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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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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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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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16 Dec, 2024 by Matthew trujillo
I would recommend Jeffrey Rowe. Was very easy to process and if there were any issues, Jeffrey explanations were fantastic. For me to understand.
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16 Dec, 2024 by Ricky garay
My experience with Mr. Rowe was absolutely amazing. Jeffrey made every single step easy. He explained everything very clearly and was absolutely perfect. I truly feel blessed to have him and his wonderful team represent me. He truly is a man of the people and he cares about us. If you’re in a similar situation as me then I strongly recommend Jeffrey D. Rowe to represent you.
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10 Dec, 2024 by Patrick leaban
I want to express my deepest gratitude to Attorney Jeff D. Rowe and Mandy for the amazing job they did in helping me file my bankruptcy case and prepare for my 341 meeting. Their professionalism, attention to detail, and dedication made a challenging process so much easier to handle. As someone who had a lot of questions and was very nervous, Attorney Rowe and Mandy guided me every step of the way. They always answered my questions, even the most basic ones that I found difficult to understand. Mandy was incredibly patient, even when I asked repetitive questions. She kept me informed, promptly returned my calls and emails, and showed genuine care and understanding for my situation.
I couldn’t have asked for a better team to represent me. Highly recommended! Best team ever—thank you, Attorney Rowe and Mandy!
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12 Nov, 2024 by Flesh fc
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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05 Oct, 2024 by Mary felipe
Rosemary, was my divorce Attorneys 40 years ago; and she did an outstanding job.
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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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22 Aug, 2024 by Stephen
When I started my divorce process, I was obviously in need of help. Mary and her team were very understanding and patient, from my consultation to the day my divorce was finalized. . Everyone on her staff was so nice and professional. All my questions were answered and the communication was great. I worked with Mary and Jonathan thru out the divorce process and court proceedings and also with everything that comes with a long term marriage. I have no complaints. My ex went thru 3 lawyers during this process, and I was grateful that I had Mary representing me. I always felt like Mary had my back and best interests as my attorney. On more than one occasion Mary gave me her professional opinion which saved me from making what would have been bad financial decisions. Best choice for this kind of situation, trust me.
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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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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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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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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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03 Dec, 2024 by Kevin iskandar
Christian is a good listener. Too bad he can’t help me with my case
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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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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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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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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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11 Feb, 2025 by Alvaro villegas
Raul took over my case and worked with me every step of the way and guide me through the process, thank you for all the help!
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11 Feb, 2025 by Gabriela chavez
Ruby Rodriguez was very helpful with my case! I won’t lie it was very time consuming (about 1 year and a half) but other than that she was very helpful and answered any questions I had.
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10 Feb, 2025 by Santiago barajas
The service provided by Janette at the law office was truly exceptional. Her attention to detail and clear communication made a complex process feel manageable. Every interaction was marked by professionalism and a genuine desire to help. It's evident that Janette is dedicated to providing excellent client care. PWMR Thank you.
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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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03 Mar, 2025 by Shannon edmonson
Very helpful in pointing me in the right direction
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03 Mar, 2025 by Benjamin smith jr
02 Mar, 2025 by Jeffrey gilmore
I am extremely thankful I was connected to Lorena Ordaz with Moseley Collins Law. Lorena has gone above and beyond to provide her expertise and resources to help me in my case.
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03 Mar, 2025 by Shannon edmonson
Very helpful in pointing me in the right direction
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03 Mar, 2025 by Benjamin smith jr
02 Mar, 2025 by Jeffrey gilmore
I am extremely thankful I was connected to Lorena Ordaz with Moseley Collins Law. Lorena has gone above and beyond to provide her expertise and resources to help me in my case.
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23 Feb, 2025 by Jose briceño
This lawyer is thorough, reliable, and makes me feel confident in my case. They provide top-notch service from start to finish. I do not hesitate to recommend them!
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13 Dec, 2024 by Vanessa cazares
I’m so happy I called Gregory W. Fox. He was truly helpful and knowledgeable. He helped me with my situation right away. Something I didn’t expect. If you’re in need of an expert lawyer. Give him a call, you can trust that you are in good hands.
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11 Dec, 2024 by Dayana charles
Just what I was looking for! Great vibe, fair pricing, and a team that genuinely values their customers
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03 Mar, 2025 by Shannon edmonson
Very helpful in pointing me in the right direction
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03 Mar, 2025 by Benjamin smith jr
02 Mar, 2025 by Jeffrey gilmore
I am extremely thankful I was connected to Lorena Ordaz with Moseley Collins Law. Lorena has gone above and beyond to provide her expertise and resources to help me in my case.
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03 Mar, 2025 by Shannon edmonson
Very helpful in pointing me in the right direction
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03 Mar, 2025 by Benjamin smith jr
02 Mar, 2025 by Jeffrey gilmore
I am extremely thankful I was connected to Lorena Ordaz with Moseley Collins Law. Lorena has gone above and beyond to provide her expertise and resources to help me in my case.
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06 Jun, 2023 by Cameron fortin
25 Aug, 2022 by A f
Excellent Attorney and Advocate. I highly recommend her.
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26 Feb, 2019 by John janda
14 Mar, 2020 by Carmina garza
Garcia is an EXCELLENT hard working attorney.👍👍👍
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04 Feb, 2020 by Priscy mrp
Very patient and helpful , focusing on details and the best outcome for there client.
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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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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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12 Jul, 2019 by Bonnie gustafson
12 Feb, 2025 by Tre stylez
Maison Law took on my case after another firm left me hanging a year after filing suit. I contacted them just on a whim, out of curiosity and boy am I glad I did. After not too long of a process and virtually nothing needed from me, I'm expecting a settlement any day now that's gonna get my life started in a new direction. All thanks to the person injury attorneys at Maison Law. Thank you for my new lease on life!
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18 Dec, 2024 by Ben n.
Brenda is very nice, extremely knowledgeable, and professional. She helped me tremendously with my case. I highly recommend her for your legal needs.
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05 Dec, 2024 by Daniel cowles
Brenda helped in every way she could , very prompt and intelligent.
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07 Feb, 2025 by Sandra sanchez-rodriguez
05 Feb, 2025 by Jonathan espinozatv
Worst lawyers you could ever possibly get. We tell them we don't need their services anymore and they still keep trying to push it and represent us. Worst service ever. If I would've known they were gonna be a hassle like this I would've never went through them. Don't waste your time here just go somewhere else. Their workers Rosalinda and Hasani DeLaVega are also the worst! Especially Rosalinda. Bad attitude and lies like crazy and puts excuses after excuses!!
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27 Jan, 2025 by Amandeep singh
Very nice and friendly, I came to know about them through a friend, now they are handling my processing. The best thing is the way they listen and give suggestions, above all available when you need their help. Having great faith in Joshi brothers( Tanvir Joshi and Manhar Joshi) and their cooperative, friendly staff.
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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.
