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21 Aug, 2024 by Shell
Amanda is a godsend. I had a tough time not only dealing with my child's father, but finding someone willing to take on a parenting plan not tied to a divorce. She was able to deftly navigate antagonistic emails in a timely fashion, made sure she was available at critical events and only billed for time spent, and protected my daughter and myself by making sure I didn't sign anything without her review. Amanda made a difficult and time-consuming process as painless as possible. I highly recommend her!
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19 Apr, 2023 by Anonymous
Amanda is very knowledgeable and compassionate. Her experience with family law is evident. She is a first class attorney with integrity. I wish I had worked with her to settle my divorce - she helped me (after my divorce had already been finalized for several years) with one item that had been lingering from the settlement and with parenting plan deviations that had cropped up.
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21 Dec, 2022 by Nikki
Going through a separation is hard enough but having to go through it when a child is involved makes it 10x harder. While still grieving and being so confused on what to do next I contacted Amanda’s office to schedule a consult. During the consult Amanda was extremely mindful, understanding and patient, she talked me through exactly what needed to happen and even provided me with options on how she would be able to help depending on how much I was wanting to put into the process. After thinking it over I hired Amanda and asked that she handle everything and she delivered! The process was so easy and she walked me through it the entire time. Amanda’s communication was amazing and she made sure to respond to any questions I had either same day or the following business day. While working with Amanda I could tell she truly cared about me, when I would have guilt about any part of the situation she would listen and give me the best advice, she never pushed me to do anything I truly didn’t want to do. I can’t thank Amanda and her team enough for helping me through the hardest situation I have ever encountered in my life. I would absolutely recommend her to anyone that is needing help. As they won’t be disappointed.
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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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27 Aug, 2024 by Ivan
I recently worked with Mackenzie on my divorce case, and I couldn't be more satisfied with the experience. She was incredibly helpful throughout the entire process, organizing mediation efficiently and always being responsive to my questions and concerns. Her professionalism and dedication ensured that everything went smoothly, and I'm very happy with the outcome. I highly recommend Mackenzie to anyone in need of a knowledgeable and supportive attorney.
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02 May, 2024 by Anonymous
After contacting many different attorneys regarding a family law case, all the other law firms requested heavy fees up front without offering any solutions regardless of them providing free consultations. Despite her law firm being quite busy at the time, Mackenzie Bretz received a brief description of my case from their staff and was the only person I encountered knowledgeable in the field to present the best options moving forward despite them being the least profitable for her. Other attorneys that specialized in family law specifically for men asked the highest rates of all before providing any form of advice. Before Mackenzie was hired on for my case, she provided realistic solutions and outcomes along with reasonable pricing by comparison. Mackenzie did not drag out communications to maximize profit, everything was succinct and to the point. Despite her advice being accurate she was flexible and open to other points of view with regard as to how to proceed. Mackenzie and her assistants would take additional time beyond their hours to help with legal matters despite already providing a timeframe and quality solutions. When representing my case, she was committed to presenting evidence fairly even if it was outside of her initial advice. I am infinitely grateful for the legal help provided by Mackenzie and the Beresford staff during a time of need.
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27 Apr, 2020 by Sam hapke
I had a fantastic experience with Bill and his team! Bill's thorough, highly knowledgeable approach allowed me to fully understand my options during each step in the process and feel confident that my intentions were represented in the resulting documents.
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07 Nov, 2019 by Trevor campbell
He shares not only his great advice but also perspective about how to accomplish the goal in the best possible way. Always enjoy working with jim.
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29 May, 2018 by Jason best
I sought Bill out when needing to understand my property rights in relationship to an encroaching neighbor. I have the utmost confidence in the legal information he provided. In addition, he provided great practical advice for navigating the situation. I highly recommend.
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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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27 Apr, 2020 by Sam hapke
I had a fantastic experience with Bill and his team! Bill's thorough, highly knowledgeable approach allowed me to fully understand my options during each step in the process and feel confident that my intentions were represented in the resulting documents.
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07 Nov, 2019 by Trevor campbell
He shares not only his great advice but also perspective about how to accomplish the goal in the best possible way. Always enjoy working with jim.
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29 May, 2018 by Jason best
I sought Bill out when needing to understand my property rights in relationship to an encroaching neighbor. I have the utmost confidence in the legal information he provided. In addition, he provided great practical advice for navigating the situation. I highly recommend.
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18 Jun, 2024 by Aurora anna stout
I would highly recommend Aaron Engle for your disability-related legal needs. After researching several attorneys in and out of state, I decided Aaron was the right fit for my case, and I stand confident in that decision to this day. Aaron worked diligently on my case for two years. He was always very honest in his assessment of my situation and helped to educate me about the ins and outs of ERISA cases. He listened compassionately to my story and patiently answered my never-ending string of questions. Even when we had already discussed things and I still didn’t quite “get it,” he would patiently explain it to me again. He gave sound advice on how to approach my case, and I believe it benefited me greatly to follow his advice. His communication was always thorough, professional, and kind. He was patient with the time I took to reflect, consider my needs, and make big decisions. He never pushed me or rushed me in any particular direction. I truly felt that he cared about my best interests, listened, and did his best to work toward the outcome I wanted, even when he wasn’t confident that it would be possible. He walked the difficult line of managing my expectations while still fighting for the outcome I hoped for. He really stepped up in negotiating a settlement on the terms that I requested, in a way that is not always done. He reached out to colleagues who could collaborate on my case and successfully assist with my requests. This all led to the resolution of my case in the best way possible given the difficult circumstances that often surround our need to seek disability attorneys in the first place. I would not hesitate to work with him again in the future. Thank you Aaron & team for all you did for me.
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05 Jun, 2024 by Tim fulton
Aaron Engle did a great service for me. Totally understands the system and provides a process to navigate and come out on top.
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13 May, 2024 by Getnet yigzaw
I cannot recommend my attorney Aaron I Engle highly enough. He embodies decency and discipline, making him not just a remarkable human being but a truly exceptional lawyer. What sets him apart is his honesty; he never provides false hope but instead offers you the truth. From day one, he lays out a clear timeline, giving you a realistic expectation of the process ahead. One of his most outstanding skill is his ability to listen attentively during conversations, ensuring that he truly understands your concerns and needs. My endorsement of his services isn't based on a single case but on the consistent success he has delivered. I have referred two of my friends to him, and he has emerged victorious in all three cases including mine. His working methods and ethical standards remain unwaveringly high, ensuring a standard of excellence that brings peace of mind to his clients. Having had him by my side, I can attest to the satisfaction and reassurance that comes from having such a competent and reliable attorney in your corner. Thank you Aaron, your commitment to your clients are truly commendable. Getnet Yigzaw.
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29 Dec, 2023 by Christina
Dimitra is amazing. She was quick to answer all my questions. She helped make the process smooth and easy. The communication was great. I am thankful for all that she did for my family.
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26 Dec, 2023 by Abi
Dimitra handled our open adoption case. She was responsive and respectful until we met in person and she was finished with her portion with us; she never followed up with the information we discussed in the appointment 3 months ago now. Her legal assistant ignored all our attempts to reach her. She clearly doesn’t care about her clients and only cares about the income.
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18 Sep, 2021 by Brad
Dimitra and her team were amazing. They helped my husband and I along our adoption process, easing our minds and always making sure we were taken care of. If you are in need of an attorney for the adoption process that understands the stress you are under and cares about your new family I would highly recommend her.
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18 Jun, 2024 by Aurora anna stout
I would highly recommend Aaron Engle for your disability-related legal needs. After researching several attorneys in and out of state, I decided Aaron was the right fit for my case, and I stand confident in that decision to this day. Aaron worked diligently on my case for two years. He was always very honest in his assessment of my situation and helped to educate me about the ins and outs of ERISA cases. He listened compassionately to my story and patiently answered my never-ending string of questions. Even when we had already discussed things and I still didn’t quite “get it,” he would patiently explain it to me again. He gave sound advice on how to approach my case, and I believe it benefited me greatly to follow his advice. His communication was always thorough, professional, and kind. He was patient with the time I took to reflect, consider my needs, and make big decisions. He never pushed me or rushed me in any particular direction. I truly felt that he cared about my best interests, listened, and did his best to work toward the outcome I wanted, even when he wasn’t confident that it would be possible. He walked the difficult line of managing my expectations while still fighting for the outcome I hoped for. He really stepped up in negotiating a settlement on the terms that I requested, in a way that is not always done. He reached out to colleagues who could collaborate on my case and successfully assist with my requests. This all led to the resolution of my case in the best way possible given the difficult circumstances that often surround our need to seek disability attorneys in the first place. I would not hesitate to work with him again in the future. Thank you Aaron & team for all you did for me.
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05 Jun, 2024 by Tim fulton
Aaron Engle did a great service for me. Totally understands the system and provides a process to navigate and come out on top.
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13 May, 2024 by Getnet yigzaw
I cannot recommend my attorney Aaron I Engle highly enough. He embodies decency and discipline, making him not just a remarkable human being but a truly exceptional lawyer. What sets him apart is his honesty; he never provides false hope but instead offers you the truth. From day one, he lays out a clear timeline, giving you a realistic expectation of the process ahead. One of his most outstanding skill is his ability to listen attentively during conversations, ensuring that he truly understands your concerns and needs. My endorsement of his services isn't based on a single case but on the consistent success he has delivered. I have referred two of my friends to him, and he has emerged victorious in all three cases including mine. His working methods and ethical standards remain unwaveringly high, ensuring a standard of excellence that brings peace of mind to his clients. Having had him by my side, I can attest to the satisfaction and reassurance that comes from having such a competent and reliable attorney in your corner. Thank you Aaron, your commitment to your clients are truly commendable. Getnet Yigzaw.
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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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05 Jun, 2020 by Anonymous
Lisa helped me secure a safer physical and financial future for myself and my daughter. It was an incredibly rough and litigious road, but she helped free me from a situation I never thought I could escape. She was very good at seeing the future I could have, and helping me get there.
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27 Apr, 2020 by Sam hapke
I had a fantastic experience with Bill and his team! Bill's thorough, highly knowledgeable approach allowed me to fully understand my options during each step in the process and feel confident that my intentions were represented in the resulting documents.
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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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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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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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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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