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Jeffrey O Casazza, experienced Business, Domestic Violence attorney in Florence, KY with 138 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
40,06
star star star star star
4.7/5
Avvo
5.0
4 Reviews
Google Maps
4.7
134 Reviews
star star star star star
24 Jan, 2025 by Kyle sprague
Clark is great to work with!
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18 Nov, 2024 by Oshia nix
Great team to work any of your problems . Very nice & ready to help you ! Such a great group !
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18 Nov, 2024 by Geneva cauthen
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Larisa Ivanovna Schneider, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Florence, KY with 56 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
40,03
star star star star star
4.7/5
Avvo
5.0
6 Reviews
Google Maps
4.7
50 Reviews
star star star star star
04 Feb, 2025 by Hibo noor
This woman think of her self as so high that she charges consultations. I had previously talk to immigration attorney before who provided me with free consultation. BE HUMPLE WOMAN.
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star star star star star
20 Jan, 2025 by Mohamed khlil al khoussari ndiaye
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21 Dec, 2024 by Frederico gerade
I could not be more grateful to Larisa for her invaluable help in such a delicate and decisive point in my immigration. Professional and extremely competent. Fantastic professional.
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Michael James McMain, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Florence, KY with 153 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,51
star star star star star
4.6/5
Avvo
5.0
11 Reviews
Google Maps
4.5
142 Reviews
star star star star star
14 Dec, 2024 by Justin kline
Mr. Beck specifically is fantastic at his job, I highly recommend this practice
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04 Dec, 2024 by Julia stepien
Wonderful practice with extremely knowledgable and professional team! Highly recommend.
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25 Oct, 2024 by William hafer
When going into my case i honestly didn’t know what the out come was of it. But John took care of it all and helped me stay sane through out the whole process. I would recommend him to anyone! Hands down best lawyer!
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Melissa Hill Doss, experienced Family Law attorney in Florence, KY with 106 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,27
star star star star star
4.7/5
Avvo
3.9
11 Reviews
Google Maps
4.8
95 Reviews
star star star star star
13 Dec, 2024 by Michael venable
Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Dec, 2024 by Jackie blackburn
I cannot say enough positive things about Melissa and her team! The first time I walked into her office I was absolutely devasted and crushed because divorce was not something I ever thought I'd have to face. I didn't know what to expect, but the kindness, compassion and friendliness I was greeted with by Melissa and her staff, put me right at ease. From our very first meeting I knew I had picked the right team to support me. I never felt that any of my concerns were silly or that any of my questions were dumb. Melissa was always eager to offer support and encouragement. She was a fierce advocate for what was in the best interest of my children and ensuring I had a secure financial start to my future. Melissa and her team treated me with upmost understanding and respect. They were prompt and courteous throughout every interaction. I truly don't know how I would've made it through this process without their guidance. I am eternally grateful for Melissa, Julia, and Hannah and how they went above and beyond my expectation. I hope to never need an attorney again, but I will most definitely give Melissa and her team a call if I ever do. Many thanks!!
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26 Nov, 2024 by Shelley martin
Oh my goodness, I could not say enough positive things about this group of ladies. Firstly, everyone is exceptionally kind and understanding. I personally had Emily Costin working my case. I was going through a divorce that took almost a year to get through. It was a long process, with many curveballs thrown in. She worked side by side with me the entire time. She helped make sure the kids were the number one priority. When working with her, she was so personable and down to earth, it made the divorce process so much easier. She truly listened to my concerns and thoughts, answered any questions, and stood up for me to not allow the other side to try and run all over me with their wants. If you are wanting or in need of a lawyer that is going to put your kids first in a divorce and make sure it is fair. She is your woman! And for the ladies out there going through a divorce, this was an office of wonderful women, it was calm, and felt like a truly safe place. They truly helped me get on my feet and starting my new life. Absolutely amazing!
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Kendra L. McCardle, experienced Adoption, Criminal Defense attorney in Florence, KY with 8 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,25
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
8 Reviews
star star star star star
07 May, 2020 by Anonymous
Kendra helped me a great deal with my case. She was there when I needed her. She was able to help me with a motion filed against me. She was quick in taking charge of my case and made time for my concerns. Kendra was very confident and I will be using her in the future. Highly recommended.
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12 Feb, 2019 by Clifford
Kendra helped me with a complicated custody action between states. She was prompt and professonal the whole time. She walked me through the process. She always responded quickly to any questions I had. She is kind, caring, and passionate. Definitely the best attorney for the job. In the end I got exactly what I wanted and what was best for my child. I could not be more pleased with having Kendra as my attorney. 10/10 would recommend!
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05 Apr, 2018 by Ross
We were impressed. Kendra provided us with quick services and answered all of our property management questions with ease.
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Maria Kathleen Ante, experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in Florence, KY with 6 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,19
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
6 Reviews
star star star star star
27 Apr, 2019 by Kim
Maria was an excellent negotiator in my case. She will be honest with you and let you know what is in your best interest and protect that. I came to her after making zero progress with a previous attorney. She came highly recommended to me and was a perfect fit for me and my case! She is very personable and gets the job done.
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08 Jan, 2018 by L.e.
Maria handled a mediation for me. The other side was looking to go to court. Maria was able to negotiate going to mediation instead saving me $$$ and was able to get me what I wanted. Bottom line is, Maria Ante is a great attorney! You want her on your side!!!
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17 Jan, 2017 by Laura
Maria represented me on a personal injury case. I was in a significant amount of pain when I hired her and also was stressed out dealing with a very pushy insurance adjuster. She was very helpful during this difficult time in my life. It was quite a lengthy process from beginning to end... several years in fact. Maria was able to work on this case so I could focus on what was important to me, healing and recovering. Maria was great about updating me on the progress of my case throughout the entire process. We tried meditation first but we ended up taking it to trial. I was pleased with the outcome and Maria exceeded my expectations. I highly recommend her!
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Nicholas Mayaux Nighswander, experienced Family Law, Personal Injury attorney in Florence, KY with 6 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,19
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
6 Reviews
star star star star star
21 Jun, 2016 by Stork (a nickname)
Mr Nighswander has represented me on four different occasions in a variety of matters. Each legal action was handled professionally with a minimum of my needing to be involved. I was kept advised each step of the way. All four actions were settled in my favor and only one of them had to go to court. The other three were settled in arbitration, which was suggested by Mr Nighswander, thereby saving me a good deal of money and not wasting the court's time. For me, Mr Nighswander did an exceptional job. I will continue to use his services when the need for legal representation arises.
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29 Mar, 2016 by Chris
Nick Nighswander is one of the hardest working attorneys. I highly recommend him. I hired Nick to represent my father's estate when he died in a fire caused by a defective product. When the case concluded, it was reported as one of the largest personal injury settlements in KY at the time. I attribute this result to Nick's tenacity and work ethic. If you want someone to fight for you, then hire Nick.
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07 Aug, 2015 by Carol
Mr. Nighswander was very efficient in handling my late husband's and my bankruptcy proceedings. Also, after my husband's death he was able to get my bankruptcy payments reduced since my income had been reduced, by half. I respected his efficiency in the handling of my late husband's probate proceedings. He is a very professional attorney but also showed compassion for us/me during our appointments with him. He updated my will, power of attorney and other legal matters. I have highly recommended his legal services to numerous friends.
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Jennifer Hunt Raines Dusing, experienced Adoption, Family Law attorney in Florence, KY with 3 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,09
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
3 Reviews
star star star star star
22 Mar, 2018 by Anonymous
Jenny handled our case with kindness, professionalism and made the process very easy.
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19 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
Jennifer Dusing carries herself with class and strong professionalism. She is passionate about doing the best job she can for her clients. She is strongly rooted in the law and ethics, as well as relatable to clients so that working with her feels seamless and productive. I am so thankful to have had Jennifer aid in the legalities of my divorce and provide the legal insight and support required to successfully maneuver through such a life altering process.
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17 Feb, 2017 by Amanda g
Jenny was fantastic. From the moment we called and asked if she'd be able and wiling to handle our case, we felt comfortable and confident. She maintained ongoing communication and was very knowledgeable about the different process and procedures. We highly recommend Jenny!
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Vanita Sharma Fleckinger, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Florence, KY with 134 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
35,19
star star star star star
4.7/5
Google Maps
4.7
134 Reviews
star star star star star
24 Jan, 2025 by Kyle sprague
Clark is great to work with!
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star star star star star
18 Nov, 2024 by Oshia nix
Great team to work any of your problems . Very nice & ready to help you ! Such a great group !
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star star star star star
18 Nov, 2024 by Geneva cauthen
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Donald W. Aaron, experienced Criminal Defense, Estate Planning attorney in Florence, KY with 11 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
34,71
star star star star star
4.6/5
Avvo
4.6
11 Reviews
star star star star star
14 Feb, 2019 by Bob
I had some questions about a previous trust. Mr. Aaron provided me a free consultation and even offered some excellent advice. I really appreciated his honesty informing me that I did not have to have my entire trust redone from another state. Very professional and helpful!
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12 Feb, 2019 by Randy
Donald responded very quickly when I needed a legal opinion and he sent me to the Attorneys that could address my needs. He was only one to respond to me after contacting many attorneys in Florence. Great job!
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18 Dec, 2018 by Susan
We hired Donald Aaron to set up a Power of Attorney. He was very thorough. He has an engaging personality and is very knowledgeable about the law. Mr. Aaron explained everything so that we could understand what had to be done. He did all this in a timely matter and even met us at the facility we needed him to. Our experience with him was very good and we were pleased with the outcome.
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Jonathan Gregory Hart, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Florence, KY with 154 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
34,27
star star star star star
4.5/5
Avvo
4.3
12 Reviews
Google Maps
4.5
142 Reviews
star star star star star
14 Dec, 2024 by Justin kline
Mr. Beck specifically is fantastic at his job, I highly recommend this practice
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star star star star star
04 Dec, 2024 by Julia stepien
Wonderful practice with extremely knowledgable and professional team! Highly recommend.
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star star star star star
25 Oct, 2024 by William hafer
When going into my case i honestly didn’t know what the out come was of it. But John took care of it all and helped me stay sane through out the whole process. I would recommend him to anyone! Hands down best lawyer!
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Ryan Michael Beck, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Florence, KY with 148 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
34,11
star star star star star
4.5/5
Avvo
4.3
6 Reviews
Google Maps
4.5
142 Reviews
star star star star star
14 Dec, 2024 by Justin kline
Mr. Beck specifically is fantastic at his job, I highly recommend this practice
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star star star star star
04 Dec, 2024 by Julia stepien
Wonderful practice with extremely knowledgable and professional team! Highly recommend.
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star star star star star
25 Oct, 2024 by William hafer
When going into my case i honestly didn’t know what the out come was of it. But John took care of it all and helped me stay sane through out the whole process. I would recommend him to anyone! Hands down best lawyer!
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Kyle Robert Knauf, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Florence, KY with 66 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
29,04
star star star star star
4.3/5
Google Maps
4.3
66 Reviews
star star star star star
27 Nov, 2024 by Eric schneiderbauer
If they worked as hard at fighting your case as they do making sure they charge 2-3 times what other attorneys are charging then it would be a 5 star review. Should have done more research right? I did. Turns out I was fed a buffet of broken promises. “It’s unlikely this will affect you” wrong. Or did I just get the 1/100 curve ball? Either way I was told my option was to accept the deal or go to trial. That was 100% a lie but it’s too late now. It also had nothing to do with Kenton county like these idiots kept telling me. I was required to appear in person because the prosecutor knew I lived out of state and wouldn’t fight if I had to spend $500+ every time I came back to town for court.
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20 Nov, 2024 by Sharon wynott
I needed some help dealing with my ex-husband and a QDRO from our divorce. Greta was great and had the matter settled in no time. Would recommend her and her firm to anyone needing help.
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09 Jul, 2024 by Holly roseburrough-hall
I would recommend Greta for anyone looking for an Attorney related to family law. Greta is super easy to work with and sincerely cares about the case she is working on!
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Jenna Lynn Waymeyer, experienced Adoption, Car Accident attorney in Florence, KY with 33 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
27,82
star star star star star
4.1/5
Google Maps
4.1
33 Reviews
star star star star star
31 Oct, 2024 by Jennifer schneider
Mike is very responsive and attentive to help you through your legal issues. Mike is great handling estate planning, accidents, family issues as well as many other areas.
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30 Oct, 2024 by Kevin lane
My experience working with Michael has shown he is of great character, highly knowledgeable, well networked and respected by the community he serves. Michael, along with his team, has provided helpful assistance across a range of matters, both personal and professional, and is a trusted advisor to those he represents.
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22 Aug, 2024 by Bethany mejia
Other people are right about him only cares about money. Even though you tried to talk us out of buying our house outright no mortgage best thing we ever did with Covid and the economy still living here and doing great. Husband is able to work one job comfortably and me stay home with my disabled child.
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Larissa Helmer Somers, experienced Family Law attorney in Florence, KY with 74 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
25,65
star star star star star
4.3/5
Google Maps
4.3
74 Reviews
star star star star star
22 Nov, 2024 by Yikes 859
to be completely honest, I don’t know where to start… i was not happy at all with the services. when Kevin went to court with me he was never prepared an never knew anything about the case. i don’t like leaving bad reviews but i would never refer him to anyone. Save your Money
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28 Aug, 2024 by Mark brown
I have used Kevin for several family law issues the last couple of years. Kevin is honest, knowledgeable, and always prepared for every hearing or interaction with the opposing side. He’s never promised a specific outcome, but he’s always been spot on and been successful. I wouldn’t hesitate using Kevin in the future.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Allison burk
I worked with Kevin in my divorce and custody case for the past two years. He helped me navigate very difficult situations and provided great representation in and out of court. He was understanding and thorough.
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Maria Greta Hoffman, experienced Adoption, Child Custody attorney in Florence, KY with 8 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
24,19
star star star star star
4.0/5
Avvo
4.0
8 Reviews
star star star star star
19 Oct, 2017 by Tom
Yes I knew Greta before she represented me in my attorney but that's exactly why I hired her. I knew she was smart and compassionate and that she doesn't do anything halfway. Greta had my best interest in mind throughout the process but understood that my interest was in the wellbeing of my children. I would hire her again and have and will recommend her to family and friends.
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06 Nov, 2016 by Anonymous
Kyle was very nice to work with and his experience in Family Court was an asset.
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03 Aug, 2014 by Smitty
Gretta is personable and friendly , and has a great personality. I do however feel she reproached, humiliated & belittled me (unintentionally) in front of my ex , who NEEDED to see someone take a stand for me and our children ! - instead making me feel even more rejected and loathed and i sincerely felt sold out I am truly disappointed because she had been so promising and I thought I may finally get issues resolved concerning my ex's manipulative, demanding, controlling ways and using influences and power and charm to control custody issues and contempt of my time and holidays. In the end, she was manipulated by my ex also and because of this , the contempt issues have only grown and I feel I lost my kids because of her neglect to see abuse and manipulation as it is. Even though i still have custody , my ex does as pleases,and knows theyre above the court law. While i like Gretta as a person, her professionalism is not a strong point and My rights dont matter in the end.
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Greta Hoffman, experienced Divorce, Estate Planning attorney in Florence, KY with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
8,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Marcus Daniel Gale, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Florence, KY with 1 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
7,17
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
20 Apr, 2023 by Shane
Talks a good game. But Marcus was late for the two court hearings he did attend. he didn’t get anything accomplished. He drug his feet on filing for 2 months. Then the last court date he didn’t bother to show up. Never in his office, no texts no calls nothing. took my money and ran. So I then had to spend thousands more to hire a proper attorney. he is a crook.
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Matthew L. McDaniel, experienced Criminal Defense, Divorce attorney in Florence, KY with 0 reviews
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info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
6,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Michael Anthony O'Hara, experienced Criminal Defense, Estate Planning attorney in Florence, KY with 0 reviews
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info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Matthew McDaniel, experienced Business, Car Accident attorney in Florence, KY with 0 reviews
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info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Keith Richard Morgan, experienced Car Accident, Criminal Defense attorney in Florence, KY with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Patrick John Monohan, experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in Florence, KY with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Richard Edward Kammer, experienced Business, Family Law attorney in Florence, KY with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Jordan Dallas, experienced Family Law, Personal Injury attorney in Florence, KY with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Cassandra Aileen Silebi, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Florence, KY with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Samantha J. Evans, experienced Adoption, Family Law attorney in Florence, KY with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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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:

  1. What experience do you have with family law cases like mine?
    Make sure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it's a contested divorce, child custody dispute, or adoption.
  2. How will you charge for your services?
    Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, a flat fee, or requires a retainer. Ask for an estimate of the total costs involved.
  3. What are the possible outcomes of my case?
    An experienced lawyer should be able to give you a general idea of what to expect based on the facts of your case.
  4. What is your approach to resolving disputes?
    Ask whether the lawyer tends to favor negotiation and mediation or whether they prefer to take cases to court. This can help you determine if their style matches your goals.
  5. How long do you expect my case to take?
    While it’s difficult to predict, the lawyer should give you an estimate based on similar cases.
  6. Who will be handling my case?
    In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may do much of the work, so make sure you understand who will be your main point of contact.

How to Check the Credibility of a Family Law Lawyer

To ensure you're hiring a reputable family law lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and reputation:

  • Check state bar association records: Verify that the lawyer is licensed to practice in your state and is in good standing with no disciplinary actions.
  • Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on websites like Avvo, Google, or Martindale-Hubbell. Previous clients can give you insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and success in family law cases.
  • Request references: Ask the lawyer for references from past clients who can speak to their experience with the lawyer.
  • Review their website or professional profile: Look at the lawyer’s background, case history, and areas of focus to ensure they have substantial experience in family law.
  • Look for professional memberships: Membership in reputable organizations, such as the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), can indicate a lawyer's expertise and dedication to family law.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To get the most out of your first consultation with a family law lawyer, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what you should bring:

  • Relevant documents: Bring any documents related to your case, such as marriage certificates, prenuptial agreements, financial records, custody agreements, or court orders.
  • List of assets and debts: For divorce cases, prepare a detailed list of all assets (e.g., homes, bank accounts, retirement funds) and debts (e.g., mortgages, loans, credit card balances).
  • Details of the family issue: Provide a written summary of the situation, including key dates and facts related to your divorce, custody dispute, or support issue.
  • Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions you have about the legal process, costs, and potential outcomes.
  • Your goals: Be prepared to discuss your objectives, such as custody arrangements, property division, or spousal support, so the lawyer understands your priorities.

Being organized and clear about your situation will help the lawyer evaluate your case more effectively and offer the best advice for moving forward.

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