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08 Jun, 2022 by Nicole
Chuck is great! He is a pitbull per say defending his clients and questioning the opposing side. He represented me in both a criminal and a family law case. I promise you will not be disappointed!! Can’t go wrong w Mr. Shafer!!!
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13 Jan, 2021 by Lynn
Needed a quit claim deed. Mr. Shafer had it for me in a couple of days. That’s what you are an efficient attorney.
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24 Nov, 2020 by Rose
Mr. Shafer has been extremely professional and diligent despite our rather complicated case. We highly recommend him no matter how complicated your matter may be!
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17 May, 2015 by Anonymous
Divorcing is one of the most personal and hardest thing you may ever go through in life. I could not have selected a more accomplished, compassionate attorney than Leatha Mullins. From my first day of having no idea what to expect or what I was walking in to, Leatha was there with an informed but sympathetic guiding hands. She is beyond personable and even in the most difficult and emotional time, she can help you stay focused on the ultimate goal. Her knowledge of Florida divorce law is impeccable. Every time I walked out of her office, I felt a relief. She is understanding and supportive and professional. She is the one you want on your side during these difficult times.
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29 Jun, 2011 by Anonymous
Leatha is a wonderful attorney. I saw her originally for a consultation and didn't return until a year later. She remembered me and details about the case, which made me very happy. She is knowlegable and trustworthy.
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20 Dec, 2019 by Renee’
I have been blessed to have had Ms. LeBlanc as my family law attorney for several years. Circumstances has caused me to deal with several different attorneys in various areas of law, which has caused me to become fairly experienced. I would also not consider my family law case a simple or straightforward one. Ms. LeBlanc has not only met my expectations, but has often far exceeded them. She is not only an intelligent and competent attorney, her character is one of honesty and kindness, and she is an all around beautiful person. She is thoughtful and compassionate. She will fight for you, but she will not mislead you either. These are all qualities that are so important to find in an attorney, and Ms. LeBlanc possesses them all. She has not only been a tremendous asset to my family law case, but I have felt comfortable enough to reach out to her in regards to other legal matters. Ms. LeBlanc has always happily either been able to help me directly or has guided me in the right direction. She is easy to contact and has a great record in regards to getting back to you. I have personally recommended Ms. LeBlanc to countless others, and I would highly recommend her to anyone. You cannot go wrong with her and you will not be disappointed!
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27 Apr, 2018 by Katherine
Amy was on top of the case from day one. She was reachable through e-mail, phone, and text; even after regular office hours. She knew exactly what she was doing and she not only cared about the case but also about me as a person. She was very supportive throughout the whole process. I knew I was in good hands when I first met her. Thanks you Amy for bringing my family together.
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28 Nov, 2016 by Anonymous
Mike McSoley has helped me several times with various real estate ventures. I own many rental properties with several other investors through an LLC, and Mr. McSoley helped us to write our Operating Agreement as well as all of our individual leases. He has also given us legal advice regarding a dispute with an HOA and regarding eviction of tenants. I have also paid him to look over several contracts for me, and his advice and insight was quite helpful. I feel like Mr. McSoley is very honest and has integrity. He charges a fair rate, and I have always found it worth the money to have him look at things for me. I highly recommend him for document review and any advice regarding real estate.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Chris
Mike Ohle was always available to answer my questions and concerns. He put me at ease throughout my legal process. Mike has a thorough knowledge of the law and approached my case with determination.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Robert fabrey
Thank you for the outstanding work that you did on behalf of my son Joseph. I know that he had really been put thru the ringer by the Sheriff Dept. Your professionalism is much appreciated. We were extremely confident and comfortable on picking you as our Attorney. You swiftly handled the case. You did not take advantage of our misfortune and your fees were reasonable. I will absolutely refer you to everyone I know. Thank you for giving his freedom back.
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14 Aug, 2024 by Jayson rivera
I cought a B.U.I charge last year and contacted Michael Ohle who gave me confidence and cover my case with cloak and dagger, last month he came victorious getting the charge dropped to reckless operation of vessel this attorney will keep you will informed during the whole process and will definitely get you the best outcome under the circumstances. Thank you Michael Ohle for being a great professional.
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22 Aug, 2024 by Nathan beam
Excellent attorneys! Would suggest to anyone!
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27 Jun, 2024 by Michael primelo
Great lawyers highly recommend
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29 May, 2024 by Melissa brown
I am a previously and current client with this practice. Previously, in the year 2009, I had a disability case where one of the lloyd brothers did an excellent job. No, complaints with that. For the past few years, I have had to return back to the workforce. I had an accident in 2022, and last year, i finally cleared the workman's comp part and still have the PI case! It's the personal injury department that I have dissatisfaction with. I don't have the same paralegal that I started out with, and it is very frustrating for me that there was no constant communication for months, and I understand that I'm not the only client they have, but it is very unsettling for me to feel like I'm a burden to someone that is supposed to represent me. It's just upsets me that whatever frustration is going on, professionally, the client shouldn't have to hear It through the phone, or see it because now i feel like my situition is a burden to someone that is paid to represent me. There are some things that have also been brought to my attention, but I will only display once I have experienced it myself. I hope I won't have to, though, but this is the only department that didn't make me feel as an important client than the others. To be clear, it's not the whole department, just the one who is assigned to me, and I just didn't want to mention a name yet! I pray it gets better!
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15 Aug, 2024 by Chris
Mike Ohle was always available to answer my questions and concerns. He put me at ease throughout my legal process. Mike has a thorough knowledge of the law and approached my case with determination.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Robert fabrey
Thank you for the outstanding work that you did on behalf of my son Joseph. I know that he had really been put thru the ringer by the Sheriff Dept. Your professionalism is much appreciated. We were extremely confident and comfortable on picking you as our Attorney. You swiftly handled the case. You did not take advantage of our misfortune and your fees were reasonable. I will absolutely refer you to everyone I know. Thank you for giving his freedom back.
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14 Aug, 2024 by Jayson rivera
I cought a B.U.I charge last year and contacted Michael Ohle who gave me confidence and cover my case with cloak and dagger, last month he came victorious getting the charge dropped to reckless operation of vessel this attorney will keep you will informed during the whole process and will definitely get you the best outcome under the circumstances. Thank you Michael Ohle for being a great professional.
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26 Sep, 2024 by La sheva wilson
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22 Dec, 2021 by Jeff
Mr. Weinbaum handled a difficult child support case for me with professionalism and knowledge. I appreciate his hard work for a very reasonable fee. I would not hesitate to hire him again.
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17 Sep, 2020 by Bernie j.
Words could not explain the magnitude and extent that Attorney Chet Weinbaum took in order to help me as Military Veteran and Professional resolve previous family issues. If you are seeking outstanding work, don't hesitate. Hire Him! See for yourself....
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18 Sep, 2024 by H p
Very disappointed lack of communication never called when there was court dates barely made attempts to Strategize , my brother mentally ill and have drug problem and need help and he made like it wasn’t true only use one psychiatrist once that we the family never spoke with and wasn’t confident about the case but still took our money .. honestly between him and st Lucie county they sold my brother out … I’m very unsatisfied and feel robbed I expected more from him
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23 Apr, 2024 by Kimberly kram
Ed Mosher is a beacon of professionalism and dedication in the legal field. His expertise as a criminal attorney shone brightly during my three-hour trial, where he tirelessly defended me against stalking, harassment, and emotional torture. His strategic approach, coupled with his unwavering commitment to justice, secured a favorable outcome. I am immensely grateful for his support and highly recommend his services to anyone in need of a formidable legal advocate.
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18 Apr, 2024 by Scott lapolla
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18 Jul, 2024 by Owen austin
Meltzer & Bell P.A. represented me for a DUI case I had been charged. Paul Bernard an Attorney at the firm quickly stepped into action. He began swiftly working to give me the best possible outcome. Paul was nothing short of outstanding and gave me a favorable result. I strongly recommend Meltzer & Bell P.A. and Paul Bernard!
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20 Jun, 2024 by Jeremiah adams
I would deeply like to thank Meltzer & Bell, P.A along with my attorney Paul Benarnd. For going above and beyond for getting my case thrown completely out.It’s truly truly weight off my should knowing I can go forward In life with out this situation following me.
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28 Mar, 2024 by Florens dargenson
I absolutely love this law firm I hired them for my fiancé case I was assigned attorney Paul Bernard he did an amazing job at the case he was very patient the case was over a year long and he kept us updated during the entire time! He answered every and all question that we had and got us the results we wanted! He fought for us and made sure we got absolutely no jail time. 100/100 recommend! I will continue to use them for any and all my legal needs!
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20 Jan, 2020 by Peggy
I retained Gene in the middle of the most explosive marital dissolution! Lots of drama and violence! gene was amazing he kept me protected at all times positioning his body so I couldn't get hurt or seen this man was willing to lay down his life and always made sure he positions his body with my safety first he was great !!!
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13 Jun, 2024 by Scott bailey
I wouldn’t hire his so called attorney if he was the last one on the planet! I saw this guy have himself removed from a young lady’s case in St. Lucie county courts and refused to give her back her $5,000.! And didn’t do a thing for her! This guy has a HUGE surprise coming because I have followed this case, where the St. Lucie courts have drug it out for 2 years with no evidence, and now the evidence this young lady asked this so called attorney to get, which he told her didn’t matter, is now coming into play and even the judge told the prosecutor and her current attorney she had every right to it they were violating Brady law! Oops! Now she has this guy on that fact and she is going to the Florida Bar Association about him and his misrepresentation and failure to perform his duties under Brady law. So hopes he reads this and looks into his cases and realizes how screwed he now is! Will definitely update this later on what happens to him over this case. Lawsuit in process so stay away from this law office.
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12 Mar, 2024 by Matthew bernier
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02 Sep, 2022 by Sharon evans
TERRIBLE ATTORNEYThis attorney is incompetent and does not represent clients well. He took on a car accident case and misled his client for two years indicating they had a claim and he was working on the case. He failed to zealously represent his client, he did not even conduct one deposition of the opposing side after he filed suit. DO NOT WASTE your time, hire an attorney with proven succes and competence. This attorney withdrew his representation right before case was scheduled for trial because he did not feel confident to go in court. His incompetence cost me 2 vamuable years and set my case back. You will regret hiring this Attorney...DO NOT do it...go with an established firm. Moreover, he never answers his phone and it is impossible to get in contact with him. Run dont walk....use any othet attorney!!!!!!
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18 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
I hired Mrs. Jules-Toussaint as my attorney for my divorce; however, she did not perform her duties correctly and lacked to include a Form that needed to be included in my petition which therefore resulted in the judge taking my kids from me and given them to the father within days. This is not an attorney I would recoommend or hire for any divorce case with children involved.
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09 Jun, 2021 by Anonymous
Never picks up the phone ....never returned a voicemail.... Very disappointed client
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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:

  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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