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14 Aug, 2024 by Jesse
I would like to express my gratitude to Keiko and her team. Our objective was to fight a lockdown in Bell County. Upon our initial meeting with Keiko, it became evident that we had engaged the most competent attorney available. She advocated for us and provided guidance throughout the entire process. On the day of the court proceedings, her preparation and professionalism were exemplary. Ultimately, we achieved a favorable outcome, receiving everything we requested and more.
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14 Aug, 2024 by Lisa
Keiko Griffin was amazing through this whole process! She's attentive, detailed, and extremely knowledgeable. We have been working on our case for almost a year and I've never had a complaint. In the courtroom, she stayed very composed and professional, but definitely made sure we were appropriately heard. I could not be happier. You never want to have to have an attorney, but if I ever need one again, it will be Keiko Griffin.
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07 Aug, 2024 by Alisa
Keiko assisted my husband and I with a child support case involving another party in another state. Keiko was very knowledgeable about the proper steps needed to resolve our case efficiently and educated on laws we were not originally privy to. We felt very empowered well prepared in what needs to be filed with another state.
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16 Feb, 2024 by Caleb
I have nothing but good things to say about Mr. Tanaka. My wife and I have never been sued before so this was definitely a new experience. Over the last year we worked with Mr. Tanaka regarding a Landlord/tenant dispute. He was nothing but a professional the whole time and was always there if we needed him. Words to describe him would be intelligent, clear communicator, down-to-earth, empathetic, and confident. We were extremely impressed by him in the court room during our final hearing. It definitely payed off having Jonathan in our corner. If you need someone to represent you in any capacity I highly recommend Mr. Tanaka!
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28 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
Definitely a genuine person with the ability to make you at ease and willingness to help you navigate you current circumstances with the intentions of having the best outcome
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17 Nov, 2023 by John
Mr. Tanaka is the best family attorney that I have worked with. I have seen him multiple times over the past three years for legal advice and recently retained him to handle my custody case. Excellent communication throughout the process. When I initially filed for divorce, I hired one of the big firms and was essentially ignored for five months. Mr. Tanaka accomplished the same volume of work in less than a quarter of the time.
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11 Aug, 2023 by Shahzad
I had an excellent experience with Thomas Young. He was very professional and helped me get what I wanted with my case. I cannot thank him enough on how quickly he closed the case.
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24 May, 2023 by Louis
This is a law firm that cares. Tommy and his team has handled all of our personal, business, and church legal needs. This is a firm that has integrity. Highly recommended!
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30 Jul, 2021 by Anita
Mr. Thomas Young and staff were very understanding, kind, and honest through the entire process. Even through the COVID hardship, the entire firm made the process bearable. Thank you for all the hard work!
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12 Feb, 2020 by Anonymous
Will not go into details of my case but will say it was a complicated family matter. Mr. Williams did an outstanding job, paid attention to detail, and addressed all my concerns in the court room. Rates extremely competitive compared to other lawyer I’ve used in the Killeen area. Thank God for the victory today!
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08 Mar, 2018 by Kenneth
Mr. Williamson does not hesitate to make decisions on very challenging matters and has confidence in his decision making abilities. He always ensured that the appropriate people are included in the decision-making process. His decisions are on target and reflect his reliable, sound judgment skills. He can clearly explain the reasoning and provide good support for his decisions. Mr. Williamson can make decisions even under tight time frames. My daughters and I are eternally grateful for his service and I hereby recommend Mr. Williamson without reservation. He is No-nonsense, straight to the point and very professional. These are the words I would use to describe Mr. Williamson. Thank you for all the help and patience with my divorce/child custody case. You made a very difficult time much easier and less stressful, which my daughters greatly appreciate as do I!
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28 Jul, 2015 by Sammi
I used the Bradley K Williamson Law Office for my divorce. It was a smooth experience due to Mr. Williamson's excellent knowledge of family law. He demonstrates great work ethic. Mr. Williamson was very professional, dependable and truly excels in customer service! Everything was thoroughly explained to me during the process and I was kept informed throughout. I would definitely recommend the Bradley K Williamson Law Office
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10 Jul, 2020 by Shawn
Mr. Barnhill and Mrs. White represented me extremely well. Sherry was communicative, professional and gave the proper advice needed to come to an amicable resolution. This office is top notch and personable. I felt extremely confident and informed throughout the entire process. I highly recommend their services.
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30 Mar, 2019 by Chris
Mr. Barnhill listened attentively to our situation and applied his experience to assure my special needs grandson will grow up in a home with peace, love and joy. His number one concern was my grandson and his safety and protection from almost certain disaster. From the very beginning he initiated steps to assure his safety and stability. Mr. Barnhill listened attentively to our situation and applied his experience to assure our special needs grandson will grow up in a home with peace, love and joy. His number one concern was my grandson and his safety and protection from which he saved him from almost certain disaster. From the very beginning he initiated steps to assure his safety and future stability. we can never thank him enough for what he has done for our family.
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29 Mar, 2011 by Anonymous
I live out of state and hired Mr. Barnhill to represent me in a matter which could have affected my right to have a relationship with my grandchild. Mr. Barnhill was well prepared for court, professional, responsive to my questions and empathetic. His reponsiveness made me feel as if I was his most important client.
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02 Jul, 2015 by Chris
Staunch, steadfast and passionate! Divorces are never 'fun' and noone really 'wins', but my case was perfectly represented by Cari Starritt-Burnett. She is personable and approachable and has a good relationship with the court as well as a strong professional network with local attorneys--this is a plus in dealing with your case, whether amicable or not, this will help your settlement.
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27 May, 2013 by Lisha
Cari L. Starritt-Burnett exceeds expectations and goes above and beyond for her clients. I had met Cari, for the first time, immediately after terminating my last attorney, for lack of service, in my divorce case.  I had such a dis-heartening experience and frustrating disaster with them, that I had lost all faith in finding a moral attorney. Then I meet Cari L. Starritt-Burnett.  She absolutely blew me away with her professionalism, courtesy and sensitivity with my case. I met with Cari at 9:30 am and by the end of the  same day at 4pm, Cari and her assistant Candy Manibusan, had my petition completed, forms for filing with the county ready and all my copies waiting for me to walk through the door. Cari L. Starritt-Burnett and  her assistant , Candy, manage to accomplish, in one day, what took my ex-lawyer, 3- 1/2 weeks and they only had part of my petition done and had never even filled with the county to start my 60 days.  Cari also covered issues and things that my ex-lawyer had not even mentioned Cari was very detailed and considerate. She has a very firm grasp of the law and all that it entails. She doesn't waist any time and I love that.    Cari L. Starritt-Burnett is absolutely, with out a doubt, a moral human being who genuinely cares for her clients and their situations. Cari was frustrated right along with me for all that I had to endure before coming to her. Seigman, Starritt-Burnett, Sinkfield,  will have a life long client with me and my entire family, should we require ANY type of legal services. They are on the ball, professional, understanding, competent, skilled in time management and down to earth. I feel completely confident in Cari' s hands. God Bless her for being so amazing!
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03 Sep, 2020 by Olivia
I don’t even know where to start. Mr. Glendenning and his team have gone above and beyond in every way possible to ensure that we were prepared and could win our child custody case - and we did. He tirelessly worked over two continents, two countries, three states and over three years to make sure I won custody of my children in what was a very complicated and strenuous case. He spent countless hours, probably hundreds of phone calls in my name and listened to me cry on multiple occasions with total compassion. He showed up to court virtually during the pandemic totally prepared and really advocated for us. Even after the case was won, he has followed up with our family and made sure that all information and documents were to me accurately and correctly and very fast. He did all of this while charging a super fair and reasonable price. I really do not have enough kind words and praise to describe the level of service, compassion and professionalism I received from Mr. Glendenning and his entire staff. I hope our family is never in this position again, but if so I know that we are in the best hands! Thanks you so much Bradford, Samuel and Blanca!
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21 Aug, 2020 by Alan and kim
Mr. Glendening did an amazing job on our case. His persistence in our long custody battle proved priceless as he got the proof of the information we knew to be true and won our case. We highly recommend him for your legal needs.
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21 Aug, 2020 by Michael
Mr Glendening made this process extremely easy given the covid situation and if I was in a situation again, I would trust him to help me out.
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24 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
If you are a person of color, do not waste your time. Not only will he not even listen to your case, he will refuse to take your case, insult you, and just refer you to an attorney who isn't white.
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21 Oct, 2021 by Anonymous
Didn’t even take the chance to listen to my case or anything I had to say. Instead, decided to turn me away as if he has better things to do with his day. Not helpful, rude, and attitude with people he doesn’t even know over the phone. I regret even considering this guy. Only reason I called was because the State Barr gave me a referral to him. Completely useless.
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12 Aug, 2012 by Anonymous
I hired Scott Stevens of Stevens and Stevens over 2 years ago and he has completely neglected my case. He has seemingly ignored my case entirely only securing 1 court date over the course of these 2 years. He even neglected to contact the people I listed to help me win my case.
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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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

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