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08 Oct, 2024 by Julie perrucci
Working with Malinda was an absolute blessing! I am so grateful she was able to assist me in my filing and the preparation for it. I would highly recommend using her as your attorney!! Through the entire process she was available to answer all of my questions and give me advice.
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25 Sep, 2024 by Tamara flemmings
25 Sep, 2024 by Zane
Great service. She made a complex and scary task easy to digest and simple. She was able to answer any questions I had anytime I had them. I would recommend her to anyone.
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08 Oct, 2024 by Julie perrucci
Working with Malinda was an absolute blessing! I am so grateful she was able to assist me in my filing and the preparation for it. I would highly recommend using her as your attorney!! Through the entire process she was available to answer all of my questions and give me advice.
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25 Sep, 2024 by Tamara flemmings
25 Sep, 2024 by Zane
Great service. She made a complex and scary task easy to digest and simple. She was able to answer any questions I had anytime I had them. I would recommend her to anyone.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Twana cruell
Attorney Perry was very professional while handling my case. He kept me updated throughout the process and made sure I was aware of everything from start to finish. If you are looking for an attorney to handle a case for you call Perry.
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16 Sep, 2024 by Billy chapman
28 Aug, 2024 by Kristin davis whiteside
Mr. Perry Deloach was awesome!! He was helpful and understanding. He worked for me and was very honest and upfront. Overall great experience and a great person.
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02 Oct, 2024 by Taivan floydd
18 Sep, 2024 by Pastor ben
If I could give a thousand stars to Chad I would. Always there when I need something let me know every option and chance we had. Had a really positive outcome on the case and would tell everyone to go to him.
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11 Sep, 2024 by Tj
Outstanding professionalism and friendliness. A sincere helping hand when I needed one most. Thank you, Mr. Chad Propst!
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5.0
20 Reviews
4.8
89 Reviews
10 Aug, 2024 by Laura rector
Hayes Law firm handled my case with honesty and integrity. They never stopped fighting for me to ensure justice would prevail .Retain Linda , I promise you won't be sorry !
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15 Jul, 2024 by Gregory mccraney
The attorney is actively taking care of my divorce and hopefully I will be divorced by the end of August. I am now divorced and thank God daily for this wonderful gift. Shelly and Donna do most of the work here. Top notch lawyers as it was a pleasure. The absolute best and no drama.
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08 Jul, 2024 by John smith
I offer my High Praise!! I was beyond fortunate to find and hire Attorney, Linda Hayes to settle my contentious divorce. She did an amazing job cleaning up the mess created by the first attorney that I had hired to handle my Separation. As anyone that has been through a contentious divorce knows, it is beyond stressful! When couples are not on the same page, as in my case, I thankfully trusted Linda to guide me through this legal process to a reasonable agreement. She kept me grounded in fact as well as law and was always available with an answer to my many questions/ concerns- including, nights, weekends and holidays! Tell me you know of other attorneys who regularly reach out after "business hours"! My only regret was not knowing about Linda's firm and her legal expertise right from the beginning of my separation process. I'm sure she would have made my process less stressful right from the start. I highly recommend Linda Hayes and the professional team at her law firm,100%. Linda, I sincerely Thank You!!!
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02 Aug, 2024 by Eve hersch
It's never fun when you need to hire a lawyer, but at least with Grimes Teich and Anderson it was easy and seamless. From the first interaction to the last everyone at GTA was kind and helpful. I am very pleased with the work that both Jeff and Kaci did for me... quick, efficient and always communicative! Highly recommend them to anyone who has the unfortunate need for representation.
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16 Jul, 2024 by Stephend850
08 Jan, 2024 by Jim derck
Working with Jeff Martin and Kaci Caldwell was a wonderful experience! They kept me up to date throughout the whole legal process. Very prompt and appropriated their legal advice. Highly recommend this firm.
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28 Feb, 2024 by Lauren chastain
24 Aug, 2023 by Vanessa ragland
He is a wonderful criminal lawyer but when my son went to him to ask for help with a family court case he basically made him feel like the case was hopeless instead of just saying he didn't want to take the case. It had a lasting effect on my sons confidence concerning the custody case even though we found a wonderful lawyer who was able to do all the things Andrew Mackenzie said couldn't be done. I wouldn't recommend him si.ply be ause he may not be honest on what can and can't be done.
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16 May, 2021 by Cory starcher
Lynn and staff is wonderful! Highly recommend them if you want someone in your corner fighting for you.
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28 Feb, 2024 by Lauren chastain
24 Aug, 2023 by Vanessa ragland
He is a wonderful criminal lawyer but when my son went to him to ask for help with a family court case he basically made him feel like the case was hopeless instead of just saying he didn't want to take the case. It had a lasting effect on my sons confidence concerning the custody case even though we found a wonderful lawyer who was able to do all the things Andrew Mackenzie said couldn't be done. I wouldn't recommend him si.ply be ause he may not be honest on what can and can't be done.
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03 Nov, 2021 by Anonymous
Lynn has represented me In two cases and as many wives. If you’ve wanted to find the best divorce attorney around look no further. I was working with a top rated lawyer who is excellent but my second wife had a pic and a pan with her and Lynn saved the Day. Rose and Christina are wonderful and her husband is one of Greenville’s best criminal defense attorneys, HIGHEST RECCOMENDATION
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09 Sep, 2024 by Stephanie franklin
Rude woman answered the phone. Just hung up to find a nicer person. Why would you pay anything for someone to be rude when you are looking for information.
Edit: yes you did call to fuss about the 1 star review. No I did not ask for legal advice, I asked if something was legal to do. To be told "it like going into Walmart to buy a coke and telling them your not paying for it". If I am asking a question about it I am not buying it. no I am not paying $175 to find out if something is legal to do. Yes you are butt hurt or you would have never called me fussing about the 1 star review. Yes I have a lot on my plate so no I am not going to get into a debate with you about the rude statement your employee made. Maybe stop being rude because I was never rude to your employee and absolutely called her out on it over the phone before I hung up. Absolutely deserve the 1 star for the rude comment she made.
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25 Jul, 2024 by Robert stringer
I have worked with the McCord Law Firm a couple of times for real estate purchases. I couldn't have asked for an easier experience. Everyone I've dealt with has been nice and communicative. I look forward to working with the in the future and highly recommend them!
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25 Jul, 2024 by Robert stringer
I have worked with the McCord Law Firm a couple of times. They are wonderful to work with and very responsive. I look forward to working with the in the future and highly recommend them!
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22 Apr, 2024 by Juli ward
22 Apr, 2024 by Gene rockwell
22 Apr, 2024 by Julie eddy
We have used Bannister, Wyatt, and Stalvey for our legal needs, and will continue to do so in the future should the need arrive. They are exceptional and have always taken the time to talk through any questions we have, regardless how small they might have been.
Marcelo Torricos, was extremely professional, quick to respond, and very thorough as we worked through our estate planning. It is very difficult to decide who the legal guardians will be of your children. Mr. Torricos was compassionate and helped navigate our thoughts as we talked through our wishes should both my husband and I pass before our children are grown. He helped us to think through scenarios that we hadn't even thought of which made us comfortable that our boys will be taken care of if anything happened to us.
Jack McDonald, was also very professional and helped us navigate closing on a home equity loan to purchase land. This was in the height of the pandemic while everything was shut down. He kept the process going and we closed and got everything we needed to make our dream come true of owning a parcel of land to build on. When it came time to close, he did not just blow through every document we had to sign just to get the signature, he took the time to make sure we understood and were comfortable with everything on every document before we signed. He made it very easy for us to get and do everything he needed even while the pandemic made things infinitely harder on him I am sure.
I recommend Bannister, Wyatt & Stalvey for anyone needing legal advice or work. They are exceptional and I trust they have mine and my families best interest at heart all the time.
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19 Sep, 2024 by James
Gratefully I was given Alex's name by another attorney who felt he would be a good fit for my case. His work was excellent from start to finish. He helped me navigate the family court system. I would highly recommend his law firm.
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14 Jul, 2024 by Thomas hastings
Alex and Gabrielle are both consummate professionals. All I needed was a simple, uncontested divorce. Alex called me promptly after my initial message and we had a pleasant conversation that didn’t feel rushed. Once it was time to move forward, it was as simple and smooth a process as it could be from start to finish.
It’s unfortunate that I needed their services, but I definitely chose the right team to handle it for me. You should definitely consider Alex and Gabrielle if the services they provide fall within a need you have.
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27 Jun, 2024 by Jonathan patterson
Excellent service with everything happening exactly how I was told it would from Alex & Garbrielle! I started with a mutual agreement that needed to be finalized with court approval and did not know where to turn. I took a total chance from googling the local area and honestly after the fact I feel so lucky to have used them! Great transparency, knowledge, etc... you can not go wrong with him!
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03 Apr, 2024 by Liz s
This guy is a complete piece of work. If you want someone who will bend the law and change court dates to find a judge to side with him. You have found him! Hope the BAR does a full investigation on him and this judge before victimizing other good people
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22 Mar, 2024 by Danny glance
Horrible about keeping in touch with clients. I haven't heard anything from him in 3 months. Never returns phone calls. Always has an excuse for not calling you for months
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02 Mar, 2023 by Dan yarborough
Will has been extremely diligent and thorough in the handling of some family court matters on my behalf. He always kept me in the loop as to what was going on. With his vast amount of knowledge and experience on full display, I remained confident every step of the way. In closing I would have to say that after working with Will for the last couple years that he is a fine lawyer and I will most definitely hire him if another situation arises.
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14 May, 2024 by Justin green
I had a consultation scheduled, that I paid for at 11:45. No one from her office called. Period. I called a couple times and also emailed. Nothing. It's not 1:15.
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30 Apr, 2024 by Tena k
An amazing team and Attorney. Easy to work with and so very helpful every step of the way. My very unexpected & upsetting situation was handled with care and understanding. I highly recommend their services and if ever needed I will certainly use again myself. Thank you
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17 Apr, 2024 by Darrell suggs
We worked with Sarah and her firm for several years to complete a complicated adoption process. Her and her team's knowledge and guidance was incredible. We highly recommend her services.
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10 Jun, 2024 by Robin holt
Took my case for a week then called me said he could no longer work my case. WITH NO EXPLANATION AND NO REFUND OF MY MONEY!!!! Leaving me no longer able to contest probate.
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20 Mar, 2024 by Denise tucker
28 Feb, 2024 by Kristy qualls
Great attorney. Really cares about the people he serves. Very knowledgeable.
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22 Apr, 2024 by Daniel cibulskis
22 Oct, 2023 by Kim bostic
Amazing job! She goes above and beyond for her clients. Her knowledge of law and resources is apparent and her energy and willingness to work will bring you to the best possible outcome there is in your situation.
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22 Oct, 2023 by Heather painted
Very much a good lawyer, she is very dependable and answers all questions you have in detail definitely recommend 10/10
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22 Apr, 2024 by Daniel cibulskis
22 Oct, 2023 by Kim bostic
Amazing job! She goes above and beyond for her clients. Her knowledge of law and resources is apparent and her energy and willingness to work will bring you to the best possible outcome there is in your situation.
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22 Oct, 2023 by Heather painted
Very much a good lawyer, she is very dependable and answers all questions you have in detail definitely recommend 10/10
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30 Aug, 2017 by Kathryn
She was my divorce lawyer and I had no issues with her service. She is reasonably priced and keeps you informed with what is going on with your case. She did a fantastic job at getting me what I wanted. She is witty, well dressed and organized in the courtroom. I would hire her again.
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19 Jul, 2017 by Clarence
I interviewed several attorneys about filing for a modification of visitation and I ended up choosing to go with Karen which was a very good choice. I was extremely nervous about the whole thing. Not only did she calm my anxiety but most importantly she helped me get everything I was asking for. I highly recommend her.
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24 May, 2017 by Ashley g.
She showed up to my divorce hearing wearing a skin tight dress that just passed her hips a item someone would wear to the club and trashy stiletto hills. She showed up unprepared and when the judge asked her questions she kept looking at me for answers. I would have been better off representing myself. Her mind was on her son going to jail. She admitted that to me after the hearing, and instead of apologizing for making us loose the hearing ( I supplied her with PLENTY of evidence weeks prior to the court date) her response was "you married him".
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01 Nov, 2022 by Anonymous
Lisa was incompetent in handling my case. She let the defense walk all over her and barely said a word in my defense. Not only that, she was difficult and rude to work with. I would never recommend her to anyone else. Beware and do not be fooled by the other reviews.
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19 Mar, 2017 by Lora
I had spent 6 solid years in family court over child custody and related issues. I had used prior respected legal counsel. I used my life savings being in court constantly instead of working to provide real solutions to end all legal matters that were in the best interest of our child and to provide a final Order that both me and my ex-spouse could live with and begin to co-parent.
Lisa Mobley quickly, respectfully and affordably helped to settle all legal matters out of court. This was a huge task because I sought her legal counsel in the middle of a custody battle. For years much of the focus had not been in our child’s best interest. She provided real solutions and worked to settle all matters outside of court which saved all parties money and emotional strain on both the child, us as parents and those that love us.
Lisa’s years of experience as a family court attorney, a Guardian Ad Litem and a prior social worker brought wisdom and final closure to the many years of being in court and constant turmoil.
She provided resources and guidance to be able to now successfully co-parent and bring peace and healing to our families.
Lisa and her legal team provided wise solutions and resources to help us heal. Me and my ex–spouse can now focus our time, talents and resources to our child. This is something that had never been possible in the past.
No other paralegal and legal team compare to the staff at Lisa Mobley's Law Firm. Superior rating in every area!
I am forever grateful to Lisa and her experienced staff that was able to stop the crazy cycle of family court litigation, so that me, our child, ex-spouse and our families can experience real peace for the first time in 6 years. She was a real blessing!
Thank you for a job well done. I am forever grateful.
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09 Jan, 2017 by Christy and scott
I don't have enough words to describe how amazing the Mobley firm was. They work very hard to be professional, and courteous offering services exactly as requested. They have awesome staff and I had exceptional and fast results. I highly recommend this law firm. The attorneys are delightful and personable. I could not have asked for better services.
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06 May, 2024 by S f
Mr.Crangle provided courteous and professional service. I wouldn't hesitate to call on him again.
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26 Apr, 2024 by C f biz
I had a great experience with the Crangle Law Firm. I was kept up to date on all proceedings regarding my case, anytime I reached out or called I received a prompt response and my case resulted in a complete dismissal. I would definitely recommend the Crangle Law Firm. I couldn't ask for a better result.
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01 Apr, 2024 by Destiny gloeckler
In April of 2023 my husband was charged with PWID. Quickly into the case we knew we were going to be dissatisfied with the public defenders work and started saving for a lawyer. In that time, me and our daughters returned home to Nebraska but my husband had to stay in SC until the case was resolved. By February of 2024 we still had no idea what was happening with the case or when my husband would be able to come home to us. Out of all the lawyers we contacted, John was the most cost efficient for us and ended up being the best money spent! Within 4 weeks of hiring John, he had my husbands charge reduced, his sentencing complete and my husband back home to Nebraska. I could not be more grateful for all of his efforts, his endless communication, his compassion and care for his clients and our family. 1000000% recommend to anyone who is in need of some help through the justice system. Thank you John, for everything.
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11 Jun, 2024 by John
Cedric and Nadia left us hanging. No communication and no representation. Look elsewhere for a good lawyer.
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14 Nov, 2013 by Anonymous
Attorney Cunningham was very professional and on time. He did a great job and really helped me out. He was very knowledgeable and affordable. I would definitely recommend him to anyone.
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25 Dec, 2022 by Anonymous
Lucas has no ethics and makes up false and slanderous things. Avoid him at all costs.
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20 Feb, 2022 by Edward
His integrity is unmatched. Unless you compare him to Sydney Powell (the nut job still trying to overturn the election). Avoid this guy at all costs.
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19 Dec, 2016 by Anonymous
I obtained the services of Lucas Marchant on behalf of my son who is a high school student. Mr. Marchant was very genuine and walked us through the criminal justice process, as well as, the public school procedures involving disciplinary action. Mr. Marchant always kept me up to date on what was taking place and came to the best resolution for our situation that we feel like we could have come to. I would definitely recommend The Marchant Law Firm and would retain his services again if I ever find myself needing a lawyer again.
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05 May, 2017 by Anonymous
Handled a trafficking case for me in 2012/13. Took a $25000 retainer, then came back for another $10000 5 months later, ostensibly for federal representation. Let me get interviewed by dea without counsel present and justified the fees by implying all along he could get Judge Verdon to give me an illegal sentence. Was ultimately sanctioned by the Disciplinary Counsel of the SC Supreme Court for his handling of my case and the plea he arranged has been withdrawn. I only had to spend 3 years in prison and my family had to spend about another $50000 to achieve this.
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22 Oct, 2018 by Bfb
if you are a male going through divorce, do not hire this firm. he racked up the bill and then forced, forced me to settle the morning of the court date when I wanted a hearing.. run dont walk away from this firm!!! this firm is not interested in the best interest of the kids! only money!
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27 May, 2016 by Anonymous
THIS WOMAN SCREWED ME LEFT AND RIGHT. SHE TOLD ME A LIE EVERY TIME SHE OPENED HER MOUTH. SHE WOULD ATTEND SCHEDULED HEARINGS THAT I KNEW NOTHING ABOUT, AND ACT AS IF SHE HAD INFORMED ME OF THE DATE AND TIME, BUT NEVER TOLD ME ANYTHING.SHE MADE DECISIONS WITHOUT CONSULTING WITH ME. SHE AGREED TO SEVERAL CHANGES IN THE COURT ORDER, AND WOULDN'T NOTIFY ME. I WOULD HAVE TO FIND OUT BY RECEIVING A COPY OF CHANGED ORDERS IN THE MAIL 1-2 WEEKS LATER. SHE TOLD ME THAT I JUST NEEDED TO GIVE UP AND NOT WORRY ABOUT TRYING TO FIGHT BACK. JUST TO GIVE HIM WHAT HE ASKED FOR. BUT THE WORST IS THAT SHE SAID THAT I AGREED TO GIVE MY DAUGHTERS FATHER SOLE CUSTODY OF MY DAUGHTER, WHICH I HAVE RAISED HER ALONE SINCE BIRTH. THE FATHER WAS NEVER A PART OF HER LIFE CONSISTENTLY. THE DAY OF THE FINAL HEARING I WAS TOLD BY DAVIDA, THAT IF I DIDN'T AGREE TO WHAT THEY (THE FATHER AND HIS ATTY) WANTED, I WOULD GO TO JAIL. SHE REFUSED TO TELL ME WHAT THE AGREEMENT WAS, I DIDN'T KNOW WHAT TO DO BECAUSE SHE HAD PUT SO MUCH FEAR IN ME, ALTHOUGH I HAVE NEVER DONE ANYTHING TO LOSE CUSTODY OF MY BABY. I REQUESTED A COPY OF THE TRANSCRIPT FOR APRIL 29, AND WAS TOLD THAT IT WOULD TAKE ONLY 7-10 DAYS TO PREPARE THE TRANSCRIPT. AND THAT I WOULD GET A COPY IN THE MAIL. WELL I GOT A COPY ALRIGHT, ONE THAT SHE HAD REVISED TO MAKE IT LOOK AS IF I GAVE UP AND GAVE HIM EVERYTHING!! LONG STORY SHORT, ON APRIL 29 AFTER I WAS RELEASED FROM THE LEC, MY DAD RECEIVED A CALL FROM DAVIDA, AND SHE WOULD NO LONGER BE MY ATTY. THIS LADY CALLED AND FIRED HERSELF BECAUSE SHE KNEW THAT EVERYTHING SHE DID AND SAID TO ME WAS WRONG, AND SHE KNEW THAT SHE HAD MESSED UP. TO ME IT SEEMS AS THOUGH I WAS PAYING HER TO HAVE MY DAUGHTER TAKEN AWAY FROM ME AND HER BROTHERS. ALWAYS REMEMBER THAT GOD DOES NOT LIKE UGLY AND IT WILL SOON CATCH UP WITH YOU, AND HE WILL HANDLE YOU AND HAVE YOU GO THROUGH A STORM WORSE THAN WHAT SHE PUT ME THROUGH.
I WILL SAY IT AGAIN, DO NOT HIRE THIS WOMAN TO REPRESENT YOU IN ANY SHAPE, FASHION, OR FORM FOR ANYTHING!! SHE IS A MONEY HUNGRY PERSON, SHE WILL LIE TO YOU AND TRY TO TAKE EVERY PENNY YOU HAVE.
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02 Feb, 2014 by Anonymous
She was made aware of important
information and details of marriage . For some reason decided not to look at this further, probably in order to win our case. Now people are having to deal with this important information that is still a very scary serious issues that needed to be acknowledge in final agreement.
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11 Sep, 2013 by Anonymous
Poor excuse for a divorce lawyer, she spent
more energy appeasing the opposing counsel
than representing the best interest of her client.
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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.
