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20 Aug, 2024 by The dorvil family
Mr. Walter Ty was an awesome lawyer, he handled the case with great professionalism. He cared about the welfare of my son and wanted the best outcome for him, and in the end we prevail. I will never forget the hard work and dedication Mr. Ty put forth to make sure it worked out for all involved, Thank you Mr.Ty from my Family to you, we appreciate you and all you’ve done for a safe transition for everybody. Hire Mr Ty, you won’t regret it , it will ultimately be the best decision for your family.
Sincerely,
The Dorvil Family
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01 Aug, 2024 by Paris
I’ve been working with Walter for years now on a high conflict custody case. His guidance as an attorney and as a friend, has been excellent. He tells it how it is so that you are less likely to be blindsided by knowing all possible outcomes. Not to mention his caring nature and relatability, he is ferocious when it comes to representing you. I could not recommend Walter enough!
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18 Dec, 2023 by Terry
Mr. Ty handled by divorce case and was very attentive and provided excellent guidance through the process. There were moments when I did not think it was going to be smooth sailing but in the end the process was very swift and I am very satisfied with the results. I highly recommend Walter Don Ty.
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26 Sep, 2018 by Jared
Robert Keehner is by far the most caring and intelligent lawyer that I have encountered. He has helped several friends as well as myself. In each case, he is always available to answer your phone calls at any given time. Most lawyers will not do this. He is also a fighter for you and your case. He will advise you and ultimately do what you are asking from him. My experience with other lawyers has shown that they just want the money and really don’t care about your situation. Other lawyers don't even get to know you by name, your just another client. Robert is the opposite. I recommend Robert Keehner as your only option.
By far the best lawyer in the DMV.
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22 Apr, 2018 by Jac e. knust
I have known Rob Keehner as a colleague for approximately forty years. He has an excellent reputation for being a tremendous trial attorney, especially in criminal cases. He has an superb knowledge of the law and expresses care and concern for each one of his clients. He seems to always achieve excellent results. I have litigated cases with him where I have been the attorney on the other side and he is a pleasure to work with. He works very hard and is very resourceful. If you are looking for an excellent attorney you cannot go wrong for choosing Rob Keehner.
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31 Aug, 2011 by Mike & janice
Over the past few years we have worked closely with David in matters ranging from past divorce concerns to our current case which is an automobile accident that took place some time ago. Mr. Titman’s advice has been very positive and very timely. Advice from the very day of the accident (when you need to make contact with your attorney) was very clear and put us at ease while we sorted out other issues of concern. We would have MOST CERTAINLY made mistakes if we had not been wise enough to call him right away. I/we recommend him for anyone that may have suffered an injury among other legal remedies. He speaks clearly and will not run circles around you like some of those squirrelly lawyers you see on TV while you watch the Price Is Right. We recommend him because of our confidence in him to get the job done right.
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23 May, 2022 by Robin howard
31 Jul, 2024 by Sara breidenstein
Incredible law office. Went above and beyond for me and got me exactly the result I needed.
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05 Jun, 2024 by Laurie tucker
Highly recommend this law firm. Both Gwen and Ashley were a pleasure to deal with.
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20 Mar, 2024 by Christine forsythe
Firm was very direct on explaining what type of bankruptcy I would need to file what the firm was going to do They have reasonable price and Mr Ominsky will advise you on the next steps to financial freedom thank you Mr Ominsky Ashely and Ms Gwen on your exceptional service Christine
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31 Jul, 2024 by Sara breidenstein
Incredible law office. Went above and beyond for me and got me exactly the result I needed.
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05 Jun, 2024 by Laurie tucker
Highly recommend this law firm. Both Gwen and Ashley were a pleasure to deal with.
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20 Mar, 2024 by Christine forsythe
Firm was very direct on explaining what type of bankruptcy I would need to file what the firm was going to do They have reasonable price and Mr Ominsky will advise you on the next steps to financial freedom thank you Mr Ominsky Ashely and Ms Gwen on your exceptional service Christine
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20 Apr, 2024 by Andrew van
Absolutely amazing attorney! Good representation isn’t cheap. Don’t short yourself
Use Mark Muffoletto
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24 Jan, 2024 by Sl p
Outstanding attorney! I wholeheartedly recommend. As someone prone to nervousness, especially in challenging situations, my anxiety can be overwhelming. Mark skillfully put me at ease, providing a sense of safety. He outlined the best/worst-case scenario, kept me updated at every stage, and ultimately achieved the most favorable outcome for me. Just an added bonus, he’s a genuinely nice person as well. So kick a^^ attorney and person!
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28 Sep, 2023 by Matt
I hired Mr. Song after contacting several lawyers and talking through my situation with them. I chose Mr. Song because of all the lawyers, he was the only one to come with confidence and laid out a plan. He clearly had my best interests in mind throughout the process, communicated every step of the way, and made sure I was getting the best possible outcome. He far surpassed my expectation and the outcome was the absolute best possible outcome I could of wished for. Actually, he exceeded what I even thought was possible, literally changed my life with the outcome he achieved. I cannot praise his work enough, I will recommend his services to friends and family.
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07 May, 2024 by John carberry
I can sum up my experience with Harry in one word.....GREED. Harry embodies greed through and through. Each and every one of his actions is predicated on generating money for himself, not advocating for you or your interests. It is fascinating that he takes the time to respond to each negative with review with somehow blaming the client, it is a bot or it is spam, etc. He is hyper sensitive to any criticism which is why he somehow was able to have google eliminate a review I had posted previously.
And if you do not believe me, take the word of 2 of his former employees I happen to meet over the years. One left the legal practice all together because they were so put off by Harry's financially predatory practices and the other stopped working for him all together. Harry charged me over $35,000 and he never even appeared in court with me. Feel free to hire Harry, just do not be surprised if your experience is similar to mine and others, where you are bilked of all of your money and then abandoned.
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05 Mar, 2024 by Benjamin campbell
This is a typical divorce attorney who will milk you for your money and drop you when it’s game time. Absolutely do not recommend HAD THE EXAXT SAME EXPERIENCE AS DAVE SMITH BELOW. Harry and His staff allowed my ex wife and her counsel and the judge to completely violate my constitutionally protected rights and when I brought this up they continued to draw a contrast between my rights and the system instead of actually standing up for my rights.
They are typical divorce attorneys. They milked every dime they could get out of my family and dropped us when it wasn’t an easy case. DO NOT HIRE THIS FIRM IF YOU ARE EXPERIENCING PARENTAL ALIENATION.
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05 Mar, 2024 by Neli rubio
Contrate estos abogados para el diborcio setardaron casi 3 años para poder logra el diborcio y firme contrato por cinco mil dolares epagado mas y los recivos siguen llegando y llegando y no trabajaron por mas de 2 años y hoy me dicen que tengo que seguir pagando si ustedes le dicen al cliente que seran 5mil pero se tardan mas de 2 años en el caso siguen cobrando NO CONTRANTEN ESTOS ABOGADOS PORQUE SERA MUY TRISTE QUE COBREN CASI 15MIL DOLARES POR ALGO QUE NI AN TERMINADO NO ENTIENDO PORQUE SI SON ABOGADOS QUE SE SUPONE SABEN DE LELLES Y LAS CUMPLEN PORQUE NOS DIERON UN CONTRATO DE 5MIL Y HOY COBRAN CASI 15MIL DEBERIAN DE TENER CORAZON COBRALE ESOS MILES A UNA MADRE SOLTERA QUE LE DIJERON QUE PAGARIA 5MIL ....HOY LE COBRAN CASI 15MIL DOLARES .......!!!!!NO CONTRATEN ESTE LUGAR
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05 May, 2022 by Christos
Hiring an attorney can be a challenging and daunting process. However, upon meeting Lorraine Whittaker, having a brief discussion, my decision to hire her as my attorney was made within 10 minutes. It was a great decision. Her professionalism, knowledge, and genuine concern were nothing less than stellar.
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04 Jun, 2021 by Anonymous
I would absolutely recommend Lorraine to anybody that needs a strong fighter. Lorraine is very knowledgeable and gets it done. I'd hire her again with no question.
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01 Jun, 2021 by Reagan
Lorraine provides genuine counsel and is a true client advocate. Because of this, she has been my first choice of representation on two separate occasions. If you are ever in need of legal representation, I would highly recommend you hire Lorraine.
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10 Aug, 2024 by Tara randolph
Predators like that movie “I Care”.
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08 Aug, 2024 by April bridges
The experience I have had with this firm for my mother has been awful. This firm claims it works for the best interest of my mother. But in her case they care nothing about a person wellbeing or to keep black families together. My mother almost died from a fentanyl overdose under the care of the state. That her so called lawyers agreed to do!! I took care of my mother over 20 years that didn’t matter to this firm. Anything negative they try to use that instead of really caring for her. I’m sure they worked with the racist social worker at the hospital to make it that way. Good Job King Hall!!
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02 Apr, 2024 by Pamela neuberth-ray
Excellent attorneys
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20 Apr, 2024 by Andrew van
Absolutely amazing attorney! Good representation isn’t cheap. Don’t short yourself
Use Mark Muffoletto
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24 Jan, 2024 by Sl p
Outstanding attorney! I wholeheartedly recommend. As someone prone to nervousness, especially in challenging situations, my anxiety can be overwhelming. Mark skillfully put me at ease, providing a sense of safety. He outlined the best/worst-case scenario, kept me updated at every stage, and ultimately achieved the most favorable outcome for me. Just an added bonus, he’s a genuinely nice person as well. So kick a^^ attorney and person!
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17 Oct, 2022 by Jeff markle
03 Sep, 2024 by Olivia dotson
a polite girl named abigail was very attentive to my needs & overall extremely helpful
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03 Sep, 2024 by Joy hanrahan
Great experience with the firm!
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21 Aug, 2024 by George barr
I was extremely satisfied with the legal services provided by Davida Law. John was knowledgeable, professional, and always available to answer my questions. They guided me through the entire process and ensured I understood every step. I highly recommend Davida Law for anyone in need of legal assistance.
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19 Jan, 2024 by Risa garon
The National Family Resiliency Center Board of Directors and staff thank the Howard County Bar Association and Howard County Family Law section for sponsoring the annual Crab Feast last fall. NFRC is grateful to the Howard County Bar Association and Family Law section for selecting NFRC as one of the recipients of the proceeds. We are so fortunate to have the support of the legal community to continue to provide the services and programs offered by our center.
NFRC thanks Ryan Dymek, Fred Spencer, grill masters, Kellie Lego and Gina Wrobel who continue to coordinate this wonderful event, Platinum Level Sponsors, Amos Perrick and Weinberg and Schwartz. Many thanks to Thomas Mulinazzi, President of the Howard County Bar Association, Lisa Mohink, Alisa Cummins and Katherine Haladay. Thank you to all members of the Howard County Bar Association.
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30 Nov, 2023 by Amos whitney
Our community is lucky to have an organization that is so dedicated to giving back to the public it serves. There is constant fundraising going on for disadvantaged and underserved groups, and lots of opportunities to volunteer.
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29 Nov, 2023 by April lee
HCBA is a wonderful group of caring members who do so much to support marginalized and at-risk residents in this County. Their members volunteer in many capacities for Columbia Community Care in our mission to fight food insecurity. We are very grateful for the HCBA's commitment to uplift the lives of our neighbors in need.
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19 Jan, 2024 by Risa garon
The National Family Resiliency Center Board of Directors and staff thank the Howard County Bar Association and Howard County Family Law section for sponsoring the annual Crab Feast last fall. NFRC is grateful to the Howard County Bar Association and Family Law section for selecting NFRC as one of the recipients of the proceeds. We are so fortunate to have the support of the legal community to continue to provide the services and programs offered by our center.
NFRC thanks Ryan Dymek, Fred Spencer, grill masters, Kellie Lego and Gina Wrobel who continue to coordinate this wonderful event, Platinum Level Sponsors, Amos Perrick and Weinberg and Schwartz. Many thanks to Thomas Mulinazzi, President of the Howard County Bar Association, Lisa Mohink, Alisa Cummins and Katherine Haladay. Thank you to all members of the Howard County Bar Association.
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30 Nov, 2023 by Amos whitney
Our community is lucky to have an organization that is so dedicated to giving back to the public it serves. There is constant fundraising going on for disadvantaged and underserved groups, and lots of opportunities to volunteer.
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29 Nov, 2023 by April lee
HCBA is a wonderful group of caring members who do so much to support marginalized and at-risk residents in this County. Their members volunteer in many capacities for Columbia Community Care in our mission to fight food insecurity. We are very grateful for the HCBA's commitment to uplift the lives of our neighbors in need.
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07 May, 2024 by Anonymous
The other reviewer captured Harry well. He will simply send emails back and forth on your behalf and ring up the bills. He charged me over $35,000 in billings and never once went to court with me. Greed is his middle name. You need an attorney to review Harry's legal engagement letter which stipulates in fine print that if you do not pay him all that you owe him, he gets to put a lien on any property you own. I have heard some Howard County attorneys call it something like the Siegel Principle because he is the only one who does it. He will gut you for all you have and then when you can't pay he simply slows down all of his work. Somehow he has also been successful in eliminating negative reviews of his work. I wrote a google review and he somehow had it eliminated. Simply put, look elsewhere. You will not regret it.
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03 Aug, 2021 by Anonymous
My now ex wife hired Harry to review an amicable settlement agreement we had agreed to. Three years and $60K in her legal fees later, in court she got 27% of the original agreement. For three years Siegel sat in his Florida home, while letting an inexperienced junior attorney bumble the case. He didn't even show up for the trial!
His reputation amongst other Maryland attorneys is he is going to milk his clients for every cent they have and when that is gone, he may just drop the case, making sure he has enough time to legally do so before trial. Not sure how this guy sleeps at night.Hi
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31 Jan, 2018 by Angela
He gave me advice regarding my divorce. Because of this, I have been made aware of the tricky words that my husband's lawyer used in the property settlement agreement. I could have lost many many years of a share of his retirement benefits. Now, I'm happily off to see a lawyer in my area to rectify the agreement. Thank you very much, Atty. Siegel!
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20 Oct, 2015 by Peter
Alisa helped me with a very complex case with a difficult opposing party. Alisa was meticulously prepared, completely confident and an unyielding advocate for my family. I couldn't have gotten through it without her.
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16 Feb, 2011 by Erin
I went to Ms Cummins in late 2006 after I had determined that my marriage could not be salvaged. What lay ahead were very complicated, taxing, time consuming (almost 2 years) and at times nasty proceedings ... but in the end, she helped me attain what mattered most to me (custody) and also ensured that I would be comfortable financially. I have referred her to others who needed a family lawyer in Howard County.
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02 Nov, 2010 by Pam
Ms. Cummins is the most trusting, informative, forthright attorney and I was fortunate to have had her recommended to me 7 years ago. Ms. Cummins has represented me in my divorce, a child custody and recently a child support case. She always keeps me abreast of all information every step of the way. Shecommunicates clearly the issues so that I may always make the best and well informed decisions given the cirumstances of each individual situation. She is always responsive to my needs as a client and sensitive to me as a person. Her work is beyond stellor.
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5.0
3 Reviews
3.8
36 Reviews
03 Sep, 2024 by Olivia dotson
a polite girl named abigail was very attentive to my needs & overall extremely helpful
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03 Sep, 2024 by Joy hanrahan
Great experience with the firm!
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21 Aug, 2024 by George barr
I was extremely satisfied with the legal services provided by Davida Law. John was knowledgeable, professional, and always available to answer my questions. They guided me through the entire process and ensured I understood every step. I highly recommend Davida Law for anyone in need of legal assistance.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Olivia dotson
a polite girl named abigail was very attentive to my needs & overall extremely helpful
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03 Sep, 2024 by Joy hanrahan
Great experience with the firm!
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21 Aug, 2024 by George barr
I was extremely satisfied with the legal services provided by Davida Law. John was knowledgeable, professional, and always available to answer my questions. They guided me through the entire process and ensured I understood every step. I highly recommend Davida Law for anyone in need of legal assistance.
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07 May, 2024 by John carberry
I can sum up my experience with Harry in one word.....GREED. Harry embodies greed through and through. Each and every one of his actions is predicated on generating money for himself, not advocating for you or your interests. It is fascinating that he takes the time to respond to each negative with review with somehow blaming the client, it is a bot or it is spam, etc. He is hyper sensitive to any criticism which is why he somehow was able to have google eliminate a review I had posted previously.
And if you do not believe me, take the word of 2 of his former employees I happen to meet over the years. One left the legal practice all together because they were so put off by Harry's financially predatory practices and the other stopped working for him all together. Harry charged me over $35,000 and he never even appeared in court with me. Feel free to hire Harry, just do not be surprised if your experience is similar to mine and others, where you are bilked of all of your money and then abandoned.
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05 Mar, 2024 by Benjamin campbell
This is a typical divorce attorney who will milk you for your money and drop you when it’s game time. Absolutely do not recommend HAD THE EXAXT SAME EXPERIENCE AS DAVE SMITH BELOW. Harry and His staff allowed my ex wife and her counsel and the judge to completely violate my constitutionally protected rights and when I brought this up they continued to draw a contrast between my rights and the system instead of actually standing up for my rights.
They are typical divorce attorneys. They milked every dime they could get out of my family and dropped us when it wasn’t an easy case. DO NOT HIRE THIS FIRM IF YOU ARE EXPERIENCING PARENTAL ALIENATION.
Read more
05 Mar, 2024 by Neli rubio
Contrate estos abogados para el diborcio setardaron casi 3 años para poder logra el diborcio y firme contrato por cinco mil dolares epagado mas y los recivos siguen llegando y llegando y no trabajaron por mas de 2 años y hoy me dicen que tengo que seguir pagando si ustedes le dicen al cliente que seran 5mil pero se tardan mas de 2 años en el caso siguen cobrando NO CONTRANTEN ESTOS ABOGADOS PORQUE SERA MUY TRISTE QUE COBREN CASI 15MIL DOLARES POR ALGO QUE NI AN TERMINADO NO ENTIENDO PORQUE SI SON ABOGADOS QUE SE SUPONE SABEN DE LELLES Y LAS CUMPLEN PORQUE NOS DIERON UN CONTRATO DE 5MIL Y HOY COBRAN CASI 15MIL DEBERIAN DE TENER CORAZON COBRALE ESOS MILES A UNA MADRE SOLTERA QUE LE DIJERON QUE PAGARIA 5MIL ....HOY LE COBRAN CASI 15MIL DOLARES .......!!!!!NO CONTRATEN ESTE LUGAR
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03 Sep, 2024 by Olivia dotson
a polite girl named abigail was very attentive to my needs & overall extremely helpful
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03 Sep, 2024 by Joy hanrahan
Great experience with the firm!
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21 Aug, 2024 by George barr
I was extremely satisfied with the legal services provided by Davida Law. John was knowledgeable, professional, and always available to answer my questions. They guided me through the entire process and ensured I understood every step. I highly recommend Davida Law for anyone in need of legal assistance.
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14 Oct, 2024 by Julixa
I had a very disappointing experience with Karen Amos, who was appointed as the Best Interest Attorney (BIA) for my twins. It became evident that she unfairly favored one child over the other, often disregarding the feelings and well-being of the child who had done nothing wrong. Unfortunately, after only one conversation, one of my children no longer feels comfortable speaking with her, despite her insistence that the child must—this is not a requirement under Maryland law.
Additionally, I found her fixation on superficial aspects, such as repeatedly mentioning the kitchen backsplash during discussions, highly unprofessional and irrelevant to her role. In my opinion, Karen Amos does not maintain the impartiality expected of a BIA and seems to pick sides rather than advocate fairly for both children. Based on my experience, I do not believe she should be appointed to represent any child in the future.
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20 Feb, 2018 by Anonymous
I have learned that you can pretty much divide divorce attorneys into 2 categories: one group that simply wants to churn information back and forth between attorneys as well as between attorney and client in way that simply bills hours and accomplishes little until the 11th hour when it could have been settled in the first or second hour. And then there is a group, like Karen, that truly wants to problem solve, propose solutions, avoid litigation and get an outcome for her client that is both fair and reasonable in cost. Karen is honest, dedicated and she told me what I needed to hear rather than what I wanted to hear. I cannot recommend her highly enough. I was fortunate to have someone recommend her to me and, every time I mentioned her to someone in the legal community in Maryland(4x), the response from attorneys was overwhelmingly positive. If you are looking for someone who will be in your corner, fight for you, shoot straight with you(the good and the bad), look no further than Karen Amos.
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18 Nov, 2013 by Anonymous
Ms. Amos was knowledgable about the law and very confident in the courtroom. She is respectful and compassionate to her clients in difficult situations. Couldn't have had better representation.
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06 Feb, 2012 by Anonymous
I used this attorney 3 times. The first time was a hands down case that could've been won without lawyers. The 2nd was a bankruptcy that he continued to tell me to ignore the bills coming in. Turns out, he not only was wrong... he didn't bother to look. I got sued after the bankruptcy for over $7000 (from an original $2500) because of his advice and he never took one ounce of responsibility for telling me it was included in the bankruptcy and to continue to ignore it, even after the other party filed in court. I used him again (before I realized all this mess was happening with the bankruptcy for family court issues. All I wanted was a SIMPLE custody order, child support amount, and any other tiny simple things that must be included in such an order. There was NOTHING at all somplicated in the case. He was non-attentive, missed over all the important details, and although I did get a bit more time with my children, all of the time he spent (eating up the retainer and more) supposedly coming to an agreement with the other party, it turns out that it was written up and signed by attorneys completely different than what we had agreed upon in the first place. My child support is higher than it legally should be. My visitation is less than it legally could have been. I owed him over $1000 more once it was all said and done and I left there with more questionable legal holes than I had before I had gone to court in the first place. So, now, the family court coordinator has suggested that we take this back to court for resolution. This attorney doesn't care about your case. He just wants to take your money, not even look at the documents (or at least barely brief them) that you send him, go to court, wisp you in and out and leave you with whatever you come back with. He does not HELP you He doesn't REPRESENT YOU. Not all court orders come out the way you want them to, but the attorney is supposed to REPRESENT their client. He DOES NOT@!!!!! BEWARE!!! If you use this attorney, don't expect representation!!
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27 Nov, 2009 by Anonymous
Bill did an excellent job of guiding me through the divorce process, explaining what I could/should expect, without trying to push me to "hold out for more." He was very respectful of my financial situation and my uncontested divorce was relatively inexpensive.
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FAQs
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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:
-
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.
