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09 Aug, 2015 by Sherry
Jamie Young is highly professional, I could not have asked for better representation. She made me feel extremely comfortable at all times and her knowledge of the Law regarding my case was exemplary. I cannot recommend her enough to those that may be in need of Legal Counsel.
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26 Sep, 2017 by Leslie
Sandra Young went above & beyond expectations for me. She represented me in the beginning as my divorce attorney & gave me excellent advice. She will no doubt, give anyone seeking an EXCELLENT, EXPERIENCED divorce and/or family attorney, great sound advice! Advice I highly recommend you take! You will not be disappointed. As a single mother, I was up against all odds of an ex-husband who had financial means that I could not match, Sandy was not hesitant to go head-to-head and w/such professionalism, poise & level headedness, if you will, that I needed in many times. She was there to talk the very sense one parent needs when it comes to thinking about your child(ren)'s wellbeing, as much as your own right. She is professional & will no doubt tell you what Hawaii Family Law says IS rightfully yours & that of for your child(ren). Sandra Young is brilliant, she knows the Law, she knows what she CAN & WILL DO FOR YOU. My son and myself are living proof of this. She fought for us against all odds & got ample child support for my son, all the way up to college tuition for him and other benefits that otherwise would not have been afforded him! She will fight a great fight for YOU, given the opportunity for so long as you believe that she can do this! Sandra Young is NO DOUBT an excellent Divorce & Family Attorney that I would HIGHLY recommend to anyone who find themself looking for a divorce OR family attorney. You will truly NOT be disappointed!
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09 May, 2012 by Glenn
Lee pushed my case to favorable conclusion and listened to my concerns along the way.
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19 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr. Diehl was exceptional in handling my case. Being that there were children involved and I was never married, paternity case, it wasn't something he dealt with often. There were a lot of agencies that came into play. Mr. Diehl easily navigated through every process to do exactly what was best for his client, me, and ultimately for the children. He is extremely ethical, straight arrow and will not let his clients step out of line. As a client I learned a lot from him. I also had an outcome that did not prospered temporarily, but permanently. The strategy he used made everyone live to a higher standard. We went into court in 2006/07 and wrapped it up in 2013. He stuck with me the entire time that the other party kept striking. He had us endure til the end. I value his service higher than what the money charged could ever be. Why? Because 3 years later my two boys are honor roll kids, one attended Berkeley at 14 years old and the younger boy is in Project Lead The Way. That happened because the expectation he put in play for those boys parents were at a standard that he believed could be attained. My boys father and I get along great for the children. The orders were all done by Mr. Diehl. He is extremely knowledgeable in his arena. I can say with confidence, "best of the best". I feel I'm not even qualified to make a review on someone of this caliber. But I want everyone to know that credit needs to be due, he deserves that along with his assistant Susan Y. Amazing people.
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25 Oct, 2019 by Melanie
Judy is one of the most compassionate, caring, knowledgeable, attorney’s we’ve ever met and had the pleasure of doing business with. Extremely thorough, understanding of our needs and wishes. Prepared and completed the necessary documentation we needed during a rough time in our family’s life. Her professionalism, quick response time and urgency to assist exceeded expectations. We recommend anyone needing assistance in the areas of her expertise Attorney Judy Howard is #1!
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10 Mar, 2013 by Anonymous
Peter Olson took my case when others said I had no defense, and was able to convince the prosecutor to plead it down to an infraction, avoiding a misdemeanor conviction and potential jail time. He is fair-minded, completely devoted to your defense, and very smart.
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04 Mar, 2023 by Stefan
Five stars! Erin Kobavashi is an outstanding lawyer! Her office is conveniently located right on Bishop Street and her fees are reasonable but most of all, she is very caring, supportive, and efficient! l am a retired VA Psychiatrist, who was dealing with long Covid symptoms as the divorce proceeded and she was very flexible and patient with me. She is an absolutely superb lawyer!
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06 Nov, 2019 by Joseph franco
He is the best old school really knows his stuff
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21 Jun, 2016 by Timothy walsh
Very professional and efficient. He handled our situation with care and integrity. I trust him completely and would use him again in the future if needed.
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12 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
Very professional and she looks out for her clients to get the best results of every situation I went through. If needed I will definitely retain her again
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04 Jun, 2024 by Nanea
Suzie was contracted to help us change my daughter's get her name (age 11). It was a source of pain, explanation and embarrassment for her primarily in school where her legal name had to be displayed. Suzie was very thorough, taking all the steps required and keeping us in the loop each step of the way. I can not express my gratitude enough the official documents came through today my daughter is thrilled just in time to start her new school in a new place. Highly recommend!
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19 Mar, 2022 by Todd
My experience with Melinda Mendes has shown her to be very professional, prompt, understanding, and generous with her time (yes, I know!). If I ever need an attorney in the future, my first call is to Melinda. I feel that I can trust her.
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02 May, 2017 by Anonymous
I was young and stupid. I had accrued a hefty number of traffic related infractions. Parking tickets. Speeding. Suspended driver's license. No insurance. Multiple times each. I paid no heed to them and didn't even bother to go to court or pay fines. I added contempt of court to that. So, I left the islands and over the years got my act together. I got my masters. I got a job. I also wanted to fix my legal standing since I had the money. I consulted Ms. Gutierrez and received a thorough evaluation. She painstakingly gathered my decade and plus old profile and started creating a clear picture of what legal hurdles I had up against. I was impressed with her objective analysis. Just to be thorough, I consulted two other lawyers. They merely gave a half-hearted analysis and guarantee to fix everything, then a heavy price quote. One lawyer quoted for himself a practically blank check for his services. Neither inspired much confidence, despite the comparison between Ms. Gutierrez neutral and cautious analysis versus their more positive dispositions toward my cases. I went with her. She outlined her plan to dismiss all of my cases. She outlined for me how to pay back some fines. She had my warrants dismissed (even the no-recall ones). She did an outstanding job. I am very pleased with her performance.
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16 Nov, 2023 by Joan matsuoka
Great attorney with years of experience. Very professional and compassionate.
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11 Feb, 2022 by Kat kamalamalama
Great man, knowledgeable and straight forward. Loved it
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30 Sep, 2019 by Lehua lum
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19 Sep, 2020 by Sean taoka
Very friendly and explained everything
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22 Oct, 2024 by Peter
I will keep it short and sweet. Ofir impressed me from the get-go and continued to up until the end and it wasn't like he was the first person I called; I initially reached out to maybe ten local attorneys on this matter while doing market research. He was easy to talk with, not slimy, didn't have an attitude nor was he condescending (unlike many of his peers), no hidden fees, and always quick to respond / highly communicative which equally is a rarity among lawyers of any sort. No regrets and in fact, I am actually surprisingly satisfied for once with a legal service I paid for. I would highly recommend.
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06 Aug, 2024 by Robert vitro
I can't thank Brian enough for his outstanding work in getting me out of a difficult situation. From the very beginning, he demonstrated exceptional legal knowledge, strategic thinking, and a commitment to my case that went above and beyond. Brian was always available to answer my questions, provided clear and honest guidance, and fought tirelessly to secure a favorable outcome. His expertise and dedication made all the difference, and I highly recommend Brian Kim to anyone in need of a top-notch lawyer. Thank you again for everything!
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29 Jul, 2024 by Jhaymarc agustin
best attorney in the island
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22 Oct, 2024 by Peter
I will keep it short and sweet. Ofir impressed me from the get-go and continued to up until the end and it wasn't like he was the first person I called; I initially reached out to maybe ten local attorneys on this matter while doing market research. He was easy to talk with, not slimy, didn't have an attitude nor was he condescending (unlike many of his peers), no hidden fees, and always quick to respond / highly communicative which equally is a rarity among lawyers of any sort. No regrets and in fact, I am actually surprisingly satisfied for once with a legal service I paid for. I would highly recommend.
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06 Aug, 2024 by Robert vitro
I can't thank Brian enough for his outstanding work in getting me out of a difficult situation. From the very beginning, he demonstrated exceptional legal knowledge, strategic thinking, and a commitment to my case that went above and beyond. Brian was always available to answer my questions, provided clear and honest guidance, and fought tirelessly to secure a favorable outcome. His expertise and dedication made all the difference, and I highly recommend Brian Kim to anyone in need of a top-notch lawyer. Thank you again for everything!
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29 Jul, 2024 by Jhaymarc agustin
best attorney in the island
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22 Aug, 2024 by Kd dupee
Mr. Kouliev is a highly intelligent and knowledgeable attorney. He has excellent communication skills and we are very pleased with the outcome of our case.
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22 Aug, 2024 by Dupee
We are 100 percent satisfied with Mr. Kouliev. He was extremely helpful and responsive. His knowledge and relationship with Hilo court helped us get everything taken care of.
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11 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Attorney Damir Kouliev is hands down the best lawyer in Hawaii. He handled everything with expertise, bringing relief and ease to the entire process especially since I live out of state. Thanks to his incredible representation, my case was ultimately dismissed—something that wouldn't have happened without him. I highly recommend him to anyone facing legal trouble. 10/10, thank you for all you do!
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03 Oct, 2024 by Heidi archibald
My husband and I recently worked with Keoni Souza to set up our Living Will and Trust. Keoni did a remarkable job of guiding us through this unfamiliar process that, to us, initially felt overwhelming. He was very thorough in his explanation of options, the legal ramifications, and what to expect with every scenario. The process was seamless from start to finish. Everything was explained clearly. He was always available to answer our questions. I highly recommend Keoni Souza. We will be going back to him in the future.
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02 Oct, 2024 by Tony h
Keoni is exceptional! His services are worth the money and effort. The process was streamlined and he even adjusted his schedule to help fit our unique requirements. We look forward to continuing to work with him in the future.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Gillian dunn
I highly recommend Keoni Souza for estate planning. Keoni explains all the steps clearly and organizes the documents so you can keep on track. He likes to keep you on a schedule which is great if you've been procrastinating your planning! He also has various payment plans so you get the services you need at a fair price. Keoni is also highly personable while having a pragmatic approach to estate planning.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Heidi archibald
My husband and I recently worked with Keoni Souza to set up our Living Will and Trust. Keoni did a remarkable job of guiding us through this unfamiliar process that, to us, initially felt overwhelming. He was very thorough in his explanation of options, the legal ramifications, and what to expect with every scenario. The process was seamless from start to finish. Everything was explained clearly. He was always available to answer our questions. I highly recommend Keoni Souza. We will be going back to him in the future.
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02 Oct, 2024 by Tony h
Keoni is exceptional! His services are worth the money and effort. The process was streamlined and he even adjusted his schedule to help fit our unique requirements. We look forward to continuing to work with him in the future.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Gillian dunn
I highly recommend Keoni Souza for estate planning. Keoni explains all the steps clearly and organizes the documents so you can keep on track. He likes to keep you on a schedule which is great if you've been procrastinating your planning! He also has various payment plans so you get the services you need at a fair price. Keoni is also highly personable while having a pragmatic approach to estate planning.
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11 Oct, 2024 by Adrian pedroza
**Review for Attorney Ed:** I recently had the privilege of working with Attorney Ed during a challenging bankruptcy process, and I couldn't be more pleased with the experience. From our initial consultation to the final resolution, Ed demonstrated exceptional professionalism and expertise. He possesses a deep understanding of bankruptcy law, and his guidance was invaluable in navigating the complexities of my case. Ed's approach was both thorough and compassionate. He took the time to listen attentively to my concerns and provided clear explanations every step of the way. His commitment to ensuring my understanding of the process was evident, which helped alleviate much of the stress associated with bankruptcy proceedings. Throughout the process, Ed was highly responsive and accessible. He promptly addressed any questions or issues that arose, always keeping me informed and involved in decision-making. His attention to detail and strategic advice were instrumental in achieving a favorable outcome. I wholeheartedly recommend Attorney Ed to anyone in need of a skilled and dedicated bankruptcy attorney. His professionalism, expertise, and genuine concern for his clients' well-being make him an invaluable asset in navigating challenging legal situations.
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08 Oct, 2024 by Cilvin steward
Ed is a great lawyer and the real deal as human being. I worked with him on my BK, and everything went smoothly and as promised. Also, Ed didn't price gouge me in a distressed time in my life. Highly recommended.
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04 Oct, 2024 by Bogomo ikaw
Man, I tell you. I was in trouble back then, I couldn't even do anything to cope up with the situation. I asked my sister if she knows anyone that could help me with my finances and freaking I was lucky enough, she told me that her ex knows somebody that helped him like it was nothing at all. I was actually very desperate as I do not have any peace of mind anymore. So then he referred me to Atty Ed. And then, scheduled for appointment, straight forward with everything. Just follow the instructions he gave, one and done! The next schedule, just show in the courtroom. I thought I was going to literally suffer infront of the judge since it's my first time. But whoops! Little did I know, it was a simple questions and I was dismissed! All those guys pestering you, gone! And he loves the symbolism of the Rooster. We have the same Philosophy. He probably knows who I am with this review. LOL!
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03 Oct, 2024 by Heidi archibald
My husband and I recently worked with Keoni Souza to set up our Living Will and Trust. Keoni did a remarkable job of guiding us through this unfamiliar process that, to us, initially felt overwhelming. He was very thorough in his explanation of options, the legal ramifications, and what to expect with every scenario. The process was seamless from start to finish. Everything was explained clearly. He was always available to answer our questions. I highly recommend Keoni Souza. We will be going back to him in the future.
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02 Oct, 2024 by Tony h
Keoni is exceptional! His services are worth the money and effort. The process was streamlined and he even adjusted his schedule to help fit our unique requirements. We look forward to continuing to work with him in the future.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Gillian dunn
I highly recommend Keoni Souza for estate planning. Keoni explains all the steps clearly and organizes the documents so you can keep on track. He likes to keep you on a schedule which is great if you've been procrastinating your planning! He also has various payment plans so you get the services you need at a fair price. Keoni is also highly personable while having a pragmatic approach to estate planning.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Heidi archibald
My husband and I recently worked with Keoni Souza to set up our Living Will and Trust. Keoni did a remarkable job of guiding us through this unfamiliar process that, to us, initially felt overwhelming. He was very thorough in his explanation of options, the legal ramifications, and what to expect with every scenario. The process was seamless from start to finish. Everything was explained clearly. He was always available to answer our questions. I highly recommend Keoni Souza. We will be going back to him in the future.
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02 Oct, 2024 by Tony h
Keoni is exceptional! His services are worth the money and effort. The process was streamlined and he even adjusted his schedule to help fit our unique requirements. We look forward to continuing to work with him in the future.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Gillian dunn
I highly recommend Keoni Souza for estate planning. Keoni explains all the steps clearly and organizes the documents so you can keep on track. He likes to keep you on a schedule which is great if you've been procrastinating your planning! He also has various payment plans so you get the services you need at a fair price. Keoni is also highly personable while having a pragmatic approach to estate planning.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Heidi archibald
My husband and I recently worked with Keoni Souza to set up our Living Will and Trust. Keoni did a remarkable job of guiding us through this unfamiliar process that, to us, initially felt overwhelming. He was very thorough in his explanation of options, the legal ramifications, and what to expect with every scenario. The process was seamless from start to finish. Everything was explained clearly. He was always available to answer our questions. I highly recommend Keoni Souza. We will be going back to him in the future.
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02 Oct, 2024 by Tony h
Keoni is exceptional! His services are worth the money and effort. The process was streamlined and he even adjusted his schedule to help fit our unique requirements. We look forward to continuing to work with him in the future.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Gillian dunn
I highly recommend Keoni Souza for estate planning. Keoni explains all the steps clearly and organizes the documents so you can keep on track. He likes to keep you on a schedule which is great if you've been procrastinating your planning! He also has various payment plans so you get the services you need at a fair price. Keoni is also highly personable while having a pragmatic approach to estate planning.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Heidi archibald
My husband and I recently worked with Keoni Souza to set up our Living Will and Trust. Keoni did a remarkable job of guiding us through this unfamiliar process that, to us, initially felt overwhelming. He was very thorough in his explanation of options, the legal ramifications, and what to expect with every scenario. The process was seamless from start to finish. Everything was explained clearly. He was always available to answer our questions. I highly recommend Keoni Souza. We will be going back to him in the future.
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02 Oct, 2024 by Tony h
Keoni is exceptional! His services are worth the money and effort. The process was streamlined and he even adjusted his schedule to help fit our unique requirements. We look forward to continuing to work with him in the future.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Gillian dunn
I highly recommend Keoni Souza for estate planning. Keoni explains all the steps clearly and organizes the documents so you can keep on track. He likes to keep you on a schedule which is great if you've been procrastinating your planning! He also has various payment plans so you get the services you need at a fair price. Keoni is also highly personable while having a pragmatic approach to estate planning.
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28 May, 2024 by Anonymous
First, I would like to say I am an actual client of Jared Washkowitz. Unlike the opposition that left a negative comment on his page. But it says a lot about an attorney when the opposition leaves a negative comment. It says that he is the attorney you want to represent you. Hiring Jared was one of the best decisions I’ve made, to represent me with one of the worse decisions I’ve ever made. He was very professional, knowledgeable, and responsive. This simple divorce case was drawn out unnecessarily by the oppositions for almost two years. Her motivation was to “try” to take everything I earned because I no longer was willing to be used and wanted out of the toxic, dysfunctional marriage. Fortunately, Jared was with me every step of the way. He was with me through all the useless (mandatory) mediation sessions, crazy rants, harassing emails and text, false accusations, fabrications, defamation and straight lies from the opposition. He reassured me that everything was going to be ok and to trust the legal process. That was sound advice because at the end of it all, the Judge ruled in our favor. I served honorably for over 25 years, so trust when I say he’s military friendly. So, if you’re looking for a lawyer who’s competent, trustworthy, honest, reliable, responsive, and hardworking; Jared Washkowitz is the attorney you want.
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16 Aug, 2022 by Anahi o
Jared went above and beyond to help me with my custody case , he was always easy to reach no matter day or time , responded quickly and well to my concerns and or questions , and dealt with the opposing party for me , I highly recommend him as he is one of the best attorneys I have hired !!
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29 Jul, 2021 by Paigelyn w
Jared is excellent is the law field, whether it’s custody, child support, tros, housing, small claims. He is well knowledgeable about the laws and gives the best advice on what to do. Any questions you have he’s definitely the best to consult with. I would recommend you to hire him as an attorney as he’s quick & always delivers to what you want. I got my son back & thankful for Jared and his hard work. Jared also has a great price if you want him to represent you, and he works with you if you are in a financial distress. He is truly the best lawyer on Oahu & I would recommend anybody who’s unsure about attorneys should definitely go with Jared. Thank you Jared for everything, you are truly appreciated.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Heidi archibald
My husband and I recently worked with Keoni Souza to set up our Living Will and Trust. Keoni did a remarkable job of guiding us through this unfamiliar process that, to us, initially felt overwhelming. He was very thorough in his explanation of options, the legal ramifications, and what to expect with every scenario. The process was seamless from start to finish. Everything was explained clearly. He was always available to answer our questions. I highly recommend Keoni Souza. We will be going back to him in the future.
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02 Oct, 2024 by Tony h
Keoni is exceptional! His services are worth the money and effort. The process was streamlined and he even adjusted his schedule to help fit our unique requirements. We look forward to continuing to work with him in the future.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Gillian dunn
I highly recommend Keoni Souza for estate planning. Keoni explains all the steps clearly and organizes the documents so you can keep on track. He likes to keep you on a schedule which is great if you've been procrastinating your planning! He also has various payment plans so you get the services you need at a fair price. Keoni is also highly personable while having a pragmatic approach to estate planning.
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30 Jun, 2023 by Anthony anthony
Working Daryl and his team was a great experience. They made it all very simple, right down to the “sign right here” moments. Often times I was out of touch and my wife’s English was not very good at the time but they were patient and understanding. When we were a bit worked up, they took the time to put our worries at ease. Absolutely would recommend.
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07 Mar, 2022 by John soon hee lee
The best Family Law Attorney's in town. I've been a client of theirs for almost 30 years and they successfully handled all of my divorces and child custody cases.
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03 Jun, 2021 by Chris hobbs
Came to Daryl looking for advice on my H1B visa and options going forward with transfer and renewal. He was incredibly knowledgeable, clear and compassionate and really helped with my situation, providing me with information about LCAs and competitive recruitment. Would not hesitate to consult or hire Daryl again, a great experience overall.
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30 Jun, 2023 by Anthony anthony
Working Daryl and his team was a great experience. They made it all very simple, right down to the “sign right here” moments. Often times I was out of touch and my wife’s English was not very good at the time but they were patient and understanding. When we were a bit worked up, they took the time to put our worries at ease. Absolutely would recommend.
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07 Mar, 2022 by John soon hee lee
The best Family Law Attorney's in town. I've been a client of theirs for almost 30 years and they successfully handled all of my divorces and child custody cases.
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03 Jun, 2021 by Chris hobbs
Came to Daryl looking for advice on my H1B visa and options going forward with transfer and renewal. He was incredibly knowledgeable, clear and compassionate and really helped with my situation, providing me with information about LCAs and competitive recruitment. Would not hesitate to consult or hire Daryl again, a great experience overall.
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21 Aug, 2024 by Mark kevin pascual
I was impressed by Attorney David Barlow's expertise. He handled my case with professionalism and achieved an outstanding result. He is always available to answer my questions and concerns. He put me at ease throughout the legal process. I had the most difficult time in my life but he helped me understand my situation and solved my case at ease. I strongly recommend Law Office of David W Barlow when you needed someone to help your what you deserve in legal process.
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22 Nov, 2023 by Adaure dawson
I really appreciated working with David Barlow! He was knowledgeable and consistent! I trusted his ability to advocate on my behalf throughout the entire process. Definitely recommend his services.
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18 Oct, 2023 by Mary-lee mitchell
Mr. Barlow was so kind, compassionate, and helpful. He worked tirelessly to get my medical bills taken care of and settlement money after my accident. He is by far the best accident attorney and would recommend to anyone in Hawaii who was in a moped accident or any other type of accident. I am eternally grateful for everything he has done to help.
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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:

  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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