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05 Sep, 2024 by Ernesto diaz
Erica and Team, what an excellent team of professionals. Your empathy, compassion through the divorce process, was comforting. You made me feel very comfortable. I’m also very satisfied with the final result! Thank you for everything. Love and light.
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18 Aug, 2024 by Xavier grajeda
25 Jul, 2024 by Red
If you are seeking legal help for custody, or child support go to another law firm, they rather take vacations, ignore phone calls and emails than help out.
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17 Sep, 2024 by Elida marquez
29 Aug, 2024 by Justin benedict
After several attempts to resolve and settle my divorce proceedings failed, because my ex was unyielding, Attorney Alejandra Valdez at Luis Yañez office developed an ingenious counter suite that ultimately resulted in a total dismissal of the case. I can now breathe. I highly recommend Attorney Valdez to defend anyone who is faced with a selfish, belligerent, lieing, uncompromising and greedy ex partner who will do anything to destroy a cohesive family for their selfish gain.
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14 Aug, 2024 by Jennifer hunter
Don't use this office my son hired them and they never contact him when he needs their advice.
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17 Sep, 2024 by Elida marquez
29 Aug, 2024 by Justin benedict
After several attempts to resolve and settle my divorce proceedings failed, because my ex was unyielding, Attorney Alejandra Valdez at Luis Yañez office developed an ingenious counter suite that ultimately resulted in a total dismissal of the case. I can now breathe. I highly recommend Attorney Valdez to defend anyone who is faced with a selfish, belligerent, lieing, uncompromising and greedy ex partner who will do anything to destroy a cohesive family for their selfish gain.
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14 Aug, 2024 by Jennifer hunter
Don't use this office my son hired them and they never contact him when he needs their advice.
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23 Aug, 2024 by Abraham medina
Mrs.Adkins and Mr.Shepard are both very knowledgeable, courtesy and professional at all times. Whenever a situation sprang up or I had a question both were there to answer questions in a timely manner. Divorce can be very complicated and confusing but they made it simple. Mrs.Adkins not only will help you, but as well tell you how it is, and is very straightforward with you. She is very humble, and kind during a difficult and confusing time. I advise everyone to put your trust in her and her team as well LISTEN to what she has to tell you because she really knows what’s best. Put your ego aside because she WILL help. Thank you ma’am for the hard work and dedication!
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01 Apr, 2024 by Jay tallon
I didn't know what to do at the beginning of the divorce process, but Ms. Adkins guided me through it and helped me feel confident. Throughout a difficult period she was understanding, compassionate, and effective and I'm very grateful for her help. I couldn't recommend her more highly.
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01 Apr, 2024 by Brittney preble
A couple years ago when I was 19 years old I was in an abusive marriage. He beat me in front of my children and that was the last straw. I called this women for help, told her I had no idea what I was doing, that I was young and was being abused. She started yelling at me going off saying I was scamming her and asking for free services. I broke down crying, I felt so alone and defeated. I in no way was looking for “free services” i was young, confused, distraught, and trying to find someone who could help me figure out the process of divorce. She made me feel so awful and alone, I almost stayed in an abusive marriage solely because of this woman. I doubt she remembers me but I sure remember her and now that I am almost 30 I see even more how absolutely vile what she did and said was. I was a child being beaten and when I reached out to her for help all she did was yell at me and belittle me. Ms “Adkins”, I whole heartedly hope you are ashamed of yourself, you definitely should be
also- do not respond to my post with some ignorant excuse like you respond to everyone else with a negative review. as far as i can see, every negative review is more or less about the same thing, you being rude, insensitive, and responding to people with a unnecessary and unprofessional attitude. i don’t see that all being a coincidence. on top of that every response to their reviews is you coming up with some excuse and trying to turn things around to make it seem like they just don’t wanna hear the truth. here’s a tip, you can tell the truth and not be an as*hole to people going through one of the hardest times of their lives. you in no way shape or form care about any of these people, all you care about is your paycheck and that is beyond shameful and honestly disgusting. you do not deserve to be in this profession
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03 May, 2024 by Zachary harper
If you’re military go somewhere else. I used them back in 2022 and I do not recommend them. What was discussed and what was delivered were two totally different things.
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14 May, 2023 by Kt kat
Took a friend at her appointment time to pick up some papers. She stood outside knocking on the door and we were just getting ready to leave when somebody finally opened the door with a folder in their hand. I was not impressed but luckily they aren't my lawyers.
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02 May, 2023 by Bianca hood
Mrs.Walker was clear and direct with all that needed to be handled in my case. It was very organized and clear to understand. Thank you Mrs.Walker !
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03 May, 2024 by Zachary harper
If you’re military go somewhere else. I used them back in 2022 and I do not recommend them. What was discussed and what was delivered were two totally different things.
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14 May, 2023 by Kt kat
Took a friend at her appointment time to pick up some papers. She stood outside knocking on the door and we were just getting ready to leave when somebody finally opened the door with a folder in their hand. I was not impressed but luckily they aren't my lawyers.
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02 May, 2023 by Bianca hood
Mrs.Walker was clear and direct with all that needed to be handled in my case. It was very organized and clear to understand. Thank you Mrs.Walker !
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26 Mar, 2014 by Anonymous
Never had an issue with getting my tickets dismissed. I simply call, give the rep the citation number and then my debit card number and it's done. (KNOCK ON WOOD) I have never had warrants or fines issued to me.
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04 Sep, 2024 by Moni r
Terrible communication with Carlos Quinonez. Would not use this law firm for family practice or general legal representation, unless you are expecting to be highly disappointed. Lack of preparation for court. Schedules appointments and don’t fulfill them or communicate the changes that may or may not come up. The lists continues but I would say hire at your own risk.
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01 Aug, 2024 by Vanessa skye
Yes you stole my money and did absolutely nothing but steal my money. Return my money you didn't earn and we can talk.DO NOT WASTE YOUR TIME on this fraud, FIND A COMPETENT ATTORNEY THAT KNOWS WHAT THEY ARE DOING, They DON'T keep their word, they don't research anything and they will just TAKE YOUR MONEY and over bIll you for their mistakes when you tell them don't do that three different times, Then you will have to hire a COMPETENT attorney who will actually do what you pay them for.
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15 May, 2024 by Nicolette ladoulis
30 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Dishonest and responds arrogantly like she is doing you a favor or like she is doing your task for free. Find someone that can help you fight your case instead.
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28 Apr, 2024 by Elsa flores
04 Apr, 2024 by John c
Lisa is very professional, my particular case took a long time but in the end it worked out. As a client if you do your part she will do her best to make sure you have the best possible outcome.
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05 Oct, 2024 by Turtle 2010
Great guy he's been our family lawyer since I was a kid and I'm 53yrs old now
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03 Oct, 2024 by Valerie morales
Orlando and his staff are really awesome people and get the job done. Only thing is the dog. Normally I love dogs around, but when you are going for an important case and a dog is barking at you when you walk in. Just throws it off. OTHER Than that, amazing!
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26 Aug, 2024 by Hazel pacheco
Definitely the worst. He was appointed to my brother’s case. Troche would never contact us for any updates regarding my brother’s case, and every time we would call, he’d get annoyed , and even once told my Tia to stop calling . What kind of attorney does that? Lmao. He then proceeded to withdraw himself from the case. He makes no effort whatsoever! Ridiculous.
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19 Sep, 2024 by Boobie cookie
I've hired my fair share of lawyers over the years but none of which displayed this level of confidence, resourcefulness and dedication. I like to believe that some people have gifts and are born to be great at certain things naturally and mark t Davis is one of those people. I mean from my perspective he reminds me of sherlock Homles. The way he thought outside the box and handled my case was nothing less then inspiring to say the least and if you actually met him in person he has the demeanor of sherlock homes too, which I found to be comforting in a sense. His staff was also resourceful, great with communication and straight forward. I admire that. In the end I was able to take home a victory in which I wasn't expecting, given the fact of being a man in today's society fighting to be in his child's life and having custody. I can tell you from personal experience mark t Davis and his staff are nothing short of extraordinary.
P.S- I don't take the time out to write reviews, to be honest this is my first time writing a review but I'm compelled to show my gratitude. I want to take this time to say THANK YOU. Not only for helping me win this case but for inspiring hope for men like me fighting to be a father in there child's life..
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26 Aug, 2024 by Brandon dawson
This law firm went above and beyond in order to ensure I won my case. I would recommend to anyone who is fighting for their right to be a parent when someone unfairly tries to restrict you. Would give 10 stars. Everyone from the paralegals to the lawyers are great people.
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19 Aug, 2024 by A michelle fawley
Just wrapped up my divorce case/custody with the law office of Mark T Davis representing me. the process was quite fast and easy and worth every penny. I couldn't have asked for a better outcome.
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19 Sep, 2024 by Boobie cookie
I've hired my fair share of lawyers over the years but none of which displayed this level of confidence, resourcefulness and dedication. I like to believe that some people have gifts and are born to be great at certain things naturally and mark t Davis is one of those people. I mean from my perspective he reminds me of sherlock Homles. The way he thought outside the box and handled my case was nothing less then inspiring to say the least and if you actually met him in person he has the demeanor of sherlock homes too, which I found to be comforting in a sense. His staff was also resourceful, great with communication and straight forward. I admire that. In the end I was able to take home a victory in which I wasn't expecting, given the fact of being a man in today's society fighting to be in his child's life and having custody. I can tell you from personal experience mark t Davis and his staff are nothing short of extraordinary.
P.S- I don't take the time out to write reviews, to be honest this is my first time writing a review but I'm compelled to show my gratitude. I want to take this time to say THANK YOU. Not only for helping me win this case but for inspiring hope for men like me fighting to be a father in there child's life..
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26 Aug, 2024 by Brandon dawson
This law firm went above and beyond in order to ensure I won my case. I would recommend to anyone who is fighting for their right to be a parent when someone unfairly tries to restrict you. Would give 10 stars. Everyone from the paralegals to the lawyers are great people.
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19 Aug, 2024 by A michelle fawley
Just wrapped up my divorce case/custody with the law office of Mark T Davis representing me. the process was quite fast and easy and worth every penny. I couldn't have asked for a better outcome.
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05 Oct, 2024 by Turtle 2010
Great guy he's been our family lawyer since I was a kid and I'm 53yrs old now
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03 Oct, 2024 by Valerie morales
Orlando and his staff are really awesome people and get the job done. Only thing is the dog. Normally I love dogs around, but when you are going for an important case and a dog is barking at you when you walk in. Just throws it off. OTHER Than that, amazing!
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26 Aug, 2024 by Hazel pacheco
Definitely the worst. He was appointed to my brother’s case. Troche would never contact us for any updates regarding my brother’s case, and every time we would call, he’d get annoyed , and even once told my Tia to stop calling . What kind of attorney does that? Lmao. He then proceeded to withdraw himself from the case. He makes no effort whatsoever! Ridiculous.
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09 May, 2024 by Bertha martinez
I have given a review in the past already but we as a family don’t have enough words to thank Jon Sipes he is hands down the best and we are more than happy that we found him he fought for my husband so much like no one has done before
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02 May, 2024 by Elideth ortiz
I highly recommend Mr. Ortega, he is very knowledgeable and pleasant to work with. My parents planning needs are finally taken care and it gives them peace of mind. Everything was explained in Spanish with detail.
His staff, from the moment you walk in until the time you leave is superb!
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28 Apr, 2024 by Richard carabajal
02 Apr, 2024 by Jazzmine davila
I hired Ms. Reyes for my custody battle and after 6 years of fighting, justice was finally served.
Ms. Reyes is determined and stands on business and her team always returns phone calls and answers whatever questions you have. I will ALWAYS recommend Ms. Reyes
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07 Feb, 2024 by Jacqueline pickens
27 Dec, 2023 by Malcom campos
05 Mar, 2022 by Roberto hernandez
04 May, 2021 by Samuel williams for congress fl 10
01 Apr, 2021 by Jesus yepez
16 Dec, 2022 by Brenda macias
Amazing lawyer, helped us beat the case! Didn’t even have to testify 4 hour court turned out to be only less than an hour ! I recommend you hire Mr. Maynez, we really appreciate what you did for us ! Thank you so much and god bless !
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06 Jun, 2019 by Anonymous
Mr. Maynez-Grijalva really takes care of all your worries and legal issues. He was attentive and knew exactly how to handle my case. highly recommended!
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09 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
I talked to his clerk and receptionist more than I talked to him. I was in a car accident that I was not liable for almost a year ago and I decided to go to this attorney because the owner of the collision center I took my vehicle to recommended this place and knew one of the clerks. Eventually, we did settle the claim I made, but it took them about six months for an agreement to take place. I did have to make numerous phone calls to see what the status of my claim was.
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19 Jun, 2019 by Anonymous
Attorney was hired for $1500 kept putting off court for continuances never settled my case went to work as a public defender never offered even a partial refund
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20 Nov, 2012 by Linda
This man is not your typical lawyer, he truly cares for his clients needs. He is passionate about his job and a very humble man, which is hard to come by in a lawyer. He took the time to help me understand the law. He went out of his way to investigate my case before he was even officially hired. Compassionate, gentle, very knowledgeable, and he works with his wife, they are a great team... You can tell what kind of people they are by there work relationship. I would definitely recommend this firm! Thank you Edward and Maria for your hardwork!
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17 Apr, 2012 by Luci
Edward Hernandez is one of the most ethical, hardworking and compassionate attorneys in this city. He practices law for the love of his craft and concern for others. I would recommend him to anyone seeking to hire a family law or criminal attorney.
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09 May, 2024 by Bertha martinez
I have given a review in the past already but we as a family don’t have enough words to thank Jon Sipes he is hands down the best and we are more than happy that we found him he fought for my husband so much like no one has done before
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02 May, 2024 by Elideth ortiz
I highly recommend Mr. Ortega, he is very knowledgeable and pleasant to work with. My parents planning needs are finally taken care and it gives them peace of mind. Everything was explained in Spanish with detail.
His staff, from the moment you walk in until the time you leave is superb!
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28 Apr, 2024 by Richard carabajal
10 Sep, 2024 by Diana juarez
19 Jun, 2024 by Jose jose
Mr. Rudy Perez has been a wonderful help to my driving record. He got 2 traffic citations of mine dismissed. Which were very unjustified. I can't give many details on why they're unjustified, but it'd take to much space and time. The police officer being the main reason.
I would definitely recommend Mr. Perez's services. He, and his team, are very polite, helpful, and thorough with giving you details on how the process is going.
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17 Jun, 2024 by Franco gonzalez
04 Oct, 2024 by Jackie crawley
26 Aug, 2024 by Maisha smith
Bramblett is a great lawyer he’s always won my cases never had any issues. Keep up the great work Patrick Bramblett and staff.
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19 Jun, 2024 by Catherine howell
I wrote a previous review. I was contracted process service. Never could get anyone to open the door, answer the phone, and he doesn't even put his name on the door. Did the work, but he ghosted me. Had to send a demand letter by Certified mail. I finally got the affidavits sent to State of Florida Child Support via One Serve Legal. Mr. Gandsra blocked the service app from producing any affidavits. I never got paid.
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04 Oct, 2024 by Jackie crawley
26 Aug, 2024 by Maisha smith
Bramblett is a great lawyer he’s always won my cases never had any issues. Keep up the great work Patrick Bramblett and staff.
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19 Jun, 2024 by Catherine howell
I wrote a previous review. I was contracted process service. Never could get anyone to open the door, answer the phone, and he doesn't even put his name on the door. Did the work, but he ghosted me. Had to send a demand letter by Certified mail. I finally got the affidavits sent to State of Florida Child Support via One Serve Legal. Mr. Gandsra blocked the service app from producing any affidavits. I never got paid.
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25 Jul, 2024 by Juan enriquez
Excellent customer service and very thoughtful. I recommend his services. Office personnel was great. Dorin was exceptional.
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01 Apr, 2023 by Brad randolph
16 Aug, 2021 by El ryno
Thank you for the great service. Ruben did an excellent job. And Dorin went above and beyond. Thank yall soo much
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05 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
Being military i found this lawyer at my base legal/jag office along with a list of low cost lawyers in the el paso area, Beware of this guy. He will talk a big game, tell you he understands military divorces and custody but as soon as you pay him he will brush your case off and find every excuse to not make your case a priority. Because i lived so close to his office it was easy for me to check in on progress on my case. I started services with this lawyer last march, when june came around i was deployed overseas and the only progress made on my case was the inital cause number and information, my spouse was never even served. Come july through october i could not reach him through any phone numbers listed or email, leaving messages and emails constantly asking about progress on my case. After recieving excuses and lies I gave up and sought services elsewhere, and No i have not gotten my money back. This lawyer talks a good game but does not work on your case, doesnt communicate and is anything but professional.
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14 Sep, 2020 by Regina
I hired Atty Copeland in about 2008. My inherited estate left to me was fraudulantly taken from me by adult step children. Although at that time , Atty Copeland had no experience on how to get my probate court issue to trial, this great and very smart and competent man learned by teaching himself how to bring it to trial. And to so many El Paso attorneys, they were in awe. That is what happens with him, a lot. He will blow the minds off doubters and scammers. He did get it to trial in El Paso Probate Court of The Honorable Patricia Chew. A very dishonest atty on Montana St who said to me, "The Martinez curse is when a person is called to account for all the things he has falsely bragged about it gets put in the light and the person is shown to be a person meant to suffer because there is no way he is what he has claimed to be". That man got his own Martinez Curse. Then he abruptly quit and continued to criminally file against me because he wanted to keep and still has my files. Copeland is a man of courage and commitment. And an honorable attorney. He will never get the Martinez Curse. But Mario got it and is still cursed and he will agree. But Atty Copeland is the epitome of what Americans see as the Proverbial Texas Lawyer. God made Atty Copeland so the country and specifically Texas, could know what heaven thinks a good Texan Attorney is. It IS Wm Copeland. I love him. I honor him.
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19 May, 2019 by George
Bill Copeland and his father before him have been handling our families legal affairs since 1972. We have found him to be attentive and offers good advice and counsel.
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30 Apr, 2024 by Sue z
Efficient, knowledgeable, confidential. Easy to work with and understanding. Highly recommend Mr. Paul Kubinsky and legal assistant Mario Saenz.
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15 Mar, 2024 by Laura amato
26 Feb, 2024 by Joseph wucik
Great Service. Imelda was remarkable every step of the way.
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09 Aug, 2024 by Anna
I agree she's the worst lawyer she's only working for the money, you pay her and she goes against the other parent decisions, we are going to take her to court for what she is doing
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30 Jul, 2024 by Ray
Wish I could give them 0 stars . Trash attorney won’t care for your case . Horrible!!!
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09 Jul, 2024 by Jazmine dattoli
If I can give a 0 I would !! This office is the worse don’t spend your time nor money. I have been waiting for a call back since last week regarding
My moms case. Yes she was a attorney that was appointed to her but still you don’t just wash your hands after her last court and not care, that just shows what kind of lawyer you truly are ! I suggest you look elsewhere !!!
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01 Apr, 2018 by Anonymous
When I discussed my situation to her , she said she had 18 years of experience, she can help me. After I paid retains fee which is 3000, she goes anyway it can be different by judge. Hello? You changed your words after putting your money.
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17 May, 2017 by A valencia
At first the law firm was great was getting a lot of help from both mrs. Garcia and her assistant to settle a child custody case. Things got a little complicated and i had a court on a r hearing on a Thursday it got cancelled cause she was "sick". I owed her money and was trying to pay as much as i could as soon as i could. I had paid her 600 in one week. Called the following monday after my court was cancelled to pay her another 700 dollars. Not even 2 minutes after paying i received a withdrawal letter from her assistant. I call and ask why and she gave the excuse that she is sick and is cutting her case load in half. I had sold everything i could to pay her gave her my whole pay check and she was the most unprofessional unethical person a long with her assistant. If i would of known she was going to drop me the way she did i would of paid smaller amounts and saved my money for another lawyer. To this say i have not gotten my file from her after several attempts. I would never recommend her she may be good in the court room but has no ethic.
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08 May, 2017 by Anonymous
I hired Lyda about 8 months ago for my divorce and custody battle. Ever since day one Lyda and Gina have been attentive to my every need even in days of desparation they took the time to talk to me either over the phone or via email. I always received a response in a quick and timely matter. Lyda represented me in court like no other attorney, she was well prepared had all the right questions and answers, and with time I was appointed 50/50 split joint custody of my daughter with no primary custodian. As a single father at the time I couldn't have asked for better representation. I will be highly recommending Lyda to my friends and family.
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25 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
Eugene will not put forth much effort to formulate a strong argument for you and deliver it in court. Instead, he'll just ask you questions in court during testimony, and expect you to present your arguments yourself. He doesn't even try. For the expensive rate he charges, he could have performed much better. I feel like all he really did for me was standard boiler plate paperwork. For his low level of performance, I could have just hired a more average priced lawyer and saved a lot of money.
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14 Aug, 2021 by Anonymous
I had consulted with Gene several years before my divorce. My divorce went smoothly and I was pleased with the results. He gave me excellent advice which turned out to be exactly how he predicted. I highly recommend Gene to anyone getting a divorce, man or a woman.
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15 Sep, 2013 by Anonymous
A very good thing about Gene is that he's experienced. He doesn't waste your time . I feel he might be very good if you are a man, I am a woman and would not recommend retaining him . Here's why: he did not pay attention to detail, as a result, I cannot get credit, because he did not address the fact that I'm on the mortgage for the property awarded to my husband. It appears I have a huge real estate obligation on my credit report. He should have told me, and he should have addressed it specifically in the decree. Also my possession order for my child is very lopsided ( my ex has more time and has control over whether i can take a week vacation in the summer) and he led me to believe that was my only option.
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11 Jun, 2021 by Anonymous
He was assigned to me to help me get my little girl back instead he did the opposite and ruined our lives..
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30 Nov, 2017 by Rose
Mr.williams worked hard with me to get the best possible outcome for my case and do truly appreciate his work he was always concerned if I was still doing ok in the time that we had the case open.truly would recommend again and again
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05 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
I came to Harvey due to a custody issue. From the start he seemed somewhat competent so I paid over half of the fee up front. I later paid nearly the entire remainder plus over $250 for subpoenas. He was able to get an emergency custody order for me, however the hearing for that was rescheduled and he informed my ex that he should get a lawyer. Little did I know that because the hearing was rescheduled my emergency order expired. Harvey claimed this was my fault and I should have known this. the only reason I would hire a LAWYER is because I don't understand custody laws. My ex got a very aggressive attorney which Mr. Erexleben seemed very intimidated by. We went to two or three cases all which were rescheduled by Harvey. The last case Harvey made every attempt to blame me for the outcome. "I should have know the protective order would cease after 30 days; I should have known I couldn't attempt to modify a divorce decree before a year;" Again, why would I hire an attorney if I knew any of this?? I promptly fired Harvey Erexleben and have since gotten much better legal representation. My new attorney informed me that Harvey CLOSED MY CASE and re opened it without my knowledge! Which has severely delayed my case. I will be doing everything within my ability to at least report him to the BAR. I only wish I had not paid this individual anything up front.
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13 May, 2011 by Anonymous
excellent gentleman. Goes to court to fight and NOT thinking fees.Puts his heart before $$$ which is extremelly RARE. Get things DONE. A lifetime of aprecciation from us.
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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:
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What experience do you have with family law cases like mine?
Make sure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it's a contested divorce, child custody dispute, or adoption. -
How will you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, a flat fee, or requires a retainer. Ask for an estimate of the total costs involved. -
What are the possible outcomes of my case?
An experienced lawyer should be able to give you a general idea of what to expect based on the facts of your case. -
What is your approach to resolving disputes?
Ask whether the lawyer tends to favor negotiation and mediation or whether they prefer to take cases to court. This can help you determine if their style matches your goals. -
How long do you expect my case to take?
While it’s difficult to predict, the lawyer should give you an estimate based on similar cases. -
Who will be handling my case?
In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may do much of the work, so make sure you understand who will be your main point of contact.
How to Check the Credibility of a Family Law Lawyer
To ensure you're hiring a reputable family law lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and reputation:
- Check state bar association records: Verify that the lawyer is licensed to practice in your state and is in good standing with no disciplinary actions.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on websites like Avvo, Google, or Martindale-Hubbell. Previous clients can give you insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and success in family law cases.
- Request references: Ask the lawyer for references from past clients who can speak to their experience with the lawyer.
- Review their website or professional profile: Look at the lawyer’s background, case history, and areas of focus to ensure they have substantial experience in family law.
- Look for professional memberships: Membership in reputable organizations, such as the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), can indicate a lawyer's expertise and dedication to family law.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a family law lawyer, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what you should bring:
- Relevant documents: Bring any documents related to your case, such as marriage certificates, prenuptial agreements, financial records, custody agreements, or court orders.
- List of assets and debts: For divorce cases, prepare a detailed list of all assets (e.g., homes, bank accounts, retirement funds) and debts (e.g., mortgages, loans, credit card balances).
- Details of the family issue: Provide a written summary of the situation, including key dates and facts related to your divorce, custody dispute, or support issue.
- Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions you have about the legal process, costs, and potential outcomes.
- Your goals: Be prepared to discuss your objectives, such as custody arrangements, property division, or spousal support, so the lawyer understands your priorities.
Being organized and clear about your situation will help the lawyer evaluate your case more effectively and offer the best advice for moving forward.
