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27 Sep, 2024 by Andrea
Lusk Law helped us to pursue a case regarding latent defects in a home we purchased. Rebekah explained our options, the realistic probabilities of each potential outcome, and only proceeded when we indicated we were comfortable. Rebekah and her team kept us in the loop at every step, and were responsive in answer any concerns or questions we had. I would recommend Lusk Law to anyone seeking real real estate legal expertise.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Melissa lee
It was a pleasure working with Rebekah and achieving a favorable result on a not so good situation. She was thoughtful, strategic and worked with integrity. I am very pleased with the outcome.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Isabel beard
Not welcoming and doesn’t respond quickly.
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05 Apr, 2024 by Alan noznesky
Elizabeth is an outstanding lawyer. She thoroughly understands the legal and emotional process of separation and divorce and the impact on families and children. She is calm, firm, and very skillful in her approach to the process. She is also very patient as these matters sometimes take months and years to adjudicate.
Furthermore, her fees are reasonable considering her expertise and the time involved. I feel lucky that she "hand held" me through my situation and was empathetic to the psychology of my former partner. She had a good handle on things from a financial and psychological standpoint and has the experience to adjust to the need of the client depending on the situation..ie, level of contention between estranged spouses.
I highly recommend Elizabeth if you are in the process of seeking counsel and she is available. Good luck !
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02 May, 2023 by Michael l donk
18 Jul, 2022 by Adam mcwilliams
Ms. Stup represented me well throughout a complex and contentious divorce, during which she was a strong advocate for my interests, an expert in the process and the law, and collaborative, compassionate, and ethical in her approach. I would highly recommend her.
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11 Jun, 2024 by Elizabeth stewart
14 May, 2024 by Kate cusato
Gwen, Karen, and team are truly incredible. After my original lawyer blew a major custody hearing, they took over my case and were able to get things back on track within a few months. If you need a team to fight for you and protect your children, you will not find a better group than McLeod, Weschler & Yeager.
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08 May, 2024 by Christine ammons
Gwen McCleod is an awesome attorney. She is to the point, yet caring. The office staff are supportive and efficient. I would recommend these attorneys to any of my family and friends.
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14 Oct, 2022 by Anonymous
I found myself in quite a bind and was nervous as heck and totally stressed out. Carl took the time to make sure I knew EXACTLY what as going on and really gave me a lot of confidence. His courtroom skills are terrific!
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16 Nov, 2018 by Deanna
Carl represented me several times thru the years for criminal charges. Thank god I havent needed him lately. He was ALWAYS professional and down to earth. I saw him assisting a client of his at the probation office once. Never knew a lawyer that did that.
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15 Jun, 2018 by Anonymous
Thanks to Mr Somerlock, I was able to keep my driver's license as I absolutely need it for work. Additionally, he helped gravely reduce fines and I believe my case had the best possible outcome thanks to Carl. If you're looking for an attorney that knows his stuff and will fight for you, I highly recommend you speak to Mr Somerlock.
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04 Aug, 2024 by John
I found Mr. Soubra. He handled my divorce case as a true professional after a previous failing attorney in Frederick County MD. Mr. Soubra reviewed my case and handled my case in detail. He knows Maryland Family law as a top experience attorney. He explained in detail the actions when confronted with opposing attorney trying itimination in my case with alternatives in which Mr Soubra countered successfully in detail. I always felt with his representation that he was in my corner. My case went to trial
and his trial experience helped my case with a satisfactory outcome. Although no party really wins, his experience in family law with professionlism and experience in the court room helped my case settlement reached a satisfactory outcome in the final merrits hearing.
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24 Jan, 2023 by Anonymous
He is very good at his work, he helped me a lot in obtaining my rights, and he worked hard with me a lot. The best lawyer I have met, friendly and human
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17 Jan, 2023 by Dalia ebeid
Best lawyer I have ever dealt with. He is very humane and very friendly. He helped me a lot and gave me my full rights. He is very good at his work.
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17 Oct, 2023 by Jawahar desai
Matt and his law firm could not handle a simple case of collections. He dragged on some good reasons for a year. Still no resolution on the case. Very poor in responsiveness and will not give anymore work in future nor recommend him.
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13 Feb, 2023 by Wendy frazier
Johnston Business Law Group has been instrumental in the start-up and ongoing legal needs of our business. In addition to assisting with our start-up registration and document filings, they have represented us with lease negotiations and provided counsel on employee and HR legal matters. Our experience has been positive, helpful, professional, expeditious and affordable. We are impressed with their responsiveness and attention to detail. We will continue to use Johnston Business Law Group for legal services as our company grows.
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21 Sep, 2022 by Pamhidzai bamu
Matt and his team are extremely professional and they took their time to explain the process and respond to my questions. I got my trademark registered with little hassle! 5 stars for these guys
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29 May, 2024 by Richard conner
Mike Dempsher and this law firm is the best!!! 100% recommended. He’s the reason my mom and I get to hold my daughter today. I will appreciate that man forever! Legal and life advice that I will use for rest of my life.
Thank you so much Mike!
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23 Apr, 2024 by Paris guo
Mr Dempsher is an awesome lawyer, he is sharp, intelligent and he is kind. He picked up my child support case towards the end, as I went pro se initially. He diligently went through all discovery documents and showed up prepared for our hearing, and won an judgement that my child deserves. If you have family matters, get him on your side!
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23 Jan, 2024 by Ina checchia
Chris Rolle and his exceptional legal team are truly top-notch! In times of upheaval, finding a lawyer who not only comprehends the law/complexities of your situation but also exhibits unwavering compassion can be a game-changer. Chris/team took my case midstream and hit the ground running from day #1.From the moment I entered their office, I sensed a palpable blend of experience/competence, professionalism and compassion that set the tone for the entire journey. The team proved to be a well-oiled machine, expertly handling the intricacies of my case while providing the support I desperately needed. What sets this office apart is their commitment to communication—Chris was a beacon of reliability, promptly responding to emails, calls, and even text messages, even during 'after hours' and weekends (because that’s his style not because I asked him to). They go beyond being just 'a case'; you can trust that they will deliver on their promises without the need for follow-ups or excuses. And… they never put you off or make you feel like you are just a number or ‘too much.’Their thoughtful/caring and direct approach, combined with impressive organizational skills, made me feel a level of trust crucial during a tumultuous period. In a world where genuine assistance often gets overshadowed, Chris Rolle's office stands out as a beacon of hope. If you're seeking competence, compassion, and a team genuinely invested in your well-being, look no further—this is the office to call. Don't waste time 'shopping' around; put your trust in a team that embodies dignity, hard work, and a relentless commitment to getting the job done. Thank you, Chris Rolle and team for helping me plow through the mess.Hands down: worth every cent.I highly recommend this practice and only wish I would have found you sooner.
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20 Jul, 2024 by Blaine young
Alan is one of the best there is in the legal arena in Frederick County, MD
He has represented me for over 20 years and is extremely talented. An amazing legal mind. You are in good hands if he accepts you as a client.
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09 Oct, 2023 by Sean coleman
Mr. Alan Winik is an incredible man. He cares about families and will work hard for outcomes in the best interests of children. He understands the legal system, including nuances that others miss. Mr. Winik's advice is based on strong principles. He articulates his views eloquently and effectively within the court system. He is well-respected in the community for good reason. The team working with him is fantastic also. Highly recommended.
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23 Nov, 2021 by Ellen munson
20 Jul, 2024 by Blaine young
Alan is one of the best there is in the legal arena in Frederick County, MD
He has represented me for over 20 years and is extremely talented. An amazing legal mind. You are in good hands if he accepts you as a client.
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09 Oct, 2023 by Sean coleman
Mr. Alan Winik is an incredible man. He cares about families and will work hard for outcomes in the best interests of children. He understands the legal system, including nuances that others miss. Mr. Winik's advice is based on strong principles. He articulates his views eloquently and effectively within the court system. He is well-respected in the community for good reason. The team working with him is fantastic also. Highly recommended.
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23 Nov, 2021 by Ellen munson
19 Mar, 2024 by Timothy price
Jennifer Dayton worked with me. My future ex wife made false accusations of domestic abuse and was trying to get a protective order.
I refused to just roll over and let her get away with it.
Mrs Dayton was very clear how hard it is for a man to defend himself against such allegations and gave me no false hope.
But she lessened to me and took her time with the preparation of my case and got the best results caught my wife in lie after lie by the time she was done getting the truth my wife’s lawyer didn’t even have a reason to question me.
I couldn’t have been more impressed with her professionalism and expertise.
Thank you Wampler and Souder and Mrs Dayton
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13 Mar, 2024 by Google user
13 Mar, 2024 by Douglas walford
I wouldn’t use them again, not proactive at all and gave bad advice at the start of the child custody case.
Waste of $30k+ in my opinion. You have to constantly chase them to do stuff, they say they will do it and then don’t which puts you at a disadvantage and long term consequences.
They are always on the back-foot at every step and then asking for more money to continue representing you because the used it all up putting out a fire.
They are not upfront with expected costs of a case end or how to budget for one and will spring sudden demands for $10k to continue.
If you have a child custody case or divorce where you are the defendant I would suggest you look elsewhere for a lawyer or more realistically, behave like adults and sit down and settle with your ex and stop feeding the family law pig…..
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5.0
6 Reviews
4.0
21 Reviews
26 May, 2024 by Brittany smoot
Been waiting on my disability claim for 3 years now 😔
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13 May, 2024 by Subhash rastogi
18 Oct, 2023 by Christine elliott
01 Jun, 2018 by Anonymous
We had a custody case with Mr. Rolle in August of 2017 and we are so happy we hired him! We instantly felt at ease with him. Also, he must have an excellent paralegal on staff. She seems to have done most of our paperwork (under his supervision/direction) and that was great for us! The custody order and other stuff was very well written and because he used his paralegal so wisely the billing to us was far less than we were expecting it to be. It was a huge relief for us. We’d had another lawyer before him who did things badly and was gouging us with the billing, so our final bill from this firm was a huge relief. They deducted the bill from our retainer and returned it in a reasonable amount of time.
Also, when the other party was ready to settle (very much in our favor), because of life circumstances, Mr. Rolle’s Law firm was able to get the new custody order written up very quickly. I think it was only a couple of days and that included some revisions that we sent in after the fact. That was important because we were concerned the other party might change their mind.
We would definitely hire Mr. Rolle again.
Thank you!
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21 Sep, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr. Rolle does not take just any case. Even though he could easily do this to increase his billable hours, that is not his style. He is to the point, and cares about keeping legal costs down. I have recommended this firm to two of my friends and anticipate I will recommend them again if the opportunity arises. He was brilliant in how he drafted the complaint filed against my opponent and fiercely protected my legal interests.
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02 Feb, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr. Rolle is professional, kind, and did a fabulous job representing me in my divorce/custody case. He listened to me and worked effectively to get the best resolution for me and my children. Mr. Rolle is also very aware of not wasting time/money -- and thus my total attorneys' fees were not the extreme financial hit they could have been. Highly recommended!
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15 Aug, 2024 by Rob
Arthur helped me navigate through my first legal matter and had the case dismissed. Would recommend him to anyone in the Frederick area for his expertise.
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06 Aug, 2024 by Nick atwood
Avoid using this attorney at all cost. Not committed to clients at all based on my own experience. Talked down to during the consult and was told that I could find another lawyer. Well, I did! Good luck to anyone who uses this “Lawyer”
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15 Sep, 2022 by Joe reckley
No joke upfront honest and down to business. Hate to need a lawyer but if you do he would be the one.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Rob
Arthur helped me navigate through my first legal matter and had the case dismissed. Would recommend him to anyone in the Frederick area for his expertise.
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06 Aug, 2024 by Nick atwood
Avoid using this attorney at all cost. Not committed to clients at all based on my own experience. Talked down to during the consult and was told that I could find another lawyer. Well, I did! Good luck to anyone who uses this “Lawyer”
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15 Sep, 2022 by Joe reckley
No joke upfront honest and down to business. Hate to need a lawyer but if you do he would be the one.
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14 Aug, 2024 by Tyler hagemo
I am honored to recommend Brandy Peeples as an exceptional legal professional. Throughout our time working together, Brandy has proven to be not only incredibly knowledgeable in the law but also a person of impeccable integrity. Her dedication to my case and unwavering commitment to my best interests were evident from the very first meeting.
What truly sets Brandy apart is her trustworthiness and transparency. In an industry where these qualities can sometimes be hard to come by, Brandy shines. She provided clear, honest advice, ensuring I was always fully informed and empowered to make the best decisions. I never had to worry about hidden fees or unnecessary charges; Brandy was always fair and reasonable, focusing on achieving the best possible outcome for me rather than inflating costs.
Communication with Brandy was consistently prompt and thorough. Whether it was answering my questions or providing updates, she was always quick to respond and made me feel like a priority. This level of responsiveness and client care is rare, and I am deeply grateful for the peace of mind it provided during a challenging time.
In short, Brandy Peeples is an outstanding attorney who embodies the highest standards of the legal profession. Her unmatched legal knowledge, coupled with her diligence and dedication to her clients and commitment to ethical practices, make her an invaluable asset to anyone in need of legal representation. I wholeheartedly recommend Brandy Peeples without reservation.
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23 Apr, 2023 by Anonymous
If you are a mother and get her appointed as your child's best interest attorney through the courts you are in for it. This woman is a father's rights Activest. She is against women and needs to be taken out of the Frederick county court system immediately. She basically tells you that you can not show your child love because it hurts the fathers feelings. She will only pay attention to what you do as a mother and nit pick everything.
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27 Jul, 2022 by Kati cronin
I consulted Brandy Peebles after an on-going dispute with a licensing agency over an application error. The agency was prepared to deny my application based on my mistake, which would have compromised my position with my company. Ms. Peebles took the time to hear my concerns and confusion regarding the dispute. She explained the language of the application and clarified laws and jargon. Ms. Peebles advocated for a resolution between myself and the agency, resulting in my application approval and issuing of license. Her support secured my position with my company and improved my understanding and relationship with the licensing agency. My only regret is not seeking her consultation sooner. Thanks Ms. Peebles.
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08 Feb, 2013 by Anonymous
I felt that Mr Slater was a decent attorney. I cant say that I was completely satisfied. I feel like he in many cases went with the easy resolution rather then fighting for what I wanted and could legally have with some negotiating. My biggest issue is that I was not kept informed with what was going on in my case. We only met once outside the court house and he didn't take enough time to understand my position on many issues. In between hearings I would get court papers no human contact. When I did call him to clarify the documents I was often told its just a formality don't worry about it. I feel that he will do what he has to do, although if you are looking for someone who will truly work with you and and take the time to fight for you then he may not be your best bet. If you have an easy separation and just need someone to be there for paperwork then he is great.
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03 Aug, 2024 by Paul troxell
Mr. Grove is an attorney able to distil complex situations into clear and concise explanations. I've entrusted him with two highly intricate issues. His ability to present options in a straightforward manner is amazing. I couldn't recommend him more highly; his skill and clarity make him a solid choice for anyone seeking legal counsel. The thing I am most impressed with, he truly cares about the people he represents, and it shows. He is truly a incredible person as well as a lawyer.
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28 Jan, 2020 by Chris bavis
David Grove in short order sorted things out and provided exceptional services to me and my company.
Chris Bavis
Principle
Collector Car Interests
Clasic Car Appraisal Services
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11 Apr, 2019 by J.r. trowbridge
I have seen this attorney offer dubious legal advice on more than one occasion. This attorney was previously reprimanded by the Attorney Grievance Commission for (from their website): "Commission Reprimand for failing to provide competent representation, for failing to keep his client reasonably informed and for failing to explain a matter to the extent reasonably necessary to permit the client to make informed decisions regarding the representation." Be careful if you're thinking of using this attorney.
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28 Jul, 2017 by Melanie
I met Elizabeth Conklyn in the summer of 2013 after a friend recommended her to me. I went into the initial consultation feeling anxious, scared and unsure of the steps to take to begin the divorce process. After spending an hour with Ms. Conklyn I knew I would hire her to represent me. I walked out of there feeling confident and had a plan and most importantly I knew I found an attorney that truly cared about what happen to me and to my children.
My case has been in and out of court since 2013. It is a complex custody and child support case. I have been happy with my representation since day 1. Ms. Conklyn has been there for me every step of the way. Her unique mix of extensive legal knowledge and tough negotiating skills along with her background in therapy make her the perfect choice for a family law attorney.
I would highly recommend Elizabeth Conklyn for any family law needs you may have. Even my ex tells people they should hire her :) Now that's saying something!
Her friendly, knowledgeable staff will also impress you. You may even be greeted at the door by her rescue dog Waldo.
If you need a divorce lawyer, call her today and make an appointment. You won't be disappointed. Divorce is never easy, but having the right representation will sure help put you at ease.
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01 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
This lawyer was recommended by two close friends. Upon meeting her for the first time her manner was cold and her communications abrupt. After showing her my legal documents she berated me and said there was not much she could do to help me. As my 16 year marriage was crumbling and coming to a painful end , I definitely did not need this.My purpose and goal of this review is to hopefully spare someone else from this type of treatment especially at such a vulnerable and stressful time in their lives.
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22 Sep, 2016 by Anonymous
The first consultation was very thorough I felt confident in Beth's knowledge. The second meeting everything was ready to send to opposing counsel.
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23 Oct, 2023 by Leah
Ms. Wiseman did not do anything at the court besides notify the majesty her introduction to the case. After the case was changed to another day, she demanded more money and informed me that she didn't want to continue the case because it was too complicated for her. The case was only to receive the dates for hearings. Very unprofessional and rude.
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06 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
6/6/2022
I just had court today with Rihanna and she is by far the best attorney I have ever had and I will always use her if I ever need her thank you so much Rihanna.
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28 Oct, 2021 by Anonymous
Unprofessional on every level! Acts like the courtroom is an episode of law and order on TV! Sour grapes is a term she uses, I believe she is the sour grape!
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12 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
Mary worked on my child custody case for many years. She sucked my money dry and didn't solve the case after years of litigation. She scheduled many meetings, emails, paperwork, and wasted my time and money. She had issues with judges and worked her connections to control outcomes of what she wanted and to continue the case and drag it out so she received more money. A few of the lawyers worked together with her to push all contempts on the other party under the rug and wasted years and money. The other party walked away with no consequences. She was a complete waste of money. I would NOT recommend her.
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07 Dec, 2022 by Yaznay
This woman is horrible. She’s so unprofessional and disgusting. I watched this woman “lawyer” yell at our attorney after court. Absolutely gross. Her appearance is appalling and unprofessional. She doesn’t even brush her hair to appear in court. It’s an embarrassment and how anyone can actually hire this “attorney” is beyond me.
If I could give her less than one star, I would. Consider someone else who would actually look and act the part! Yuck!
I have never in my life seen an attorney act this way. Yelling at our attorney while her clients bullied us. Ewwww.
This woman has no self control. How is she going to actually represent people when she can’t even control herself?
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04 Dec, 2022 by Robert cole
Honorable and very kind. True to her word and would surely recommend this lawyer
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17 Feb, 2024 by Jason
My issues with the corrupt Frederick County State's Attorney Office and the thieves employed by the Frederick Police Department Narcotics Unit began when a federal agency was at my home searching for business records and found $150,000 in cash I kept at home. The feds wanted to seize the money but didn't have paperwork to do that so they contacted Frederick Police and showed them some marijuana I had in the house. Frederick Police, drunk on greed, fell over themselves drafting an unlawful search warrant and took my marijuana and steal my money from the house.
Within 20 minutes of first meeting Jake he turned to his partner Mr. Poffenbarger while reviewing my documents and said, "this warrant they used is no good." I knew I was in good hands. When the Frederick police timed my arrest to occur over the Memorial Day holiday Jake was in court having me released on bail first thing on Tuesday morning.
Jake is extremely personal, professional and caring. Even though his son was born during this time he always gave my case his full attention, was well prepared and presented an commanding presence in the courtroom. He stuck with me through the whole case even after I brought on a Baltimore attorney because I was convinced all of Frederick was in on the corruption. The Baltimore lawyer never showed up at any of my court hearings, but Jake was there with me without fail every other month for a year. He would have to present me the ridiculous offer, made every time to just let Frederick keep the $150k they stole and all the phony charges against my wife and I would be dismissed.
Thankfully, we stood strong with Jake on our side. One of the happiest days of my life was standing with Jake in Court as he made the fat, smelly, money-grubbing prosecutor Colleen enter a Nolle Prosse on every charge in her bogus indictment. The very next week he forced the city to return all of the money they had stolen and my prescription Xanax. This was amazing because these corrupt government agencies can mount a civil case against the money even after they lose in criminal court. They just didn't have any fight left in them after the year Jake spent embarrassing them in Court. I'm happy to report those crooks didn't see a dime from their disgusting escapades.
If I were ever accused or investigated for a crime, served a peace order or had a divorce or custody issue I know the first and only thing I need to do is call Jake Craven, Esquire.
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07 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
He didnt care to listen to anything I said he was more interested in making the states attorneys happy! Tried to get me to pled out for 3 years behide bars, went againt what he advised ended up with 1 year probation. F**k that dude.
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23 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
This guy is not professional and cannot be trusted to diligently do his job correctly. My first conversation with him was normal so to speak. I got off the phone feeling like I had hired a great attorney, but those feelings were short lived. He is rude, passive aggressive, and not equipped to handle complicated cases. He has poor communication skills, and if he gets frustrated enough, he will hang up on you!!
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02 Feb, 2024 by Tommy sell
Complete joke. How she got in the position is beyond me. Starting to believe she was planted. Takes pills in exchange for payment. Nor cares less about real welfare of children
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07 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
they wouldn't let me give zero stars but that is what she deserves. she couldn't produce time sheets when you asked about billing hours, then when pressed she show sheets that were totally fake. she was late for court and even the judge didn't like her. she lost paper work that she requested and had been provided.
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02 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
I called to initiate a dialogue on a pending case. She was busy and sounded a little abrupt as I called her cell that HER client gave me. I started to offer to call Monday and was trying to ask if she had heard of me and she immediately launched into a dissertation of fake facts mixed with some legitimate legal principles. I worked at high levels in legal arena including the Frederick CC. She had a horrific reputation and it truly is no wonder she had not been disbarred.
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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.
