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20 May, 2021 by Anonymous
Awesome attorney. Call her for anything you need, especially personal injury!
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09 Dec, 2018 by Anonymous
I used Laura's services and felt really comfortable during the interactions. She and her paralegal (Shona) are a great team and know their stuff. I highly recommend Mrs. Martin's services to anybody.
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10 Dec, 2024 by Connie terry
Could not thank Tiffany and Alex enough for the great job that they did handling my daughter’s car accident case. Their professionalism was very evident. They made this difficult time much easier to deal with. Would highly recommend the law firm for any of your legal needs.
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05 Dec, 2024 by Riley blassingame
Tiffany Mckinney did an amazing job helping me and my family through this long process. I definitely recommend her for anyone out there that needs an attorney for a wreck. She was very patient and super helpful through it all. We appreciate you!!
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05 Dec, 2024 by Grace blassingame
Tiffany was extremely helpful to my sister and I when we got into a bad car accident. She made sure we got every penny we deserved and was very professional!
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23 Jan, 2025 by Seth freeman
10/10 Attorney. Never was disappointed at any part of the criminal defense process. A&B By Mob Charge Dismissed.
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30 Dec, 2024 by Juanita munoz
Stuart Sarratt helped me when I was at the lowest point in my life. I was fighting 3 felony charges that I was not guilty of, I was completely broken. I felt lost and didn’t know who to turn on to but then Stuart came into my life, my case, and fought for me. He was compassionate, he listened, he’s raw and uncut. He’s seriously one of Greenville’s best. I would recommend this gentleman to anyone who is looking for a really good defense attorney THAT ACTUALLY CARES ABOUT HIS CLIENTS AND WHAT HAPPENS TO THEM ONCE THE DOORS TO THE COURT ROOM SHUT. Hire Stuart. He is simply innate to this work.
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29 Dec, 2024 by Anonymous
My ex used her in our divorce. She and her firm ran up his fees (expecting ME to pay them), to recover a lesser amount from my retirement plan in a QDRO. Never made a good effort toward settling the case (which was relatively small). Went all the way to a final hearing. Remember, when you lose based on crappy advice, you still have to pay THEIR bill. I almost felt sorry for him.
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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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26 May, 2016 by Alvin
Mr. Randall represented me in a personal injury case he was very professional.I always felt that he showed as much interest in my health and physical well being as much as financial. very prompt, always will return calls. Very please with the hard work he put into my case.
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18 May, 2016 by Andrew tidwell sr
Brian Randall represented me in both Worker's Compensation case and Social Security disability.
He was very good at keeping in contact with Me and keeping Me informed on the status of my case.
I would use Brian on any case I may have. I know it would get done right.
Thank You for all your help Brian Randall
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17 May, 2016 by Cyndie
Mr. Randall is a super nice man and very Professional. He worked very hard with my mom and I in 2005 when I was injured on the job. Then in 2010 when I was diagnosed with brain tumors, he worked hard on getting my approval for disability. I would recommend him to anyone!
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30 Jan, 2018 by Anna
Margaret handled my divorce with grace, compassion and ease! She and her staff really made a hard time much easier on me. She always placed my best interest and the best interest of my child first. Margaret is diligent and did an excellent job handling all of the details of my divorce. She is very knowledgeable and always sets expectations so I never felt like I was getting caught off guard. She went above and beyond even after the divorce was final. I highly recommend Margaret and will always consider her my go to lawyer.
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28 Aug, 2017 by Abigail
I have been a client of Chamberlain Law Firm for over seven years! I first came to Margaret in the middle of a custody battle. Prior to meeting with her I tried to handle things on my own and landed myself in a very precarious position. I did not wish to fight with my ex, but simply do what was going to be best for the two young children. My ex had other plans. In hindsight I wish I would have met with her sooner. If you are considering whether you should or shouldn't get an attorney… You need to just come speak with Margaret. She is a wealth of knowledge! I won't bore you with the sob story that was my life. All I can say is Margaret took ALL my mess...and it WAS a mess! She explained very thoroughly what my expectation should be, what I should do, what I should be prepared for.
From the first time that I walked into Margaret Chamberlain's office and met Deanne and Kathy I felt cared for. I felt like they understood my goal was to protect my children and not to hurt someone else. Over the years I have grown very fond of those women not just on a personal level, but I have the upmost respect for their level of professionalism and and competence. I have never called with a question that couldn't be answered, and if they didn't have an answer Deanne was sure to get back to me promptly. I have asked this law firm for help on many different occasions raging from divorce decrees, child custody and visitation, contempt hearing's, and modification of orders. I have referred close friends to her as well and they have been ecstatic with their results! In the end we all want what's best for our children, or maybe we don't have children and someone is trying to take advantage of us. It's important to have someone like Margaret protecting you.
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18 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
2016 was a very tough year for my family. My step daughters mother made some significant changes in her life that would have taken an A student out of an excellent school, 400 miles away from everything she knew and loved. Including friends and family, moving her the unknown with a new stepfather that was not out for her well being. We were terrified for what her future was to hold. We were scare, angry, very upset... anxious. Margaret and her staff felt like family, they understood how and why we felt what we felt. And we felt their concerns for our daughter as well. They understood this was our world right now and we just needed the safety of this child to be put first and foremost.
Deanne and Kathy were always sure to understand any concern when we contacted the office whether via email or phone so as to relay to Ms. Chamberlain in the best to their ability for her to get back to us with an answer promptly.
My step daughter had a change in custody to her father - temporary custody end of summer 2016. Father got sole custody mid summer 2017. Both very unusual results.
Thank you all so much!!! We are so grateful.
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28 Jun, 2019 by Mike
I hired Mr. Rutledge for a divorce a year ago. He has worked with me every step of the way. During every step of my case, he looked out for me.
One thing I particularly appreciate is that he thoughtfully and carefully answered all of my questions during a very trying time. This was a big, confusing step in my life, and Mr. Rutledge thoughtfully answered all of my questions and backed me during this time of my life.
Mr. Rutledge is an excellent attorney. He really cares about his clients. It shows every time you deal with him.
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17 Jun, 2019 by Neil
David Rutledge is one of the most reliable respectable and honest attorneys I've ever had the privilege of knowing.I have retained mr. Rutledge several times he's very hard-working very diligent and takes pride in his work practices. I would highly recommend him to anyone.
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19 Apr, 2023 by Gina dowd
Great service. We had to pick up a settlement check. The instructions on what to bring and how to find the firm were very well explained and easy to follow. Very nice experience
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09 Feb, 2023 by Gene reyna
Writing this strictly as the spouse of an employee, speaking directly as to the type of firm they are. I spent a career dedicated to Human Resources and I can say, unequivocally, that this is a company that values and treats their employees in a world-class manner! When companies "talk" about striving to be an employer of choice, WJCB Law "walks the walk".
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06 Feb, 2021 by Robert childs
Fantastic Attorneys
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06 Nov, 2023 by Lynn lynn
Chris likes to WIN and so do I 🙌
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27 Jul, 2022 by Katherine loudermilk
21 Jan, 2020 by Cynthia james miller
An awesome set of very kind and very caring and work for you aesome and work hard to help.
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25 Nov, 2024 by Taylor rawlings
Courtney is an outstanding attorney. After consulting with many in South Carolina, I found her to be exceptionally prepared, compassionate, and a fierce advocate. Her courtroom presence is unparalleled. Kimberly, her paralegal, is incredibly responsive and reliable. Together, they provide top-tier representation. Highly recommend for anyone in need of a family law attorney.
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06 Nov, 2021 by Fabienne le gall
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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26 Sep, 2024 by Edward dixson
Very fair person, he handled my Estate & got it all settled.
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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 Nov, 2024 by Wanda powell
i am not sure what you all are saying how speedy she is let me enlighten you all my brother has been in jail 8 years and she has yet to call me back or get any information that i have.. i wrote a review a few years ago and she told my brother to tell me to take it down.....which i did but this one i wont take down
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23 May, 2024 by Jan scott
16 May, 2024 by Dolores watkins
I am writing to highly recommend Attorney Steven John Henry as one of the best attorneys in South Carolina. I have had the privilege of working with Mr. Henry on several legal matters, and I have been consistently impressed with his professionalism, legal expertise, and dedication to his clients.
Mr. Henry possesses a deep understanding of the law and is able to effectively navigate complex legal issues. He is meticulous in his preparation, ensuring that no detail is overlooked. His courtroom presence is confident and persuasive, making him a formidable advocate for his clients.
What sets Mr. Henry apart is his genuine care for his clients and their well-being. He takes the time to listen to their concerns, explain legal concepts in a clear and understandable manner, and provide realistic expectations. His approachable and compassionate nature puts clients at ease during stressful legal situations. He is a man of integrity!
I call him, my friend!
I have experienced firsthand Mr. Henry's commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes for his client/me. He is a strategic thinker and is always prepared to go the extra mile to ensure that his clients' interests are protected. His dedication to his profession and his clients is truly commendable.
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend Attorney Steven John Henry for any legal matter. His exceptional legal skills, professionalism, and genuine care for his clients make him an invaluable asset. I am confident that anyone who works with Mr. Henry will be extremely satisfied with his services.
Sincerely,
Dolores Lewis
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15 Dec, 2024 by Precilla howell
This Law firm kept me from spending money needlessly. I really appreciated his honesty. I feel that I can count on them if I ever need them again!
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29 Oct, 2024 by Sheena lee
Thank you for helping my family with our closing! Everything was very straightforward and explained in detail. All info was given to us in a timely manner. Def recommend!
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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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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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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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25 Sep, 2024 by Sean mclarnon
Only came for our house closing, but he was gregarious and welcoming. Nice fellow.
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29 Apr, 2024 by Todd holmes
22 Apr, 2024 by Daniel cibulskis
25 Sep, 2024 by Sean mclarnon
Only came for our house closing, but he was gregarious and welcoming. Nice fellow.
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29 Apr, 2024 by Todd holmes
22 Apr, 2024 by Daniel cibulskis
27 Sep, 2024 by Jon tarnowski
Made a phone call to this attorneys office using a MetLife plan. When I say that Nadia took the time to help me with my questions and current situation would be an understatement. She provided me excellent service and went far and above and beyond what other law offices I had contacted with the same question. She listened to the history and cared about the conversation and our problem. She reached out and even was able to spend time speaking with the attorney about my situation and he took the time from after his court appearance to answer.
Should I need legal service in my area, there is no doubt or hesitation that I will be using the services provided by this firm. I would recommend anyone that would ask to do the same.
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29 Jul, 2024 by Marnie b
So grateful I chose this firm to help me with my case. Alex was able to get me better results than I thought were possible. Nadia was also a huge help in explaining the process to me and keeping me informed. Both of them went the extra mile and I would recommend them to anyone looking for legal help.
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25 Jul, 2024 by Cristen c
What a fantastic experience being represented by Kinlaw & Cunningham! Their communication was prompt, frequent, and thorough from the very first phone call and throughout the entire process. Nadia went above and beyond, providing valuable guidance and even working after hours. I received the most successful outcome for my case.
I cannot thank them enough for all of their help and expertise, and I strongly recommend them.
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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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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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Discover the ideal lawyer
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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.
