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07 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
This woman was all talk! She happily takes your retainer then does nothing! She is not reliable or honest and does very little to move the case forward. Staff are not much better, they send out paper work full of typos and seem to lose things on a regular. Do yourself a favor and hire someone else. She did nothing to help my family. Like I said she is a good talker but doesn't have the ability to follow through. Dropped the ball at every turn. So frustrating and disappointing to see her in action. Down right Embarrassing!
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06 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
She doesn’t take anything into retrospect. A man can own something WAY before a marriage and she feels the ex wife should get all of it. DO NOT hire her if you are a man!
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08 Dec, 2023 by Jamie
Sue is by far the best attorney! She is very knowledgeable and does not take any BS! I am going thru a very high conflict custody battle with a narcissist. I wish I had known of Sue when I got divorced otherwise I would not be in the situation I currently am, I am forever thankful I found her. Shes like a bulldog lol
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19 Aug, 2024 by Tom driscoll jr
Nothing but good things to say about Ryan and associates. I was very late in retaining counsel, flying blindly through the process. Ryan took on my case, thoroughly explained everything to me including my rights as a father, and what to expect. Within the first day, I had a proprosed settlement offer that was exactly what I was seeking. I was promptly contacted and kept informed with proceedings every step of the way. Strongly recommend Gerkin & Decker if you are facing divorce.
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28 Sep, 2023 by Shannon berry
Worst attorney's I've ever seen, hired them because their part of ADAM and I didn't want to lose everything in my divorce. Wound up losing everything plus paying 3 years alimony and being stuck with $22,500 worth of debt for a truck my ex-wife took. Not to mention the fee I was charged was over double what I was originally told. All because Ryan didn't want to go in front of the judge I had so he sent a newbie that just wanted to be best friends with my ex-wife's attorney. I wouldn't recommend this firm to anyone, they should be ashamed to be part of ADAM!
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26 Sep, 2023 by Jawun nelson
This firm helped me through both my divorce and custody battle. Very, very knowledgeable with the relevant issues. The cost... well, you know lawyers... lol. But, the advice and direction that I was given was spot on. Molly and Ryan are great resources. I was completely satisfied with the results of their representation. And even though it wasn't in my budget, it was well worth the peace of mind having justice served.
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25 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
I have used Jessica twice now. Once for divorce/child custody and again for 2nd child custody case. She has won both cases for me and I am a man going against woman bias state. She got me 50/50 physical custody first time and my ex 2nd time tried to get full custody and I retained the 50/50 physical custody. She is a pit bull in court. She doesn't take any crap from other lawyer. She explains everything and is very to point. She tries not to drag your case out and cost you undue money. Highly recommend
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30 Apr, 2015 by Peggy
Jessica Hammon, is an amazing attorney, she is informative and knowledgeable
and an excellent attorney in court. She was able to get results for my case quickly and swiftly. she presents herself so professionally in court and within her office, her staff is also professional and kind and considerate of both parties involved at least in my case, i witnessed their professionalism with me and my ex-husband. She knows what needs to be done and did not waste any time getting the job done. I would recommend her to anyone for a family litigation attorney.
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09 Apr, 2014 by Anonymous
I contacted Ms. Hammon during the summer to handle my divorce matter. I relied on my phone consultation with her and paid her 900.00 to start the case. I didn't meet with her until I returned back to the state. Upon our initial meeting, I had my reservations about her and our ability to work together. She was very blunt and rude. However, I made a silly decision and remained with her for this case. She only calls when you need to pay her! I had to initiate all contact with her concerning my case. When I had questions about the case, she and her staff acted as if my call was bothering them. Staying with her was a big mistake and I felt bullied into making a decision. It was stated to me, "is it better to settle and negotiate or haggle over a few thousand dollars and end up in a trail that could cost you at minimum $5000.00 dollars and that's the minimum that you could end up paying. She stated that a current client owed 12,000.00 dollars from a trail that took place a year ago. She stated that she took the clients income tax refund for payment. Wow! I wonder if she discussed my business with other clients? I made a big mistake. Take time to research attorneys!
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08 Jun, 2021 by Anonymous
Poor attorney that goes above and beyond to not represent and get you a good deal. Don’t waste your time or money.
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15 May, 2015 by Merry
Attorney Crawford recently assisted me with a family issue. I'm very pleased with the outcome and highly recommend her. Thank you again, Eva!
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27 Feb, 2015 by Wayne
I asked an question and Eva responded with the right ?'s back that I was able answer and she made a point to get me in at mine and her prompt time so we could discuss my needs from her and she is right to the point, very informative an has the knowledge to ensure your need of help, she discussed what I had to do and she took care of this matter for as I didn't have to go to court over 200 miles away and I am pleased that she was able to speak for me and I will keep her in mind and on speed dail on my phone and thank her being so professional.
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14 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
Agreed on a price to finalize my divorce. Then she drug her feet… wanted more money, kept postponing and then didn’t even show up for a hearing. Asked to release her and she claimed an assistant would send over the paperwork… that never happened. I highly DONT recommend her
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15 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Neglect and improper supervision case. Against a registered nurse mother. This attorney was representing the plaintive and let the defendant's attorney Work with c p s to close the case. The case stating the allegations that were proven without a Shadow of doubt were untrue. CPS and Michigan state police. subpoenaed to the courtroom Board testimony The child shared the same last name as the plaintiff. Case was closed. After a behind closed doors meeting with the defendant attorney. Stating allegations are untrue and the plaintiff was not the father. When she was fired, she refused to give up the file to the plaintive.
And to this day states, there was nothing she could do.
This person clearly has no compassion for her clients. Don't let the name fool you
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01 Mar, 2018 by Anonymous
Excellent Lawyer - Ms. Hemmingway is one of the best in Criminal Defense work in Genesee County. Smart and hardworking, she won't hesitate to call it like she sees it..
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26 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
jack was the worse attorney I had. first off he promised things on the first visit and then after you pay his huge amount of retainer every other visit was ”that doesn’t matter”. then he charges fees that even the judge says “no need for the attorneys to prepare the paperwork”, yup $800 later. he is a waste of money DO NOT hire him. he is a very bad attorney.
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13 Nov, 2014 by Cindy
Jack has done our Real Estate reviews, checking plats, and explaining deed restrictions. He did my will and the update of my will. Gave great advice when our parents passed and helped with my plan for my children in the event I passed. He represented me when I had an issue with a contractor and got all of our money back. He is an honest, dependable, stable attorney. He pulls no punches in telling you where you stand and possible outcomes.
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27 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
I was referred to, and hired this attorney regarding a custody battle. He literally did and said nothing while in court, and was not my advocate by any means. He was pointless to have by my side, a d did not respond or do anything he was supposed to do. He was very expensive, and was not worth a single cent of what I spent.
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14 Sep, 2020 by Anonymous
Attorney Charles Desotelle is an awesome attorney with a calm and cool trial demeanor. He is both tactful and tactical in court and always thinks several moves ahead. He was extremely prepared for court and always stayed in contact and answered any questions I had. It is without reservation that I recommend him.
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16 Aug, 2019 by Anonymous
I had this attorney for my divorce and in that arena he did fine but there wasn't anything to fight for except when I needed the BS PPO my ex had some stranger conjure up against me in hopes of having me fired and I paid IN FULL for this case and MR. DON'TTELLYOUNOTHING dropped the ball. I never received notice for the court date and neither did the other party which would have been an automatic victory for us. So, if you want an attorney who will go to bat for you and apply all their skillset and knowledge, he isn't the one I'd hire. You'd be better off defending yourself!
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12 Oct, 2022 by Anonymous
He came highly recommended but what should of been an easy win with tons of evidence against the other party, Mr. Hetherington came unprepared to every hearing, knowing nothing about the case. If you care to win at all, go with another experienced lawyer. If his personal assistant/office manager was a lawyer we’d hire her but he is completely and utterly lazy. We’re embarrassed to have him as our lawyer and am looking for another one as we speak!
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23 Jul, 2015 by Kim
I was referred to Mr. Hetherington by one of his previous clients. I found Mr. Hetherington to be very professional and compassionate. He was very prepared and was able to get me a great deal and I avoided jail time. His previous career as a police officer gives him a leg up in criminal defense.
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10 May, 2015 by Anonymous
Dissapointed...I was totally unprepared and uninformed throughout my entire ordeal. I felt like the representation was very inexperienced. I can talk about what I did, but it's not the real point. He talked me into a plea that I accepted and to my surprise I received an out of nowhere jail time sentence, and I was unprepared,embarrassed and humiliated because of the lack of knowledge. A lawyer is supposed to prepare his clients right? My preparation was a "0" out of ten. I was totally almost always left in the dark and at one point my entire family reached out to him and he couldn't even get back to them on my visitation hours. I paid him upfront and it seemed like once he got paid I was a low priority. I didn't take it personal but in a business sense I felt very under represented.
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14 May, 2022 by Anonymous
Linda is a terrible lawyer. Her ego really gets in her way. Poor excuse for an attorney.
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21 Oct, 2021 by Anonymous
My daughter hired Ms. Pylypiw as her attorney for her divorce.
Ms. Pylypiw was disorganized, passive and inattentive. She is quite competent when it comes to knowing the law. However, when it comes time to gather the facts, correspond with the opposing legal team and fight for her client, she falls short. Many times when meeting with my daughter she had to refresh her memory of the case, asking my daughter to repeat information and searching through stacks of paper looking for specific documents (while charging us by the hour). Her written skills were inadequate and I actually had to rewrite several of her documents for her. My husband made spreadsheets/timelines for her as well. I really question the number of hours that we were charged in this matter as it seems that most of the work was done by us. She made little effort to try to get an equitable outcome on this divorce and, in fact, my daughter ended up paying the price. I would not recommend Ms. Pylypiw as a divorce attorney.
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04 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
She was an excellent choice for my divorce.
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05 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous
Hired the firm and paid for a service that I never received, eventually had to switch attorneys due to lack of communication and representation. Still have yet to receive a final bill or my money back.
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07 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
She offered very little guidance and the price was very high! Because of her lack of understanding of the law my case was a total loss based on her failure to know the law. Sad! Had I had a more knowledgeable attorney I would easily have won.
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
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.
