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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
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
07 Jun, 2023 by Stephanie freon
A year ago we hired him for a case. He did give us a bit of direction and showed up to one of the 3 trials we had. The one he came to, he was late and had to leave during the trial to grab more paperwork he'd left at the office, postponing the time we sat in the courthouse. We did not use much time with him and I asked in the beginning how our retainer would carry on in regards to time management. He assured me that if he didn't use his time that equated to the retainer we may get some back. In turn, I was sure to research the Indiana law as much as I could before the times we spoke with him (about a total of 5 15-30 min calls/in persons appointments), to which we discussed my research and how we'd present in court. Side note: My research was to ensure that I understood the law and I confirmed with him if my understandings were correct.
Ultimately after our last trial, The one that he was late to.. I tried to call his office for some other matters still pertaining to the same case and he never returned my calls. I left multiple messages with a secretary but have yet to make it down in person.
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21 May, 2022 by Alicia king
Mathew is an amazing attorney. He doesn't tell you what you want to hear but what you need to hear. He works very hard for his clients and always is there when you need him
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10 Jul, 2021 by Shane witmer
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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08 Jul, 2024 by D
So I have to say this. Bart keeps his word and he’s honestly turned into a lawyer that I feel like is about as smooth as it gets. He is timely and in my opinion top tier as a lawyer and as a person. He’s given me advice before. And just today got my license back for me. To put this into perspective the judge told me I’ve had 48 yes FOURTY EIGHT suspensions And I’m on a habitual 10 year ban. He got it back with pretty much no conditions. Truly a miracle. One thing I like the most about Bart is that he just tells you like it is. I’ve been in some hot water before and he’s let me know that. But he always is right there in the trenches with you. Always keeping you informed. He doesn’t leave you hanging, you know the feeling being in the jumpsuit, sitting handcuffed in the seats looking around for your lawyer and not seeing him? Bart is always there! Every letter or receipt from him I always got next day. His office keeps you in the loop almost even too much. And anybody thinking this review is just so good that it has to be made up. My name is Dalton Ray. Do your own research. Bart is the man! If I sound excited it’s because I was told I wouldn’t even have the option to maybe drive again until I’d be 36 years old. And just got it back a couple weeks after hiring him. And honestly I’m grateful. The fees alone he got waived for me were substantially higher than what I even paid to hire him.
Highly recommend
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08 Jul, 2024 by Shannon mantica
08 Jul, 2024 by D
So I have to say this. Bart keeps his word and he’s honestly turned into a lawyer that I feel like is about as smooth as it gets. He is timely and in my opinion top tier as a lawyer and as a person. He’s given me advice before. And just today got my license back for me. To put this into perspective the judge told me I’ve had 48 yes FOURTY EIGHT suspensions And I’m on a habitual 10 year ban. He got it back with pretty much no conditions. Truly a miracle. One thing I like the most about Bart is that he just tells you like it is. I’ve been in some hot water before and he’s let me know that. But he always is right there in the trenches with you. Always keeping you informed. He doesn’t leave you hanging, you know the feeling being in the jumpsuit, sitting handcuffed in the seats looking around for your lawyer and not seeing him? Bart is always there! Every letter or receipt from him I always got next day. His office keeps you in the loop almost even too much. And anybody thinking this review is just so good that it has to be made up. My name is Dalton Ray. Do your own research. Bart is the man! If I sound excited it’s because I was told I wouldn’t even have the option to maybe drive again until I’d be 36 years old. And just got it back a couple weeks after hiring him. And honestly I’m grateful. The fees alone he got waived for me were substantially higher than what I even paid to hire him.
Highly recommend
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08 Jul, 2024 by Shannon mantica
08 Jul, 2024 by Kaler haynes
08 Jul, 2024 by D
So I have to say this. Bart keeps his word and he’s honestly turned into a lawyer that I feel like is about as smooth as it gets. He is timely and in my opinion top tier as a lawyer and as a person. He’s given me advice before. And just today got my license back for me. To put this into perspective the judge told me I’ve had 48 yes FOURTY EIGHT suspensions And I’m on a habitual 10 year ban. He got it back with pretty much no conditions. Truly a miracle. One thing I like the most about Bart is that he just tells you like it is. I’ve been in some hot water before and he’s let me know that. But he always is right there in the trenches with you. Always keeping you informed. He doesn’t leave you hanging, you know the feeling being in the jumpsuit, sitting handcuffed in the seats looking around for your lawyer and not seeing him? Bart is always there! Every letter or receipt from him I always got next day. His office keeps you in the loop almost even too much. And anybody thinking this review is just so good that it has to be made up. My name is Dalton Ray. Do your own research. Bart is the man! If I sound excited it’s because I was told I wouldn’t even have the option to maybe drive again until I’d be 36 years old. And just got it back a couple weeks after hiring him. And honestly I’m grateful. The fees alone he got waived for me were substantially higher than what I even paid to hire him.
Highly recommend
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08 Jul, 2024 by Shannon mantica
08 Jul, 2024 by Kaler haynes
08 Jul, 2024 by D
So I have to say this. Bart keeps his word and he’s honestly turned into a lawyer that I feel like is about as smooth as it gets. He is timely and in my opinion top tier as a lawyer and as a person. He’s given me advice before. And just today got my license back for me. To put this into perspective the judge told me I’ve had 48 yes FOURTY EIGHT suspensions And I’m on a habitual 10 year ban. He got it back with pretty much no conditions. Truly a miracle. One thing I like the most about Bart is that he just tells you like it is. I’ve been in some hot water before and he’s let me know that. But he always is right there in the trenches with you. Always keeping you informed. He doesn’t leave you hanging, you know the feeling being in the jumpsuit, sitting handcuffed in the seats looking around for your lawyer and not seeing him? Bart is always there! Every letter or receipt from him I always got next day. His office keeps you in the loop almost even too much. And anybody thinking this review is just so good that it has to be made up. My name is Dalton Ray. Do your own research. Bart is the man! If I sound excited it’s because I was told I wouldn’t even have the option to maybe drive again until I’d be 36 years old. And just got it back a couple weeks after hiring him. And honestly I’m grateful. The fees alone he got waived for me were substantially higher than what I even paid to hire him.
Highly recommend
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08 Jul, 2024 by Shannon mantica
08 Jul, 2024 by Kaler haynes
19 Jun, 2024 by Tamara henman
17 May, 2024 by Jarred omlor
Was in communication with them for setting up a payment plan to resolve the issue. Offered to back pay from the last phone conversation, but in return I asked for some kind of documentation stating the agreement of the terms.... after asking for documentation the automatically denied a payment plan. I'm glad you have a fast response to your Google review. But not to clients.
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19 Apr, 2024 by Cody lindsay
If you're ever in a spot of trouble and need an attorney to represent you, I highly recommend Bart Arnold. Bart is straightforward and will do everything within his power to ensure his clients get what they need. With that though is doing your part as his client and communicating with him to keep him in the know with any and all information you can provide him. Bart will go above and beyond to secure the best outcome possible and while everyone wants something, as he mentioned to me, that may not always be the case but he will get you what you need.
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08 Jul, 2024 by D
So I have to say this. Bart keeps his word and he’s honestly turned into a lawyer that I feel like is about as smooth as it gets. He is timely and in my opinion top tier as a lawyer and as a person. He’s given me advice before. And just today got my license back for me. To put this into perspective the judge told me I’ve had 48 yes FOURTY EIGHT suspensions And I’m on a habitual 10 year ban. He got it back with pretty much no conditions. Truly a miracle. One thing I like the most about Bart is that he just tells you like it is. I’ve been in some hot water before and he’s let me know that. But he always is right there in the trenches with you. Always keeping you informed. He doesn’t leave you hanging, you know the feeling being in the jumpsuit, sitting handcuffed in the seats looking around for your lawyer and not seeing him? Bart is always there! Every letter or receipt from him I always got next day. His office keeps you in the loop almost even too much. And anybody thinking this review is just so good that it has to be made up. My name is Dalton Ray. Do your own research. Bart is the man! If I sound excited it’s because I was told I wouldn’t even have the option to maybe drive again until I’d be 36 years old. And just got it back a couple weeks after hiring him. And honestly I’m grateful. The fees alone he got waived for me were substantially higher than what I even paid to hire him.
Highly recommend
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08 Jul, 2024 by Shannon mantica
08 Jul, 2024 by Kaler haynes
04 Aug, 2024 by Deja hochstetler
I am incredibly grateful for the outstanding service provided by Shilts & Setlak in handling my child support case. From our very first meeting, Michael demonstrated an exceptional level of professionalism, knowledge, and compassion.
Navigating the complexities of family law can be overwhelming, but Michael and his team made the process so much easier. They were always available to answer my questions, provided clear and concise explanations of my options, and consistently kept me informed about the progress of my case. Their attention to detail and thorough understanding of family law ensured that my child’s best interests were always the top priority.
I highly recommend Michael Setlak to anyone in need of a family law attorney. Their professionalism, integrity, and client-focused approach make them an exceptional advocate. Thank you, Shilts & Setlak LLC for your unwavering support and for making a challenging time in my life much more manageable!
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01 Jun, 2024 by E. tussing
Richard went above and beyond helping me navigate my case. Would definitely recommend!!
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24 May, 2024 by Patrick lindsay
In my opinion my representation was weak. He barely knew information about my case, barely ever reached out except right before court and never planned or strategized with me. He had a cavalier attitude with the serious matters in my case/life.
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3.0
2 Reviews
4.3
89 Reviews
04 Aug, 2024 by Deja hochstetler
I am incredibly grateful for the outstanding service provided by Shilts & Setlak in handling my child support case. From our very first meeting, Michael demonstrated an exceptional level of professionalism, knowledge, and compassion.
Navigating the complexities of family law can be overwhelming, but Michael and his team made the process so much easier. They were always available to answer my questions, provided clear and concise explanations of my options, and consistently kept me informed about the progress of my case. Their attention to detail and thorough understanding of family law ensured that my child’s best interests were always the top priority.
I highly recommend Michael Setlak to anyone in need of a family law attorney. Their professionalism, integrity, and client-focused approach make them an exceptional advocate. Thank you, Shilts & Setlak LLC for your unwavering support and for making a challenging time in my life much more manageable!
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01 Jun, 2024 by E. tussing
Richard went above and beyond helping me navigate my case. Would definitely recommend!!
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24 May, 2024 by Patrick lindsay
In my opinion my representation was weak. He barely knew information about my case, barely ever reached out except right before court and never planned or strategized with me. He had a cavalier attitude with the serious matters in my case/life.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Desiree winters
The office assistants are nice and friendly, known nothing about all the lawyers here but I hired Mark Thoma in 2020, after the conclusion of my case which was March this year. I have been calling and calling, leaving message after message and as of today no call back. Since the first day of hire I've been doomed because he was not worth the hire "NOT ENOUGH PRESSURE APPLIED" I regret wasting my time and money with this firm. If you are looking for full representation from start to finish, alone with the charge reduction this is not the best route. I would have done better getting a lawyer still training in school. So now I only have a few options let me see where they can get me.
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08 Jul, 2024 by G
Called and was in the middle of describing our need for a visitation agreement, the person who answered the phone was very rude interrupted me midstream told me she’d be right back clicked over while I was still talking. If that’s the way it starts how the heck is it going to end? I hung up the phone and moved on. Person answering the phone should get a few pointers on courtesy to customers.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Ghgne5
I have known Nick Wallace for many years. He is very intelligent, a hard worker and very caring. He is one of the most ethical and honest people I know. I would recommend him to anyone with legal troubles.
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08 Jul, 2024 by William faulkner
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 Shanna jenkins
30 Apr, 2024 by Jeff janssen
20 Mar, 2024 by Nathaniel hubley
I highly recommend Beers Mallers for elder law issues. They are very knowledgeable and experienced and I regularly refer my clients who have elder law issues and guardianship issues to Beers Mallers.
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14 Mar, 2024 by Suzanne green
Ryan Gardner is a nasty human, zero moral compass and I believe the only thing he learned in law school was the word hearsay. He is why attorneys are called slimy shysters! This guy drips with ego and entitlement.
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08 Jul, 2024 by D
So I have to say this. Bart keeps his word and he’s honestly turned into a lawyer that I feel like is about as smooth as it gets. He is timely and in my opinion top tier as a lawyer and as a person. He’s given me advice before. And just today got my license back for me. To put this into perspective the judge told me I’ve had 48 yes FOURTY EIGHT suspensions And I’m on a habitual 10 year ban. He got it back with pretty much no conditions. Truly a miracle. One thing I like the most about Bart is that he just tells you like it is. I’ve been in some hot water before and he’s let me know that. But he always is right there in the trenches with you. Always keeping you informed. He doesn’t leave you hanging, you know the feeling being in the jumpsuit, sitting handcuffed in the seats looking around for your lawyer and not seeing him? Bart is always there! Every letter or receipt from him I always got next day. His office keeps you in the loop almost even too much. And anybody thinking this review is just so good that it has to be made up. My name is Dalton Ray. Do your own research. Bart is the man! If I sound excited it’s because I was told I wouldn’t even have the option to maybe drive again until I’d be 36 years old. And just got it back a couple weeks after hiring him. And honestly I’m grateful. The fees alone he got waived for me were substantially higher than what I even paid to hire him.
Highly recommend
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Shannon mantica
08 Jul, 2024 by Kaler haynes
08 Jul, 2024 by D
So I have to say this. Bart keeps his word and he’s honestly turned into a lawyer that I feel like is about as smooth as it gets. He is timely and in my opinion top tier as a lawyer and as a person. He’s given me advice before. And just today got my license back for me. To put this into perspective the judge told me I’ve had 48 yes FOURTY EIGHT suspensions And I’m on a habitual 10 year ban. He got it back with pretty much no conditions. Truly a miracle. One thing I like the most about Bart is that he just tells you like it is. I’ve been in some hot water before and he’s let me know that. But he always is right there in the trenches with you. Always keeping you informed. He doesn’t leave you hanging, you know the feeling being in the jumpsuit, sitting handcuffed in the seats looking around for your lawyer and not seeing him? Bart is always there! Every letter or receipt from him I always got next day. His office keeps you in the loop almost even too much. And anybody thinking this review is just so good that it has to be made up. My name is Dalton Ray. Do your own research. Bart is the man! If I sound excited it’s because I was told I wouldn’t even have the option to maybe drive again until I’d be 36 years old. And just got it back a couple weeks after hiring him. And honestly I’m grateful. The fees alone he got waived for me were substantially higher than what I even paid to hire him.
Highly recommend
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Shannon mantica
08 Jul, 2024 by Kaler haynes
08 Jul, 2024 by D
So I have to say this. Bart keeps his word and he’s honestly turned into a lawyer that I feel like is about as smooth as it gets. He is timely and in my opinion top tier as a lawyer and as a person. He’s given me advice before. And just today got my license back for me. To put this into perspective the judge told me I’ve had 48 yes FOURTY EIGHT suspensions And I’m on a habitual 10 year ban. He got it back with pretty much no conditions. Truly a miracle. One thing I like the most about Bart is that he just tells you like it is. I’ve been in some hot water before and he’s let me know that. But he always is right there in the trenches with you. Always keeping you informed. He doesn’t leave you hanging, you know the feeling being in the jumpsuit, sitting handcuffed in the seats looking around for your lawyer and not seeing him? Bart is always there! Every letter or receipt from him I always got next day. His office keeps you in the loop almost even too much. And anybody thinking this review is just so good that it has to be made up. My name is Dalton Ray. Do your own research. Bart is the man! If I sound excited it’s because I was told I wouldn’t even have the option to maybe drive again until I’d be 36 years old. And just got it back a couple weeks after hiring him. And honestly I’m grateful. The fees alone he got waived for me were substantially higher than what I even paid to hire him.
Highly recommend
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Shannon mantica
08 Jul, 2024 by Kaler haynes
08 Jul, 2024 by D
So I have to say this. Bart keeps his word and he’s honestly turned into a lawyer that I feel like is about as smooth as it gets. He is timely and in my opinion top tier as a lawyer and as a person. He’s given me advice before. And just today got my license back for me. To put this into perspective the judge told me I’ve had 48 yes FOURTY EIGHT suspensions And I’m on a habitual 10 year ban. He got it back with pretty much no conditions. Truly a miracle. One thing I like the most about Bart is that he just tells you like it is. I’ve been in some hot water before and he’s let me know that. But he always is right there in the trenches with you. Always keeping you informed. He doesn’t leave you hanging, you know the feeling being in the jumpsuit, sitting handcuffed in the seats looking around for your lawyer and not seeing him? Bart is always there! Every letter or receipt from him I always got next day. His office keeps you in the loop almost even too much. And anybody thinking this review is just so good that it has to be made up. My name is Dalton Ray. Do your own research. Bart is the man! If I sound excited it’s because I was told I wouldn’t even have the option to maybe drive again until I’d be 36 years old. And just got it back a couple weeks after hiring him. And honestly I’m grateful. The fees alone he got waived for me were substantially higher than what I even paid to hire him.
Highly recommend
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Shannon mantica
08 Jul, 2024 by Kaler haynes
08 Jul, 2024 by Desiree winters
The office assistants are nice and friendly, known nothing about all the lawyers here but I hired Mark Thoma in 2020, after the conclusion of my case which was March this year. I have been calling and calling, leaving message after message and as of today no call back. Since the first day of hire I've been doomed because he was not worth the hire "NOT ENOUGH PRESSURE APPLIED" I regret wasting my time and money with this firm. If you are looking for full representation from start to finish, alone with the charge reduction this is not the best route. I would have done better getting a lawyer still training in school. So now I only have a few options let me see where they can get me.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by G
Called and was in the middle of describing our need for a visitation agreement, the person who answered the phone was very rude interrupted me midstream told me she’d be right back clicked over while I was still talking. If that’s the way it starts how the heck is it going to end? I hung up the phone and moved on. Person answering the phone should get a few pointers on courtesy to customers.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Ghgne5
I have known Nick Wallace for many years. He is very intelligent, a hard worker and very caring. He is one of the most ethical and honest people I know. I would recommend him to anyone with legal troubles.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Desiree winters
The office assistants are nice and friendly, known nothing about all the lawyers here but I hired Mark Thoma in 2020, after the conclusion of my case which was March this year. I have been calling and calling, leaving message after message and as of today no call back. Since the first day of hire I've been doomed because he was not worth the hire "NOT ENOUGH PRESSURE APPLIED" I regret wasting my time and money with this firm. If you are looking for full representation from start to finish, alone with the charge reduction this is not the best route. I would have done better getting a lawyer still training in school. So now I only have a few options let me see where they can get me.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by G
Called and was in the middle of describing our need for a visitation agreement, the person who answered the phone was very rude interrupted me midstream told me she’d be right back clicked over while I was still talking. If that’s the way it starts how the heck is it going to end? I hung up the phone and moved on. Person answering the phone should get a few pointers on courtesy to customers.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Ghgne5
I have known Nick Wallace for many years. He is very intelligent, a hard worker and very caring. He is one of the most ethical and honest people I know. I would recommend him to anyone with legal troubles.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by William faulkner
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 Shanna jenkins
25 Mar, 2024 by Jennifer krinn
The girl who answered the phone was rude. I hung up before going any further. Yuck.
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08 Mar, 2024 by Ryan frederick
Good lawyer.. I've hired him for my License and child support and criminal defense as well in the past .. most resent was for my License..
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17 Oct, 2023 by Josie
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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21 Jul, 2024 by Nick herrold
He’s your guy for all things traffic related. He got my 15 over ticket reduced to 5 over.
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19 Aug, 2024 by Amanda muir
Caryn is amazing! She navigated me through a tough transition in my life. Thorough, diligent and dedicated to her services and clients. I couldn't have done this without her expertise and reassurance. Highly recommend.
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12 Jul, 2024 by Nathan king
I cannot recommend Caryn highly enough for her exceptional service as a family lawyer. She went above and beyond to ensure the best outcome for both me and my child. Her expertise and dedication were evident throughout the entire process, and she consistently prioritized what was fair and in the best interest of my family. Working with Caryn was a seamless experience.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Drew ramer
Caryn was great. My fiance was going thru some stuff with her ex and she helped us thru all the processes and helped us get the best outcome possible. But more important than that is she was understanding and put my fiancées mind at ease. Hope we don't need a lawyer again but if we do we'll call her.
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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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28 Oct, 2024 by Vannah vongphachanh
14 Oct, 2024 by M j
This man is a pillar in his community. Thank you.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Joey martin
Would not recommend Bellinger law if you’re a single father and trying to get 50-50 or more. I asked him to file a petition form to change my daughter’s last name. He said he would do it and then months later he said that something happened in the system so it didn’t go through and I got a different lawyer now and he said that he never filed it. And any agreements that The other party files he wants you to sign without any concerns, even though there are words in the agreement that screws my party over.
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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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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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25 Jun, 2024 by Alicia henderson
Cathy is a very dedicated attorney! This is the attorney to call if you want somebody that is caring and that will get you what you need! I called explained my situation and it was a lot! Cathy said let’s get you in here and get started on this! I highly recommend Cathy and her office!
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14 Apr, 2024 by Beth clouser
Very dedicated attorneys. Personable, and they really listen to what you want. Highly recommend!
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24 Mar, 2024 by Johnny colby
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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28 Oct, 2024 by Vannah vongphachanh
14 Oct, 2024 by M j
This man is a pillar in his community. Thank you.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Joey martin
Would not recommend Bellinger law if you’re a single father and trying to get 50-50 or more. I asked him to file a petition form to change my daughter’s last name. He said he would do it and then months later he said that something happened in the system so it didn’t go through and I got a different lawyer now and he said that he never filed it. And any agreements that The other party files he wants you to sign without any concerns, even though there are words in the agreement that screws my party over.
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FAQs
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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:
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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.
