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5.0
12 Reviews
5.0
1 Reviews
25 Oct, 2022 by Maria c. lumsden
Kind, Honest, Just
what I needed at that time in my life. She's strong and fair with both sides. Thank you Mrs Dede A. Still grateful to her for her hard work.
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03 May, 2017 by Anamarie&ong
Dede is genuinely an amazing person as well as attorney. She has an awesome personality and truly makes you feel comfortable. She is extremely knowledgeable and is always quick on her toes. She always knew the right things to say and is phenomenal in court. We couldn't have had a better attorney defending us. She was able to do more for us than we had hoped for when starting the journey. She has also worked with us in all ways possible. We are very thankful that she found us, and was willing to help us. More than anything we are thankful for the friend she has been to us, and not made us feel like we were just another set of clients, and more like family. You will be pleased with her work. Thank you Dede for all you have done for our family. You are a blessing!
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26 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
Dede was fantastic at guiding me through my custody and child support modification. She is knowledgeable and professional. She was affordable and compassionate. I would recommend her to anyone and everyone I know. Thank you Dede!
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05 Jun, 2024 by David genera
Layne offers affordable legal advice. Giving the sense of security that you can have in any situation.
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01 Jun, 2023 by Reigna lazcano
02 Mar, 2021 by David moreno mr happy
HIGHLY RECOMMEND MR HAYDEN. HE'S VERY PROFESSIONAL, DEPENDABLE & KNOWS THE BANKRUPTCY LAW. THANKS FOR YOUR HELP MR HAYDEN
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20 Sep, 2024 by Raj dhaliwal
Carter law group is very professional. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable. Attorney Daniel and attorney Aman is very helpful and expert in their field. If you get in accident. Please go to this firm. They fight for you.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Alicia sanchez
I give a high 5 stars to the super friendly, caring, knowledgeable staff at Carter law they are very promp professionals answering all my questions and concerns. I would recommend anyone looking for a Accident lawyer to call Carter law Group.
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11 Aug, 2024 by Mary ramos
Very pleased with the outcome of my case! Dan Carter impressed me with his commitment to me and his ability to get the point across in court. Thanks Dan and the wonderful people at Carter Law Group!!!
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08 Oct, 2024 by America gutierrez
Absolutely amazing experience with Jeff and Mandy. Not only do they take their time with you but they are professional and they help make the process as smooth as possible. Mandy is kind and timely with her reminders and Jeff is a great communicator. His experience speaks for itself and his straightforward attitude doesn’t leave any questions or doubts in the air. We highly recommend their services if you’re looking for an excellent bankruptcy attorney
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09 Aug, 2024 by Simrat singh sandhu
I’m feeling glad to say that my guardianship case has been granted and I can’t thank you enough honourable Mr. Iqbal Bains and his brilliant team who gave their best on my guardianship case. I sincerely appreciate your assistance Miss. Jassi and bearing with me through everything.I am deeply appreciative of your wonderful contribution Bains Law team and will gladly recommend your services to others who may need legal assistance.
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02 May, 2024 by Rachel m.
Jeff was extremely knowledgable and helpful to my husband and I while we navigated this stressful time. He was able to walk us through the entire process and answered all of our questions while keeping us up to date on everything going on and what to expect.
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5.0
20 Reviews
5.0
1 Reviews
14 Oct, 2022 by Timothy rosas
I hired Amy Lopez for a Divorce, Child Custody and
Ex Parte Orders. I needed a Temporary emergency (ex parte) order because my ex-wife was unstable and on drugs and left in the middle of the night with my two daughters to a different County 5 hours away. Amy Lopez immediately filed an ex parte order to the Court to get my daughters back and I received a hearing date within days. I went to my Court Hearing for the ex parte and Amy Lopez addressed the issue with a Firm Professionalism that moved the Court to get me FULL SOLE CUSTODY of my Daughters! There is no other Lawyer in the County that’s going to get your ex parte granted by a Judge. Her Court Room skills, knowledge and experience with the
ex parte is the best you’ll ever find. She knows exactly what needs to be done in order for you to win in Court. My daughters mean everything to me, now I have sole custody of them, and Amy Lopez made that happen!
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17 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
Amy is the one you want on your side! She is a great lawyer, she’s passionate about her job, great communication skills and is a good listener. Can’t express enough how compassionate she was with my case. She was never too busy for me, met with me immediately, not once did she make me feel rushed and always answered my questions. She’s worth every penny, especially when she made the petitioner and witness hesitate on their statements!
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29 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
Amy Lopez is the best family law lawyer I could of ever asked !!!! Ms.Lopez did my case pro bono she fought hard in court and I got custody
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26 Nov, 2023 by Thomas
I started without a lawyer and then decided I needed help. Spoke with a friend of mine who also used Mary Moshrefi. I contacted Mary and spoke to her about my case. She was prepared each time we went to court and was very helpful.
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16 Aug, 2023 by Frank
Mary is very organized and truly cares about not only helping her clients but doing the right thing for children involved. I had over four years of mostly child custody and she did her best and ultimately helped me to reconnect with my son. That means the world to me.
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05 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
I hired Mary as my attorney to help me through my divorce. She did a GREAT job! I wanted someone who was easy to work with, understanding, patient, fair, and competent, and she definitely met my expectations. I would definitely recommend using Mary if you need help with a divorce.
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28 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
I was being harassed by an ex. I mean this guy was following me, threatening to kill me and left the most vile messages on my voicemail. This was after I dumped him after finding out that he was a wacko. I was terrified he'd find me alone and kill me. Finally, Mr. Cavin came to my rescue. He successfully got a restraining order and in fact this wacko followed me to my attorney's office! I arrived at Mr. Cavin's office visibly shaken and crying. Mr. Cavin immediately ran out the door and caught up with my tormentor. He apparently scared the daylights out of him by saying a bunch of legal stuff I don't understand but after that, he left me alone. That day he was my knight in shining armor! I still looked over my shoulder for this wacko for months for fear that it would start up again and eventually I moved away from Fresno because I was so afraid. But I believe that he would have left me alone after the talking to that Mr. Cavin gave him. I remain grateful for Mr. Cavin's tenacity and going the extra mile to help and protect me. He's the best!
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05 May, 2017 by William
Even wih the judge favoring my ex here and facing possible difficult out of state jurisdiction. With Kenneth's legal counsel I got full legal and physical custody of my children. Special thanks to the leg work done by Loy! Worth every penny.
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06 Jun, 2016 by Terra
When I hired Mr. Cavin I had been trying to battle for myself in court trying to get back four children that had wrongfully been taken away. My Ex earned over $100,000 a year and I had no earnings. He had hired a lawyer and had representation while I had tried to defend myself. I lost everything without a lawyer. I had been a homemaker for 9 years and he emptied our bank accounts leaving me barefoot and homeless. He got a restraining order that kicked me out of the house, despite the fact he knocked me out in my home, claiming I was unconscious because I was drunk. I was in jail for 19 days until all charges were dismissed by a Judge at the first hearing. But my Ex and his attorney concealed that from the Family Court and got 100% custody.
When I first contacted Mr. Cavin I didn’t have the funds to hire him, but he talked with me on the phone for 90 minutes trying to encourage and educate me anyway. A few months later I borrowed the money and that was when my life turned around. I now have my children half the time, and I am working on getting full custody.
I hadn’t seen my children for almost two years when Mr. Cavin and I worked together and gathered the evidence to prove I had been set up on a false Domestic Violence charge by my husband. The evidence showed the Judge he was a liar and I now have three days every week with my 4 children. Mr. Cavin also got the bogus restraining order dismissed and got me child support and alimony that had been withheld for 2 years. It is retroactive, and my Ex owes me thousands, AND was ordered to pay my attorney’s fees.
Mr. Cavin and his staff handled my case with the utmost professional attention. As a client I feel that had it not been for Mr. Cavin I would never have been believed by the Court. Mr. Cavin truly has been my champion fighting a battle for me that only he could have won. The true care and concern I have received from Mr. Cavin has extended beyond my case and the court room. During my case I graduated from college. Mr. Cavin and his wife surprised me at my dinner with gifts for myself and my 4 children Mr. Cavin had gotten a court order that they be present for my college graduation despite my Ex’s opposition.
My case has been in the process for two and a half years. It is not over as we are now dealing with custody evaluations. But I know that no matter how long it takes Mr. Cavin will be there till the end. When Mr. Cavin takes you on as a client he invests his heart and soul into getting you the justice you deserve. We all deserve to have a champion who will stand up for us and fight for us. If you’re in need of a champion your best choice is Kenneth Cavin, my attorney.
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13 Dec, 2016 by Wendy
Zeppy has been a HUGE blessing in my life when she began representing me in my divorce proceedings. She is extremely knowledgeable, aggressive and will fight hard to get you where you need to be. Her office staff is also very professional and helpful and great to work with. If you are in need of a family law attorney and need someone with experience and tenacity, call Zeppy's office. What I like most about her is that she was upfront and laid everything out for me during my consultation and did not give me false hope about my situation. She gave me realistic expectations about my case and did not sugar coat anything. I am truly happy with my decision to retain her and would highly recommend her to anyone going through a custody or divorce proceeding.
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30 Dec, 2015 by Cindy
Zeppy represented me in my divorce after 30 years of marriage. It was a negotiated divorce and she helped me see what I could reasonably ask for and helped me through the process. I was very happy with my settlement and ended up with more than I was originally offered by my ex-husband. She is a caring and professional lawyer and is very able and willing to stand up for her clients where needed. I would hire her again in a heartbeat!
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31 Jul, 2015 by Anthony
Zeppy came highly recommended from a close friend whose husband is a sitting judge in family court. Zeppy cares about her clients and was forthcoming in her discussions with me. She is diligent in her work capturing errors made by county clerks and opposing lawyers. She kept me informed of my case and understanding the cost and length of legal actions communicated with me only when absolutely necessary thus keeping my cost down and providing excellent and quality legal services. I highly recommend Zeppy if you're going through a divorce.
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24 Jun, 2021 by Raul
Michelle is very professional, understanding and always willing to help you out and hear you out with what your concerns may be. She helped my family and I with civil court. Thank you so much!! Also if I can give you 10 stars I would. I highly recommend Michelle!!
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23 Jan, 2020 by Jennifer
Michelle is a wonderful attorney. She is professional, very kind, understanding, and really listens to your concerns. She knows her stuff and is on top of it. She will fight for you, and NEVER tries to get you to do or say things you don’t want to or that are untrue. I’m so glad I found her. I would highly recommend Michelle to anyone in need of a family law attorney. She is also honest and reasonable. Thank you, Michelle.
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08 Jan, 2019 by Natasha
She was very helpful in a timely manner and she’s quick 2 get things resolved I will be recommending her I really appreciate her service
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09 Jan, 2016 by Elliott
Tres is a very professional attorney and will go above and beyond to help get the results you are fighting for. He has successfully helped me in my custody battle with my daughter's mother and I highly recommend his services.
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27 Jan, 2012 by Johnathan
Tres definitely knows his business and is very quick on his feet. I got more than was expected in my custody case and couldn't be happier with his work. If you want someone who will get the job done and is honest and professional he's your guy
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30 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
Rodney is a powerhouse of kindness and intelligence, he has been a positive mentor and has guided me through the confusing court system. He has helped me with complicated family law and business matters and his advice is priceless.
Rodney es una fuente inagotable de bondad e inteligencia, ha sido un mentor positivo y me ha guiado a través del confuso sistema judicial. Me ha ayudado con asuntos complicados de derecho de familia y negocios, y sus consejos no tienen precio.
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20 Mar, 2014 by Kristine
I have ben working with Rodney since just about April 2012, on multiple issue's with my family law case. He has led me in all circumstances that I have needed his advice or when in court. I have recommended Rodney multiple times and still would to this day.
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08 Sep, 2022 by Sandra
I went with the recommendation of a friend and hired Chris. He is incredibly smart, well spoken, attentive, knowledgeable and carries himself well. He addresses all my concerns through the entire case, very thorough with his responses. Would recommend a thousand times again when you a talented attorney to win your case.
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08 Apr, 2014 by Anonymous
Chris Rusca has worked my very difficult child custody case for over 6 months now. He has gone above and beyond, and has thought outside the box with our very unique case. He is extremely professional and while he is supportive, he is also very realistic and keeps the best interest of the child at heart while utilizing his knowledge of the legalities in child custody proceedings. He actively listens to concerns and advocates for his clients. Furthermore, in my on-going and complex case, communication was always fluid. He informed me of any new updates from the other party and their attorney and he also followed up with me for clarification if there were any gray areas. If I had any questions or concerns, his secretary was immediately available and he would always get back to me either immediately if he was available, or very shortly after, if in court. I am extremely confident that child custody cases are in good hands with him as the attorney and very much appreciate his professionalism and diligence through this very stressful process for me as a parent going through this child custody litigation. I definitely highly recommend him!
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08 Dec, 2021 by Anonymous
Robin is professional and kind. She is allways cost conscious and works hard for her client.
Very knowledgeable yet allways makes sure to get a clients input on the case. Truely a rare find.
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14 Feb, 2011 by Ignacio
Mr. Rusca has represented me though out the last 8 months and has shown me what having a through knowledge of the law really means.
I would not have prevailed in my case had he not presented the case in the way he did with all the research involved. Thank you Mr. Rusca.
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26 Aug, 2010 by Steven
She is the best lawyer in the central valley. She is highly respected and professional. My wife and I love her work
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19 Aug, 2014 by Connie
Jerry represented our family in an urgent matter following the death of my ex-husband. He was able to quickly request an injunction to stay a cremation, in the face of opposition, and then worked out a settlement to allow us to have a private autopsy. He was prompt, thorough, knowledgeable, tactful, effective, and compassionate. I highly recommend him.
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13 Jul, 2024 by Catherine sawatsky
I would highly recommend Amy Tipton. She has handled several situations for me and my family, and I now consider her our family attorney. Amy approaches each meeting with care and understanding, making sure to address all our concerns. Her kind and calm demeanor instills confidence, and she has consistently achieved successful outcomes for us. Whether it's a complex legal matter or a simple consultation, Amy's expertise and dedication shine through. We are incredibly grateful for her support and highly endorse her services to anyone in need of a reliable and compassionate attorney.
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22 Feb, 2024 by Jesse &christina aguirre
Mrs Tipton is awsome definitely recommend her !
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07 Feb, 2024 by Jordan trujillo
I highly recommend Amy Tipton. She has been soo helpful from start to finish. She really took the time to make sure I understood the process and was soo helpful during such a stressful time! Soo greatful she was recommended to me!
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30 Aug, 2024 by Sharon d.
Mr. Gates and his team are honest and so easy to work with. Glen showed me so much compassion and understanding with my case from day one!
When I called his office for the first time I was completely lost on where to start and who to trust, but Glen and his friendly staff were compassionate and patient during such a stressful and confusing time for me.
Glen’s entire team, from his receptionist team to his paralegal, Kacie , were extremely experienced, professional and friendly. Each time I contacted Glen’s office he and his staff gave me their complete attention and my questions were answered completely and accurately with zero time wasted. Mr. Gates and his team communicated, with clarity, exactly which personal legal information they needed from me in order for my case to move forward as quick as possible.
Mr. Gates was also knowledgeable with all of the laws/rules of family law.which gave us the upper hand in negotiating with opposing counsel.
I am so grateful I hired Gates Law to fight for me and I will definitely recommend them to anyone who needs a good divorce attorney.
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12 Jul, 2019 by Bonnie gustafson
07 Oct, 2024 by August love
Samer was able to help me out with my injury case with ease. Liz and everyone else I've spoke to about my case has always been super kind and helpful. Even though there is still work to be done the amount of time they've put towards making sure i get what i deserve is exceptional and i wouldn't have wanted to choose any other firm
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22 Aug, 2024 by Stephanie delgado
Thank you Dunnion Law.
Glenda stepped on that slimy lying insect of a man.Thank you to her staff for their hard work to win my case. WooWhoo
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10 Jul, 2024 by Ernest swaim
Outstanding Service
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14 Oct, 2024 by Vanessa ortiz
I reached out to Law Firm after being involved in a pretty bad accident. I spoke to Gabriela and was very helpful to answer all my questions and concerns. From who I needed to contact to what my next step would be. THANK YOU Gabriela for going over and beyond to make sure that the next process was just that much easier!
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14 Oct, 2024 by Lisseth quintanilla
13 Oct, 2024 by Gabriel valles
Dealing with worker's compensation can be stressful and complicated but I made the best decision by contacting PWMR. Janette kept me informed on my case and was always there to assist me and answer all my questions. I received the compensation I deserved.
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5.0
20 Reviews
4.4
14 Reviews
09 Aug, 2024 by Ray watch4me
I was married for 20 years and live together 15 years the total of 35 years.. We Got to the end where we needed to go our separable ways so I needed to get attorney. After doing my research for a couple days I found Paul. It was the best move I ever did if you need a good attorney that will watch your back all the time he's the one. Thanks again Paul keep up the good work
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09 Aug, 2024 by Katrina nolletti
I highly recommend Lerandeau & Lerandeau! Lacey Sanchez and her team were so patient throughout negotiations with my ex and her lawyer (took 1.5 years to settle) gave excellent advice, and even continued to take my calls and emails while I still paid alimony over the past over the past five years even after official representation ended. I remember Paul telling me when I first went to them patience wins the race, and it did. I will forever be grateful to this team!
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04 Jun, 2024 by Tanya light
I highly recommend LERANDEAU & LERANDEAU. My son was going through a very nasty divorce and our attorney Lacey Sanchez was awesome getting us thru the legal obstacles. I don't know what we would have done without her. She and her team were very responsive to our questions and concerns. All their responses were professional and we never felt like a question or concern was to small or silly to be answered. The office staff are very friendly and helpful at all times.
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09 Oct, 2024 by Luis rosales
The best attorney in the Central Valley. Experience, Dedication, Patient. Really fights for your best outcome and guides you every step of the way.
At court he makes you feel calm and that everything is going to be ok. One of the best things that I admired when things get stressful he’s there with the best suggestions. Thank you Greg Fox for your help, really life saving and worth the investment to have him by your side! He is the best and would recommend him 1000 times! Thank you also to Amanda for prompt updates as well.
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29 Jun, 2024 by Russell hernandez
Greg and Amanda are a great team. Very professional and caring. They both are on your side and will be there for you. Both make time to answer questions and keep you posted on your case. This team did a great job for me through a difficult situation and delived better then expected results. If you ever need an attorney this is your team. Thanks Greg and Amanda, for being there for me.
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21 Jun, 2024 by David luna
Omg Gregory W. FOX WAS WORTH EVERY PENNY! Mr. FOX told me up front what he could do for me upfront and delivered! Thank you sir. I'm so happy. I found Mr. FOX online rated top 3 attorney in Fresno. I did my research Mr. FOX helped me with a veteran discount! Don't panic call Mr. Fox! Shout out to his staff that was always available when I needed them. If your smart do your research and you will see every word I said is the truth.
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05 May, 2024 by Stew pidassal
Actually cares about his clients, a lawyer who is not sleezy nor corrupt. Not afraid to stick it to the man when he steps outta line and violates rights. FTP
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30 Mar, 2024 by V j
Tim and Candi are a great team; they will dive into
your cases, find the problems and help you with
your highly complicated Family law/ Criminal
cases; he has helped reverse some of the issues
holding me back within family court! It wasn't easy,
but I'm proud to have him as my lawyer; I would
I most definitely recommend him and his team.
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24 Feb, 2024 by Yesi a
Great attorney really helped out in my brother's case.. forever greatfull!!
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05 May, 2024 by Stew pidassal
Actually cares about his clients, a lawyer who is not sleezy nor corrupt. Not afraid to stick it to the man when he steps outta line and violates rights. FTP
Read more
30 Mar, 2024 by V j
Tim and Candi are a great team; they will dive into
your cases, find the problems and help you with
your highly complicated Family law/ Criminal
cases; he has helped reverse some of the issues
holding me back within family court! It wasn't easy,
but I'm proud to have him as my lawyer; I would
I most definitely recommend him and his team.
Read more
24 Feb, 2024 by Yesi a
Great attorney really helped out in my brother's case.. forever greatfull!!
Read more
05 May, 2024 by Stew pidassal
Actually cares about his clients, a lawyer who is not sleezy nor corrupt. Not afraid to stick it to the man when he steps outta line and violates rights. FTP
Read more
30 Mar, 2024 by V j
Tim and Candi are a great team; they will dive into
your cases, find the problems and help you with
your highly complicated Family law/ Criminal
cases; he has helped reverse some of the issues
holding me back within family court! It wasn't easy,
but I'm proud to have him as my lawyer; I would
I most definitely recommend him and his team.
Read more
24 Feb, 2024 by Yesi a
Great attorney really helped out in my brother's case.. forever greatfull!!
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06 Nov, 2024 by K x
They're not taking any new clients apparently 😕.
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28 Jan, 2024 by Garleen virk
16 Nov, 2023 by Zach r
Zeppy ,Cyndi and Rema are absolutely the best in the business . These ladies should have a Netflix series they are soooooo good ! It took me a little over a month to just have my initial consultation and I knew at that moment I didn’t need to go anywhere else . My divorce was very ugly and I had a lot to lose .. Zeppy kept my head on straight , stopped me from making 100’s of dumb decisions and we won every time we walked into court . My divorce finalized yesterday after 13 months and I came out on top time and time again .. if you need the best attorney in fresno ,BE PATIENT AND RETAIN ZEPPY AS YOUR ATTORNEY . I could keep going on and on to tell you how great they are ! Thank you again I cant thank you enough .
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03 Sep, 2024 by Nancy vargas
Thank you so much Mr.Benjamin Feld and all your team. It was a long case but so very worth the wait. You worked so hard on my case and I am forever grateful to you. You really have changed my life. Thank you again💜
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28 Aug, 2024 by Charlene jackson
Jill Singer & Team were very helpful. I would recommend them to anyone. Ty Ghitterman, Ghitterman & Feld. U guys are awesome.
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03 Apr, 2024 by Pearl
Alicia Emily and all of the Ghitterman staff have help our family through the WC system better than any other firm could. Best decision
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03 Oct, 2024 by Dao vang
Narek is the best! Would trust him to deal with all my legal issues. My only complaint is that this handsome attorney does not have a photo on his website.
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24 Sep, 2024 by Jaskarn singh
Amazing lawfirm and lawyers. I highly recommend Tavir Joshi, knowledgeable and helpful. He will answer all of your questions. The service is great. Super friendly office assistant.
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19 Sep, 2024 by Deep_ pb46
Strongly recommended, Got work permit delivered to me after 25 days of applying and tanvir sir help and clear the doubts whenever u call and give good suggestions.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Anthony nonini
Coleman & Horowitt has been extremely professional and easy to work with. Herman has answered any and all of my questions thoroughly, timely and professionally. I will continue to utilize Coleman & Horowitt for my legal necessities.
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17 Apr, 2024 by Louie ramirez
I appreciated the time, expertise and help they provided to my family.
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17 Apr, 2024 by Ida ramirez
If you are searching for a reliable, organized and highly responsive law firm, look no further than Coleman & Horowitt. I truly plan on staying a client for many years to come.
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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.
