear, concise guidance throughout the entire process. Mackenzie's attention to detail and dedication to my case were truly remarkable. She handled every aspect of my divorce with the utmost care and ensured that my interests were always protected. Her ability to navigate complex legal issues and negotiate effectively made a significant difference in the outcome of my case. Beyond her legal acumen, Mackenzie was a source of emotional support during a very challenging time. Her compassionate approach helped me feel more at ease and confident in the decisions we made together. If you are looking for a knowledgeable, dedicated, and compassionate family law attorney, I highly recommend Mackenzie. She is an outstanding advocate and a true professional.
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Mark Marston Demaray, experienced Adoption, Family Law attorney in Edmonds, WA with 12 reviews
Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
44,10
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
3 Reviews
Google Maps
5.0
9 Reviews
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11 Dec, 2024 by Diana cruz
Dimitra Scott at Beresford Booth Law Office is truly exceptional. She made my adoption process so much less stressful, which is no small feat given how complex and emotional it can be. Dimitra is incredibly kind, compassionate, and hardworking. Thanks to her efficiency and attention to detail, even though my adoption happened so quickly. She made sure every aspect was taken care of, allowing me to focus on the most important part: meeting and getting to know my newborn son. From the first consultation to the finalization of the adoption, Dimitra consistently demonstrated deep expertise and genuine care for my case. I couldn’t have asked for a better attorney to guide me through such an important life event. If you’re looking for someone who is not only a skilled lawyer but also a caring advocate, I highly recommend Dimitra Scott.
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25 Oct, 2024 by Tim cook
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02 Dec, 2023 by Karley penoyer
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Lisa Hoang Do, experienced Family Law attorney in Edmonds, WA with 13 reviews
Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,27
star star star star star
4.7/5
Avvo
4.0
4 Reviews
Google Maps
5.0
9 Reviews
star star star star star
11 Dec, 2024 by Diana cruz
Dimitra Scott at Beresford Booth Law Office is truly exceptional. She made my adoption process so much less stressful, which is no small feat given how complex and emotional it can be. Dimitra is incredibly kind, compassionate, and hardworking. Thanks to her efficiency and attention to detail, even though my adoption happened so quickly. She made sure every aspect was taken care of, allowing me to focus on the most important part: meeting and getting to know my newborn son. From the first consultation to the finalization of the adoption, Dimitra consistently demonstrated deep expertise and genuine care for my case. I couldn’t have asked for a better attorney to guide me through such an important life event. If you’re looking for someone who is not only a skilled lawyer but also a caring advocate, I highly recommend Dimitra Scott.
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25 Oct, 2024 by Tim cook
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11 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
In such an important time in my life, I sought legal counsel from Beresford Booth PLLC. I was matched with Lisa as my legal representative. I found she was careless with the number of mistakes she made, and she was uneducated in family law. Now that I think about it, its either that she's careless and cruel, incompetent, or just plain lazy. I had to pay for her to re-write orders several times due to her inability to absorb the information the court gave her. I have paid her a lot of money and at a certain point it doesn't feel like its worth getting a different lawyer. I cant help but feel she's a scammer. She will drain you of every last red cent.
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Dimitra S Scott, experienced Family Law attorney in Edmonds, WA with 22 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,25
star star star star star
4.6/5
Avvo
4.3
13 Reviews
Google Maps
5.0
9 Reviews
star star star star star
11 Dec, 2024 by Diana cruz
Dimitra Scott at Beresford Booth Law Office is truly exceptional. She made my adoption process so much less stressful, which is no small feat given how complex and emotional it can be. Dimitra is incredibly kind, compassionate, and hardworking. Thanks to her efficiency and attention to detail, even though my adoption happened so quickly. She made sure every aspect was taken care of, allowing me to focus on the most important part: meeting and getting to know my newborn son. From the first consultation to the finalization of the adoption, Dimitra consistently demonstrated deep expertise and genuine care for my case. I couldn’t have asked for a better attorney to guide me through such an important life event. If you’re looking for someone who is not only a skilled lawyer but also a caring advocate, I highly recommend Dimitra Scott.
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11 Dec, 2024 by Diana
Dimitra Scott at Beresford Booth Law Office is truly exceptional. She made my adoption process so much less stressful, which is no small feat given how complex and emotional it can be. Dimitra is incredibly kind, compassionate, and hardworking. Thanks to her efficiency and attention to detail, even though my adoption happened so quickly. She made sure every aspect was taken care of, allowing me to focus on the most important part: meeting and getting to know my newborn son. From the first consultation to the finalization of the adoption, Dimitra consistently demonstrated deep expertise and genuine care for my case. I couldn’t have asked for a better attorney to guide me through such an important life event. If you’re looking for someone who is not only a skilled lawyer but also a caring advocate, I highly recommend Dimitra Scott.
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25 Oct, 2024 by Tim cook
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Lori J Guevara, experienced Civil Rights, Criminal Defense attorney in Edmonds, WA with 7 reviews
Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,22
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
7 Reviews
star star star star star
21 May, 2020 by Anonymous
I hired Lori for a modification after having a different attorney for my original divorce. I wish Lori had represented me from the beginning - I would have saved a lot of money and a lot of frustration. Lori listened to me and helped me clarify my goals. She got me more time with my kid and she also got me a more reasonable child support order. My case was complicated - several attorneys turned me down before I found Lori. On top of that, my ex had a difficult lawyer. Lori handled my case with skill and professionalism. If you are looking for an attorney who knows what she’s doing and who fights for you and who gets results, hire Lori!
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10 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
Lori represented me in two complex family law matters and a criminal defense case resulting from false allegations in my family law case. She was attentive, prepared, and passionate about my cases. I would highly recommend Lori and I hope I never need another lawyer but if I do, I know who I'm going to call! I thought because I'm male, the courts would be biased. Lori made sure I was always heard and treated fairly. She is also very affordable and she worked with me on a payment plan, which I truly needed due to the divorce! Great job, Lori. My children and I thank you!
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28 Apr, 2011 by Anonymous
Lori worked my divorce case a few years back and was fantastic. Not only is she a great lawyer, but she is genuine, trustworthy, honest and is always thinking of your needs first. She is always there to answer questions, which has been a lot lately (since my ex is not easy to work with) and she is EXTREMLY helpful. I will use her again if needed, and I would recommend her 100%.
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Anne B. Bennette, experienced Estate Planning, Family Law attorney in Edmonds, WA with 9 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,01
star star star star star
5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
9 Reviews
star star star star star
11 Dec, 2024 by Diana cruz
Dimitra Scott at Beresford Booth Law Office is truly exceptional. She made my adoption process so much less stressful, which is no small feat given how complex and emotional it can be. Dimitra is incredibly kind, compassionate, and hardworking. Thanks to her efficiency and attention to detail, even though my adoption happened so quickly. She made sure every aspect was taken care of, allowing me to focus on the most important part: meeting and getting to know my newborn son. From the first consultation to the finalization of the adoption, Dimitra consistently demonstrated deep expertise and genuine care for my case. I couldn’t have asked for a better attorney to guide me through such an important life event. If you’re looking for someone who is not only a skilled lawyer but also a caring advocate, I highly recommend Dimitra Scott.
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25 Oct, 2024 by Tim cook
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02 Dec, 2023 by Karley penoyer
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Alia F Ahmed, experienced Adoption, Child Custody attorney in Edmonds, WA with 100 reviews
Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
34,61
star star star star star
4.5/5
Avvo
4.6
17 Reviews
Google Maps
4.5
83 Reviews
star star star star star
19 Dec, 2024 by Anonymous
From consultation to court, Alia held my hand throughout the process. Extremely kind, honest, well versed and experienced, and with excellent communication she navigated me through a very tumultuous and complicated divorce. This phase of your life will be challenging beyond expectations. The bestthing you can do for yourself is hire the best and most aggressive lawyer to fight for everything you deserve. With grace, patience, compassion, amazing knowledge of the law, and an aggressive and ambitious attitude whatever the BEST outcome is for you, without a shadow of a doubt Alia will accomplish that and probably exceed expectations. At the end of this journey, you will truly not have a single what if, not a single stone left unturned, and not a single question unanswered. She goes above and beyond her professional duty. Part lawyer, part psychologist, part friend, part your personal warrior, she will serve you with everything she has tirelessly. If you have found her, look no more and hire immediately.
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08 Nov, 2024 by Will canestaro
I had a wonderful experience working with Mark. He got up to speed quickly, was extremely thoughtful, and found a path to resolution. I would highly recommend him.
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08 Nov, 2024 by Sana
We approached Ms. Ahmed with a very complicated divorce case. It was a devastating severance of a 50 year marriage that completely unanticipated. Culturally, even in this modern and progressive day of age, divorce is not a matter that is commonly experienced, especially within the generation we were dealing with. We are Pakistani and Muslim which brought significant complexities into this case for us and especially for Ms. Ahmed as she navigated through our situation tirelessly first simply to understand all these components. We were really left in the dark by the opposing party, and we could not 'help' Ms. Ahmed much. I know we did not make it easier for her. At every turn we presented her with 'I do not know". We did not have anything in our control, we didn't know where anything was, we could not untangle anything for her. We made her work as challenging, and difficult as it could possibly be. We were completely an utterly in the dark, and that is how we approached her. Yet, she managed us, emotionally, professionally, compassionately, step by step along the way, and investigated our situation from every single angle and then some. This was over a year of harsh struggle and she unwaveringly stood by our side. There were times where we did not want to hear what she wanted to say, but that did not deter her from always being realistic and honest with us. She wouldn't give us one possible outcome, but ten. She did not treat us as a client, but from her communications, from her availabilities, from her constant checking in with us, at every and any hour, we were confident knowing she genuinely cared and treated us as family. All this aside, Ms. Ahmed's knowledge of the law, is impeccable. She is both calm and aggressive, she is both graceful and a beast, she is so strong that even when things are looking impossible, you always see the light through her confidence. Everyone must be wondering did we get the outcome we wanted? Ms. Ahmed did God's work. She not only protected my mother, but protected her legacy and our generations to come. The outcome that other legal professionals prepared us for, the outcome that friends, community, and family told us we would probably get, was not going to be a devastating outcome for us and not one that we could live with. Ms. Ahmed fought hard for us to get us the impossible, and she won...we won. Whatever stone she could un-turn, she did, whatever creative angle she could investigate and research, she did, whatever approach her mind had not considered yet, she found and researched. No matter what the case was looking like, through all the ups and downs, we always found peace in her consistent limitless determination. Before we were able to think of presenting a thought or an idea, she was 100 steps ahead of us. We ended up in court, terrified, sleepless nights, anxieties that led us through 1000 paths of 'what ifs', but she held our hand through all the mess, the complications, and the nonsense. Do not let her calmness or gracefulness, fool you, she is a force of nature. She is one of the strongest most confident women I have ever met. Saying thank you to her is almost embarrassing and we are sure this review is not needed by her. Her reputation precedes her a thousand fold. The intention of this review is for someone that is dealing with an extremely impossible divorce, where there is no hope, when you are flailing around in the universe facing with extreme anxieties, when there seems to be absolutely no hope and no way out. If you need someone to untangle a situation that seems just impossible and are truly looking for a miracle worker; please reach out to Ms. Ahmed. If it is a matter of your life, there is no better hands to put them in. We as a family are always, and will always for our entire lifetime, be ever so grateful for what she has been able to accomplish for us. We truly believe she was an answer to prayers and did divine work and serves as a shield for my mother and our family.
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Athena Makratzakis Dickerson, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Edmonds, WA with 87 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
33,50
star star star star star
4.4/5
Avvo
4.3
4 Reviews
Google Maps
4.5
83 Reviews
star star star star star
08 Nov, 2024 by Will canestaro
I had a wonderful experience working with Mark. He got up to speed quickly, was extremely thoughtful, and found a path to resolution. I would highly recommend him.
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08 Nov, 2024 by Sana
We approached Ms. Ahmed with a very complicated divorce case. It was a devastating severance of a 50 year marriage that completely unanticipated. Culturally, even in this modern and progressive day of age, divorce is not a matter that is commonly experienced, especially within the generation we were dealing with. We are Pakistani and Muslim which brought significant complexities into this case for us and especially for Ms. Ahmed as she navigated through our situation tirelessly first simply to understand all these components. We were really left in the dark by the opposing party, and we could not 'help' Ms. Ahmed much. I know we did not make it easier for her. At every turn we presented her with 'I do not know". We did not have anything in our control, we didn't know where anything was, we could not untangle anything for her. We made her work as challenging, and difficult as it could possibly be. We were completely an utterly in the dark, and that is how we approached her. Yet, she managed us, emotionally, professionally, compassionately, step by step along the way, and investigated our situation from every single angle and then some. This was over a year of harsh struggle and she unwaveringly stood by our side. There were times where we did not want to hear what she wanted to say, but that did not deter her from always being realistic and honest with us. She wouldn't give us one possible outcome, but ten. She did not treat us as a client, but from her communications, from her availabilities, from her constant checking in with us, at every and any hour, we were confident knowing she genuinely cared and treated us as family. All this aside, Ms. Ahmed's knowledge of the law, is impeccable. She is both calm and aggressive, she is both graceful and a beast, she is so strong that even when things are looking impossible, you always see the light through her confidence. Everyone must be wondering did we get the outcome we wanted? Ms. Ahmed did God's work. She not only protected my mother, but protected her legacy and our generations to come. The outcome that other legal professionals prepared us for, the outcome that friends, community, and family told us we would probably get, was not going to be a devastating outcome for us and not one that we could live with. Ms. Ahmed fought hard for us to get us the impossible, and she won...we won. Whatever stone she could un-turn, she did, whatever creative angle she could investigate and research, she did, whatever approach her mind had not considered yet, she found and researched. No matter what the case was looking like, through all the ups and downs, we always found peace in her consistent limitless determination. Before we were able to think of presenting a thought or an idea, she was 100 steps ahead of us. We ended up in court, terrified, sleepless nights, anxieties that led us through 1000 paths of 'what ifs', but she held our hand through all the mess, the complications, and the nonsense. Do not let her calmness or gracefulness, fool you, she is a force of nature. She is one of the strongest most confident women I have ever met. Saying thank you to her is almost embarrassing and we are sure this review is not needed by her. Her reputation precedes her a thousand fold. The intention of this review is for someone that is dealing with an extremely impossible divorce, where there is no hope, when you are flailing around in the universe facing with extreme anxieties, when there seems to be absolutely no hope and no way out. If you need someone to untangle a situation that seems just impossible and are truly looking for a miracle worker; please reach out to Ms. Ahmed. If it is a matter of your life, there is no better hands to put them in. We as a family are always, and will always for our entire lifetime, be ever so grateful for what she has been able to accomplish for us. We truly believe she was an answer to prayers and did divine work and serves as a shield for my mother and our family.
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29 Oct, 2024 by Mary stevenson
I reached out to Aaron Engle Law to seek advice and guidance regarding a long term disability claim. Mr Engle was very thorough and knowledgeable to my situation. He spent all the time I needed to answer all my questions and concerns. He put my mind at ease and guided me to make a decision that was in my best interest. I am truly grateful for his expertise.
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Thomas James Alexiou, experienced Family Law attorney in Edmonds, WA with 6 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
24,55
star star star star star
4.1/5
Avvo
4.1
6 Reviews
star star star star star
18 May, 2024 by Jason
Tom is a very well spoken and trustworthy attorney that will go above and beyond for you with excellent results. He is affordable and extremely knowledgeable. His work load is very heavy most of the time and even through all his efforts sometimes hard to reach but be patient because he is worth it!! Thank you for all the matters you have helped me with in the past.
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23 Jun, 2019 by Anonymous
Thomas J alexio accepted a payment to represent in a family law matter. What I received was many last-minute phone calls stating he could not show for this or that. Always talked a good game but produced nothing. Scheduled several meetings for us to get together and discuss the case which he never follow through with and most of the time didn't even receive any cancellation messages or phone calls he just wouldn't show and when I tried to contact him there would be no response.
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21 Oct, 2013 by Anonymous
Met Tom at arraignment. Easy to talk too and a real person unlike most. He is affordable w results. Tom helped me w an assault charge.
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Dan Paul Evich, experienced Family Law attorney in Edmonds, WA with 2 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
13,69
star star star star star
3.0/5
Avvo
3.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
03 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
When my mom passed away he first said he would be happy to help close my moms estate, but shortly after became extremely hard to get a hold of, and ended up completely ignoring emails/phone calls. Its been 3 years later and he has charged me a total of $4000 but my moms estate is still left open. I have had to hire another attorney, who has also reached out to Dan and has been ignored.
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10 Oct, 2012 by Anonymous
Dan has represented me on a number of criminal and civil matters. He has kept me out of jail and a free man. He has been a great lawyer to have.
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John D. Earling, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Edmonds, WA with 1 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,57
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
30 Aug, 2024 by Mike
I contacted John and he took my case and a $500 retainer and then disappeared and stopped responding to me!
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Ron Steingold, experienced Business, Construction attorney in Edmonds, WA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Kendra Long, experienced Business, Family Law attorney in Edmonds, WA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Diane Lynn Weyrick, experienced Estate Planning, Family Law attorney in Edmonds, WA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Edward Mitte, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Edmonds, WA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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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:

  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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