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15 Oct, 2024 by Matt
Chad was very easy to work with very detailed his office help was very professional and always dealt with my concerns or questions in a timely professional manner. I highly recommend them.
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10 Oct, 2024 by Sandra crismore
03 Oct, 2024 by Bill k
Chad’s law practice is top notch! Seamless experience from start to finish. Amanda, and the rest of Chads professional staff are wonderfully helpful people. I was extremely impressed with the entire team! Will not hesitate to call them again if the need arises. Fabulous experience!
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03 Feb, 2023 by Steve
Had some paperwork that needed attended too, he did it fast accurate, and affordable, Great staff to deal with as well.
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14 Apr, 2021 by Angela
Mr.Essex has been my attorney for a long time, at least 10+ years. He has always been dependable, upfront and honest, a plethora of knowledge and most importantly, caring. He's been there for my family every time we have needed him, everything from traffic violations to criminal law. He's never been judgemental, just honest. Mr. Essex, thank you for all the times you've helped my family and I out, you've never let us down! You are appreciated more than you know!
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26 Jul, 2018 by Rolando
If your looking for a great attorney Thomas is the man, I had a felony that I thought would never be erased well glad to say Thomas got it erased. JOB WELL DONE THOMAS THANKS.
Sincerely Rolando
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5.0
20 Reviews
4.4
96 Reviews
09 Jan, 2025 by Shampree miller
Thank you again Mike for all of your help with my dissolution. Mike and the staff were all very kind, informative and reasonable priced. I can definitely recommend him
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06 Jan, 2025 by Bobby frm1500
I give them 5 stars because my lawyer Mike had helped me see my child that was taken from me years ago he’s much respectful and helpful and got it done fast -darnell
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19 Dec, 2024 by Karly smith
Mike was absolutely wonderful to work with for my dissolution. He is prompt and courteous, while doing a great job of keeping me informed. He was able to work with my work schedule, and is very reasonable cost wise. Highly, highly recommend working with him!
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02 Mar, 2021 by Joe
I hired Nick for a custody case when the mother of my child moved out of state and tried to register a foreign order. I needed someone really good so I called a very renowned and retired lawyer in the area (since I’m out of state) and asked who the best lawyer for family / custody issues. He said Nick, no question. He’s experienced, hungry, and honest. I have now had Nick representing me off and on for the past 5 years and because my situation happens to involve parental alienation and complicated matters, we continue to litigate and there’s no one I’d rather have on my side. In this course of time my child’s mother has hired 4 different attorneys as none of them have faired well against Nick (it also doesn’t help she has always been on the wrong side of the law). If you hire Nick he will listen, thoroughly research the facts and precedent, and give you your best chance at relief in your case. There is nothing like the piece of mind having great and honest representation. I’ve seen so many lawyers argue a case that they weren’t prepared on, had wrongs facts, can’t remember the characters names, and just fail to make their case and aren’t taken seriously. Trust me, call Nick.
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15 Apr, 2020 by Courtney
I hired Nick Hursh to represent me in a Family Law case that was out of the realm of norm. No child should have to go through a court experience siting on the opposite side a parent instead of having them on your side; as a supportive parent should be. Since my situation crossed normal lines; I chose Nick based on his schooling/professional experience and online reviews. My hopes he would match for my needs but quickly those "hopes" have been proven as fact. He drafts his own court paperwork and is extremely detail oriented. He handled the timing of my payments for his fees, in a compassionate understanding way considering that I am a Single Mother and we are all currently in the CONVID-19 Pandemic.
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08 Dec, 2018 by Nikki
Nick was really good in fighting for me and the R.O. made on me by my bfs EX. My bf is going through a nasty divorce and of course she's doing the typical "reaching" as I like to call it. Being that all of allegations made on me were so far fetched and outlandish, I had PROOF against all the allegations made, which we did NOT even have to present any of this proof. Basically saying she had no legit reason for request, and Nick was able to show there was no basis for any of her claims, which were 100% falsified. He knows his stuff, he goes in ready to fight for you, and wins. He will remind you to stay calm and keep your poker face straight, which I really respected and loved his tactic. Hopefully I will not have to use any attorney ever, but if I was in need he will be my go to. I highly recommend him.
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19 Nov, 2017 by Makaylah
David is an amazing lawyer! We hired David in May, told him we wanted my husband to adopt my daughter, and we needed a passport by December. By November we had our passport and the adoption was final! We had to jump through many hoops and he still made sure we got what we needed on time. He kept us updateded throughout the whole journey and made sure we knew and understood everything he said or was doing! I highly recommend David!
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20 Jul, 2017 by Jessica
DuPont Hospital sued me regarding the bill of delivering of my son. I had proof that it was settled and yet they pushed forward with a trial to prove I was guilty of nonpayment. I asked David to represent me against this enormous company. He quickly reviewed my file and assured me we had a case. During and before the trial he worked hard to ease my fears and nerves. We won!!! He did a wonderful job and I cannot thank him enough!
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01 Sep, 2015 by Ricky
David helped me get better visitation with my daughter. He does a fantastic job getting you what you want. He also returns your calls asap and keeps you well informed on what's going on! I highly recommend him!
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12 Feb, 2015 by Shane
Effective - Tracey is an experienced lawyer in the area of domestic relations who has proven to be an effective advocate for her clients. Responsive - Tracey and her staff are sure to respond promptly to client inquiries and requests. Professional - even during the most difficult situation, Tracey displays composure and professionalism bringing a sense of dignity and respect to the process. Highly recommended.
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01 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous
Tracey is a respected advocate who is extremely knowledgeable in her area. Tracey and her staff work tirelessly in providing effective legal representation to her clients. Strongly recommend!
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20 Oct, 2014 by Mark
I have worked with this attorney many times in the past. I have found her to be excellent working with her clients and other attorneys and excellent presenting her cases to the court. I have recommended her to clients without hesitation.
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13 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
Dana is very down to earth, kind and a all around wonder lawyer! I highly recommend her!
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01 Feb, 2024 by Katie
Shawn is a class act! She knows her stuff-policy, laws, how to argue for you. She never gives up! 5 stars!
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23 May, 2013 by Jeremy
Mr. Benson did a great job representing me. He was always responsive, very knowledeable, and would shoot it to me straight every time.
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08 Jul, 2024 by J b
Mr. Burkhardt was helpful and caring about my situation! Thank you!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Dave grant
Joshua Burkhardt is honest, knowledgable, kind, trustworthy, and is good at what he does. He provides guidance for our company and I wouldn't want to go anywhere else.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Karley dobis
03 Dec, 2024 by Brandon racioppi
From start to finish, through all the ups and downs expected with litigation taking place over the course of a year and a half, Truitt and associates helped me find resolve in my case even if the outcome was unexpected. They were wholly understanding, worked with me in taking home the most I can from my settlement, extremely communicative, friendly, courteous, and very human. I hope to never deal with a personal injury leading to lawsuit again, but if such a need ever arises I will absolutely be back. Phil Truitt, Abigail, Alex, and everyone else involved had humanity and genuinely cared, which is a genuine takeaway from most other attorneys and lawyers that tend to be more robotic. If you’re seeking to gain back damages done causing personal injury, definitely choose Truitt Law; I’m glad I did, and you will be too.
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02 Dec, 2024 by Shannon gangwer
Pesrsonable, fun, effective. A+
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25 Nov, 2024 by Kaylin griffith
The attorneys value and truly care for every single client. They proudly go out of their way for their clients! HONEST, TRANSPARENT, DEDICATED and FRIENDLY!
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23 Feb, 2024 by Barb clevenger
Eric is awesome. He helped us set up our LLC. He had all the documents ready for us and had done plenty of research in anticipation of our visit. He researched and got back with us on a few other questions we had. Very thorough. We will definitely be seeing him for any other issues that might come up. Would completely recommend Eric .
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12 Dec, 2023 by Alexander milentis
I had a great experience using Mr. Jarjour as my divorce attorney. I had filled out my name and number online to have him call me regarding my situation and within a couple hours he reached out to me and already had information pulled up from my case that he looked up. I was very impressed from the start. Sam is very thorough and straightforward but also very personable. He seemed to always put my best interest first while trying to get the case settled as soon as possible to reduce costs etc.
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30 Oct, 2023 by Elizabeth germano
Sam and Tessa were amazing to work with. They replied quickly and eased my anxiety. When it came the day of mediation, Sam did an amazing job representing me.
Financially, his rate is less expensive than others.
We were referred from another attorney to call Sam up. I do not regret my decision at all.
Thank you Sam & Tessa for everything.
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11 Dec, 2024 by John michaels
08 Nov, 2024 by Wendy. s
They were very helpful in regards to my case.
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12 Sep, 2024 by Lonnie march
Polite, professional and he kept us updated. Very good lawyer that will fight for you. Thanks so much!
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06 Dec, 2023 by Holynootnoot
Felt bad he has a lot of 1 stars so I gave him 5 stars
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03 Oct, 2023 by Jayne joseph
Mr. Spreen yes is a very busy man. However, he got me cleared of 20 charges. Just he also is a free county attorney so it's a lot of cases js
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31 May, 2023 by Anonymous
Things started off absolutely fantastic between Emily and I. She was kind and informative and I felt a relief having her on my side because I literally had no one to help me fight a narcissist that didn't care about the family he abandoned. But then one wrong, albeit accidental issue in court and she abandoned me at my time of need. I misspoke about something that I truly made a mistake on and explained that thoroughly to her. Everyone involved understood, even the opposing side that it was a mistake but Instead of trying to work with me or trying to understand that I would never purposely jeopardize my own case, she withdrew from my case. No chance to talk to her about it, not even a good luck as she snuck out the back door The horrible thing is that she threw me onto the plate of a completely inexperienced and non-existent attorney that she recommended. My new attorney showed up late to court, blew her breath in exasperation at the judge and doesn't return a single phone call or email. Even though Emily made it sound like she was going to be able to take over for her. Emily abandoned me for all of the wrong reasons. And hurt my family's chances at a better life after being abused by my narcissist ex.
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07 Nov, 2022 by Mel
My case was forgotten for many months in the office. Waster of retainers for emails with no single court hearing!
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25 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
Rex listened to all issues and paid attention to details to ensure I was represented to his full potential in court. I am very pleased with the outcome from my case.
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23 Nov, 2020 by David
Mr. Patterson has been my lawyer since the middle of this year, and he has been on top of all my legal needs. He has been very professional in dealing with the opposing side and counsel and been extremely efficient in getting accomplished what we set out to, step by step. Two of those examples that stick out to me are 1. Creating an environment conducive of making my ex fiancée move out of my house without incident and without having to file an eviction. And 2. He also was successful in the retrieval of my ex’s very expensive engagement ring, which her side had been unwilling to give back.
He has been with me and had a plan since day 1, and his professional staff has always been there to answer my questions and give timely updates about where we are at in the process. We have had a lot of crud thrown our way, but Mr. Patterson has handled all the turns in the litigation with ease and made me feel comfortable that I am in good hands through the entire process. Not only that, but he always has been more than efficient with his time and charged very minimal to me for the hours he has put into the case. He is a reasonable attorney and will give you a fair shake and honest answer.
The suit will continue into 2021, as we are set for further trial aspects, such as mediation and further, but even without a known outcome on this matter, I am very much happy with my choice in counsel and would very much recommend him to anyone who might need some consultation with their legal matters. He is truly one of the best, in my honest opinion.
David, Rex Patterson’s client since June 2020
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09 Jan, 2025 by Shampree miller
Thank you again Mike for all of your help with my dissolution. Mike and the staff were all very kind, informative and reasonable priced. I can definitely recommend him
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06 Jan, 2025 by Bobby frm1500
I give them 5 stars because my lawyer Mike had helped me see my child that was taken from me years ago he’s much respectful and helpful and got it done fast -darnell
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19 Dec, 2024 by Karly smith
Mike was absolutely wonderful to work with for my dissolution. He is prompt and courteous, while doing a great job of keeping me informed. He was able to work with my work schedule, and is very reasonable cost wise. Highly, highly recommend working with him!
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03 Dec, 2024 by Melanie harvey
24 Oct, 2024 by Jessica snider
Phone connection always sucks, making payments are god awful to make. The front desk can never get it right and you spend 10 minutes repeating yourself because it's constant static. So annoyed
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22 Jul, 2024 by Tanya pickett
Nick is an excellent attorney who skillfully guided me through a very challenging case. His preparation for trial and his professionalism are second to none. I appreciate all he did to bring the case to a close with a positive outcome for myself.
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09 Oct, 2024 by Julie hill
Always provides clear and helpful information and prompt responses. Highly recommend!
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09 Apr, 2024 by Roger reece
She has been super helpful for all kinds of situations.
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09 Apr, 2024 by Dadirai babra ngwena
Desiree is an amazing immigration lawyer. She will dedicate her time and energy into each individual case she works with, will advocate for her clients with so much passion and so much love. Desiree works from her heart and will do anything within her scope of immigration law to make sure that the best outcome is realized. I make sure to recommend Desiree whenever I get a chance. She will go a step further to connect her clients to community resources which is a rarity.
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29 Nov, 2024 by Erin o'donnell
I’ve never felt more like someone was on my side than I have with Carson. Michelle Brown Stohler, Michelle Santiago, and Jeremy Senk have lived and breathed my case for 6 months now, and I know they’ll fight for me for as long as it takes. I never expected the level of care I’ve received from this firm, and I’m eternally grateful for how hard they fight for me every day during such a hard time in my life.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Molly rosenbury
08 Jul, 2024 by Ashten harmon
The attorneys are incredible and hard-working. The support staff are some of the nicest people you will ever meet and very knowledgeable. I would highly recommend hiring an attorney from Carson LLP for any of your legal needs.
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30 Oct, 2024 by Alexis hathaway
Lierin was beyond helpful with getting me through my case. She was kind, knowledgeable, and ensured that I, as the client, was safe and secure through the contentions of divorce.
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22 Oct, 2024 by Shyanne shannon
27 Aug, 2024 by Catelin nissley
If you're going to retain anybody, make sure its Lierin Rossman! 10 stars!! Been using her for a few years, she's BEYOND amazing!!!!
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30 Oct, 2024 by Alexis hathaway
Lierin was beyond helpful with getting me through my case. She was kind, knowledgeable, and ensured that I, as the client, was safe and secure through the contentions of divorce.
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22 Oct, 2024 by Shyanne shannon
27 Aug, 2024 by Catelin nissley
If you're going to retain anybody, make sure its Lierin Rossman! 10 stars!! Been using her for a few years, she's BEYOND amazing!!!!
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30 Oct, 2024 by Alexis hathaway
Lierin was beyond helpful with getting me through my case. She was kind, knowledgeable, and ensured that I, as the client, was safe and secure through the contentions of divorce.
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22 Oct, 2024 by Shyanne shannon
27 Aug, 2024 by Catelin nissley
If you're going to retain anybody, make sure its Lierin Rossman! 10 stars!! Been using her for a few years, she's BEYOND amazing!!!!
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30 Oct, 2024 by Alexis hathaway
Lierin was beyond helpful with getting me through my case. She was kind, knowledgeable, and ensured that I, as the client, was safe and secure through the contentions of divorce.
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22 Oct, 2024 by Shyanne shannon
10 Oct, 2024 by Dodi
Chris took my case over when my lawyer fell ill and couldn't continue. Chris got me a full judgement quickly, and he didn't cost me a fortune to do it.
Chris is very polite and professional, and he is realistic in how the courts work. I wouldn't use anyone else for family law or civil judgements. He is A +++++ all the way.
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06 Dec, 2023 by Holynootnoot
Felt bad he has a lot of 1 stars so I gave him 5 stars
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03 Oct, 2023 by Jayne joseph
Mr. Spreen yes is a very busy man. However, he got me cleared of 20 charges. Just he also is a free county attorney so it's a lot of cases js
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14 Aug, 2019 by Jennifer kay
Mitch is a great guy, very busy and hard to connect with though. He covers 2 counties, and is the only public defender in wells county.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Katie treesh
Nick was professional and efficient when preparing our will; I would highly recommend!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Cyi makemoney
Randy Hammond screwed me over when I was in desperate need of a criminal and family attorney in June 2017. Never signed an agreement and happily took my money. Stay away.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Brenna grove
Nick Wallace went above and beyond my expectations of representation of a legal matter. He always listened to suggestions, answered phone calls promptly, and answered any questions that my family had. I felt he really cared about our situation and we weren’t just another case. His defense presentation was thorough, precise, and personal. Would 100% recommend him for any legal matter.
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03 Dec, 2024 by Melanie harvey
24 Oct, 2024 by Jessica snider
Phone connection always sucks, making payments are god awful to make. The front desk can never get it right and you spend 10 minutes repeating yourself because it's constant static. So annoyed
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24 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
While Paul was serving as a pro temp he violated my due process to the court of law. He did this in front of my attorney who was standing beside me. To hit someone with contempt of court while not putting someone on notice is horrible. I told on him and he was removed from ruling on my case permanently.
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18 Sep, 2024 by Connie todd
Always calls me back, and everyone in the office is nice and answers all my questions. When I call Audrey and Suzzane makes me feel at ease.
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06 Jun, 2024 by Badboyz
I highly recommend David Van Gilder. He is VERY thorough, out for best interest of client, ONLY. I am Adult dx with Austism Aspergers, etc. He is very aware of clients with any kind of disabilities Neurodiverites.
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02 Apr, 2024 by Carlos lizarraga
I hired Dave vangilder to represent me in my divorce. He proofed no just to be incompetent imo, he was no match to my ex wife attorney, but he also falsified, against my best interest, one of my swore statements. He claimed that he had the right to do it when I confronted him. I fired him! Stay away from this unethical attorney.
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12 Dec, 2024 by Brian sievers
08 Dec, 2024 by Pamela london
I have had the privilege of speaking with Justin on several occasions and he has always been prompt in returning my calls and straight forward in the legal advice/knowledge he has provided. Even though I have not had Justin as an official legal representative/counsel , I know where I would turn if the need arose. Justin is admired in every way. Thank you Justin for everything you have contributed in my life. You are definitely The Cream of the Crop.
I consider you my friend as well.
Always know, if you should ever want to discuss Insurance don't hesitate to call me.
Take care always, your friend and admirer,
Pamela London
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03 Dec, 2024 by Sean r
I was hit by a drunk driver and had some medical bills I was getting pushback about from their insurance company. I went and spoke with Justin. He was able to get those bills paid and negotiated a settlement amount higher than I told him I would settle. Highly recommend 10/10 wish I would have spoke with him before even dealing with the insurance company.
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01 Jul, 2024 by Julia partida
Overpriced.
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26 Mar, 2024 by Marcia degraaf buis
Bruce and his staff were fantastic! They worked quickly and efficiently. Highly recommend if you need a family attorney.
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13 Jan, 2024 by Joe hall
09 Feb, 2024 by D_christine
Lori was unprofessional, disrespectful, and lacked common human decency.
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20 Sep, 2023 by Monica
28 Aug, 2023 by Adam wainikainen
Excellent intelligent and professional attorneys. Absolutely the best attorneys Fort Wayne has to offer
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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.
