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Christopher Norman Wahl, experienced Business, Family Law attorney in Indianapolis, IN with 145 reviews
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16,02
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3.5/5
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3.5
145 Reviews
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16 Jan, 2025 by Katie ball
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11 Jan, 2025 by Franklin g
Shame on you, Terrance. Your day will come. Your. Day. Will. Come.
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26 Nov, 2024 by Keith cooper
Setting up a consultation was quick and simple. We were able to review the clauses in the contract that I had questions about and get feedback on how to interpret then we walked through the risks associated with each option. I was able to get all of my questions answered to then make an informed decision.
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Forrest Bertin Bowman III, experienced Family Law attorney in Indianapolis, IN with 145 reviews
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16,02
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3.5/5
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3.5
145 Reviews
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16 Jan, 2025 by Katie ball
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11 Jan, 2025 by Franklin g
Shame on you, Terrance. Your day will come. Your. Day. Will. Come.
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26 Nov, 2024 by Keith cooper
Setting up a consultation was quick and simple. We were able to review the clauses in the contract that I had questions about and get feedback on how to interpret then we walked through the risks associated with each option. I was able to get all of my questions answered to then make an informed decision.
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Tiffany Jane Smith, experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in Indianapolis, IN with 11 reviews
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15,93
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3.5/5
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3.5
11 Reviews
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17 Oct, 2024 by Herbert morris
Tried several times to call in for Tom Wheeler for a potential case, even left a message for his assistant with no response from this attorney. Please avoid Tom Wheeler and this law firm! Unprofessional! Tom Wheeler never answers his phone!
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19 Mar, 2024 by Dawn flock
Alan Townsend and Greg Shelly fought hard for me in my recent mediation over my late husband's estate. They were very professional and knowledgeable regarding estate matters and laws. I am truly thankful and grateful for their help.
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12 May, 2022 by Jdk
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Thakena Deriess Hogue, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Indianapolis, IN with 32 reviews
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15,82
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2.9/5
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2.9
32 Reviews
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24 Jan, 2025 by Mrsgomez mrsgomez
You’re disgusting JUSTICE FOR NATALIA 😡😡😡😡😡😡😡😡😡😡😡
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16 Jan, 2025 by Katie ball
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14 Jan, 2025 by Anonymous rando
Justice for Natalia Grace. You can't honestly be a purveyor of truth and defend Michael Barnett.
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Kelli Jo Young, experienced Appeals, Family Law attorney in Indianapolis, IN with 11 reviews
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15,73
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3.1/5
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2.0
3 Reviews
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3.5
8 Reviews
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03 Jul, 2024 by Stevey ai
I'm not a paid bot! Kelli is Great! -statements may or may not be written by a bot
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12 Mar, 2023 by Watching you
Great Attonery We hired Kellie durning our court battle for custody of a child She was outstanding
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06 Jan, 2023 by Anonymous
I hired Kelli Young because I was trying to protect my child from his abusive father. If you are having to hire a lawyer to begin with, then it's probably a terrible time in your life. It was like pulling teeth to get her to communicate with me, and when she did she was sending documents that I had to constantly correct her - like NAMES and dates of birth or inconsistent details. She is one of the most incompetent lawyers I have ever had the misfortune to work with. All she cared about was payment, and even though we paid our bills on time, she decided in the midst of our case that she didn't want to work on it any longer. DO NOT HIRE!!!!
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Kevin Howard Willis, experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in Indianapolis, IN with 5 reviews
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13,75
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3.0/5
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3.0
5 Reviews
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06 Jun, 2019 by Anonymous
Kevin was fantastic. He helped me out with an expungement. He kept me up to date on the process and was just overly helpful and informative. It was a quick and swiftly dealt with ordeal and I cannot recommend him enough.
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18 May, 2019 by Anonymous
I am a poor starving artist who really messed up to the point where I needed a lawyer to get me out of deep trouble a few years back. I mean it wasn't like criminal bad stuff. It was just me being drunk and outta control and doing some really stupid stuff and I got caught! But like no one would take my case and they was all too expensive anyways. Then I found Kevin and he took my case right away. And he was so much cheaper then the other guys too. In conclusion if you think you don't have money for a lawyer then think again and call Kevin Willis. Oh, he did not get me off the hook but he tried lots of crazy ways to do it and the judge did not throw the book at me either. So if you don't have much money and you messed up, and no lawyer wants to take your case, I am telling you that Kevin is your guy.
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19 Oct, 2017 by Robin
I hired Kevin to help represent me and my partner in two separate but related issues. Altogether we were doing business with him for a little over a year. I spoke to and had consultations with several other lawyers before choosing Kevin. In the one case, he helped drastically mitigate damages we knew we were facing in a small claims suit filed against us. We were never going to win but the costs were made manageable. In the separate case, we ended up settling for an amount in our favor that made this whole nightmare of a situation a win for all of us overall. He was professional and courteous, even when faced with a bullish and condescending opposing counsel. At all points in the case, Kevin helped clarify the language and ensured I knew what was happening before it happened. He had opportunities to enrich himself further, but instead took the honorable and integrous path to his own detriment. He cared that the result was good for his client and not just himself. It's too easy to criticize someone, anonymously, over the internet, especially from a position where you may not understand or even be aware of applicable law. Any potential client should sit down with multiple lawyers and see how they communicate with you. Make sure that you choose the right personality to represent your position. If you don't know how to communicate effectively with your lawyer about what your hopes/expectations are at each stage, then you're bound to be disappointed, regardless of outcome. You will be happy with your choice in Kevin, as long as you understand that when it comes to litigation, no party gets exactly the outcome they want.
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Nicholas Raymond Blesch Clark, experienced Family Law attorney in Indianapolis, IN with 2 reviews
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13,69
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3.0/5
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3.0
2 Reviews
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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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Francine Martha Rowley, experienced Family Law attorney in Indianapolis, IN with 18 reviews
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13,21
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2.9/5
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2.9
18 Reviews
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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
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24 Sep, 2024 by Cary newman
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Jennifer Fitzpatrick Perry, experienced Family Law, Litigation attorney in Indianapolis, IN with 18 reviews
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13,21
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2.9/5
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2.9
18 Reviews
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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
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24 Sep, 2024 by Cary newman
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Paula Jean Schaefer, experienced Family Law attorney in Indianapolis, IN with 5 reviews
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12,84
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2.8/5
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2.8
5 Reviews
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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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Romy N. Elswerky, experienced Criminal Defense, Divorce attorney in Indianapolis, IN with 0 reviews
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12,00
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0.0/5
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Rachelle N. Ponist, experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in Indianapolis, IN with 0 reviews
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12,00
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0.0/5
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Megan Moran Lewis, experienced Family Law, Litigation attorney in Indianapolis, IN with 4 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
11,78
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2.0/5
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2.0
4 Reviews
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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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Carman Malone, experienced Bankruptcy, Criminal Defense attorney in Indianapolis, IN with 0 reviews
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11,00
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0.0/5
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George Arthur Simpson, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Indianapolis, IN with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
9,77
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1.0/5
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1.0
1 Reviews
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05 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
First off, he advertises a free consultation and then he charges you. He acted like he was doing me a favor by only charging me $200 for my consultation which was 30 minutes. His normal fee is $395 an hour so he actually charged me more per minute than his hourly rate! He had absolutely no bedside manners. When I would ask a question or say something like "I'm not sure this matters but..." he would respond with "Nope, don't care" or "Doesn't matter." He didn't help me at all to understand the process. I understand lawyers aren't suppose to be your therapist but going through a divorce is an emotional process and it wouldn't hurt to have a little bit of empathy. I left his office in near tears and more confusion than what I went in with. Would not recommend going to him!
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Kevin Alan Hoover, experienced Family Law attorney in Indianapolis, IN with 5 reviews
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8,16
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1.2/5
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1.2
5 Reviews
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23 Sep, 2021 by Anonymous
Paid this guy to take on my case, he absolutely ignored me until the day before my case and then continued it because we weren't ready when I hired him over a month in advance! Then we continue it, and he did it to me again and it cost me dearly, as I lost because of his lack of doing his job!! Don't waste your money like I did!!!
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07 Feb, 2018 by Anonymous
Mr.Hoover does not call, does not call back, and does not give you information about your case. Mr.Hoover was hired to represent me in my child custody case. I have called multiple times and no response from Mr.Hoover. When Mr.Hoover would call it would be the day of the actual court date. Mr.Hoover does not communicate, is not professional and does not communicate at all about the case. I had to hire another attorney to represent me for my child custody case. I had to pay another attorney to help me and actually represent me correctly and professionally. Mr.Hoover was paid but did not do his job. Mr.Hoover is unprofessional! He did not care about my case. I would not hire Mr. Kevin Hoover. He will just take your money and not represent you, nor call you. He should be ashamed of himself by taking money and not doing his job, not being professional, and not caring about my case.
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19 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
It's been 3.5 years since Kevin Hoover of Hill Fulwider represented me and I'm still having issues as a result. He botched my child support case, won't respond, and won't even remove himself from my case, so I can't even get information from the courts. Every time I try to get information on my child support case, the child support prosecutor won't communicate directly with me because he is the counsel on file. I can't get information, can't get them to drop him, and can't get him to drop himself. Even when the prosecutor sends my case information to him, I've never heard a peep. Now, I have to hire another attorney just so I can get basic information about a reported arrearage. It's completely ridiculous!!
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James Metzger, experienced Criminal Defense, Domestic Violence attorney in Indianapolis, IN with 0 reviews
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8,00
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Drew Spear, experienced Business, Divorce attorney in Indianapolis, IN with 0 reviews
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8,00
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Mark Nicholson, experienced Cannabis Law, Civil Rights attorney in Indianapolis, IN with 0 reviews
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8,00
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K. Aaron Heifner, experienced Criminal Defense, Divorce attorney in Indianapolis, IN with 0 reviews
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8,00
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Justin Thane Bowen, experienced Criminal Defense, Divorce attorney in Indianapolis, IN with 0 reviews
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8,00
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Joshua Paul Stein, experienced Criminal Defense, Divorce attorney in Indianapolis, IN with 0 reviews
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8,00
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Brian Adam Clay, experienced Criminal Defense, Divorce attorney in Indianapolis, IN with 0 reviews
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8,00
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Kim Kessinger, experienced Divorce, Family Law attorney in Indianapolis, IN with 0 reviews
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8,00
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Clarissa Anne Finnell, experienced Adoption, Child Custody attorney in Indianapolis, IN with 0 reviews
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8,00
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Lainie Ann Hurwitz, experienced Family Law attorney in Indianapolis, IN with 1 reviews
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7,17
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1.0/5
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1.0
1 Reviews
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03 May, 2015 by Anonymous
I retained this attorney after reading her bio to handle my post divorce. Once retained, she misinformed me on several issues and billed me for months, over $5000 total for some emails and phone calls to opposing council, and filing several continuance to avoid court appearance. She withdrew her services one week before scheduled court date and left my case without resolution. I originally retained her after meeting with her in person, she told me she would represent me because I moved out of State. After I moved she informed me she could not do this with several excuses as to why, none of which made sense. She and her assistant are nothing but rude, unorganized and greedy. She charges $275 an hour to run her mouth with excuses and send emails. I am out $5000, down the toilet for nothing and now have to clean up the mess she and her staff made with my child support modifications. She even billed me for her time to file papers to quit my case without the courtesy of a simple phone call. She claims she is all about resolving family matters, what she did to me was simple callous.
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Tara Cragen, experienced Criminal Defense, Divorce attorney in Indianapolis, IN with 0 reviews
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7,00
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Greg Spencer, experienced Criminal Defense, Divorce attorney in Indianapolis, IN with 0 reviews
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7,00
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Kelly Thompson, experienced Criminal Defense, Divorce attorney in Indianapolis, IN with 0 reviews
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6,00
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Donna J Bays, experienced Divorce, Family Law attorney in Indianapolis, IN with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
6,00
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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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