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01 Aug, 2024 by Michael mayo
They were very good at keeping me informed and helpful through the whole process. I highly recommend Sheba George for her ability and understanding, helping me through this process.
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25 Jun, 2024 by Shashank yadav
I sought the services of Coker, Robb & Cannon for my divorce, and I couldn't be happier with the experience. Sheba George, my attorney, was exceptionally professional and handled everything with great care. She was thorough in her work and incredibly patient in explaining the law to me in terms I could easily understand. I wholeheartedly recommend CRC and Sheba George to anyone in need of a professional who truly looks out for their clients and their legal proceedings.
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13 Jun, 2024 by Julie kullberg
01 Aug, 2024 by Michael mayo
They were very good at keeping me informed and helpful through the whole process. I highly recommend Sheba George for her ability and understanding, helping me through this process.
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25 Jun, 2024 by Shashank yadav
I sought the services of Coker, Robb & Cannon for my divorce, and I couldn't be happier with the experience. Sheba George, my attorney, was exceptionally professional and handled everything with great care. She was thorough in her work and incredibly patient in explaining the law to me in terms I could easily understand. I wholeheartedly recommend CRC and Sheba George to anyone in need of a professional who truly looks out for their clients and their legal proceedings.
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13 Jun, 2024 by Julie kullberg
23 Aug, 2024 by Kashif mahmood
Great experience. Very responsive.
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14 Aug, 2024 by Diana beltran, lcsw-s
08 Aug, 2024 by Healthogenics
We are so very thankful for Dike Law Firm. Doris is very helpful, knowledgeable and responsive for immediate needs of answers to continue to grow your business/practice. It is so important to work with a reputable legal team that understands patient and medical compliance, quality standards, state and healthcare regulations and can guide you correctly along with ability to see your vision of what you are trying to accomplish in an ever-evolving world with digital healthcare. Thank you Doris and team.
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10 Oct, 2024 by Brian kuennen
I am very satisfied with the way Whitney and her senior paralegal, Haley, handled my divorce. Whitney was honest and straightforward, and Haley stayed on top of communication. Overall, I felt they were a very effective team and I'm pleased with the outcome of my case.
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09 Oct, 2024 by Essam sweilem
I decided to let Scroggins Law Group take care of my family case, and I’m so happy I did! The process was so easy, then they assign you the best attorney for your case, communication was very smooth and they answered all of my questions. Andria and Haily were the ones that help me during the process,
thank you so much!
Y’all deserve five starts and more (:
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05 Oct, 2024 by Gary mcintyre
Extremely impressed with Scroggins Law Group. Whitney was my lawyer and she was so easy to work with an extremely polite. I accomplished everything that I needed to get done and because of them I'm in a much better place.
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10 Oct, 2024 by Brian kuennen
I am very satisfied with the way Whitney and her senior paralegal, Haley, handled my divorce. Whitney was honest and straightforward, and Haley stayed on top of communication. Overall, I felt they were a very effective team and I'm pleased with the outcome of my case.
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09 Oct, 2024 by Essam sweilem
I decided to let Scroggins Law Group take care of my family case, and I’m so happy I did! The process was so easy, then they assign you the best attorney for your case, communication was very smooth and they answered all of my questions. Andria and Haily were the ones that help me during the process,
thank you so much!
Y’all deserve five starts and more (:
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05 Oct, 2024 by Gary mcintyre
Extremely impressed with Scroggins Law Group. Whitney was my lawyer and she was so easy to work with an extremely polite. I accomplished everything that I needed to get done and because of them I'm in a much better place.
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10 Oct, 2024 by Brian kuennen
I am very satisfied with the way Whitney and her senior paralegal, Haley, handled my divorce. Whitney was honest and straightforward, and Haley stayed on top of communication. Overall, I felt they were a very effective team and I'm pleased with the outcome of my case.
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09 Oct, 2024 by Essam sweilem
I decided to let Scroggins Law Group take care of my family case, and I’m so happy I did! The process was so easy, then they assign you the best attorney for your case, communication was very smooth and they answered all of my questions. Andria and Haily were the ones that help me during the process,
thank you so much!
Y’all deserve five starts and more (:
Read more
05 Oct, 2024 by Gary mcintyre
Extremely impressed with Scroggins Law Group. Whitney was my lawyer and she was so easy to work with an extremely polite. I accomplished everything that I needed to get done and because of them I'm in a much better place.
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26 Sep, 2024 by Haris patel
25 Sep, 2024 by Seth pacheco
Albin oldner law has been the most easy and seamless process i can have asked for. Nicole martin went above and beyond to get me what i was deserved. Phoenix worked hard to make sure that all the paperwork was correct and needed in time. At first i was nervous to go through this process but the Nicole martin and her team put me at ease and assured me that there is always a way.
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17 Sep, 2024 by Kody didier
I couldn't be happier with my experience with Albin Oldner and more specifically Shayna Sanborn. Shanya and her legal firm represented me in a 2+ year battle that knocked me down more times than I can remember but Shayna and her team were there for me every step of the way. Her knowledge of law and family law specifically and being able to quickly act and navigate our case helped calm my nerves and curb anxiety. More than being an amazing lawyer she is genuinely a compassionate human being and is just a good person. I am beyond blessed to have been referred to Shayna and will never forget all she has done for my family and I. I couldn't recommend Shayna and Albin Oldner enough. I am forever thankful for their services.
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10 Aug, 2024 by Missbec
Awesome service...everyone I have met here, on two occasions, have been very friendly, professional, helpful and understanding. They handle whatever is necessary, expeditiously. Thank you for the wonderful service and assistance!
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08 Aug, 2024 by Mohammad sadjadpour
We had our family Trust updated and Amended due to our move to Texas. Jodie (Para Legal) and Alyssa (Attorney) provided us with an outstanding support and customer service. We truly enjoyed working with them. They are super punctual and everything was done as promised on schedule or sooner than we expected. We highly recommend their services. The customer care and attention to our needs far exceeded our expectations. Their fees are also very reasonable and we got the most value.
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27 Jul, 2024 by Shelby crisan
Alyssa & Jodie supported us with estate planning. They were both friendly, quick to respond, and gave sound advice. In addition, the process of filling out the required paperwork was easy and the completed paperwork was clean. We are very pleased with the team at HKH and will use them in the future!
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29 Oct, 2024 by Michelle adam
Kylie ( and team) is UNSTOPPABLE. To say she is AMAZING is an understatement. Her prompt responses, quick, and strategic thought process when dealing with my case gave me the peace I needed. I would 1000% recommend her for ANY case within the DFW area. Mccathern Law will continue to be UNSTOPPABLE with her on there team.
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29 Jul, 2024 by Andrea mayard
Michael Ricchi is professional, highly recommended and makes you feel like you matter in a time that can feel uneasy and unknown. Although I ended up not needing further assistance to my matter, he followed up to make sure I was ok. That’s real service!
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29 Jul, 2024 by Mittal patel
Didn’t hear us out properly and hung up the call. Never answered the call back..
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03 Dec, 2024 by Nick r
Brad has represented me twice with successful results. In my experience Brad's communication skills are unparalleled among his peers.
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01 Nov, 2024 by Victor a. huerta
I reached out to Brad due to transmission issues I was having with my new car. He responded very quickly and was able to help me get my money back for the vehicle. I highly recommend you contact him and his firm if you are having problems with your vehicle.
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30 Sep, 2024 by Tbeast 87
03 Dec, 2024 by Nick r
Brad has represented me twice with successful results. In my experience Brad's communication skills are unparalleled among his peers.
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01 Nov, 2024 by Victor a. huerta
I reached out to Brad due to transmission issues I was having with my new car. He responded very quickly and was able to help me get my money back for the vehicle. I highly recommend you contact him and his firm if you are having problems with your vehicle.
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30 Sep, 2024 by Tbeast 87
03 Dec, 2024 by Nick r
Brad has represented me twice with successful results. In my experience Brad's communication skills are unparalleled among his peers.
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01 Nov, 2024 by Victor a. huerta
I reached out to Brad due to transmission issues I was having with my new car. He responded very quickly and was able to help me get my money back for the vehicle. I highly recommend you contact him and his firm if you are having problems with your vehicle.
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30 Sep, 2024 by Tbeast 87
03 Dec, 2024 by Nick r
Brad has represented me twice with successful results. In my experience Brad's communication skills are unparalleled among his peers.
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01 Nov, 2024 by Victor a. huerta
I reached out to Brad due to transmission issues I was having with my new car. He responded very quickly and was able to help me get my money back for the vehicle. I highly recommend you contact him and his firm if you are having problems with your vehicle.
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30 Sep, 2024 by Tbeast 87
26 Sep, 2024 by Haris patel
25 Sep, 2024 by Seth pacheco
Albin oldner law has been the most easy and seamless process i can have asked for. Nicole martin went above and beyond to get me what i was deserved. Phoenix worked hard to make sure that all the paperwork was correct and needed in time. At first i was nervous to go through this process but the Nicole martin and her team put me at ease and assured me that there is always a way.
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17 Sep, 2024 by Kody didier
I couldn't be happier with my experience with Albin Oldner and more specifically Shayna Sanborn. Shanya and her legal firm represented me in a 2+ year battle that knocked me down more times than I can remember but Shayna and her team were there for me every step of the way. Her knowledge of law and family law specifically and being able to quickly act and navigate our case helped calm my nerves and curb anxiety. More than being an amazing lawyer she is genuinely a compassionate human being and is just a good person. I am beyond blessed to have been referred to Shayna and will never forget all she has done for my family and I. I couldn't recommend Shayna and Albin Oldner enough. I am forever thankful for their services.
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26 Sep, 2024 by Haris patel
25 Sep, 2024 by Seth pacheco
Albin oldner law has been the most easy and seamless process i can have asked for. Nicole martin went above and beyond to get me what i was deserved. Phoenix worked hard to make sure that all the paperwork was correct and needed in time. At first i was nervous to go through this process but the Nicole martin and her team put me at ease and assured me that there is always a way.
Read more
17 Sep, 2024 by Kody didier
I couldn't be happier with my experience with Albin Oldner and more specifically Shayna Sanborn. Shanya and her legal firm represented me in a 2+ year battle that knocked me down more times than I can remember but Shayna and her team were there for me every step of the way. Her knowledge of law and family law specifically and being able to quickly act and navigate our case helped calm my nerves and curb anxiety. More than being an amazing lawyer she is genuinely a compassionate human being and is just a good person. I am beyond blessed to have been referred to Shayna and will never forget all she has done for my family and I. I couldn't recommend Shayna and Albin Oldner enough. I am forever thankful for their services.
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08 Oct, 2019 by Anonymous
I was introduced to Lisa by my husband. She is one of the most prepared professionals I have ever worked with. I was very nervous about he idea of going into court for the first time in my life and her confidence quickly made me realize I didn't need to be. She won my case and I would recommend Lisa to anyone and I do every time I get a chance.
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07 Oct, 2019 by Moiz
Lisa is the BEST attorney I have ever seen. In Family law, you need someone smart and courageous with a sense of empathy. I was in a difficult situation where my case involved international jurisdiction. Her advice was so accurate and authentic. She even worked on my case during her vacation. I really appreciate her work commitment and dedication. She is definitely the one you want on your side during a tough time.
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07 Oct, 2019 by Anonymous
Lisa is literally the best attorney i have ever seen. Lisa listens to your needs and wants and then gives an honest and real world assessment of what you can expect in court. And she was 100% right. She is also a great trial attorney. She comes to court prepared and makes great presentations and arguments to the court. Hire Lisa. You will not be disappointed!
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29 Oct, 2024 by Michelle adam
Kylie ( and team) is UNSTOPPABLE. To say she is AMAZING is an understatement. Her prompt responses, quick, and strategic thought process when dealing with my case gave me the peace I needed. I would 1000% recommend her for ANY case within the DFW area. Mccathern Law will continue to be UNSTOPPABLE with her on there team.
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29 Jul, 2024 by Andrea mayard
Michael Ricchi is professional, highly recommended and makes you feel like you matter in a time that can feel uneasy and unknown. Although I ended up not needing further assistance to my matter, he followed up to make sure I was ok. That’s real service!
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29 Jul, 2024 by Mittal patel
Didn’t hear us out properly and hung up the call. Never answered the call back..
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28 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
I do not know how this attorney manages to have any positive reviews. I was referred to her by a friend to handle my divorce. She was extremely unprofessional from the start including implying she had her own firm & office. She works out of a small leased business office space & rents rooms at other buildings to hold meetings in cities she actually has no presence in yet advertises that she supports. She has no staff but occasionally brings in a rent-a-lawyer on the cheap to assist her with paperwork she doesn’t want to handle.
She must be extremely successful as a gadfly & social butterfly in Republican circles, SMU alumni circles, various women’s clubs & bar associations. Yet she ran for judge as a Democrat. That’s about how loyal she can be.
She was late to every meeting we had except the first one & frequently rescheduled important milestone appointments. Christy was never prepared. As a rule she waited until the night before to prepare for a court date, hearing, trial, etc. Her appearances performances in court were absolutely abysmal & although she billed me a lot of money she was a complete failure representing my interests. As she has no office support, I did an enormous amount of paperwork, typing, creating documents & trying to get her to set agendas, goals, lists of issues & due-by dates for action items- to no avail. She is lazy. She put the least amount of effort into work although she billed extraordinary rates.
She unethically collaborated with the opposing law firm, where she was once an employee & went behind the scenes to speak to opposing counsel & delay progress. It is ridiculous that she practices law.
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21 Jan, 2015 by Keith
I contacted Christy to help me with my divorce. She was very professional, knowledgeable and very well educated. She took on my case and we stuck to the game plan and never did she not play by the rules. She is very ethical and by the book, I couldn't recommend anyone better. I would pick her again and again. FANTASTIC attorney and worth your money!!!
Thank you very much Christy! Job well done!
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02 Feb, 2014 by Elaine
Whether you are looking for an attorney to give you advice or represent you through your case I would highly recommend Christy. She is very professional, patient, very well educated, and truly works for you in your best interest. Christy's experience and caring ability allows you to feel at ease. Christy is a true case of an attorney that doesn't have to be unethical, or unprofessional to achieve her success.
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02 Jun, 2019 by Maria
While attorney Krenek worked for Raggio & Raggio P.L.L.C. was hired to work for me through the Dallas Volunteer Attorney Program and while working on my case she invited me and my son father to go speak to her and my sons father had knowledge of child custody and have gone through a similar situation with his other sons mother.. she sided with him on everything. I felt horrible she was working for me and having no support from her to help me out i felt scared so i dropped the case.. she giggled and smile and seem like she was having a good time with my sons father.. NEVER AGAIN.. IM GLAD I NEVER WASTE A DIME ON HER... SHE ALSO REEKED HORRIBLY OF CIGARETTE SMELL WHILE WE WERE IN HER OFFICE.. WHAT A GREAT ATTORNEY!! NOT.. I ATTAINED WHAT I WANTED WITH ANOTHER PROFESSIONAL ATTORNEY..
SO DONT MAKE THE MISTAKE OF HIRING HER... PLUS SHE GOT HER LICENSE SUSPENDED I WONDER WHAT FOR..?? PRETTY SURE SHE DESERVED IT!
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15 Oct, 2014 by Ryan
Ms. Krenek recently helped me with my divorce. Although I was not in the state or near court where the necessary proceedings took place, she covered all bases for me in every way. She is very detail oriented and very efficient in her actions. She coordinated both for both sides seamlessly and things were finished in a very timely and professional manner.
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27 Jul, 2014 by Melissa
In an emotional battle during my divorce, trying to determine what would be easiest and least painful for my children, Julie kept me strong and positive. Even though she felt I needed to be stronger and push for more....she stayed supportive to me and my needs and fulfilled every thing I requested. She stayed on top of my ex-husband's attorney to keep from extending the process any longer than needed. She is an amazing attorney and I will defintely continue to utilize her. I highly recommend Julie if you want to get results! No battle, no struggle, no hassle or confusion....just results!
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03 Sep, 2024 by Vijay selvaraj
27 Jul, 2024 by Monu kumar
Bad
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16 Jul, 2024 by Ms. anderson
I hired Mr. Widner as my attorney recently when I was fighting for custody of my son during a messy divorce. Mr. Widner was affordable and consulted with me countless times throughout the process. His senior paralegal, Mrs. Adams, was phenomenal. She was very responsive and reassuring because she could relate to my situation. I panicked a few times when I didn't get a response as quickly as I wanted but they never took a day off from handling my case. All in all I was granted my divorce and obtained custody of my son. I couldn't be more pleased.
Thanks team.
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15 Apr, 2022 by Anonymous
Ms. Qualls at first provided adequate services in consulting about divorce. However, the amount I paid by the end did not equal the value of services rendered. Her assistant was rude and overcharged the minutes I was on the phone with her. She didn’t fight as hard as she should’ve for me during mediation. She had me agree to some things that I later found out was not a normal agreement to make. When she didn’t file some paperwork, my ex and his lawyer came after me. She wouldn’t correct her mistake without paying for services again, which I couldn’t afford.
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05 Jul, 2018 by Steve
I've used this law firm twice for issues concerning my ex being in contempt of a court order over child support issues and non payments.
The first time was with Deborah Mackoy and I was granted all back child support, unpaid medical expenses, court costs and attorney fees. Deborah was very efficient, professional and was pleased from start to finish with my results.
Four years have passed since I first hired this law firm. I started having issues again with my ex not abiding by our court order. I didn't hesitate to contact this law firm and was assigned attorney Christine Qualls. Christine was professional and performed exceptional in court. Once again we were granted all child support, uninsured medical expenses, court costs and attorney fee's.
I wouldn't hesitate to hire Christine Qualls again for any issues that arise .
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07 Jul, 2016 by Mark
Nothing special here. Case was related to custody. Mccoy Hernandez and Qualls was the office. Overall, I felt that representation was inadequate for the price. I was thankful that her office was able to work with me financially. Like all law offices, I felt that I was SIGNIFICANTLY overcharged, but that is par for the course. I paid some $5,000.00 to be told by the court that I would have to go through a significantly more expensive step up program, which I couldn't afford. Law needs to be regulated by the federal government. There is an FDA, a DEA, an FAA etc. Why isn't there a FLCA (Federal Legal Counsel Administration). Would be nice if there was a body one could complain to which had some authority over practice.
Overall I think the office was better than some others, but nowhere near as great as some others. This is a Collin County ring game.
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19 Dec, 2023 by Chris gearing
I have worked with Justin for over 10 years now and trust him implicitly with all of my personal and business matters. He's not only an excellent lawyer, but a great person as well who truly has your best interest at heart. He has handled all kinds of issues for me including law suits, negotiations, contracts, estate planning, and more, and his results are always spectacular and effective. He also doesn't gouge or overcharge you 30 minutes for a 5 minute phone call like many other attorneys I've worked with in the past. His prices are fair and he gets great results. I honestly cannot recommend Justin more highly.
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10 Nov, 2023 by Gage
18 Sep, 2020 by Tucker bankston
12 May, 2018 by Anonymous
Where do I begin? Elizabeth Nielsen started off appearing to be a competent attorney. In the time that she was my attorney, she had three different paralegals and moved her office to three different locations. She was all I could afford at the time. Do not waste your money or your time! She is unorganized and unprofessional. She was late to almost every court date and one time the entire court including myself, waited 15 minutes for her to arrive. I ended up getting totally screwed by my ex-husband and his pitbull attorney and Elizabeth. Worst life experience ever! Run away from this attorney!
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10 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
She is very unprofessional. She was not prepared and unorganized. She did not present any of the information that we provided her. Before court, she built our confidence, but did not perform in court. I'm not sure if she was scared of the OAG or just lazy. At least we would have been heard if we would have represented ourselves. Please don't trust her with your money or your family.
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24 Nov, 2015 by Phyllis
Elizabeth was so good to us. She helped us stay in our budget and was our attorney for what was a three year long case for our grandson. We did not want the result we got, but we were so happy with Elizabeth and what she did for us. She is a great lawyer.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Vijay selvaraj
27 Jul, 2024 by Monu kumar
Bad
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16 Jul, 2024 by Ms. anderson
I hired Mr. Widner as my attorney recently when I was fighting for custody of my son during a messy divorce. Mr. Widner was affordable and consulted with me countless times throughout the process. His senior paralegal, Mrs. Adams, was phenomenal. She was very responsive and reassuring because she could relate to my situation. I panicked a few times when I didn't get a response as quickly as I wanted but they never took a day off from handling my case. All in all I was granted my divorce and obtained custody of my son. I couldn't be more pleased.
Thanks team.
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23 Jul, 2024 by Michael olsen
I was facing a very stressful legal situation regarding a high profile case. I wasn't sure where to turn. Then I found Marc May. From the very first consultation, Marc was thoughtful, intelligent, and clearly a rockstar. He took the time to explain everything clearly and answer all my questions in a way I could understand.
Throughout the entire process, Marc kept me informed and up-to-date on the progress of my case. He was always available to address any concerns I had, and his guidance proved invaluable.
Thanks to Marc’s expertise and diligence, I was able to resolve my legal situation…better than I could have ever hoped. I am incredibly grateful for his representation and highly recommend Marc May to anyone in need of a skilled and trustworthy lawyer.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Michael davis
From the moment I called May & May my experience with this firm has been outstanding and has exceeded my expectations at every point throughout the entire process. Marc and his staff are highly professional and responsive. The advice I received was invaluable and they saved me a considerable amount of time and money! I have already recommended this firm to multiple people and will gladly continue to do so as I am confident in their ability to meet and exceed their client's legal needs at a fair price and in a time efficient manner. I have worked with many attorney's over my 40 years in business and May & May rank among the best with which I have worked over these many years. I was very pleased with the entire experience as Marc and his team represented my interest in such a caring and professional manner.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Danielle bianchi stevens
I would give Marc and Macy both 100 stars if Google allowed.
After beginning to write my review here, something had called my attention away. When I came back just now to complete it, I saw that I'd mistakenly hit 1 star and it posted. Please be assured that was my error.
From the first time I met them, the COMPASSION, CARE, RESPONSIVENESS, and PROFESSIONALISM demonstrated by Marc, Macy, and their legal assistant far surpassed the norm- and still does today. They truly had (and have) my back. From my first appointment, I knew I'd be in good hands and I cancelled appointments I'd made to interview other attorneys because I hired them on the spot. What stood out to me when I first met them was INTEGRITY. As they were working so diligently on my behalf during one of the most difficult seasons of my life, I not only received stellar legal care, but also I unexpectedly received so much more-- fears were eased, wisdom was imparted, and a trusted family friendship has developed. I have referred them out multiple times and will continue and am truly grateful to have been under the care of this amazing legal team during that difficult season in my life.
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08 Oct, 2021 by Anonymous
I was assigned this woman as an court appointed lawyer. I had to tell her what to do at every turn. She kept extending my case because it benefited Her!!! She doesn’t care about you! I consulted another attorney about what she did and he said that she was a “welfare lawyer”, meaning she shuffled paper around to game the system!!!
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28 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
She was my divorce attorney and never had my best interest at heart. Her primary focus was greed as she colluded with the opposing attorney.
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13 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
Do not use her (Evette) for legal issues especially divorce. She is more focused on establishing good connections/networking within the legal community than defending you as a client. If she has to meet with the opposing lawyer, “BE PRESENT”. She will laugh/joke (about you) with the opposing lawyer if you are not present. Find a lawyer that will represent you.
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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.
