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28 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
There should have been a conflict of interest stated right off the bat in my case. I used to work for him. Haslem is an attorney that will lie & create false narratives about the opposing party. 6 years post divorce, he still hasn’t figured out how to read the messy JOD that he created. I can show where he threatens me every single holiday especially Christmas, my birthday and Mother’s Day. It’s time the judge sees what he and my ex are continuing to do. Haslem refused to turn over properties due me in our JOD so I had to sue for it 4 years later and finally got it. His assistant is as dishonest as he is. I’m sure Haslem doesn’t know she helped me get away from him when I used to work for him. He will promise you the moon, charge you quadruple for it and deliver pizza. If you want a very dirty divorce with no peace until your kids graduate- hire him. You’ll keep paying him too. If you want peace and put your children first-do not hire him. The sad thing is, my eldest now sees how dirty Haslem plays and the lies he and my ex make up. He doesn’t create a healthy environment for kids in a divorce at all.
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15 Jan, 2023 by Anonymous
Mark Haslem came to my rescue after I exploited an arrogant and pretentious lawyer from a large firm. Haslem helped me resolve a very contentious divorce with my former spouse, who tried anything and everything to cheat the system. As opposed to the big firm, Haslem fought hard on my behalf to attain a fair settlement and to protect my financial interests, which was not easy when facing someone with a personality disorder. I am very grateful for all his hard work and would recommend him to anyone.
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22 Jun, 2022 by Timothy
His scorched earth approach makes it very difficult to make things amicable with the other party. I had to tell him to tone it down which was shocking
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31 Jul, 2024 by Oleksandr
Wonderful service to the community! Thank you so much for what you do!
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19 Jul, 2024 by Lorinda lehner
Great source for legal assistance or referrals of needed
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02 Jul, 2024 by Alisha mckie
Staff was very helpful, even the nice lady that told me it was her first day. Everyone was so kind and patient. :) Helped me make sure I had the correct re notice form and scheduled a new court date for me.
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31 Jul, 2024 by Oleksandr
Wonderful service to the community! Thank you so much for what you do!
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19 Jul, 2024 by Lorinda lehner
Great source for legal assistance or referrals of needed
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02 Jul, 2024 by Alisha mckie
Staff was very helpful, even the nice lady that told me it was her first day. Everyone was so kind and patient. :) Helped me make sure I had the correct re notice form and scheduled a new court date for me.
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12 Apr, 2024 by Vanessa litteral
My husband had an appeal case with unemployment so I signed up for an advocate. After researching the names on the list and with only a week before the hearing. I called Mr.Sutton out of his business hours expecting to just leave a voicemail and to my suprise he called me back within the hour..originally I kinda thought he was being rude but despite that I chose to go with him anyway..because he did know his law and he had answers to everything I asked him. So the day before the hearing he called to remind us of the hearing and to go over everything one last time..he reassured me we had nothing to worry about and the day of the hearing..he did great and we won our case!! I definitely recommend Mr.Sutton for your unemployment appeal
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14 Jan, 2024 by Tywanda davis
15 Nov, 2021 by Jim “james the humble” w.
13 Aug, 2024 by Marissa
I am a strong and independent woman; I have never been brought to my knees as quickly as the divorce and custody situation I was forced to navigate.
Dave Sarnacki and Tammy never, not once, gave me false hope. They took what I had and gave me the spectrum of possibilities. Attention to detail and concern for the truth flow through them.
I leaned on them, heavily, and they got me through the really awful situations we had to work through. I speak highly of them always- they raise the bar both as professionals and as being relatable to what divorce can do to people.
There is no better choice.
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03 Aug, 2024 by Nancy
David did an excellent job. He was straightforward with me and didn't make huge promises like some lawyers. I told him I wanted what was fair and he worked with my husband's attorney from a huge law firm and we settled within 10 weeks. There was no dragging the case out to milk me for more money and I received a very fair settlement. Tammy, his assistant, is very knowledgeable and proficient, and contrary to what another reviewer said, it saved me money by working through her rather than spending more money talking directly with David. I would highly recommend this law firm.
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31 Jul, 2024 by Andrew
David was exceptional throughout my divorce. He was incredibly thorough, always responsive, and provided unwavering support. His respectful and compassionate approach made a difficult time much easier for me. Highly recommend David for anyone needing a top-notch divorce attorney. Thank you for your outstanding service!
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18 Sep, 2024 by Luis valladares
Muy buen abogado lo recomiendo
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03 Sep, 2024 by Martin de la fuente
Richard Kessler is the best attorney and I was so happy with the decision on hiring him. When Obama was in office I was taken in by ICE for charges that I had already served my sentence back in 1984. They were trying to take my residency away and Richard fought for me until I was exonerated from my charges and everything was dropped.
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28 Aug, 2024 by El sueño de un pescador
Mi caso fue acsidente de motosicleta Tuve un Excelente servicio estuvieron conmigo Atentamente a todo me ayudaron con mi caso muchisimas grasias mi Lic Richard Kessler 🫡🫡
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23 Aug, 2024 by Jennifer kirkwood
Sean took my husbands case with 72 hours left before our first court date. He rallied that entire weekend and walked into court competent and prepared. He continued to work closely with my husband- read all of my husbands many emails containing texts and other evidence and handled both my husband’s and my concerns regarding the case with the utmost care and professionalism. He was strategic in questioning witnesses on the stand and ultimately won the case for my husband. We could not be more thankful that Sean took this case. Thank you Sean!
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21 Aug, 2024 by Natasha chelrey
i hired sean for a custody case a few years back. i have had NOTHING but disappointment with him. he has dropped the ball. lied to me. and straight up doesnt actually do the work he is saying. he will say that he has been busy but he doesnt know i had a friend. that had him as a lawyer as well and he would repsond to her sometimes and not respond to me or vise versa. it has been weeks yet again since he has responded to me. DO NOT HIRE HIM. it has been disappointment after disappointment and really he hasnt helped me do much of anything. i am a single mom with three kiddos. getting screwed by a lawyer is the last thing yah want so dont choose him! he has hurt our family because his lack of doing his job.
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19 Jun, 2024 by Betti alexander
This ‘law firm’ will gladly take all of your money knowing full well the outcome and leading you on the whole time and then they’ll pull out and go to another case bc they got new money. Do not trust them, they’ll take up all your time talking about the weather and charge you for it!! No sharks here, just vultures.
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08 Mar, 2024 by Jenna rietveld
When you’re divorcing a serial cheater with a secret bank account & a gambling addiction, you need Kim Large on your side! She is so meticulous, detailed, and extremely dialed in to protect you from the antics of conniving people! 10/10 recommend!
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05 Feb, 2024 by Courtney moose
Kim Large is top notch! The best divorce attorney without a doubt! She fights hard for her clients, shows up strong and takes great care of those she is working for! Hands down I trust her with legal needs!
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01 Feb, 2024 by Randy katerberg
Kim has been an unbelievable help to a few people I referred to her with custody issues. For family law you need to look no further.
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08 Mar, 2024 by Jenna rietveld
When you’re divorcing a serial cheater with a secret bank account & a gambling addiction, you need Kim Large on your side! She is so meticulous, detailed, and extremely dialed in to protect you from the antics of conniving people! 10/10 recommend!
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05 Feb, 2024 by Courtney moose
Kim Large is top notch! The best divorce attorney without a doubt! She fights hard for her clients, shows up strong and takes great care of those she is working for! Hands down I trust her with legal needs!
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01 Feb, 2024 by Randy katerberg
Kim has been an unbelievable help to a few people I referred to her with custody issues. For family law you need to look no further.
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08 Mar, 2024 by Jenna rietveld
When you’re divorcing a serial cheater with a secret bank account & a gambling addiction, you need Kim Large on your side! She is so meticulous, detailed, and extremely dialed in to protect you from the antics of conniving people! 10/10 recommend!
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05 Feb, 2024 by Courtney moose
Kim Large is top notch! The best divorce attorney without a doubt! She fights hard for her clients, shows up strong and takes great care of those she is working for! Hands down I trust her with legal needs!
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01 Feb, 2024 by Randy katerberg
Kim has been an unbelievable help to a few people I referred to her with custody issues. For family law you need to look no further.
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24 Apr, 2024 by Mike werbeskas
19 Mar, 2024 by Rain wilson
If I could give 0 stars I would! She never slowed down enough for me to talk to her or retain anything she spewed at me!
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19 Mar, 2024 by Trisha bott
Reasonable, helpful, pleasant and easy to work with in preparing Estate planning documents.
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14 Aug, 2018 by Bryan
Amy was excellent in cleaning up a mess from previous attorney.
I would strongly recommend her
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22 Jan, 2018 by David
I have used Amy many times and she has kicked ass every time for me and my kids,she worked with me on the money and I could call or text her anytime at no charge because she wanted to help me and not let my ex screw me over money wise and keeping my kids.!!! SHE IS A SAVIOR THAT I STILL STOP IN AT TIMES TO LET HER KNOW THINGS ARE GOING IM GLAD TO KNOW HER AND JER HUSBAND JOHN ...!!!!!
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18 Dec, 2016 by Anonymous
Wonderful attorney who will fight for you and your family. She will call and talk to you any time about your case. I would highly recommend her to anyone.
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06 Mar, 2020 by Anonymous
Ms. Perry made so many self promoting promises and claims that I was confident at first. After she assured shed have my case thrown out in court.She never took a call even from jail her secretary said she doesnt ( do collect calls)
Refused to meet with me even once. refused to ever take a call from my brother or my uncle or my spouse. Berated my uncle at court for calling the office so often. Didnt submit any of the evidence that my uncle and my spouse had to get themselves because she didnt have the time apparently. Never used the evidence. Didnt call the police officer that volunteered to testify on my behalf. Completely went to court with absolutely no evidence. no plan and even I thought I looked guilty after that redicuolous proceeding. It went from bad to worse. Then much to my surprise this attorney that said shed fight and fight hard for me tells me 10 min before court starts 4 months after our last meeting that I have 10 min to decide to cop a pkea or face 15 yes of PRISON. for a crime she knew I did not commit. It scarred me bad I took the plea knowing that sealed my fate I trusted her as my attorney. I did trust her and noone else did at all. Even another officer doubted her ability. well.I ended up going to prison for what she said never should have even got to court in the 1st place. I find out later her only specialty is in child custody and divorce. She advertises criminal defense.big huge difference. Then the final straw.Find out that theres a good chance she had a conflict of interest and never said a word. If your freedom and name is at risk I hope your much smarter than I was.
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28 Dec, 2015 by Ernest
She was a great person and was there when I had questions and when I needed her for something and did a great job I would use her again in a minute she is someone I would really reccomend if you need help
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21 Oct, 2015 by Tereasa
Such a blessing to have Shawn,not only as a consistent on top of things attorney but also becoming a true friend and family! Highly recommended
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04 May, 2020 by Brittany
Unprofessional, incompetent, and a huge waste of money. This attorney never had a clue as to what was going on in regards to my case, and all my phone calls and meetings with her were spent repeating the same details to her over and over, which had already been documented and covered in paper format with her client intake questionnaire. I ended up completely compromising on basically all of the issues in our case and my ex ended up writing our divorce settlement for her in order for us to be divorced in a timely manner. Still was charged for her time in "writing it up."
The day of my final hearing, she walked up to me confused and asked if I was her client. This was after meeting me in person twice, the last one occuring less than 2 weeks before the hearing. Also, right before the final hearing started, she ran off to make copies and when the judge and clerk arrived, they were baffled by her absence and we all had to wait for her to come back. Her delay in the proceedings of course were charged for.
From a low income, single mom who is legally fully responsible for the finances of 2 children, take my word. Save your money. Hire someone competent.
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21 Jan, 2018 by Mishelle
Contacted by email, quick response. Contacted again, quick response by phone and answered all my questions. Very impressive.
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05 Nov, 2013 by Anonymous
Susan superbly handled my divorce from a local attorney 5 years ago. She was able to keep a level of professionalism between all parties. Recent follow-up with her has been easy. I would say her creativity in divorce law has helped me tremendously. I would highly recommend her.
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20 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
Don't waste your money on her. She will do minimum work and will not advise you well. I hired her for one issue and when another one came up she was quick to say that she was not hired for that. How do you take a case and say I do this, but when something comes up along the way connected to the same case you say I did not take this case. I feel like she took $3000 for one court appearance and some emails. Stay away from her.
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09 May, 2014 by Anonymous
I highly recommend Laurie. She's incredibly knowledgable, driven, and professional while being very friendly and compassionate. I liked that she is direct, timely in returning calls and filing paperwork. She is understanding and willing to answer any questions or concerns. She helped me through a very difficult custody case and the results were outstanding! To say I'm pleased with the results would be an understatement. I would recommend her to family.
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16 Mar, 2014 by Anonymous
I highly recommend Laurie. She's very friendly and professional at the same time. She's very involved with your concerns and questions. Also she will respond to your phone calls in a timely manner unlike many others.
Thanks again Laurie.
Very pleased with the results.
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06 Dec, 2012 by Brad
Dave was hired to help with issues with a divorce and custody. He didn't seem to have a lot of knowledge initially, but wasn't afraid to do the leg work to find out what he didn't know. He isn't what I would call a bull dog type when it comes to representing Men in a divorce, which would be nice when dealing with the FOC and family courts. At times I wished he would have been much more aggressive. Overall its been a fairly positive experience working with him. He is willing to work out financial obligations/requirements which is very helpful from the clients prospective. Too bad for me I started all the litigation between myself and my ex wife over financial and custodial issues...all it got me was more money out of my pocket to my ex and lawyer and an better understanding of how BROKE our Family Law system really is.
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28 Jul, 2023 by Vicki
Employed by FSCS for 8 years in an Admin Support role. Definitely a Best Place to Work!
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25 May, 2023 by Mike cherry
Thanks for all the help.
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28 Dec, 2022 by Meghan mott
13 Aug, 2024 by Sonja sirie waters
Very slow need more people
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26 Jul, 2024 by Rick the ricker
No help or even reply.. Good luck.
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22 Jul, 2024 by Taniesha sanford
Lawyer was very careless she basically sided with who i was going to court against i lost both my cases while she laughed and giggled with the person taking me to court i was harrased after court she never respo ded to messages until 3 days later she was very careless about my situation we came to a agrrement in court and my landlord added fees that was not in my agreement and she did not say anything about it she was not for me she was more for getting paid for nothing worse lawyers ever
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13 Aug, 2024 by Sonja sirie waters
Very slow need more people
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26 Jul, 2024 by Rick the ricker
No help or even reply.. Good luck.
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22 Jul, 2024 by Taniesha sanford
Lawyer was very careless she basically sided with who i was going to court against i lost both my cases while she laughed and giggled with the person taking me to court i was harrased after court she never respo ded to messages until 3 days later she was very careless about my situation we came to a agrrement in court and my landlord added fees that was not in my agreement and she did not say anything about it she was not for me she was more for getting paid for nothing worse lawyers ever
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13 Aug, 2024 by Sonja sirie waters
Very slow need more people
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26 Jul, 2024 by Rick the ricker
No help or even reply.. Good luck.
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22 Jul, 2024 by Taniesha sanford
Lawyer was very careless she basically sided with who i was going to court against i lost both my cases while she laughed and giggled with the person taking me to court i was harrased after court she never respo ded to messages until 3 days later she was very careless about my situation we came to a agrrement in court and my landlord added fees that was not in my agreement and she did not say anything about it she was not for me she was more for getting paid for nothing worse lawyers ever
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13 Aug, 2024 by Sonja sirie waters
Very slow need more people
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26 Jul, 2024 by Rick the ricker
No help or even reply.. Good luck.
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22 Jul, 2024 by Taniesha sanford
Lawyer was very careless she basically sided with who i was going to court against i lost both my cases while she laughed and giggled with the person taking me to court i was harrased after court she never respo ded to messages until 3 days later she was very careless about my situation we came to a agrrement in court and my landlord added fees that was not in my agreement and she did not say anything about it she was not for me she was more for getting paid for nothing worse lawyers ever
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13 Aug, 2024 by Sonja sirie waters
Very slow need more people
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26 Jul, 2024 by Rick the ricker
No help or even reply.. Good luck.
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22 Jul, 2024 by Taniesha sanford
Lawyer was very careless she basically sided with who i was going to court against i lost both my cases while she laughed and giggled with the person taking me to court i was harrased after court she never respo ded to messages until 3 days later she was very careless about my situation we came to a agrrement in court and my landlord added fees that was not in my agreement and she did not say anything about it she was not for me she was more for getting paid for nothing worse lawyers ever
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13 Aug, 2024 by Sonja sirie waters
Very slow need more people
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26 Jul, 2024 by Rick the ricker
No help or even reply.. Good luck.
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22 Jul, 2024 by Taniesha sanford
Lawyer was very careless she basically sided with who i was going to court against i lost both my cases while she laughed and giggled with the person taking me to court i was harrased after court she never respo ded to messages until 3 days later she was very careless about my situation we came to a agrrement in court and my landlord added fees that was not in my agreement and she did not say anything about it she was not for me she was more for getting paid for nothing worse lawyers ever
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13 Aug, 2024 by Sonja sirie waters
Very slow need more people
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26 Jul, 2024 by Rick the ricker
No help or even reply.. Good luck.
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22 Jul, 2024 by Taniesha sanford
Lawyer was very careless she basically sided with who i was going to court against i lost both my cases while she laughed and giggled with the person taking me to court i was harrased after court she never respo ded to messages until 3 days later she was very careless about my situation we came to a agrrement in court and my landlord added fees that was not in my agreement and she did not say anything about it she was not for me she was more for getting paid for nothing worse lawyers ever
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24 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
Jim came highly recommended from another attorney.
I was impressed at his no nonsense approach and felt he was more than fair with his rates.
He is an ethical and honest man.
I would highly recommend him.
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10 Sep, 2018 by Anonymous
Hired James for my divorce and he made several mistakes that cost me a lot of money. when I tried to ask him his reasoning for making the decision he made, he got really mad, yelled and insulted me with details he learned from my divorce.
To top off his poor attorney skills James is an expert at finding ways to bill his clients more money. He will bill you for every phone call, Text, and photo copy he has to make. at fifty dollars a text things will add up quickly.
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02 Feb, 2016 by Shirley
I have known Mr. Sullivan for many years and I highly recommend him. He was my late sons and my late husbands attorney. I now use Jim for my personal business and he is very honest and has helped me a lot in making the right decisions.
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09 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
Nancy did not represent my best interests and was pretty bad in the courtroom in front of the judge. I did not feel as though she battled at all for me, and I lost everything.
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26 Apr, 2024 by Ereuka dickerson
Experienced compassionate resident supporter of the City, county & and state of Michigan
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07 Nov, 2023 by Cc todd
If I could give 0 stars, I would. Initial intake was unbelievably unprofessional with a level of disrespect and disservice unbecoming of any business, much less a professional law firm. Sherry raised her voice when I calmly expressed discomfort at a part of the initial intake Q&A and instead of providing reassurances or more information about why they request the information they request, she yelled at me (as a new potential client) and then ultimately hung up on me, rudely ending the initial consult. How maddening and exasperating to be treated like that. I will be filing a formal complaint as well. DO NOT BE DISRESPECTED BY THIS FIRM or it's unprofessional staff.
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21 Aug, 2024 by Evan thomas
"Michael D. Weaver" is probably one of the rudest lawyer I have spoken to. I should have hung up within the first 10 seconds after speaking with him. He accuses you of lying, thinks in black/white logic, and have to explain things to him in "1+1 =2" terms (once you spell it out for him, and if he doesn't understand, he accuses you of being all over the place when it's his fault for not understanding EASY concepts; I could tell it takes time for him to understand new materials). Michael is the type of person who only takes on easy cases/money (doesn't have critical thinking skills), sees the world in "his view," and is delusional to think he is right all the time. Within the first 3 minutes of calling him, I called him out and hanged up on him. I spoke with at least 30 lawyers in my life, and those without critical thinking skills is a big no.
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02 Sep, 2021 by Adam
15 Jan, 2019 by Patricia noonan
12 Mar, 2024 by Nicholas
Let me just start off by saying for all the negative reviews left by people it’s far from the truth of what and who Varnum is.
I’ve been a client of Varnum now almost 5 years.
I have personally been in the office and spoke with the receptionist ladies, every time I feel welcomed like I am part of the family.
my children are adored and loved they get snacks and candy and drinks every time. They love going to Varnum when Daddy has to talk or see his Attorneys.
My lead attorney Jon M. Bylsma Managing Partner of the Firm, and Peter Smit who now is retired but still on my case.
These two attorneys at Varnum Law are the face of Varnum
Jon always answers my calls, texts, and emails, he protects me and my family. Best Attorney in America.
Anything I need he does it for my family, he is a true Lawyer who after being 30 plus years with the firm shows what Varnum is really all about and their values and what they stand for.
Varnum isn’t ripping clients off, that’s unethical, Varnum isn’t about doing unethical practices.
Varnum has been around since the late 1800s, Varnum is a very reputable Law Firm to trust with your legal needs.
They’re a community based law Firm in local charities, giving back to the Community in West Michigan.
Nothing in life is perfect, but I can personally tell you if you hired a law firm like Varnum Attorneys at law you will never regret it, you will become family, a repeat client.
I personally recommend hiring Varnum for all you legal issues, advice, and matters.
Thank you Varnum Family, Jon M. Bylsma and Peter Smit for everything you keep doing for me and my family.
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19 Feb, 2024 by Marcia
24 Jan, 2024 by Cinthya huerta
If I could put zero I would, Tina with the smoker voice was so rude, threatening and unprofessional to say the least. At first she was very kind but as soon as I told her I didn’t have the $800 she requested she threatened me with foreclosure and then some. What type of people hire someone this ridiculous 😂 and then to top it off she hung up on me twice! She was so rude to me but as soon as I was rude back she had an issue with me. Apparently they do agreements over the phone too? I wasn’t told that I was agreeing to something over the phone. I’m not 11 😭😂 save your money time and peace, instead of dealing with these people who don’t want to do a job but smoke a pack of cigs. She always so refused to put her boss on the phone which is crazy to me considering she’s the damn receptionist 😂
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12 Mar, 2024 by Nicholas
Let me just start off by saying for all the negative reviews left by people it’s far from the truth of what and who Varnum is.
I’ve been a client of Varnum now almost 5 years.
I have personally been in the office and spoke with the receptionist ladies, every time I feel welcomed like I am part of the family.
my children are adored and loved they get snacks and candy and drinks every time. They love going to Varnum when Daddy has to talk or see his Attorneys.
My lead attorney Jon M. Bylsma Managing Partner of the Firm, and Peter Smit who now is retired but still on my case.
These two attorneys at Varnum Law are the face of Varnum
Jon always answers my calls, texts, and emails, he protects me and my family. Best Attorney in America.
Anything I need he does it for my family, he is a true Lawyer who after being 30 plus years with the firm shows what Varnum is really all about and their values and what they stand for.
Varnum isn’t ripping clients off, that’s unethical, Varnum isn’t about doing unethical practices.
Varnum has been around since the late 1800s, Varnum is a very reputable Law Firm to trust with your legal needs.
They’re a community based law Firm in local charities, giving back to the Community in West Michigan.
Nothing in life is perfect, but I can personally tell you if you hired a law firm like Varnum Attorneys at law you will never regret it, you will become family, a repeat client.
I personally recommend hiring Varnum for all you legal issues, advice, and matters.
Thank you Varnum Family, Jon M. Bylsma and Peter Smit for everything you keep doing for me and my family.
Read more
19 Feb, 2024 by Marcia
24 Jan, 2024 by Cinthya huerta
If I could put zero I would, Tina with the smoker voice was so rude, threatening and unprofessional to say the least. At first she was very kind but as soon as I told her I didn’t have the $800 she requested she threatened me with foreclosure and then some. What type of people hire someone this ridiculous 😂 and then to top it off she hung up on me twice! She was so rude to me but as soon as I was rude back she had an issue with me. Apparently they do agreements over the phone too? I wasn’t told that I was agreeing to something over the phone. I’m not 11 😭😂 save your money time and peace, instead of dealing with these people who don’t want to do a job but smoke a pack of cigs. She always so refused to put her boss on the phone which is crazy to me considering she’s the damn receptionist 😂
Read more
12 Mar, 2024 by Nicholas
Let me just start off by saying for all the negative reviews left by people it’s far from the truth of what and who Varnum is.
I’ve been a client of Varnum now almost 5 years.
I have personally been in the office and spoke with the receptionist ladies, every time I feel welcomed like I am part of the family.
my children are adored and loved they get snacks and candy and drinks every time. They love going to Varnum when Daddy has to talk or see his Attorneys.
My lead attorney Jon M. Bylsma Managing Partner of the Firm, and Peter Smit who now is retired but still on my case.
These two attorneys at Varnum Law are the face of Varnum
Jon always answers my calls, texts, and emails, he protects me and my family. Best Attorney in America.
Anything I need he does it for my family, he is a true Lawyer who after being 30 plus years with the firm shows what Varnum is really all about and their values and what they stand for.
Varnum isn’t ripping clients off, that’s unethical, Varnum isn’t about doing unethical practices.
Varnum has been around since the late 1800s, Varnum is a very reputable Law Firm to trust with your legal needs.
They’re a community based law Firm in local charities, giving back to the Community in West Michigan.
Nothing in life is perfect, but I can personally tell you if you hired a law firm like Varnum Attorneys at law you will never regret it, you will become family, a repeat client.
I personally recommend hiring Varnum for all you legal issues, advice, and matters.
Thank you Varnum Family, Jon M. Bylsma and Peter Smit for everything you keep doing for me and my family.
Read more
19 Feb, 2024 by Marcia
24 Jan, 2024 by Cinthya huerta
If I could put zero I would, Tina with the smoker voice was so rude, threatening and unprofessional to say the least. At first she was very kind but as soon as I told her I didn’t have the $800 she requested she threatened me with foreclosure and then some. What type of people hire someone this ridiculous 😂 and then to top it off she hung up on me twice! She was so rude to me but as soon as I was rude back she had an issue with me. Apparently they do agreements over the phone too? I wasn’t told that I was agreeing to something over the phone. I’m not 11 😭😂 save your money time and peace, instead of dealing with these people who don’t want to do a job but smoke a pack of cigs. She always so refused to put her boss on the phone which is crazy to me considering she’s the damn receptionist 😂
Read more
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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.
