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14 Oct, 2024 by Cynthia cheatham
Good lawyer and a good guy
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14 Oct, 2024 by Cynthia cheatham
Good lawyer and a good guy
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24 Nov, 2023 by Samantha lahm
19 Oct, 2022 by Rosie walls
Joey is an amazing lawyer!!!
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19 Dec, 2022 by Naya
Jefre s Goldtrap is one of the most incompetent lawyers I ever seen. This man left me to defend myself after I paid him in full. He motioned to remove himself off my case because I contacted the Bar association against. Because I have tried to contact him for several months and he wouldn't pick up the phone for me. I asked him to retrieve records and other things a lawyer is supposed to do and he didn't. Instead he closed his practice in Nashville Tennessee and became a public defender. Mr. Goldtrap has not given me an invoice or anything showing where my $2,500.00 went to. Please don't let this man rob you. Learn the law and fight for yourself that's what I did. He is a thief.
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10 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
I have nothing but positive things to say about Goldtrap, He fought to get my son a lighter sentence and came more than prepared and did not back down from the DA one bit, He had the law book with him and would bring it out and show the rights every time they tried to argue. Would hire him in a minute if I had to again!
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03 Apr, 2013 by Anonymous
Attorney got me a better deal for a Class A misdemeanor than what I expected. He and his office manager were helpful and prompt.
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30 Nov, 2022 by Mehgan
Karla is one of the worst attorneys I’ve ever met. She is extremely unprofessional and disrespectful. She said a lot of very terrible things to us about the birth mother of our son. She was supposed to be an unbiased in our case but you could tell she was making a lot of decisions based on how she felt. It was a sad case and she didn’t even really put the time and effort that she was supposed to. She states “I’m doing what’s best for the child” but that’s the most untrue statement. She does what’s best for what she wants to happen. When I say you need to run, not walk, away from this women, I’m not kidding. If she is assigned to your case, ask your lawyer for an immediate change. She’s small minded and shouldn’t be allowed to practice law.
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03 May, 2017 by Anonymous
She obviously does not understand confidentiality agreements. She was my appointed attorney during a child custody case with my father, after speaking with her in private she returns only to tell my father and his wife (who were trying to take my son away from me) everything i had told her. I wouldn't have known or believed that if a mutual friend hadn't come to me and told me word for word, she repeated everything back to my father that i had just told her. Also, told me to contact her through text and i've never received a phone call or text back from her yet she told my father and others that "I never made contact with her after she reached out to me numerous times." Sorry, Karla but you got it backwards. If you're not from this small town in Fayetteville, maybe she would be a good attorney to have. MAYBE.
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23 Mar, 2011 by Anonymous
I asked her for a quick, easy divorce. Thats what she gave me. I've paid for this ever since, financially and with my children. If she had told me all my options, I'd made a better decision. No one is in the frame of mind to make good decisions while going through a divorce. Maybe I didn't listen but, I was definitely not informed of all my rights and options. I think she was trying to be fair in going along with what my ex-husband and I had in mind for a parenting plan. I was trying to be fair also, (too fair). She didn't inform me how difficult it would be to change it. She was well aware of the fact that my ex and I didn't get along, didn't communicate well. Now our children are paying for that. If it was about the money she should have said so. You get what you pay for and she didn't charge me much for the divorce. Our divorce papers didn't protect me from being sued by the bank for his vehicle because it stated both of us were to refinance the vehicle. It was primarily in my name. I tried to contact her about this and she stood me up for the appointment and didn't call me back. He should have been paying child support but she didn't listen. I finally got child support after being on public assistance. My situation is better know financially but only after 2 1/2 years. Now I'm going to court to try to get the ridiculous parenting plan modified. I think I probably talked to her secretary more than I did her. At least her secretary would talk to me. I hope Karla will be cautious in the future and treat each client like she would want to be treated. Again, maybe I didn't listen but she could have made more of an effort to inform me of my rights and the consequences of my decisions. I have done more research on divorce and child custody (too little, too late) after the fact. I filed a no-fault divorce when I could proved my ex-husband was emotionally and verbally abusive and mishandling our money. I didn't know the difference at that time. Even though I worked part-time or full-time throughout my marriage, I was still the primary care-giver of our children. That wasn't even really discussed. I should have filed for full-custody or our children. Again, no one can make good decisions while going through a divorce.
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19 Dec, 2015 by Anonymous
Paid this guy 1k of a 1500 retainer to file paperwork in order to be heard in a court room. Not only did he NOT tell me he doesn't work those kinds of cases he took it on like he knew what he was doing. He ended up having to call other lawyers, while in my presence, asked them how to go about filing the correct paper work, which paperwork was correct, and who he needed to talk to. After being told what to do by other attorneys he still managed to mess up the paper work, the order that the paper work was diled, All the while judging his client for the way he looks. He is a nice older man somewhat, but very incompetent and a waste of $1,000 that I can't get back and could have used for another attorney. I do not recommend this man for any legal problems what so ever. His actions cost me my case
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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.
