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09 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
Ms. English has little to no idea of how to be an effective attorney. She took my case and initially presented a disguise of competence which fooled me. As I worked closely with her month by month, she caused significant damage to my case, the full consequences of which were only understood by me much later when other attorneys reviewing my case would ask me why Ms. English did not take important legal steps or didnt inform me about the consequences of certain legal manuevers she took. I would only refer enemies to someone like Ms. English. Friends, family, and strangers alike should take heed, do their research, and run from someone as impaired as Ms. English
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20 Oct, 2023 by Tiffany cacossa
Monrae is absolutely the best! She was very helpful… she explained what was going on and kept me up dated! I recommend her to anyone.
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15 Sep, 2023 by Mirelia dãaz
13 Jun, 2024 by Brenda reynolds
I am very thankful to have found Brenda! She has been incredibly helpful in reviewing several contracts and has become my go-to attorney in the Fresno area. Brenda is thorough, knowledgeable, and consistently provides excellent legal guidance. I highly recommend her services!
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05 Feb, 2024 by Anna rieffel
Brenda Linder was my saving grace for my lawsuit. Brenda exemplifies unparalleled legal expertise and unwavering dedication. Her strategic brilliance, meticulous preparation, and compassionate approach make her an invaluable ally in navigating the complexities of the legal system. Brenda truly does redefine excellence in defending the rights and freedoms of her clients. She had worked with other people in the case and knew the situation by the time my name came across her desk. When we had a consultation, I sat across from her and felt peace for the first time since being served and knew right away she was the lawyer for me. I truly cannot recommend a better attorney. Brenda cares about you and your safety as a client. She cares about you having realistic expectations of your situation and will keep a solid line of communication through every step and process. Brenda Linder is a name I will send to every person who needs a defense attorney in my lifetime.
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18 Sep, 2023 by Nicole a.
I called her office and spoke to her regarding a real estate case. She ended up not taking my case, but she took at least 15 minutes to describe the legalities of my case and what she would do in my position to make my case stronger. I sincerely appreciate her time and effort.
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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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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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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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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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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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29 Jun, 2024 by Dayanara
I called Leah Tuisavalalo about my fathers case back in 2020 and she helped both my father and mother get their work permits and help them fix their immigration status. She was so patient with us even with the ongoing pandemic. It was a lengthy process due to wait times but it was worth paying everything for the results we received. She is so kind and understanding. The best in Fresno!!! Please go to her for any immigration case
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29 Jan, 2024 by Baris rahimi
Great
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30 Dec, 2023 by Maria romero
My favorite lawyer
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25 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
Run! Don’t walk! Run! You want a lawyer that does bare minimum hire Laura Boyd. You’ve ever wanted to get ignored for more than 6 months at a time hire Laura Boyd. You want to to be uninformed of your future court dates hire Laura Boyd. Have you ever just felt like having a lawyer miss submitting paperwork and delaying your case hire Laura Boyd! If you want to be told by her paralegal “I don’t know anything about your case and I can’t help you because I’m leaving in 2 weeks” hire Laura Boyd! If you ever needed a copy of a document, that she has, and never want to receive it hire Laura Boyd! I don’t know who’s harder to find a deadbeat baby daddy or Laura Boyd!
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13 Aug, 2024 by Andrea
I hired her on May 30th, she kept my paperwork for 14 days without filing any to the courts. She refuses to return calls and texts. She said she would refund me my $3,500 retainer but as of today she hasn’t. Definitely getting the State Bar Association involved and encourage any one else whom she has defrauded to contact the Bar Association and report her.
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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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16 Apr, 2024 by Patricia cardenas-mendoza
27 Jan, 2024 by Crystal gonzalez
There is so much I can say about Miguel Jimenez. He is one of the best attorneys I’ve ever seen. He helped me with my custody case and we got exactly what we wanted. He was communicative and quick to respond. We communicated via email and he was quick with it. I felt like he was a really honest and would tell me what I needed to hear. We are now going onto the divorce part but I feel so confident with Miguel I recommend him 100%
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29 Dec, 2023 by Sam seklawi
She is the worst lawyer !! If you will hire her you will lose your case and she will keep sucking your blood till you are out of money !!!what she cares is about money thats all , she used to go to the court snd push it more and more so she can take more money … and she doesn’t know what she is doing .
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16 Apr, 2024 by Patricia cardenas-mendoza
27 Jan, 2024 by Crystal gonzalez
There is so much I can say about Miguel Jimenez. He is one of the best attorneys I’ve ever seen. He helped me with my custody case and we got exactly what we wanted. He was communicative and quick to respond. We communicated via email and he was quick with it. I felt like he was a really honest and would tell me what I needed to hear. We are now going onto the divorce part but I feel so confident with Miguel I recommend him 100%
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29 Dec, 2023 by Sam seklawi
She is the worst lawyer !! If you will hire her you will lose your case and she will keep sucking your blood till you are out of money !!!what she cares is about money thats all , she used to go to the court snd push it more and more so she can take more money … and she doesn’t know what she is doing .
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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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06 May, 2024 by Douglas
Run don’t walk from the worst attorney here in the valley! Rick Has a disconnection from his clients that is absolutely unreal! Considering you’re going through, probably the worst period of your life and the most vulnerable. Rick will not only not hear you out, but if you have insane evidence like I did he won’t show it in court and blame it on you. Example, I had video proof of abuse on my own children and written proof but yet it wasn’t ever shown in court to the judge. I could give tons of examples just about Rick, but this would become a novel not a review. But also The staff is absolutely horrible, rude, could care less and give you extreme attitude when you’re at the most vulnerable time dealing with your children. I usually don’t write reviews, but if I could save one parent from the absolute nightmare I went through with this law firm it was worth it. Also, he wanted to charge me more than $10,000 for absolutely nothing and still wanted to charge me more to present the same evidence I showed him when I first looked him up. This law firm will just drain you for all your money without any outcome. Literally at the end of the case I was exactly where I started, and I could’ve done on my own probably better ! His secretary is probably the rudest woman I’ve ever known, and what you get for over $10,000 is speaking with Rick a few times at Tops and you have to fight just to speak to your own attorney for that much money so you’re mostly speaking with his secretary thats insanely rude during the whole time. so you’re pretty much paying $10,000+ for a paralegal. I was hoping to find an attorney with good ethics and that cared for father‘s rights, and I got the complete opposite and also found out at the end of my trial that Rick and the other attorney of the mother that was abusing my children with the stepfather that actually hit my children Was going on vacation with each other. So not only did I get screwed but come to find out during the whole time both attorneys knew each other on a personal basis, the other attorney was Arnold also here in Fresno. I hope he goes out of business or retires because he obviously doesn’t care about his clients anymore. so once again don’t walk away from this attorney run! I would give my life in a heartbeat to choose another attorney and do the fight all over again to get my kids back. I hope this saves and helps some parent looking for justice for their children.
if you ever watch the movie “law, Biden Citizen”, and the first part where the person that’s supposed to be defending, you shakes the hand of the person taking away your children that sums up Rick Banks! And if you’re a father and live in California, everything weighs against you, he will not fight for you. He’ll take a vacation with the person taking away your children. Funny part and the only funny part is we had a different Attorney with my stepdaughter, and we almost got full custody plus we could’ve had her full-term but we decided it’s our child’s decision not to have her father and her life when she gets older. Because we believe every child has the right to decide if they don’t want that person in their life. plus I have a son that we have 100% of the time.but yet with my two oldest daughters, the dirtbag couldn’t show the video that showed my children getting abused in court because that would cost another probably 10 grand. to sum it up if you want father right in California do not go to Rick Banks.
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09 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
To qualify myself as a consumer of legal services: I've worked with four family attorneys in two California counties, so my opinion is somewhat comparative. My experience with Rick Banks' Law Office was very good. He was the same attorney in the courtroom as he was in the office--consistent, knowledgeable and reliable. His staff members were as savvy and honest as he was. Regarding value, the service was on par with the rates, so I feel my money was well spent.
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03 Sep, 2021 by Gina
Biased attorney 100%! Be careful and make sure he agrees with what you're asking for or he won't fight for you in the court room. He will just sit there and say absolutely nothing and let you get destroyed by the other parties attorney like he did to myself! He was a waste of time and a waste of money! I would never recommend this man to anybody!
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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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25 Sep, 2024 by Chanlin7
Disappointing Experience with Goldberg & Ibarra Law Firm
Let me preface this by saying, I want to believe in this firm's ability to turn things around, but so far, their client service and attention to detail have been far below acceptable standards. I plan on updating my review should I see an improvement as my case progresses. I also want to highlight that David Ibarra is an excellent attorney when you get him one on one but working with his staff has been the biggest challenge overall.
I had high hopes for the Goldberg & Ibarra law firm, but unfortunately, my experience has been riddled with issues that no client should face, especially when it comes to critical legal matters. The firm consistently fails to meet even the most basic standards for client communication and legal ethics, causing unnecessary stress and frustration.
**Communication Failures**: From the beginning, it was nearly impossible to get in touch with my attorney. Despite numerous attempts to reach out via phone and email, I was often left in the dark for weeks at a time. Not only is this a blatant disregard for the attorney-client relationship, but it also raises concerns regarding ethical obligations under the California Rules of Professional Conduct. According to Rule 1.4, attorneys are required to keep clients informed about the status of their cases, something this firm completely ignored. Specific examples include delayed responses to important case updates and a lack of transparency in terms of strategy and next steps.
**Lack of Diligence**: There were several instances where critical deadlines were nearly missed due to the staff's slow response times and lack of communication and follow through. At one point, I had to follow up repeatedly just to confirm that documents had been filed. This level of neglect could have easily jeopardized my case. The firm's disorganization not only reflects poorly on their ability to manage cases, but also risks violating Rule 1.3, which mandates that attorneys act with "reasonable diligence and promptness in representing a client." It's evident they are overstretched and unable to provide the necessary attention to detail.
**Poor Client Service**: Beyond communication and diligence, the general attitude toward customer service was disheartening. After my initial consultation, there was no meaningful follow-up from their office. Even after expressing concern about the direction of my case, I was met with dismissive attitudes from the staff and no effort to reassure me. Legal ethics require a respectful and client-centered approach, but my experience was far from it.
**Final Verdict**: If you are looking for a law firm that will prioritize your case, keep you informed, and work with the diligence and ethical care that you deserve, I would strongly advise looking elsewhere. Goldberg & Ibarra may have some positive outcomes, but their failure to meet basic legal and ethical standards was unacceptable in my experience.
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16 Sep, 2024 by Jon book
This has been the worst costumer service I have ever had, when you call about your case no ones knows anything about it and normally they don’t have the answers your looking for! They are not there to fight for you they are only there to get paid!
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16 Sep, 2024 by Adam hernandez
16 Apr, 2024 by Patricia cardenas-mendoza
27 Jan, 2024 by Crystal gonzalez
There is so much I can say about Miguel Jimenez. He is one of the best attorneys I’ve ever seen. He helped me with my custody case and we got exactly what we wanted. He was communicative and quick to respond. We communicated via email and he was quick with it. I felt like he was a really honest and would tell me what I needed to hear. We are now going onto the divorce part but I feel so confident with Miguel I recommend him 100%
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29 Dec, 2023 by Sam seklawi
She is the worst lawyer !! If you will hire her you will lose your case and she will keep sucking your blood till you are out of money !!!what she cares is about money thats all , she used to go to the court snd push it more and more so she can take more money … and she doesn’t know what she is doing .
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01 Sep, 2021 by Tracie
My husband and I went in today for a consultation and right away we felt comfortable from the very instant we met Mr. Margosian , And Heather his paralegal was awesome too! We are hiring him tomorrow and feel blessed to have been referred to him. I will let you know how everything goes.
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05 Mar, 2020 by James j.
Michael is good. He is experienced and well respected in the courtroom, I think that matters. He is fair, reasonable, and offers sound advice. I feel his stregth is before the judge as he was far more articulate than any of the 6 other attornies my ex hired. I would and do trust my family law matters to Mr. Margosian and his staff.
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28 May, 2014 by Flores
Mr. Margosian helped me with my child custody case.
I was seeking custody of my then 2yo son, due to abuse of prescription medication. I'm a male and my family and friends including other attorneys voiced their disbelieve that I would receive custody of my son.
After consulting with friends I found Mr Margosian and he was extremely helpful and honest from the getgo, he explained the process and was quick to carch details that I missed in court, allways been one step ahead.
I know 100% that if it wasn't for Mr Margosian and his genuine concern for my son's safety I wouldn't have been granted FULL custody.
My only advise for anyone looking for legal representation:
Keep a detailed log of events, inform your Lawyer / attorney, be honest on all aspects of your case, good or bad, remember that he will help you through the process but without knowing the full picture he cant possibly know the full story, keep your notes from court, remember that you are a team but Mr Margosian is incredibly organized :)
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31 Mar, 2024 by Synapsys
Unfortunately unable to help me even though I have witnesses and paperwork to back my claim
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20 May, 2022 by Cary harris
I called this law firm and found out that they could not represent me. They represent the opposite side of my case however they were super helpful. They referred me to attorneys that could represent me , they gave me names phone numbers and all the information to the specific type of lawyers that I would need.
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04 Aug, 2020 by J a
18 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
To begin, I had never hired an attorney so I didn't know what to expect. I was in need of a child custody attorney and when I first let with her she seemed pleasant. She was kind and seemed to be very professional. However, after I hired her she never once answered her calls and when I would go in to see her, her receptionist would go to the back and "see if she was in"; which she was apparently never once in when I attempted to see her. I never got a single question answered through phone, email, or in person. Then at our court date she wanted to speak with me about mediation, so she began to explain things then abruptly said you know what make an appointment with me so we can discuss mediation. At said appointment she literally word per word said what she had said previously; nothing new. I was billed for every little thing at an extremely expensive price for practically nothing. I truly feel she is in her field for the wrong reasons and as a previous client would not ever recommend her.
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30 Dec, 2015 by Mirna
Jennifer Walters has been an Amazing Advocate and Attorney. I was referred to her by a close friend because I was specific in asking for an Attorney that can get things done.......and she delivered. Not only is Jennifer honest and hard working, but she has taken time away from her personal life to meet with her clients on Sundays. To my family and I, that was a huge relief to have all our questions answered by someone incredibly well educated and experienced in Law. Since then, her name has always come up when we are asked about a Great Attorney in her field of practice.
MT
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04 Dec, 2015 by Anonymous
I hired because of these reviews. And I'm very disapointed. She is extremly hard to contact and does a very poor job fallowing up on paper work and filing necessary paper work on time. I do not recommend her to anyone for anything!
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14 Apr, 2024 by Marguerite niven
16 Oct, 2023 by Bruce yee
Would recommend spending your money elsewhere
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12 Oct, 2023 by Robert estrada
14 Apr, 2024 by Marguerite niven
16 Oct, 2023 by Bruce yee
Would recommend spending your money elsewhere
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12 Oct, 2023 by Robert estrada
26 Jan, 2024 by Andrew c.p.
05 Sep, 2023 by Rob howe
Jennifer and her staff provided amazing service from the beginning of my case till it was resolved. You must highly consider Jennifer when the need arises!!
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11 Oct, 2022 by Doralinda alvarez
She is the light at the end of this. Tunnel
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30 Aug, 2024 by Frank sanchez
CV Law Fresno has a reputation for being highly professional and deeply caring, which is so important when dealing with sensitive family matters. The team is known for their strong communication skills and their ability to make clients feel heard and supported throughout the entire legal process.
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30 Aug, 2024 by Lorelei
The office is welcoming and easy to find, with a staff that's always courteous and willing to help. Whether you’re facing a difficult legal situation or just need some advice, CV Law Fresno is a trusted resource in the community. I’ve heard nothing but positive news feedback from locals who have worked with them, and it’s clear that they are committed to making a positive difference in people’s lives.
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11 Aug, 2024 by Sara
Your recent arrest in Visalia and the videos show your true nature. Do better Shyla.
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18 Jul, 2024 by John maxey
I found her office on Google and I was extremely unhappy with the services provided, or lack thereof along with the unprofessionalism of her office and staff.
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15 Nov, 2023 by Becky mattson
This woman has taken thousands of dollars frome me. She closed her practice in March of this year and every month has continued to charge me. I've tried contacting her though all of my resources and even filed fraudulent chrges with my bank. DO NOT USE THIS LAWYER. SHE IS A CHEAT
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17 Aug, 2022 by Catrina bracken
SAVE YOUR MONEY !!! This attorney did the bare minimum for me in my case of 2 years and the job is still not done. Made claims the judge had an emergency so let's extend your case out a YEAR !!! She was very unprofessional, always sent her paralegal to do the dirty work rather than contact me herself. I know karma will come and it's not for me...glad to be done with her and her office.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Connor amundsen
Michael Helsley is the greatest lawyer of all time.
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21 Mar, 2024 by Kristy parker
Based on my experience with amanda hebesha it is my opinion she is UNHOLY and has NO regard for human rights, justice and law. Based on her CHOSEN CONDUCT it is my opinion she is a disservice to our justice system and is NOT equipped to practice law. Based on her chosen conduct it is also my opinion she is a danger and destructive to families. Her chosen conduct supports she runs her own agenda at the expense of her clients for her financial gain. Praying for her CORRUPT (demonic) soul.
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10 Nov, 2023 by Jen
25 Jul, 2024 by Nicole garcia
Horrible! No work, all postponed & at the end, doesn't speak up for you. But he did happily take our money & even hugged 🤗 me. Still waiting 5 years later for our copies of court papers. I would never recommend him!
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28 Feb, 2024 by Whitney
Very disappointing with how they handled the situation with Rogar Nuttall... could've ruined some people's lives too...
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05 Feb, 2024 by Darrell
No do noughing take your money then postponed all the time then when it's time for him to work he lets you go
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12 Nov, 2023 by Armano cruz
Came here for their services I retained them 3 times on the 3rd time was around covid I had like 1000 in credit with them when the case was closed and some how I owe them 400 still tried to contact them but couldn’t get passed the rude front desk and know they still trying to collect more money from me can’t trust them.
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13 Oct, 2023 by Jennifer castillo
Amazing people, efficient, professional and excellent customer service.
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25 Sep, 2023 by Nick bustamante
02 Nov, 2016 by Anonymous
Forgot documents on court date, worried more about making sure opposing council was compensated by me than fighting for my case.
I wish I was joking but this was a comedy of errors that cost me 10 times what it should have.
Pick anything I mean anything out of the phone book....you will be happier than choosing this guy.
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12 Jul, 2016 by Marla
Gerald was very professional and I could count on him to be aggressive but also very compassionate. He made a painful process much easier and was always honest. Although it was many years ago, I will always remember his compassion and interest in the best outcome for my family.
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29 May, 2017 by Lisa degunya
Rodriguez was assigned to my prejudicial and unconstitutional case where it is on record I did not break the law. Evidence was withheld and obstructed. My two young son's were illegally placed (repugnant unlawful orders by Judge Gary Green) with my felon ex husband John twice incarcerated for assault and battery. Essentially kidnapped. Now it is public record John is trafficking them for money. The truth always comes out. You will always face God. You cannot escape God. No one is above the law and God...
You will lose everything
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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:
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What experience do you have with family law cases like mine?
Make sure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it's a contested divorce, child custody dispute, or adoption. -
How will you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, a flat fee, or requires a retainer. Ask for an estimate of the total costs involved. -
What are the possible outcomes of my case?
An experienced lawyer should be able to give you a general idea of what to expect based on the facts of your case. -
What is your approach to resolving disputes?
Ask whether the lawyer tends to favor negotiation and mediation or whether they prefer to take cases to court. This can help you determine if their style matches your goals. -
How long do you expect my case to take?
While it’s difficult to predict, the lawyer should give you an estimate based on similar cases. -
Who will be handling my case?
In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may do much of the work, so make sure you understand who will be your main point of contact.
How to Check the Credibility of a Family Law Lawyer
To ensure you're hiring a reputable family law lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and reputation:
- Check state bar association records: Verify that the lawyer is licensed to practice in your state and is in good standing with no disciplinary actions.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on websites like Avvo, Google, or Martindale-Hubbell. Previous clients can give you insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and success in family law cases.
- Request references: Ask the lawyer for references from past clients who can speak to their experience with the lawyer.
- Review their website or professional profile: Look at the lawyer’s background, case history, and areas of focus to ensure they have substantial experience in family law.
- Look for professional memberships: Membership in reputable organizations, such as the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), can indicate a lawyer's expertise and dedication to family law.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a family law lawyer, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what you should bring:
- Relevant documents: Bring any documents related to your case, such as marriage certificates, prenuptial agreements, financial records, custody agreements, or court orders.
- List of assets and debts: For divorce cases, prepare a detailed list of all assets (e.g., homes, bank accounts, retirement funds) and debts (e.g., mortgages, loans, credit card balances).
- Details of the family issue: Provide a written summary of the situation, including key dates and facts related to your divorce, custody dispute, or support issue.
- Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions you have about the legal process, costs, and potential outcomes.
- Your goals: Be prepared to discuss your objectives, such as custody arrangements, property division, or spousal support, so the lawyer understands your priorities.
Being organized and clear about your situation will help the lawyer evaluate your case more effectively and offer the best advice for moving forward.
