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03 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
You're better off representing yourself than having her as your court appointed attorney. She doesn't return phone calls, rarely meets with incarcerated inmates, and will not speak up in your defense in court. She seems to write up a pity excuse for a defense and if the state challenges it you're out of luck! She doesn't try to fight for you to get the best deal
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19 Nov, 2020 by Joshua
Samantha is a wonderful attorney appointed as Public Defender in Vanderburgh County.. She's very attentive, prompt and well spoken. Seems to really care for her clients. Very direct and to the point!!
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18 May, 2024 by Anonymous
Took my savings and didn't do ONE thing on my case. NOTHING. Refuses to refund my money.
I have all emails on this case, everything her being rude and snotty to me as well. Her refusing to refund my money saying there were not guarantees, no of course not you never did anything Johana! You are a sorry excuse for a lawyer. You should be disbarred.
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15 Feb, 2023 by Mona
Thank you Johna Goff, for helping me through one of the most difficult times in my life. You’re a wonderful listener. You always got back with me when I asked you a question via text . I felt confident that you’d help get me through my divorce, and you came through for me.
A very professional, yet friendly person, I always want on my team!
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11 Jun, 2020 by Anonymous
Very unprofessional, lazy, and rude. Took him over a year to get my bankruptcy completed. Promised me one thing but did another. First time I spoke to him he said he was “adorably” real because I believed I was being conned. The whole time I had him it was anxiety and anger for his lack of listening, punctuality, and doing his job right. Even the courts saw something wrong and made him give me half my money back. Still have things left after bankruptcy and he refuses to contact me so I can figure how to fix this. This was his responsibility to help and I would not recommend him to anyone. He always made excuses rather than being a professional lawyer.
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27 Oct, 2017 by David
Tom is very good and very fair. He answers questions and does free consultations. He get's the job done!
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19 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
A few years ago, I was looking for an attorney and did not have much money for a retainer. I knew I could pay the fees, but many child custody attorneys wanted $2,000-$4,000 just for the retainer and some wanted you to replenish that if it dropped below a certain amount. I was referred to Nick, after visiting a lot of different attorneys who would not work with me. After discussing the case with me for almost two hours, he told me he would be happy to represent me. He worked with me to arrange a retainer that I could afford and a payment schedule that made things work. Before you think this is all about money, it is not. I had spent years trying to get a better situation for my son. I have had custody since he was very young and his mother had moved out of state. She had refused to modify parenting time to accommodate changing school calendars, support athletic activities and denied contact when he was visiting her. Prior attorneys and judges told me that I was “swimming up-stream” and ignored the trauma that was being caused. Nick took the time to actually listen and to act as a true advocate. He met with me several times, listened to all of my suggestions (implementing the ones that would help and explaining why others may not), and most of all realized that it was about my son. When we talked before the hearing (on a late evening to accommodate my work schedule), he was pointed and realistic. He relayed all of the possibilities and challenges. The day of the hearing, he was prompt and showed his ability to adapt when the other party tried some last minute delay tactics. All the while, he set realistic expectations of what might, or might not, happen. In the end, I had a judge who truly listened to me for the first time and did what was best for my son, but it was Nick who fought for my son and me and helped to navigate the storm that is family law. It showed me just how much I had been dismissed for being a father with custody. He did more in a few months than attorneys had done with exorbitant amounts of money and over 7 years. In the end, it is not about money, but a work ethic. It is about character and Nick has that. He graduated from one of the most prestigious law schools in the country but realizes that the most important thing is justice, and above all people. I would highly recommend Nick.
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09 Jun, 2014 by Anonymous
I feel I could do better at representing myself then he can. I also feel like there are times that I know more about the process at times. Anything I say or recommend as far as actions I want taken in court are just blown off or I'm told it can't happen or won't be done when I know for a fact that he is incorrect. It comes off as laziness and him not wanting to put in any effort. Treated like my case not of importance to him. Only time I hear from him is through email one or two days before any upcoming hearings. Also, wastes the retainer fee. He represented me once in court and basically just stood there and said nothing. but my retainer fee was blown through within 4 months just on emails and court orders that he sent to me even though he knows I get those papers mailed to me free from the courthouse. Definitely would never recommend him to anyone hoping to win their case or get what they deserve from a court case.
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16 Aug, 2022 by Amanda
Paul Hadley has been my attorney for over a decade. If you need a lawyer, chances are that you are in a highly emotional situation. Paul will tell you clearly what he believes will be the best course of action. He will not beat around the bush, sugar coat, or waste your time or money with unnecessary phone calls or legal actions. He is a force to be reckoned with in the courtroom and he knows the law inside and out. His fees are very reasonable and his office staff are wonderful. If you want a no nonsense, highly successful attorney, Paul is who you want.
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04 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
I hired Paul Hadley as a divorce attorney and all I ever heard was that Indiana is a 50/50 state and I had no worries. My divorce went 73/37% in a 50/50 state...what a joke! He was unprepared for court and actually did nothing for me in court...and the ruling stated that clearly.
However, he was never unprepared for wanting paid, and YES, he was always paid on time.
He was more worried about getting his 50 cents on each paper copied than anything.
I would NEVER recommend this man as an attorney!
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18 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
My experience with Mr. Quirk is very unprofessional. Called multiple times he never returns my calls. His father was a great attorney he’s nothing like that in my experience
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09 Jul, 2013 by Anonymous
Mr.Quirk knows exactly what to do and when to do. His knowledge and experience in family law is vast and unmatched. I would recommend him to anyone who would like to have a honest , hardworking , dynamic and full of aura attorney by their side. I am sure all he knows is to win.
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24 Oct, 2018 by Sally
I'm going to try to keep this straight forward and to the point. As my Attorney in which I paid for, Mr. Christopher Hopson was just going through the motions and DCS made many false allegations about my case and incorrect filings of very relavant exhibits to the court. The case should of been totally dismissed on incorrect filings and failure to adhere to court procedure. Mr Hopson made no effort to bring forth Police Officers and get depositions that could have been clearly a turning point for my defense in that in this particular case those police officers statements could have proven that the DCS made obvious lies about me and the unprofessional nature of the serious lack of evidence that DCS had concerning my ability to responsibly parent my child and I'm appealing my case and if over turned I'm going to take out a lawsuit against Mr Hopson for defamation of character and emotional damages for his blatant inability to do his job and act in the best interest of his client and not having the motivation to do anything and everything in his power to exhaust every resource to show the Juvenile Magistrate that The Department of Child Services clearly didn't act professional and forged lies about the circumstances of the case. If you want your children home don't hire this unprofessional please!
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29 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
I called Christopher for a free consultation on a credit collection case. He took the time to listen to my story and asked me relevant questions to evaluate my case. The case was not something he handles, but he still cared to help me and gave me instructions on how to approach my case and resolve my issue. I would recommend him to anyone seeking a lawyer who actually cares about their cases.
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13 Jan, 2016 by Blair
She is a very hard working lawyer with excellent attention to detail and a passion for law. She is committed to her clients and will not stop until the job is done. I would use her services again.
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20 Oct, 2015 by Anonymous
The worse attorney I've had the opportunity to come in contact with, We retained her over two years ago and she spent our 1000.00 and hadn't even served the respondent. Instead of being honest,( I know a honest lawyer?) she told us the motion for trial was sitting on the judges desk for over 6 months!!! Really?! she barely responded to emails and almost never responded to phone calls. The only time she responded was when I informed her she was fired! If you want to throw away money or you don't really want to win a case hire her.
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26 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
I hired this attorney years ago. There were court dates cancelled without my knowing. Court dates made that I was not contacted for (with the exception of one where I was notified at 5:30pm on the day before to tell me I had to appearat that point I had to scramble to get work off the next morning). Papers for the opposing party to be served where sent 2 days before the hearing in one circumstance to which the opposing party was not considered"notified" therefore they had to continue the hearing once again. There was able time to get the opposer served as the court date before was 2 months prior. One court date was supposed to be a hearing in front of the judge and when I took work off and appeared I was told that hearings are not on Fridays. They are on Thursdays. I told the office that the information keeps changing as to what I am being told is happening and what actually happens. I had waited on one letter to be sent to the opposing party for 2 months one time. I was told I can have the letter edited if I was not satisfied. I chose that option. I went through the letter with the front office and at the end of the discussion I asked them to read back to me what they had so far. They weren't even taking notes. I was the asked to edit the letter myself and they would sign it! They do not send monthly statements or the agreement made between the client and attorney on what the cost will be. The front desk ladies are rude and condescending as if asking for my file information is a burden. The front office has stopped responding to my inquiries after several months of asking why my last hearing was cancelled without my knowledge and making monthly payments. I was suggested to contact the Bar association with all my information. Elden seems to be polite and caring and I don't know if this is his doing or the office.
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09 May, 2016 by Anonymous
Didn't think he was going to be good at first but got everything I wanted in court 2 years ago. Getting ready to hire him again. I trust him to represent me. Not super expensive but not "cheap". Well worth the money.
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01 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
Contacted the attorney regarding a dissolution. He was very knowledgeable about the law in my case and helped me understand the legal process.
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15 Nov, 2019 by Anonymous
Out of 3 meetings the only advice he gave me was don’t contact your ex directly or indirectly. then his staff called and told me a continuance had been granted and come to find out it had not. He missed a deadline to file for a hearing. I would not advice anyone to hire him. He did give me back about half the money I paid him but unless you feel like $1300 is worth a phone call and a few meetings where he just sits and nods his head and writes a few things down you would be better off representing yourself.
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23 Mar, 2024 by Tish respondek
Ron has been my attorney for 17yrs. He is the best in town. He is straight and to the point, which I love! Honest and worth every penny.
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28 Nov, 2023 by Lularoe jami
He is awful!! He treated me awful. He won’t talk to you. He will gladly take your $. He has left me in a huge bind. I sent him a nice email going over what had taken place and what still needed done. His response was to withdraw from my case. So, he chose to take the $ and run. Thanks Ron😡
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06 Dec, 2022 by Christina malcolm
Not impressed.
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03 Nov, 2023 by Christina ramey
26 Dec, 2022 by Savage squad
11 Nov, 2021 by Steve boswell
23 Jun, 2020 by Diane johnson
10 Oct, 2019 by Kathy brown-pardo
Went there for her to help with my divorce. She said she would make it to the court meeting and never showed. Very dissapointed
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04 May, 2022 by Justin l
23 Sep, 2021 by Dan bronder
Mr Kerr must be out of business nobody ever called me I called four times that my name number, nothing.....
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16 Jun, 2023 by James pemberton
Brian did a great job helping me with a custody case. He is very professional and does his due diligence. I would call again, if ever have the need. Thank you Brian!
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15 Aug, 2018 by Lori craft
Wouldn't return my calls after the initial consult. Too busy?? I couldn't speculate as to why..aside from I'm crazy AND broke at the same time! Very nice and seemed very professional.
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06 Feb, 2024 by Georgia phillips
19 Sep, 2022 by Rick roll
Hang em high Howard f Hanson was the worst attorney I ever had . Threw me under the bus over a residential entry I wasn't guilty of.
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13 Oct, 2017 by Emery merriman
It's a public defender's office... what can I say? You typically get what you pay for.
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13 Jun, 2023 by Danielle logan
She is the best, she takes time to make you understand. I like her.
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23 Aug, 2019 by Paulette j jacob
Introduced and she did what was needed
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19 Nov, 2017 by Justin mcmeans
Mehhhhhhhhhhhh go elsewhere
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29 Oct, 2024 by Scott hoff
The staff is always courteous and fair.
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20 Oct, 2023 by Andy chandler
Buser would have made given a slave trader in the 1850's a run for his money. RINO... but clearly a sign of the perversion of the party.
prosecutor's goals are to stack up charges and force people to run out of money defending themselves from charges they can file for free. That's not democracy, that's despotism.
This coming from a guy who's the great nephew of one of the party's founders.
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07 Feb, 2025 by Matthew c
Carmen had very little to work with and she still got the win.
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16 Jan, 2025 by Katie ball
24 Sep, 2024 by Cary newman
07 Feb, 2025 by Matthew c
Carmen had very little to work with and she still got the win.
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16 Jan, 2025 by Katie ball
24 Sep, 2024 by Cary newman
24 Apr, 2024 by Pat herskind
The Jackson County prosecutor, Attorney Jeffrey Chalfant, has failed to file charges against The Veterinarian Blood Bank after receiving conclusive information from the Peta organization. Evidence included signed eyewitness signed statement, video and audio recordings with TVBB staff and vet records after two very neglected cats were rescued from there.
Why isn't this prosecutor doing his job? Perhaps a replacement is in order?
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31 Jan, 2024 by James wyatt
Very rude hard to deal with an they take convictions from years before into consideration on crimes it's crazy once u done the time for a crime u paid ur debt right u is it still being looked at after 10 years...my husband got a charge over something so crazy a clerk gave him the wrong change they blame him for it..an use a conviction he received in 3013 against him..
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27 Feb, 2023 by Barbara mcleod
03 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
Had to use this Attorney in a divorce because she came recommended. She was terrible. Charged me thousands of dollars for absolutely nothing. I lost my kid because of her. I wouldn’t recommend her to my worst enemy. Stay far away.
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18 Mar, 2021 by Joe
Horrible money seeking attorney. Did absolutely nothing for me, but charge me fees. I should have flushed my money down the toilet. Lost my kids because she was not competent enough to fill out docs and file on time.
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27 May, 2019 by Sean
Family Law Attorney Paula Schaefer is simply AMAZING!
READ THIS REVIEW
I struggled for 3 years to find a family law attorney who actually listened, treated me like a human being, and cared about the details of my divorce case.
I went through 2 attorneys and thousands of wasted dollars before I found Paula.
I used to get so frustrated and say "I wish I was rich so I could afford an attorney who actually cared about my case as much as I do"
Well I'm not rich, but I found an attorney in Paula, who treated me like I was. Her fees are competitive with the Indianapolis area Marketplace, but you will get so much more from Paula than any other attorney.
She is kind, steadfast, honest, professional, cool under pressure, and a classy attorney who will never make you feel like you are unworthy of great legal representation.
Paula is also a mom so she knows what you are going through. She has the right combination of experience and compassion and I promise you from experience, that it is rare to find these qualities in an attorney.
She returns phone calls, responds to e-mails, Has an incredible legal staff, and prepares thoroughly so you are ABSOLUTELY ready for a hearing if necessary.
I can not thank her enough for the way she treated me, the way she valued my input, and the way she cared about my case.
So why am I writing this review for Paula Schaefer?
Because she has totally restored my faith in attorneys.
Paula you are the best and I am so grateful that I found you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.
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27 Oct, 2022 by Alexandra
Watch for improper billing by Ms. Clar. She is rude and will brush you off the phone to avoid accountability for her illogical billing.
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28 Nov, 2016 by Sean
Started great, but ended bad, she gave up when I really needed her. She is knowledgeable about getting lots of paperwork through the court system costing you lots of money, but not getting much legal ground work done. I wasted a lot of time and money, she did me a great favor by quitting on me. Her fees are reasonable, but she knows how to squeeze out every billable minute. She loves to drop a bill on you just before trial to keep you on the hook. I found a another attorney who quickly took the case in the right direction, at a 1/4 of the time and money then Ms. Clar did. New attorney used a method that Clar never even discussed that won my custody case, even though it is an area she advocates. So glad we parted ways!
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30 Sep, 2014 by Jason
Great attorney. She tells it like she sees it. She doesn’t hold back. I went through an ugly custody battle and she was amazing. Her rates are reasonable. You get better service and cheaper rates with Wendy than you would with these larger firms. She understands every situation different and is willing to work with you. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!!
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06 Jun, 2023 by Kane kirchstein
Very unpleasent and very rude. Called to ask for a phone number and had nothing but attitude and would not allow me to speak. Still do not have the lawyers phone number because what she was saying did not make sense. Would not allow me to speak and ask what she meant. Very disrespectful.
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22 Mar, 2023 by Karen hyatt
Very professional in the court room. The judge has til Aug to divide and agree on assets, so I will leave another review once I know what the outcome is.
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18 Dec, 2022 by Denise hamilton
27 Aug, 2024 by Corey
Initial consultation was promising. Once money was involved, I never heard from him again. I tried asking questions with no answer. Asked for him to withdraw from the case and refund my remaining retainer of 800 or so. Was told there was no retainer left and I had no bills from him explaining where the money went. Awful awful experience, and all he did was take a couple thousand dollars from me.
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11 Apr, 2018 by Anonymous
Several years ago i was referred to him by the courts (first red flag) i then went in and met with him for a consultation, proceeded to make my first payment and never heard from him again, i called and called and called never to get in touch with him, when i went to his office they kept telling me he was too busy, long story short i had to represent myself and was out of money, the judge asked me where is your lawyer i told her I've been unsuccessful getting in contact with him, so to jail i went and had to hire another lawyer from inside, he never attempted to return my calls or meet with me anymore leaving out to dry, he just wanted his money and kept it moving, i don't and would never recommend this guy EVER
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31 Jul, 2014 by Anonymous
I don't like grey areas. Robert gives it to you straight, to the point and with no fluff. Would highly recommend.
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06 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
She missed appointments , made mistakes, forgot to request documentation and did not take accountability. I hired her to complete an effective job and found myself correcting her errors or simply losing out because I still had pay her plus loss out in the agreement. Hire the husband if your able to.
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24 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
Does not do her research, makes assumptions without documentation and then doesn’t admit when she’s wrong or help to fix it. Warning.
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26 Feb, 2019 by Anonymous
I hired Michelle to represent me in a case involving my son. She ignored my wishes regarding visitation and sought out a settlement. She talked me into settling moments before court by presenting it to me in a set of dates and times that I could not calculate quickly enough. Then, in court, it turned out that we were agreeing to exactly what the other party wanted... And exactly what I explicitly stated I did not want. I had had sole custody of my son since birth and I am a great mother. As a result of these actions, I have now lost half of my time with him. In addition to that, she failed to send me the documentation that was drawn up for custody. I was held in contempt against that agreement and am now facing a trial for complete physical custody of my son. Michelle was not efficient with communication at all and she was scared to walk into a courtroom and defend me. My family has gone through much suffering as a result.
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09 Nov, 2019 by Anonymous
When I first hired her, Meghan was great! Confident and seemd to have a plan for my case. Then she just stopped...everything. Suddently she stopped talking to me or calling me back at all or taking my calls, even phone calls we scheduled ahead of time, and would not return emails or calls ever. I asked her to take herself off of my case but she never responded to that either and never filed the papers so she still shows up as my lawyer. Ver disappointed.
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08 Feb, 2019 by Anonymous
Megan never had time to meet or talk with me, and when we met with opposing counsel for a settlement agreement, she did not advise me or let me know what were my options were—because of this I lost everything. She admitted the next day that things fell through the cracks from her end, and that she needed to hurry things up because she needed to prepare for court. Is that working in the best interest of your client? Then, one year later I get a bill for $8,000. Office is very unorganized. Megan should stop practicing law as to not ruin people’s lives.
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25 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
This law firm took 8 months to file a QDRO that was already written and was not revised and I was charged over $1500. Extremely disorganized office and huge lack of communication. If you need legal services performed correctly and in a timely manner, do not use this firm.
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27 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
May be a good attorney, not sure, couldn't continue the case due to his cost, after paying consulted, each time I called to get the next step, spend 5 minutes on the phone was 130.00 then they don't contact you back with results, you have to call again then get charged again
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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:
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What experience do you have with family law cases like mine?
Make sure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it's a contested divorce, child custody dispute, or adoption. -
How will you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, a flat fee, or requires a retainer. Ask for an estimate of the total costs involved. -
What are the possible outcomes of my case?
An experienced lawyer should be able to give you a general idea of what to expect based on the facts of your case. -
What is your approach to resolving disputes?
Ask whether the lawyer tends to favor negotiation and mediation or whether they prefer to take cases to court. This can help you determine if their style matches your goals. -
How long do you expect my case to take?
While it’s difficult to predict, the lawyer should give you an estimate based on similar cases. -
Who will be handling my case?
In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may do much of the work, so make sure you understand who will be your main point of contact.
How to Check the Credibility of a Family Law Lawyer
To ensure you're hiring a reputable family law lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and reputation:
- Check state bar association records: Verify that the lawyer is licensed to practice in your state and is in good standing with no disciplinary actions.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on websites like Avvo, Google, or Martindale-Hubbell. Previous clients can give you insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and success in family law cases.
- Request references: Ask the lawyer for references from past clients who can speak to their experience with the lawyer.
- Review their website or professional profile: Look at the lawyer’s background, case history, and areas of focus to ensure they have substantial experience in family law.
- Look for professional memberships: Membership in reputable organizations, such as the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), can indicate a lawyer's expertise and dedication to family law.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a family law lawyer, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what you should bring:
- Relevant documents: Bring any documents related to your case, such as marriage certificates, prenuptial agreements, financial records, custody agreements, or court orders.
- List of assets and debts: For divorce cases, prepare a detailed list of all assets (e.g., homes, bank accounts, retirement funds) and debts (e.g., mortgages, loans, credit card balances).
- Details of the family issue: Provide a written summary of the situation, including key dates and facts related to your divorce, custody dispute, or support issue.
- Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions you have about the legal process, costs, and potential outcomes.
- Your goals: Be prepared to discuss your objectives, such as custody arrangements, property division, or spousal support, so the lawyer understands your priorities.
Being organized and clear about your situation will help the lawyer evaluate your case more effectively and offer the best advice for moving forward.
