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03 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
Scott is very thorough and knowledgeable I would highly recommend him. My case is a very sensitive matter and he was comforting and understanding also.
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12 Mar, 2017 by Jen
Scott Cannon's professionalism, compassion, experience, empathy and strategic protocol truly defines that of a first-class attorney. Family Court had been a difficult and emotionally draining experience for the past 3 years, until I met Scott. Having met with and retained, two previous attorneys, neither produced the results that Scott has. Scott is a "people's" attorney. He listened to me. He kept reminding me to "change the channel" in my thinking so that I could begin to heal from 18 years of abuse in a Domestic Violence situation. Scott's motto is, "I understand." And he does! Scott has helped my children and I to get our lives to a place of healing and growth. Scott Cannon is the epitome of THE BEST. I am so grateful to Scott for all he has done, and continues to do. There will never be another attorney, besides Scott Cannon, that will be there to represent me.
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12 Feb, 2017 by Erin
I met with several lawyers before Scott. As soon as I walked into the office I felt welcome. His staff is very professional. Once Scott stared asking me about my situation, I could hear compassion in his voice. I knew right away he was the right choice. His experience was obvious. Scott was very educated on the effects of Domestic Violence. He even cared about my well being. We had to met often due to my ex causing issues with my children. Scott helped me keep them away from an unhealthy person in their life. Its not always easy to get full custody without any visitation. We ended up back in court several times. Which he guided me through every step of the way. He even stops me from being all worked up. I was scheduled to testify at the last court appearance. Thanks to Scott's power of persuasion I didn't have to. He left me in awe. I couldn't be happier! Scott is an amazing lawyer with an actual personality. He went above and beyond for my children's well being. Very trustworthy and knowledgeable.
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08 Sep, 2022 by Jess htn
If you happen to find yourself in a situation where you need a public defender in Livingston County; Samantha Maguire is, hands down, the solution to your problems. She is highly educated and the very best at her job, and, by far, surpasses her calls of duty! She stays on top of things, and walks you through whatever it is you have to go through, every step of the way, so that you are not walking into anything blindly, nor are you doing anything alone. She will do whatever it takes to get you the most favorable outcome possible. To top it off, she’s an amazing woman that genuinely cares about her clients, and proves that in her actions. She will go to bat and fight your fight for you! If I was in a position where I had to personally pay for an attorney, I would choose her, every time! She is so much more than an attorney, but if that’s what you’re needing, look no further.
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14 Sep, 2021 by Dana perkins
Let me just start out by saying no one wants a public defender but sometimes you have to do what you have to do. Samantha Maguire was great! She really worked hard on my case and investigated it like it should have been done. She acted like I paid her personally. She fought for me. She was extremely personable easy to talk to, and great person to work with. She was my bulldog!!! From the moment I got the 1st phone call from her I knew everything was going to be OK. I am extremely happy with the outcome. Thank you so much!! Samantha maguire you should start your own Lawfirm!!!
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08 Sep, 2022 by Jess htn
If you happen to find yourself in a situation where you need a public defender in Livingston County; Samantha Maguire is, hands down, the solution to your problems. She is highly educated and the very best at her job, and, by far, surpasses her calls of duty! She stays on top of things, and walks you through whatever it is you have to go through, every step of the way, so that you are not walking into anything blindly, nor are you doing anything alone. She will do whatever it takes to get you the most favorable outcome possible. To top it off, she’s an amazing woman that genuinely cares about her clients, and proves that in her actions. She will go to bat and fight your fight for you! If I was in a position where I had to personally pay for an attorney, I would choose her, every time! She is so much more than an attorney, but if that’s what you’re needing, look no further.
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14 Sep, 2021 by Dana perkins
Let me just start out by saying no one wants a public defender but sometimes you have to do what you have to do. Samantha Maguire was great! She really worked hard on my case and investigated it like it should have been done. She acted like I paid her personally. She fought for me. She was extremely personable easy to talk to, and great person to work with. She was my bulldog!!! From the moment I got the 1st phone call from her I knew everything was going to be OK. I am extremely happy with the outcome. Thank you so much!! Samantha maguire you should start your own Lawfirm!!!
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15 May, 2024 by E. sue mills
Steve reviewed my will and other documents to see if they needed updating. He also talked with me about protecting assets. Very helpful.
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27 Apr, 2024 by Holly rowe
We were looking for someone who could help us with a specific issue. A friend referred me to Stephen and it was the best decision we made. He was very professional, and walked us through the whys behind the decisions we needed to make. I would definitely recommend Stephen as our issue was resolved in a timely manner. Thank you for all of your help!
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12 Sep, 2023 by Patrick underwood
Steve's the best!
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15 May, 2024 by E. sue mills
Steve reviewed my will and other documents to see if they needed updating. He also talked with me about protecting assets. Very helpful.
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27 Apr, 2024 by Holly rowe
We were looking for someone who could help us with a specific issue. A friend referred me to Stephen and it was the best decision we made. He was very professional, and walked us through the whys behind the decisions we needed to make. I would definitely recommend Stephen as our issue was resolved in a timely manner. Thank you for all of your help!
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12 Sep, 2023 by Patrick underwood
Steve's the best!
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08 Sep, 2022 by Jess htn
If you happen to find yourself in a situation where you need a public defender in Livingston County; Samantha Maguire is, hands down, the solution to your problems. She is highly educated and the very best at her job, and, by far, surpasses her calls of duty! She stays on top of things, and walks you through whatever it is you have to go through, every step of the way, so that you are not walking into anything blindly, nor are you doing anything alone. She will do whatever it takes to get you the most favorable outcome possible. To top it off, she’s an amazing woman that genuinely cares about her clients, and proves that in her actions. She will go to bat and fight your fight for you! If I was in a position where I had to personally pay for an attorney, I would choose her, every time! She is so much more than an attorney, but if that’s what you’re needing, look no further.
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14 Sep, 2021 by Dana perkins
Let me just start out by saying no one wants a public defender but sometimes you have to do what you have to do. Samantha Maguire was great! She really worked hard on my case and investigated it like it should have been done. She acted like I paid her personally. She fought for me. She was extremely personable easy to talk to, and great person to work with. She was my bulldog!!! From the moment I got the 1st phone call from her I knew everything was going to be OK. I am extremely happy with the outcome. Thank you so much!! Samantha maguire you should start your own Lawfirm!!!
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18 Jul, 2014 by Anonymous
Represented me for family court matters.
Was responsible for filing support and custody order(s) by the county court judge.
Filed custody order. I was the respondent, however, the paperwork he filed for me indicated I was the petitioner. Paperwork shows that both the respondent and petitioner are both petitioners and no respondent is noted. This makes the document non enforceable. I have asked for him to correct.
Have made attempts to contact to correct for six months, no contact by his office.
This lawyer never filed custody orders. He started them but never finished them.
I was billed for custody orders which were never filed or completed.
I have emailed, stopped in at office, sent letters and left messages with his secretary to have him please address. I have been asking about the custody paperwork for over one year. This office will not respond to requests.
I am back in court with another lawyer for support since none was ever filed by this office. Court transcripts with this lawyer clearly stating he will file custody and support orders has been printed and given to the attorney. He has declined to respond.
I cannot recommend him at this point. I see no reason for this office not to take responsibility for what they have or haven't done.
I am having to pay another attorney for what this lawyer has already been paid to do and has not.
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13 Dec, 2019 by Peter
I hired Mr Meyers as my divorce lawyer and during that time and process I was completely blown away at how confident and reassuring he was through the entire situation. If you're looking for an individual who will stand up in court and go for the throat when needed he's your man. The key to any good divorce attorney seems to be the advice and if you actually listen to his advice you will have no issues in the court. I read these other reviews and every case was for anything but divorce if you look at his experience he has over 30 years, 30 years plus in divorce law. Therefore don't waste your time using Mr Meyers as a criminal lawyer but if you want a damn good divorce lawyer he's the man for you.
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13 Dec, 2019 by Anonymous
In a bad position of my life I thought I was about to lose everything to my soon to be ex wife. When I was able to set up a consultation with Mr. Meyer From start to finish I was able to feel safe secure and confident of a fair outcome for my divorce, I highly recommend him.
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27 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
I checked this site prior to hiring Meyer, thought it was entirely possible to have one bad review and that this was probably the exception and not the norm. Unfortunately, I found this not to be the case. Meyer treated me as described in the prior review. He was consistently profane and unprofessional. When I complained about his behavior he told me not to take it personally as he treats everyone like that. He was untimely with written communications, blaming it on his secretary. He did not notify me for 1 1/2 months that the sale of my house had gone through and he had 10's of thousands of dollars of my money. He seems unable or unwilling to do math, which is often important in a divorce proceeding, and accepts opposing counsels math which, as you can imagine, can result in paying too much or for too long. When I asked him about an instance of this he told me I can take part of it off my income tax. In a nutshell, the experience I had seems to be the norm and not the exception .
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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.
