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02 May, 2020 by Connie bledsoe
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25 Oct, 2018 by Kirtus gaston
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28 Aug, 2024 by Sarah inman
I feel as if the people leaving bad reviews are the opposing parties or people that couldn’t afford her. She is amazing. A family member had a lot of false accusations (very serious ones) and Kim was able to shut it down in court immediately. My family member that had a lot of cards stacked against them got everything they wanted out of the deal and that was because of this office and team. She is expensive, but worth it when you are fighting for your livelihood and family. I would recommend her a thousand times over for anyone facing a tough court battle.
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02 Feb, 2024 by Eileen confal
Kim is the worst divorce lawyer you can hire. She sends her flunky in to court. You pay her $10,000 for her flunky to represent you. Bad practice. Stay far away.
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31 Jan, 2024 by Cierra howell
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02 May, 2024 by Kyle gardner
Very personable, would highly recommend to anyone.
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15 Apr, 2024 by Travel under
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05 Mar, 2024 by Al evans
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12 Apr, 2024 by Brenda morgan arausa
My experience with Brent has only been positive. He has helped in the past with the visitation of our granddaughter, that other wise we would have never had. He has also helped with a divorce. And is now in the process of helping with a family probate. Brent has many years of experience, very knowledgeable and patient. You can definitely trust him with your case.
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10 Apr, 2024 by Patrisha de la cruz
I have worked with Brent and Ashley from 2018 until the present day. If you have a difficult case this team is the way to go. They are family focused and authentically care for their clients. They work hard to do what is in the best interest for the kids. Brent goes above and beyond to to ensure that you understand and know what is going on at all times. He is knowledgeable, diligent and efficient. I would highly recommend this firm to anyone in need of an honest and reliable team.
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09 Apr, 2024 by Angie
Brent is an amazing attorney that I would recommend to any of my family or friends! We’ve known him for years and have nothing but positive to say about him both personally and professionally.
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18 Jun, 2024 by Tascha
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04 Apr, 2024 by Charlotte carroll
Wendy was extremely helpful in my divorce process. My case went from dragging on, to finalized within 2 months of working with her. I didn’t even use the entirety of my retainer! I am amazed; and will contact her ANY time I may have an issue similar in the future. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!
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21 Mar, 2024 by Serena sandoval
Wendy helped me immensely years ago, and continues to assist with any needs. She really cares about her clients, and gives her best for the party she represents.
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22 Feb, 2024 by Brenda resendiz
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01 Jun, 2023 by Michelle poll
Awesome staff!! Helped with our adoption and have been amazing to work with! Highly recommend Mr. Hoopes and Kieva Foutz.
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23 Aug, 2022 by Alice moore
Very knowledgeable and friendly. Would definitely recommend this law firm.
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27 Aug, 2024 by Genevieve boucher
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26 Aug, 2024 by John klinkenborg
Jed Bigelow was extremely professional. He very succinctly helped us sort through our list of estate questions. Very helpful. We look forward to working with him in the future. Thanks so much.
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17 Jul, 2024 by Jay barbera
Mr. Bigelow has assisted and advised me in many business related questions. He is always very professional, knowledgeable and a pleasure to work with.
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08 Aug, 2024 by Pamela lewis
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08 Aug, 2024 by Carl salisbury
I do not recommend this firm. They are very expensive and do not work for you. They did absolutely nothing in my case and I settled it myself out of court but they felt the need to charge $3000. Then their billing department kept applying my payment to other people's accounts and then stopped sending me statements and bills. Be very cautious about this firm they are the worst kind of crooks.
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10 Jan, 2024 by Chris pierce
After sending all of my information to this firm ahead of time, I met with a lawyer who was supposed to have been regularly engaged in dealing with Idaho traffic infractions. I was surprised to find that he didn't know what I was able to find with a ten second google search. I found another lawyer shortly thereafter who gave me great advice and I was able to engage him for a lot less money. I feel like had I moved forward with Clark and Feeney after my ten minute consultation, my disappointment would have grown exponentially.
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17 Nov, 2022 by Karen
If you have Todd Reed you are in good hands! I had a very complicated divorce in 2009. He was very tough on my ex. Brought out all of his lies, narcissistic and abusive ways!! Todd is very wise and knowledgeable! Handles things in an expert way. He stuck up for me the whole way through. Easy to talk too. Because of Todd and his expert ways, the judge awarded me full custody of my kids!
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05 Aug, 2020 by Adam thralls
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10 Dec, 2018 by Joseph.
I was going through a pretty bad divorce. I hired Todd Reed. I should have hired a rock. He literally laid down and gave her what she wanted, lying to me and telling me that she won’t take my kids. And he literally handed then to her. I honestly don’t know who’s side he was on. I was paying him. It should have been mine. My ex wife was the biggest mistake I ever made. Todd Reed was the 2nd.
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31 Jul, 2024 by Mikey
Useless, lazy and filled with excuses. Edit: Neal's reply. Shows he has no idea who is and is not a client.
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13 May, 2024 by Amber hernandez
Highly recommend 🌟 Leslie is the best! We have worked with them for years for my husbands immigration case. She answered every question I have right away no matter time/day! & My husband is now in the USA legally! 🇺🇸 🇺🇸
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13 May, 2024 by Amber hernandez
Highly recommend 🌟 Leslie is the best! We have worked with them for years for my husbands immigration case. She answered every question I have right away no matter time/day! & My husband is now in the USA legally! 🇺🇸 🇺🇸
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24 Oct, 2024 by Maria aleman
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09 Oct, 2024 by Eric
I don’t recommend
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03 Oct, 2024 by Jordan gardner
Aaron is the only criminal defense attorney I send my friends and family too. He is exactly who you need if you find yourself on the wrong side of the law.
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24 Oct, 2024 by Maria aleman
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09 Oct, 2024 by Eric
I don’t recommend
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03 Oct, 2024 by Jordan gardner
Aaron is the only criminal defense attorney I send my friends and family too. He is exactly who you need if you find yourself on the wrong side of the law.
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24 Apr, 2021 by Amanda
JOSH WAS AWESOME!! quoted me a retainer that was slightly less than what I'd been getting quoted at other places. He got my things done quickly and was even able to give my back some of my retainer. He also got me more money than I was asking for.
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30 Oct, 2020 by Shelby
Mr. Townsend was a terrible divorce lawyer. He never returns emails. He submitted our divorce papers and they were denied and tried to charge us more money for his incompetence. We decided to go with another lawyer. That lawyer charged us $740 to fix Mr. Townsends mistakes. Hire him as your lawyer if you want someone that does not return calls or emails. Oh...and by the way. I have a coworker that used him as well. Says the same thing.
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16 Oct, 2019 by Danielle
When Mr. Townsend took on my child custody case I was at the end of my rope. My ex-husband had my daughter against my will and court order for over a year. I didn't know where to turn. Within weeks of having this lawyer take my case, I got to see my daughter for the first time. Within a month see was back in my home. My ex even got the treatment he needed for his alcohol addiction through court order. What he has done for my daughter, for my family....I owe him more than money can buy. But his rates where extremely fair to boot! I highly recommend Mr. Townsend to anybody looking for an awesome lawyer with heart. You won't be disappointed trust me.
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19 Feb, 2019 by Andrew
Told this person my story. Gave her all my info. Wasted a week, hoping she was going to help. All she had to do was file paperwork In Boise for me since i am in Nevada. I was going to send her my paycheck just to do this. It was to save my kids. I apparently had an open and close case. She dropped me because there wasnt enough money in it and a waste of her time. If you're looking for an attorney who cares about your case, dont trust this woman unless you have thousands of dollars. Worthless.
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19 Feb, 2016 by Leroy tyler
Penelope did everything I could have asked. At any point I had a question she made herself available to answer them and over I will recommend her to anyone. Thank you Penelope for everything that you did for us!!
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04 Feb, 2016 by James
Everytime I have walked into court with Penelope Gaffney at my side I have won. In my divorce I acquired 50/50 custody of my daughter, my house, and my savings. My ex, after the divorce filed 7 contempt charges against me. All charges were dropped with prejudice. If you need an attorney, hire Penelope Gaffney as she could save you thousands in the long run, and possibly your sanity and life. I say that with all due sincerity as that is what she has done for me. I cannot say it enough, Penelope is amazing and where it counts most to you, a court of law she is the best.
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21 Dec, 2023 by Chantel
I have had multiple attorneys in my life and I can tell you Shan Perry has been the absolute most honest, hard working, attentive attorney I’ve ever encountered. He’s so down to earth and doesn’t just tell you what you want to hear, but what reality is and offers his best and worse case scenarios- zero fluff. He’s such a kind person and I could tell he truly wants what’s fair and best for both sides involved. Family battles are never pretty and Shan specializes in them and always hopes to settle things in a timely manner, as to not drag everyone through the mud longer than necessary. So many attorneys only care about the money and don’t truly care how long things drag on because it means more for them, Shan is the absolute opposite of that. I’ve referred many other satisfied friends to Mr. Perry and will continue to do so. See for yourself, you’ll immediately see the difference in this kind man versus all the rest
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06 Oct, 2022 by Anonymous
I had attempted to have 2 other attorneys represent me in my parental alienation case. Both were treating the situation like a straight forward custody battle; which it was not. I hired Shan, with a hearing date quickly approaching, and was impressed by the time and care he devoted to learning about the important details and nuances of my particular situation. We went to the hearing completely prepared and after the days of trial that followed, I was very happy with the outcome. He was prepared, concise, and most importantly, he was honest. I felt extremely well represented by an attorney that actually seemed to care and want what was best for everyone involved.
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04 Sep, 2021 by Anonymous
I was not impressed with Mr. Perry's services. He selfishly puts his convenience over his clients interests and concerns. The word "lazy" would accurately describe his attitude towards his clients. He's getting paid by you regardless of the outcome of the case so why should he put any actual effort into it. I very much do not recommend him at all.
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17 Sep, 2019 by Don s.
I have had the privileged of having Larry as an attorney in my child custody case for over 4 years. Before Mr. Dunn I sought out legal counsel with 4 other attorney’s in the Boise area only to have spent thousands of dollars for an enormous emotional battle. I will never use another attorney again, Larry is trustworthy, honest.. Truly one of a kind. I also would like to comment on his staff. Through out this long battle have never encountered an attorney or there staff who are like Justice Law Office. They are fabulous and I’m so grateful to have them to answer all my questions.
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29 Jul, 2019 by Mandy
Going through such a tough Divorce! Had been put through the ringer with pryor Attorney. Mr. Dunn was up front, told me the truth not just what I wanted to here. He truly protected me though the whole process. Did not back down ever. I got full custody of my kids and can never thank him enough!
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26 Jan, 2018 by Ryan
I went to Larry at Brain Webb Legal to help handle my divorce. He was knowledgeable about the process but made multiple mistakes in the filings. I was then charged for them to fix the mistakes. I was also charged for inquiring why they charged me for the mistakes. Towards the end, they made it clear my case was not worth their time or attention but were happy to charge me for it.
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25 May, 2024 by Robert
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04 Mar, 2024 by F jowdy
Mark has guided me through one of the most difficult times of my life
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21 Dec, 2023 by Kurt elmer
Business has its complexities! And it’s nice to have a Pro like Mark Jackson Law to help navigate them. Thank you for all you do.
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02 Nov, 2023 by Andrew evans
Trish was awesome through the whole process even though there kept being different things that came up and a couple curveballs thrown in. 10/10 would recommend
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20 May, 2023 by Stalkerish
Absolutely horrible. Takes your money, does nothing, cannot provide proof of any work done. Highly encourage others to file a complaint with the Bar as we will be doing.
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08 Jan, 2020 by Eric montgomery
Very unprofessional. Used her cell phone in court for her documents and her phone dies during hearing. Items that should have been on bankruptcy were not included and items that were supposed to be excluded were included. I would not recommend her as your attorney. Go with someone else'. I had to fix her screw ups myself she wouldn't be bothered. Waste of money and time.
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23 Jun, 2022 by Micaela
It was a relief to find Jennifer to represent me through an arduous custody case. She is wicked smart , detail-oriented, practical, and highly competent, not to mention a kind and good human being. I was very, very impressed with her in every way. She was elegant and shrewd to my opposing counsel’s sloppy bulldog-ish way, and though the opposing counsel has one of the highest ratings in Boise, Jennifer was world’s better, and got the job done.
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01 Dec, 2018 by Anonymous
I used her for my first custody case. She fails to protect your interest, she tells you what you want to hear even if it is untrue and she does a lot of shady billing. I remember later looking back at my bills and found she had charged me for drawing up the holiday schedule when my ex's attorney had actually dawn it up. She charged $100 for it. She lied to be on the phone and seemed to be more on my ex's side then mine. Even if I was in the wrong, which I wasn't because our case was in pretty much mutual agreement, she still seemed to be working for him instead of protecting my interests and mine are pretty severe as my ex can be volatile.
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05 Oct, 2018 by Scott
Jennifer Schindele was amazing to work with! My case was very exasperating at times but she handled it in such a professional way. Her expertise within her profession is second to none! Jennifer is honest, hard working but also fair and practical. A great person to have by your side when going through such a difficult situation.
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06 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
My experience working with Quentin Lackey has been nothing short of terrible. I had a very simple, standard case and throughout the course of seven months and three hearings, nothing moved forward. From paperwork not being filed correctly, to a different attorney showing up at court without letting me know, documents missing attachments, and an utter lack of communication, working with Quentin was one of the most frustrating experiences I've ever dealt with. His lack of professionalism is something I've never experienced before and certainly never expected from an attorney.
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03 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
I had a terrible experience with Quentin and his staff. Quentin told me he didn't have time to go to my Zoom hearing. So I thought I will just explain the situation to the judge myself on the day of the hearing. When the Zoom hearing started, a person told the judge he was from Quentin's office, and he was representing me. I was utterly confused. I had never talked to this person before! Quentin never told me that he was going to send someone from his office. It turned out this person knew nothing about my case. He said nothing during the whole hearing. Because I had "representation", I was not afforded the opportunity to speak during the hearing. Another big issue is that Quentin's office performed work that I did not authorize. I emailed Quentin and asked him to pause the work on my case. He was aware of that. However, when Quentin was absent from the office for several weeks, his paralegal performed work on my case without my permission. On top of that, they didn't send me any billing statements during that time for several months. But they still kept billing against my retainer. When the retainer was drained, they started automatically charging my credit card. I could continue to elaborate on the numerous other issues I've experienced with Quentin's office, but I'll refrain from doing so to avoid making this review overly lengthy.
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16 Mar, 2023 by Bianca hernandez
Thank you for a job well done on our first case. And thank you for your honesty and didn't just take our money for the second one. Your honesty and your spirit of ethics is greatly appreciated. Thank you
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06 May, 2023 by Anonymous
Hired Mr. Redal, wasted my time and money. I’m pretty sure he pleaded out my case before I even saw Judge Peterson. Both him and his office staff are horrible communicators. I still have no clue what he actually stated to the judge and when I requested my records, I was told to contact the court for records. Unprofessional and unethical. I sent him an email with pictures to prove I was at court via zoom, but because of my internet connection I was unable to speak to the judge. I was given a FTA and Redal did nothing to fix the situation with the judge. I emailed him evidence that should have had my case dropped, but he did nothing with it. Don’t waste your time or your money hiring Redal, you’re better off representing yourself…
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17 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
Very nice & polite staff. Attorneys are very knowledgeable and I could get an appointment with the attorney within a day or two of calling to schedule the appointment.
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25 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
John's skill is limited to criminal cases, and he is a deal maker, not a fighter in court. Communication with clients is horrendous; lucky if get any paperwork even if you ask. He's a has been, focus is on Selling you on hiring him, money talks, but it's short lived. Mike Palmer is awesome, so is Erik Smith, avoid Redal
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21 Feb, 2022 by Anonymous
Phill was highly aggressive throughout the time I spent with him working on my case. I initially thought this was a good thing. To his credit he and his team make things happen quickly. In my opinion those aggressive tactics worked against my case. I left his service and spoke with other representation when I realized his aggressive style was not meant to benefit my children but rather his pockets. He promised that I could get most anything I wanted, which I believed initially. I have spoke to a few other clients of his who have also stated they had a similar experience. The lawyers I spoke to subsequently were concerned that I had been mislead. They asked that I pursue mediation because the damage had been done and that going to trial would work against me.
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04 Feb, 2022 by David
I made the costly mistake of having this clown represent me in my divorce. He is not his father. He had a kidney transplant and is barely able to function. He worried more about his drugs sitting in a hot car than he did about my divorce. Huge mistake on my part. Cost me hundreds of thousands more than it should have. I really dont think he is physically or mentally able to function.
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14 Dec, 2019 by Anonymous
I hired Phil to help me with a post- divorce custody modification situation. I had to make some tough decisions under intense pressure and Phil was truly by my side through the whole thing . Even though he is extremely busy, he was able to quickly grasp the complexities of my situation and helped me change gears when he felt it was in my best . interest. He and his staff are extremely efficient and didn’t waste my time or money . I highly recommend Phil Bevis . He is simply one of the best family law attorneys in Boise.
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29 Feb, 2024 by Christina
Alex is AMAZING to work with! She is a true bulldog and goes to bat for all her clients. She is 100% upfront about everything involving your case and really helped our family thru some super complex struggles! I would recommend alex a million times if your looking to have your case handled swiftly and correctly!
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27 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
I retained her to take over my divorce case. She had me sign a medication agreement (in the middle of the night, while I was driving cross country!), which seriously hurt my case since she didn't bother reviewing the document. She was not careful at all with what she had me sign, promising something that wasn't actually in the wording. The judge later said Alex screwed up telling me the document was only a short-term order. If you have a contested divorce, you don't want Alex, she's sloppy.
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16 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
Horrible experience! When speaking to him, he sounded as if he was high the entire time, very unprofessional, he did not seem like he had a very good knowledge base and was just more interested in taking my money. I would highly recommend that you outsource other attorneys, because my experience with this one was appalling.
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14 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
Todd took my case very last minute, on a recommendation from another firm. He was very helpful, answered all my calls and emails very promptly. I found Todd to be very straightforward and knowledgeable regarding questions I had about my unusual case. He is very personable and laid back on the phone and in person, which really helped to ease any anxiety I had about court proceedings. Thank you so much Todd for everything. You are in short, amazing! Highly recommend. -S
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15 Jul, 2020 by Stevesmith
Over the years we have had business issues and other things come up we needed an attorney for. We have seen some that were so lost its was a wonder how they even passed the bar. We had some serious family issues. Richard was always up front and honest. He gave all he had and let me tell you that was a lot. As i go in an pay on my bill and this was settled a long time ago. I feel good he did all he could. He actually cares. thats more then i can say about most.
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04 Feb, 2015 by Cheyenne
He filed a law suit on our behalf without our knowledge, then he actively solicited his services promising things he could not accomplish. He did all of this for his own benefit, which he could not achieve as well. Highly unprofessional, and ignorant, he lost our law suit due to misfiling paperwork (it could have been a win), and left us with $60,000 of opposing counsel fees. We are starting complaint with Bar Association. Hopefully, we will recover some of the damaged he caused. BEWARE! DO NOT HIRE!
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15 Jun, 2021 by Rich
He is simply put, a scam lawyer. He will not fight for you regardless of the evidence you give him for your case. I fired him and hired a lawyer that actually filed a motion to fix this jokers screw up. Save the time, money and stress and go with someone else.
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13 Jun, 2018 by Anonymous
He truly helps clients--always took the time to take my call or call me back to address any concerns I had. He defended me against my husband who was the one who left the family causing hell.
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01 Feb, 2023 by Jessy
Mark was initially rude. He made me feel as though he was annoyed by me and my questions. He was snarky and short with me. I was put in contact with him through the bar referral service. I told him how he was making me feel and he softened. By the end we were joking, sharing stories and he apologized for his first impression on me. I got some valuable information from him that I appreciate but I would not recommend him. I am going to seek a second opinion from a more empathetic attorney.
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06 Jan, 2019 by Zackary alder
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15 Aug, 2018 by Rick ritter
Attended a meeting for the Idaho Innovation Awards. The office remake is amazing!
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26 Jun, 2018 by Casey herriott
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18 Oct, 2023 by Chris callaway
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13 Oct, 2022 by Grady nichols
Greg Rauch attempted to coerce me into stealing someone's private medical records and forwarding them to him. I am not interested in committing a crime or violating someone's right to privacy, so I declined. He became angry and verbally abusive over the phone after he did not get his way. He began to yell and slur his words, and I had no choice but to hang up.
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15 Aug, 2021 by Pete orazi
One of the few lawyers that I have obtained that actually did what they said they're going to do
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24 Jul, 2024 by Helen hardy
Jeff Banks took on my partition case leading me to believe that I would be represented by him. He knew all the specifics. Retainer was $5000. Did not hear from him for a long time. I called him numerous times, he did not return my calls. $2000 more and year and a half later, I spoke with him, and what he told me was that he wasn't familiar with partition cases. He sent my case to Tyler Dodge. Tyler just wanted to get it settled. For anybody out there who has $7000 to spend, you should treat yourself to a nice vacation!!
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18 Apr, 2023 by Kalina peace
Very helpful and where quick to get things settled. Staff was kind and helpful every time I called.
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28 Sep, 2022 by Jana
I have always used Jeff Banks for my legal matters. He is attentive, detail-oriented, and gets me results every time. I am so impressed with him and will not hesitate to use him in my future endeavors.
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FAQs
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What a Family Law Lawyer Can Do for You

A family law lawyer provides legal services related to family relationships, including marriage, divorce, child custody, and adoption. Family lawyers help clients navigate emotionally charged legal issues, providing guidance and representation in disputes that affect spouses, children, and parents. Whether you're going through a divorce, seeking custody of your children, or drafting a prenuptial agreement, a family law lawyer ensures your rights are protected and your interests are represented.

Family law attorneys often handle sensitive matters and offer objective legal advice, helping clients reach fair outcomes either through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.

When Should I Hire a Family Law Lawyer?

Hiring a family law lawyer is beneficial in several situations, especially when legal matters involve close personal relationships. Common reasons to hire a family law lawyer include:

  • Divorce or separation: When ending a marriage, a lawyer can help you navigate issues such as division of assets, spousal support, and child custody arrangements.
  • Child custody and visitation disputes: If you and your co-parent can't agree on custody or visitation, a lawyer can represent your interests and work toward a solution that benefits your children.
  • Child support: Whether you’re seeking child support or defending against a claim, a lawyer can help ensure the appropriate amount is calculated and enforced.
  • Prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: A lawyer can help draft or review agreements that protect your assets in case of divorce.
  • Adoption: Family law lawyers guide you through the legal process of adoption, ensuring that all requirements are met.
  • Domestic violence or restraining orders: If you're a victim of domestic violence or being falsely accused, a lawyer can help you obtain or challenge protective orders.
  • Paternity cases: If there are questions about the paternity of a child, a lawyer can help establish or dispute legal fatherhood.

Hiring a lawyer early can prevent issues from escalating, and they can offer you the best chance of achieving a favorable outcome in emotionally charged situations.

What Does a Family Law Lawyer Do?

A family law lawyer provides a wide range of services depending on your specific legal needs. Their responsibilities may include:

  • Advising on legal rights and options: Helping you understand your legal rights regarding divorce, child custody, support, and other family law issues.
  • Filing legal documents: Drafting and filing petitions, motions, and agreements with the court, such as divorce papers, custody agreements, or support orders.
  • Representing clients in court: Arguing your case in front of a judge if a settlement can’t be reached through negotiation or mediation.
  • Mediation and negotiation: Assisting with alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, to reach agreements on issues like custody, property division, and support without going to trial.
  • Enforcing court orders: Helping you enforce court orders related to child support, alimony, or custody if the other party fails to comply.
  • Drafting prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: Creating agreements that protect your assets in the event of a divorce.
  • Handling adoption proceedings: Ensuring that the legal process of adoption is followed, from filing paperwork to finalizing the adoption in court.

How Are Family Law Lawyers Paid?

Family law lawyers typically charge clients in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Common payment arrangements include:

  • Hourly rates: Most family lawyers charge by the hour, with rates varying based on experience and location. Clients are billed for the time spent working on their case, including consultations, court appearances, and document preparation.
  • Flat fees: For more straightforward legal services, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, some lawyers offer flat-fee arrangements.
  • Retainer fees: In cases that are expected to require significant time and attention, such as contentious custody battles, a lawyer may charge a retainer, which is an upfront payment that covers the initial costs of legal services. The lawyer then bills against the retainer as they work on your case.

The exact cost will depend on the complexity of your case and the lawyer’s fee structure, which should be discussed upfront.

How Much Does a Family Law Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a family law lawyer varies based on factors such as the lawyer's experience, the location, and the complexity of your case. Here are some general cost guidelines:

  • Hourly rates: Family law lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour, depending on their experience and the complexity of the case.
  • Flat fees: For simpler cases, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, fees may range from $1,000 to $5,000.
  • Retainers: For more complex matters, such as contested divorces or custody battles, lawyers may charge a retainer ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 or more. The lawyer will bill against the retainer for the work they do on your case.
  • Additional costs: You may also be responsible for additional costs, such as filing fees, mediation fees, or expert witness fees.

Always ask for a clear breakdown of the lawyer’s fees and any additional expenses during your consultation.

Top Questions to Ask a Family Law Lawyer

Before hiring a family law lawyer, it's important to ask questions to ensure they're the right fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:

  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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