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10 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
I had a really bad situation come up involving my child and the spouse of their maternal aunt’s. It was an absolute emergency situation for them. I raised issues with their mother to try to come up with a game plan to keep our child safe only to have her and her entire family treat me as though this was a fabrication. It was obvious at that moment I needed a lawyer and I started making calls…one call actually to Hiba. She gave me some advice over the phone and I hired her the next day. She moved very quickly, filed ex parte emergency change of custody and within the week my child was safe in my home. We did proceed with a RFO for a custody change due to the fact my child’s mother and their family continued to protect the perpetrator, and after that hearing my child was in my primary physical custody. This all happened very very quickly and I would have been at a complete loss without Hiba. She saved my child from a very bad situation and protected me along the way. She answered every question I had (even the ones that didn’t need to be addressed and stemmed from anxiety over the situation) and was kind courteous and a complete champion for us. I would 100% hire her again and I cannot recommend her enough. Thank you Hiba!!
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17 Sep, 2020 by Ruth
I called Ms Benny’s office for the first time on a Thursday morning. Tom, the man that answered the phone was thorough and professional, took my information, confirmed my case was something the office could handle, and gave me instructions to get documentation to the office for the attorney to review and call me back for the free consultation. Ms Benny called promptly when she said she would and had clearly familiarized herself with the details of my case to make the best use of the free consultation hour. During the consultation she helped explain to us how things worked in court, that we had not been aware of before, and offered solutions for my case that I wasn’t even aware were possible. We decided to hire her. The hearing in my case was only six days away, but Me Benny and her staff got to work immediately. They were able to negotiate a settlement with opposing counsel that I believe best protected all parties involved. She and her staff are caring, very knowledgeable, and very efficient. While they are not the least expensive attorneys in the area, they are worth every penny. She made one of the worst times in my life vastly less stressful and helped me reach an outcome I didn’t think was even possible. I will recommend Ms Benny to anybody I know looking for a family lawyer.
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17 Feb, 2020 by Anonymous
I hired Hiba last year to represent me during my divorce and child custody battle. To be honest, none of that was good, especially for a single dad in the state of California. That being said, Hiba did a great job at keeping me accountable and ensuring I did what I needed to do on my end, which would allow her to do what she needed to in order to best help me while encouraging me throughout this difficult process. There was a lot of really good communication, And I know Hiba mitigated a lot of potential negatives from happening to me with just how aggressive and thorough her approach was. I know I wasn’t the easiest client...there was a lot of pressure and stress that came along with the circumstances... but I think what separates Hiba from other attorneys, is the level of customer service, honesty and empathy that I saw from her while going through all of that. Divorce can be a total pain, but Your attorney doesn’t have to be!
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23 Jul, 2014 by Anonymous
JP was the first (after MANY) attorneys I spoke with that would have an honest, straight-forward, conversation with me about my case. After our first conversation, he presented me with in-depth opinion on my legal standing, as well as a well thought out legal strategy for action. Working under a tight deadline he was able to turn a bad situation into a victory. He was responsive: (Always same-day, usually within 1-2 hours) He was knowledgeable: Well prepared to discuss case specifics, even finding angles other attorneys had missed. He was prepared: On court-day we were ready-to-go, yet opposing council (whom had filed the RFO) had to ask for more time. In the end I got what I wanted, with little sacrifice. I believe it has everything to do with my representation by JP Miller. To put it another way, even if the court had ruled against us, I would have written a positive review because of the work he performed and how he performed it I felt confident that we were: Prepared for court and armed with the best strategy circumstances allowed.
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04 Dec, 2012 by Anonymous
Jim Miller helped me out when I was needed it most. I was facing a short notice eviction related to a pending foreclosure proceeding, when Jim provided me the necessary assistance to leave my home with dignity and without thousands of dollars in default Lender's Attorney fees. Jim's effective approach to an already devastating situation was invaluable. If you have a problem to get worked out, Jim's your man!
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30 Aug, 2021 by Jennifer
I hired Mr. Pomeranz after using two other lawyers, I was getting nowhere and had already spent A$10,000. He saved me thousands of dollars and he was able to help me get child support and save a lot of my retirement. I would have been lost without his expertise.
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29 Aug, 2021 by John stephen
Mr. Miles was very attentive to my inheritance needs and listened to the unique situation that surrounds the outlying circumstances of the case. He took his time to check on all avenues of money that was involved.
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19 Jun, 2020 by Steve lemish
Excellent bankruptcy attorney.
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25 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
Most people are unsure what to do when they find out they are on the CACI list. Fortunately, we found Tate Lounsbery at an early stage of the brutal battle that we were now in. Tate let us know the process would be a struggle filled with long periods of heart ache and doubts but encouraged us alongthe way to keep our heads, and to be calm with every hurdle we would face. With Tate's skill and experience we finally prevailed. The judge not only sided with us but also reprimanded the opposing council because of their false accusations and unprofessional handling of our case. Your best and only choice for CACI accusation is Tate Lounsbery.
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16 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
God forbid you ever need a CACI attorney, but if you do, Tate is the best! He’s so smart, intelligent and overall just a very well prepared attorney. Tate knows the law, he’s so knowledgeable about his field and that’s so important when hiring an attorney. His team is also extremely knowledgeable, kind and helpful. I’m so glad I picked Tate, hands down the best decision. You will not regret hiring Tate!
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24 Sep, 2024 by Anastasia almanzastark
Natalie is a BOSS. Hired her for my dv case and she was the utmost professional. Even though the process took longer than expected, she remained professional, calm, and reassuring throughout. Her dedication and support made a difficult situation much easier to handle. I highly recommend her to anyone in need of a skilled and compassionate lawyer.
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24 Sep, 2024 by Anastasia almanzastark
Natalie is a BOSS. Hired her for my dv case and she was the utmost professional. Even though the process took longer than expected, she remained professional, calm, and reassuring throughout. Her dedication and support made a difficult situation much easier to handle. I highly recommend her to anyone in need of a skilled and compassionate lawyer.
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04 Sep, 2024 by C k
Natalie was such an amazing legal representative. She helped me achieve expungement for a past DUI. It was a smooth process; she listened to my concerns and thoroughly explained what was needed. I highly recommend Natalie, her professionalism was unmatched. Thank you Natalie!!
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04 Sep, 2024 by David ruyle
Very professional and easy to communicate with. She cares each and every one of her clients.
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24 Sep, 2024 by Anastasia almanzastark
Natalie is a BOSS. Hired her for my dv case and she was the utmost professional. Even though the process took longer than expected, she remained professional, calm, and reassuring throughout. Her dedication and support made a difficult situation much easier to handle. I highly recommend her to anyone in need of a skilled and compassionate lawyer.
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04 Sep, 2024 by C k
Natalie was such an amazing legal representative. She helped me achieve expungement for a past DUI. It was a smooth process; she listened to my concerns and thoroughly explained what was needed. I highly recommend Natalie, her professionalism was unmatched. Thank you Natalie!!
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04 Sep, 2024 by David ruyle
Very professional and easy to communicate with. She cares each and every one of her clients.
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06 Jul, 2024 by Jv243
Not sure what the other reviews are talking about. Some people want their lawyer to be their therapist to cry to all the time instead of giving them legal advice. He was an aggressive lawyer, fought for my rights, and I was happy with the outcome. Excellent lawyer overall.
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05 Sep, 2023 by Marina
Mr Sizemore is the best attorney you can ever ask for!!! He is extremely knowledgeable and professional. Divorce is one of the hardest times you can ever go through. When it feels like your world has crushed and you are defeated the key to success is to find the right attorney. I was fortunate to find Mr. Sizemore. He has very strong ethics and he can instantly lay out all the facts and guide you towards the right solution. He was very patient with me and explained all the complex legal concepts to make sure I fully understand everything. He always has his clients best interests and truly cares about you! On top of that he is very trustworthy, polite and has great sense of humor. I would sincerely recommend him to anyone without hesitation!
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28 May, 2022 by Brandon
He is a shark and will definitely fight for you. He sees the bigger picture even when you may not see it yourself and he will always be honest with you about the possible outcomes. A great lawyer at a great snd reasonable price.
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27 Mar, 2024 by Geoffrey waugh
didn't know how to turn on adding machine i had to do it for him
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20 Dec, 2023 by Heidi desalvo
My Mother hired Chris Allred to represent her Trust. Mr. Allred did everything in his power to decieve Me. He lied to benefit his client. If you love your family DO NOT HIRE THIS MAN! He made lossing my Mother horrific. She trusted him and he failed horribly. He caused a Nightmare for my family that we are still living.
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24 Apr, 2022 by Kim gonzalez
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11 Dec, 2022 by Nancy
Catherine helped me thru a nasty divorce. My former husband is also an attorney. Catherine held my hand and fought for my rights and I will always be grateful.
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16 Dec, 2013 by Anonymous
I contacted Catherine through Avvo with a question and with the intent of hiring her, but I never heard back from her. She either did not receive my message or has too many customers and does not need another one.
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08 Jun, 2012 by Jennifer
Catherine is the only lawyer (out of close to 20) that would actually speak to me on the phone and answer my questions even before I made an appointment with her. She is very knowledgeable regarding the law and has many superior suggestions on how to handle things. She explains things so I can understand them and proves to look out for the best interest of my family. My case will be handled in a different state so I could not hire Catherine full time. She knew this after the first consultation but still speaks with me and answers all questions I have. She has worked with me on payments as well. She truly is someone who cares and is compassionate. She's not out for your money but out to help people. Thank you, Catherine. You have been such a blessing to my family.
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07 Feb, 2019 by Eric
Wanted to say thank you to Kathy and John her assistant as they have on a few occassions been in great assistance to my companies legal needs. They are very easy to reach either email or phone call, honest and reasonable. I would highly recommend using their office. Thanks again.
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06 Jan, 2016 by Christine
After my dog was stolen in Maryland, the theif fled to California and I had to enroll the order to get my dog back in California. Ms. Winn seemed professional at first, but after about a week, she stopped contacting me. I made sure to call at least once a week to make sure everything was rolling along smoothly. Trying to get anyone to call me back at that office was like trying to get a teenager to call home. Impossible! I don't know if it was a lack of organizational skills, poor customer service, or that the company is just to high on itself to care about their clients. I voiced my concern about their poor service constantly in a hope that maybe, just maybe, they'd start being a little more attentive. Nope! My dog was finally picked up and the sheriff said they would fax the release form to the lawyer's office and all I had to do is take it with me to the kennel. The lawyer's office emailed me the release only after I had started driving for a few hours (so I couldn't sign it or print it), which isn't too big of a deal. What upsets me is that I called to make sure somebody was going to meet me at their office before I left and they agreed, and then wouldn't return my calls for the three days after. Three thousand miles later and no answered phone calls, I contacted the sheriff to have the form sent to the kennel. The sheriff said they couldn't get a hold of Ms. Winn's office either. I ended up picking up the forms and my dog on my own because Ms. Winn and her associates are too incompetent to follow through with their empty promises. If you don't need to know anything about your case, they're fine. Otherwise, steer clear! I will say that they are professional enough to take a scolding without getting nasty.
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18 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
Mr Albut showed up late to the first court hearing and was more concerned about payment before he proceeds,
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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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