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04 Sep, 2021 by Loutisha jones
Who is Jackson Welch Jr
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09 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous
Whatever you do, do not use Laurie Parker to do a Trust. If you do, this is what you can expect. You will pay a large retainer fee before anything is ever initiated (mine was $3000). Then you will be in a several month process with you attempting repeatedly to get Laurie to return your calls & emails. You will finally have to contact her staff to ever get her to follow up with you. There will be so much time elapsed between discussions that Laurie can't even remember what you discussed previously. She will claim that she is too busy and overwhelmed, she will lie & tell you that she sent you emails when she doesn't & that they are having server problems is why she didn't respond to your emails. By the time we got done we had so little confidence in the final product that we just went to a new attorney and basically got absolutely nothing but a great deal of frustration and disappointment from the experience with Laurie … $3000 completely down the drain! Do yourself a favor & find someone competent who will do a Trust in a couple weeks & at a third of the cost of Laurie. She way over complicates the process and honestly does not know what she is doing. If you could give a -0- Star review, that is what she would get from my wife & I.
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14 May, 2019 by Anonymous
I don't normally like to rate or give reviews, but I feel I must warn others. This woman should find a new career or retire. She clearly should not be a lawyer. I don't even get how she has been able to work in that nice Franklin law office with her lack of skills and confidence this long? When she was my lawyer there was a lack of focus and no care involved. My case was completely mismanaged, what a complete and utter nightmare this experience was. She took months to even return a call or email, only to respond with information I already had and excuses. I would ask her a question and she would say that she seemed to have a lack of know-how. My simple probate case dragged on and on when it should have been wrapped up so much sooner. This is done on purpose to give you fatigue so that you finally give up. My simple probate case took years and years. I recently spoke to other lawyers about it and they were appalled at the time frame of it all. I would NEVER recommend this women or the firm she represents. I heard they take their sweet time with all these cases as to drain you financially over time. Sorry Laurie A Parker, you asked for this review so here it is.
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03 Jan, 2024 by Kaitlyn osborne
My son’s dad recently used this company to change our current parenting plan. We went to mediation and settled on a new plan but I never got a copy. My son’s father recently passed away and I called to ask for a copy to see if it got finalized because like I said we went to mediation and I never heard anything after that.
I called to ask to speak to someone so I could get a copy to prove my son’s father did have partial custody of our son.
They refused to speak to me and told me they couldn’t since I was the other party even though the other party is passed away. Very unprofessional on their end.
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03 Feb, 2023 by David crawley
I am not happy with this firm at all. Settled divorce, however there was 120 days for the other party to pay what was due, and the file was to stay open.
days passed no money and called - they will not even talk to me unless I start the process from the beginning etc.
Very unprofessional and I will be filing a complaint with the Board of Professional Responsibility. I doubt it will do much good, but other than this what can one do.
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30 Dec, 2022 by Nathan downing
Awesome firm with awesome attorneys!! Really made a very difficult time in life, a lot simpler!
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21 Sep, 2021 by Anonymous
I want to start by saying Mr. Milazo is a great conversationalist. He was easy to speak with and encouraging when I felt rather distraught over my situation. However, Mr. Milazo was just that, "all talk." He charged for services never rendered and continued to drive my bill up until I finally dismiss him. I eventually hired another attorney that did a fantastic job.
Sadly, Mr. Milazo is, like most, a small fish in a large pond trying to make a name for himself. If he does not show you results early on in your case, move on to someone that can genuinely help you.
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08 Dec, 2020 by Mary
John is a great attorney. He gets the job done and gets you the best possible outcome. I would highly recommend him to my friends and family.
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11 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
I was in a crisis and trying to get a restraining order against my boyfriend and he agreed to meet with me at the spur of the moment the same day, which was much appreciated. But first thing i noticed walking in was that he had his assistant and then one other girl just lingering around the door listening to everything i had to say about my very private and high profile case. I didnt appreciate extra ears being in the room doing nothing but wanting to hear all the details of my horrible situation for her own curiosity. I was very distraught and didnt have the mind to tell this chick to get lost.
Secondly, as i started to talk about obtaining palimony, this lawyer starts letting out sarcastic "ha's" and then saying, "i hate to break it to you but there is no law that will give you palimony." I already know this, but palimony IS recognized in the courts of california even though it is not a law there either. I was trying to ask him if it was recognized in court system here in TN, but he kept repetitively saying the same thing as though I was "missinformed." He obviously didn't understand what I was asking and kept on with his know-it-all, "youve been missinformed" and "somebodys been pullin your leg" attitude when he is completely ignorant to the way CA courts work. I was only asking if the system is the same in TN; I wasn't trying to have a debate about "the law."
Then, he starts urging me to go to a battered womens shelter where they will "help me." I was upset, i wasnt beat up so wtf? The only help i wanted was a preventative restraining order and turned out That since I didnt have a black eye, my story of past abuse wasnt really enough to warrent a restraining order.
I was insulted when he kept pushing the womens shelter pamphlet to me saying i should probably go there. For what? Thats not what i came to his office for. I have money, why would i go to a womems shelter and sleep on a cott when I can get a hotel room?
Anyways thats my opinion. The extra ears in the room was very unprofessional, not to mention that they all three stepped out of the doorway to proceed to loudly wisper as though i cant here what they are saying. Idiots. This is a private matter Milazo, extra ears should not be in the room. If you have something to say u say it in front of me. You dont take the details of my case and proceed to gossip in the doorway. I really feel like I should not have gone there and should have made them sign a privacy contract before telling them my case. All felt very elementary and gossipy... Which my case was very juicy i admit, but i wish i didnt tell these people anything.
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15 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous
Very disappointed in this legal console which cost me over $20,000 a few years ago. I felt she fought more for my ex than she did for me. She caved in the mediation which cost me over $250,000. Not to mention all follow-up advise that was given started off positive, then when it came down to action, she caved again. I wouldn't recommend hiring her.
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24 Apr, 2020 by Anonymous
Spent over $7000 in 3 months, just to have her quit our case. When told that we didn’t feel she was representing us she became angered. Save your money.
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16 Jul, 2019 by Anonymous
Our daughter went through a divorce a few years ago, which means it affects the whole family as well. We found Ms Story to know exactly what to do and when to do it. Since her focus is on the client, we were able to sit back and observe her in action. She was professional and thorough and kind. When anything has come up afterwards for our daughter she has been there immediately and effectively. She is very good!
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08 Mar, 2015 by Patricia
Kimberly is a fantastic lawyer DHS was giving me the run around with my grandson that had been put in their custody due to a tragic family matter. Mrs. Lentz took charge and help me retain custody of my grandson on our first court hearing , she is truly a blessing .
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07 Jan, 2013 by Anonymous
She was very hard to talk to, and often raises her voice, causing me to feel belittled. It was hard to get in a word edge wise with her, she talked over me. She also made me think she had this great case then as soon as she got the money it went downhill. I would not recommend her to anyone.
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11 Aug, 2011 by Anonymous
She was spectacular she got back to us in no time. She was extremely profesional and was willing to help with whatever we needed. She made everything so smooth. I highly reccomend her.
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19 Nov, 2014 by Perry
Miss Ward settled my case for pennies on the dollar. After the settlement I learned that the insurance company was authorized to pay $25,000.00 without representation and without going to court to settle the case. I know this to be true because my co worker, who was also injured, accepted the settlement and declined Miss Ward's offer to represent her.
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30 Mar, 2009 by Anonymous
Ashley was a great lawyer. She represented my divorce cases in div 9 and after the judge made his ruling we found a mistake that needed to be immediatedly corrected. Ashley stayed in the courthouse with me until we were able to see the judge again so that he could make the corrections on the divorce decree. I thank her for being patient, especially when one doesn't know in's & out's about the law.
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25 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
I hired Mr Miller in September 2016. He charged me a flat fee to handle my case. We went to a hearing that lasted approx 1.5 hours. He promised to file petitions before Christmas 2016. I heard again from him in February explaining that he has been sick and asking for more money to file petitions. By mid April no petitions were filed. He deserves 0 stars. Now fighting to get my money back
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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:
-
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.
