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14 Oct, 2023 by Chris hays
02 Sep, 2022 by Keith bell
05 Apr, 2021 by Hayden h
10 Nov, 2023 by Christopher welch
If I needed an attorney in Dubuque, this is who I would use. She is the best and always there to answer my questions.
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14 Apr, 2023 by Jeremy stowe
03 Apr, 2023 by Jennifer swank
Hi - We have contacted your office multiple times via phone and email regarding a final title policy. We have not received a response in several months. Any assistance is appreciated to close out this loan.
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10 Nov, 2023 by Christopher welch
If I needed an attorney in Dubuque, this is who I would use. She is the best and always there to answer my questions.
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14 Apr, 2023 by Jeremy stowe
03 Apr, 2023 by Jennifer swank
Hi - We have contacted your office multiple times via phone and email regarding a final title policy. We have not received a response in several months. Any assistance is appreciated to close out this loan.
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11 Sep, 2024 by Veronica stevens
From day one, it was clear that Barry not only possesses an incredible depth of legal knowledge but also has a sharp instinct for knowing the best course of action in every situation. His ability to craft precise strategies while navigating complex legal issues is truly impressive. At every turn, Barry had a well-thought-out plan and was always a step ahead, ensuring the best possible outcome for my case.
What truly sets Barry apart, though, is his kind and approachable demeanor. He genuinely cares about his clients, treating you with respect, empathy, and patience. No matter how stressed I was, Barry always had a calm, reassuring presence, taking the time to explain each step in a way that made me feel confident and at ease. His combination of sharp legal strategy and warm personality is a rare find in the legal world.
Barry Kaplan is not only an exceptional attorney but also a genuinely nice person who is deeply committed to his clients. If you're looking for someone who will fight for you with both intelligence and compassion, Barry is the one to trust. I couldn't recommend him more highly.
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31 Jul, 2024 by Shane
Very loyal and honorable to their word and the law outstanding service you can trust in the business and their work.
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25 Jul, 2024 by Shannon haines
Receptionist will NOT allow you to speak to the lawyers, has a huge attitude and shouldn’t be in the office
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07 Oct, 2024 by Mia barrios
02 Oct, 2024 by Eric weber
Alex did alot at the beginning of the trial but as time went on near the birth of his baby I didn't get emails. I waited a couple of months until something huge happened just to be told he no longer was working with me because he had a huge case load. I was mortified as he had been working with me a couple of years and knew my case and my ex narcassist unacceptable behaviors. I did owe $2k but as soon as mediation was going to happen, I had plans on paying it all off, but because of this, I had to get a new lawyer and only make small payments to Alex. I will say they did give me my files back.
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20 Sep, 2024 by Rachel pennel
Alex Momany was the best thing that could have happened to me. He was hired about a month prior to my trial date. My previous attorney had underperformed. I was in such mental and emotional distress after the temporary hearing, and financially maxed I still continued with my original attorney, until he stopped practicing and I was forced to find another one. Hiring Alex was TRULY THE BEST THING THAT HAPPENED, I just wish I had hired him originally.
Alex saved what he could of the mess my original attorney had created and did it with grace and poise. He is professional, straight forward and makes you feel heard and valued. I will recommend Alex ever single time and will absolutely hire him if I need an attorney in the future.
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26 Jun, 2024 by J r
I am writing to express my profound disappointment with the service provided by your firm regarding my recent legal case. Initially, I was optimistic about the level of expertise and support I expected to receive. However, the events that transpired have left me with no choice but to communicate my dissatisfaction.
One of your lawyers, whom I entrusted with my case, abruptly informed me a couple weeks before my trial that they would no longer be able to represent me due to accepting a position elsewhere. This last-minute notification put me in an extremely precarious position, leaving me without adequate time to secure alternative representation. What compounded my frustration was the lack of initiative from your firm to rectify the situation or offer assistance in finding a suitable replacement. This lack of support during such a critical time is not only unprofessional but also reflects poorly on the commitment you profess to your clients.
The absence of a contingency plan or even an attempt to make amends for this oversight is bewildering. It is reasonable to expect a law firm of your stature to handle such transitions smoothly and with the client's best interest in mind. Unfortunately, this was not my experience, and it has significantly impacted my view of your firm.
I had hoped for a partnership that valued professionalism and client welfare, but instead, I was met with negligence and a disregard for the gravity of my situation. It is with regret that I must state that I cannot recommend your services based on my experience.
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18 Jun, 2024 by Dallas britt
Bryan Webber has been my attorney in a difficult case with my children for over a year. He always represents my aggressively in court and he knows the law. I would not go anywhere else for legal representation in Iowa.
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13 Jun, 2024 by Timothy faas
Erin is a rare attorney who returns calls promptly and gives you his full attention even when in the middle of a very busy caseload… Highly recommend!
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07 Oct, 2024 by Mia barrios
02 Oct, 2024 by Eric weber
Alex did alot at the beginning of the trial but as time went on near the birth of his baby I didn't get emails. I waited a couple of months until something huge happened just to be told he no longer was working with me because he had a huge case load. I was mortified as he had been working with me a couple of years and knew my case and my ex narcassist unacceptable behaviors. I did owe $2k but as soon as mediation was going to happen, I had plans on paying it all off, but because of this, I had to get a new lawyer and only make small payments to Alex. I will say they did give me my files back.
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20 Sep, 2024 by Rachel pennel
Alex Momany was the best thing that could have happened to me. He was hired about a month prior to my trial date. My previous attorney had underperformed. I was in such mental and emotional distress after the temporary hearing, and financially maxed I still continued with my original attorney, until he stopped practicing and I was forced to find another one. Hiring Alex was TRULY THE BEST THING THAT HAPPENED, I just wish I had hired him originally.
Alex saved what he could of the mess my original attorney had created and did it with grace and poise. He is professional, straight forward and makes you feel heard and valued. I will recommend Alex ever single time and will absolutely hire him if I need an attorney in the future.
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07 Oct, 2024 by Mia barrios
02 Oct, 2024 by Eric weber
Alex did alot at the beginning of the trial but as time went on near the birth of his baby I didn't get emails. I waited a couple of months until something huge happened just to be told he no longer was working with me because he had a huge case load. I was mortified as he had been working with me a couple of years and knew my case and my ex narcassist unacceptable behaviors. I did owe $2k but as soon as mediation was going to happen, I had plans on paying it all off, but because of this, I had to get a new lawyer and only make small payments to Alex. I will say they did give me my files back.
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20 Sep, 2024 by Rachel pennel
Alex Momany was the best thing that could have happened to me. He was hired about a month prior to my trial date. My previous attorney had underperformed. I was in such mental and emotional distress after the temporary hearing, and financially maxed I still continued with my original attorney, until he stopped practicing and I was forced to find another one. Hiring Alex was TRULY THE BEST THING THAT HAPPENED, I just wish I had hired him originally.
Alex saved what he could of the mess my original attorney had created and did it with grace and poise. He is professional, straight forward and makes you feel heard and valued. I will recommend Alex ever single time and will absolutely hire him if I need an attorney in the future.
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07 Oct, 2024 by Mia barrios
02 Oct, 2024 by Eric weber
Alex did alot at the beginning of the trial but as time went on near the birth of his baby I didn't get emails. I waited a couple of months until something huge happened just to be told he no longer was working with me because he had a huge case load. I was mortified as he had been working with me a couple of years and knew my case and my ex narcassist unacceptable behaviors. I did owe $2k but as soon as mediation was going to happen, I had plans on paying it all off, but because of this, I had to get a new lawyer and only make small payments to Alex. I will say they did give me my files back.
Read more
20 Sep, 2024 by Rachel pennel
Alex Momany was the best thing that could have happened to me. He was hired about a month prior to my trial date. My previous attorney had underperformed. I was in such mental and emotional distress after the temporary hearing, and financially maxed I still continued with my original attorney, until he stopped practicing and I was forced to find another one. Hiring Alex was TRULY THE BEST THING THAT HAPPENED, I just wish I had hired him originally.
Alex saved what he could of the mess my original attorney had created and did it with grace and poise. He is professional, straight forward and makes you feel heard and valued. I will recommend Alex ever single time and will absolutely hire him if I need an attorney in the future.
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21 Sep, 2024 by Stephanie comer
1 star is way to much to give this law firm. I was not impressed with them. Their lack of communication with executors. I wouldn't recommend them to my worst enemy. They drag their feet on closing estates. I feel that they only look at $$$ signs to line their pockets. DO NOT USE THIS LAW FIRM. Unfortunately my father's oldest daughter hired them because they are located close to where she lives.
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12 Sep, 2024 by Michael green
After my grandfather passed away in December of 2021, I received a letter from Ellis Law Firm stating that I was an heir to his estate along with a copy of my grandfather's will. His will stated that each of his grandkids were to receive $1,000 but now Ellis Law Firm is claiming that his grandkids get nothing. Ellis Law Firm is run by people who are clearly not fit to practice law. Please be aware of this shady law firm. 1 star is still 5 stars too many.
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13 Aug, 2024 by Noble mann
DO NOT USE THIS LAW FIRM!! Their webpage is a fancy way to get you to call them. I contacted this firm the day after I was arrested which was 2 weeks prior to the initial appearance date. Their secretary advised that she would pass my information along and call or email me soon. After a week I followed up.. expressing my concern that I has not heard from a lawyer... The secretary again stated that the lawyer was reviewing the case and would be contacting me soon and they were aware of the initial appearance date. Another week goes by and here we are one day before and still no call from Ellis law firm. So I call again and this time I was not nearly as nice which is to be expected. I asked if it was normal practice to disregard new clients and never call them back? One day before the appearance date and I have not talked to a lawyer or been told how much it will cost... I was given excuse after excuse as to why they had not called.. Well after that phone call guess what... the lawyer called but she did not care at all about her dropping the ball and not doing her job just that i was rude to her support staff after I was ignored and disregarded as a new client!!! I can not stress enough do not do business with these people ever !!! As a manager of a successful small business in Indianola that has been here for 10+ years and deals with the general public every day, we would not be in business if we treated our clients the way Ellis Law Firm treats their new clients.
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07 Nov, 2023 by David tait
24 Aug, 2023 by Kathy mccallister
16 Jun, 2023 by Elizabeth walker
24 Sep, 2024 by Olivia nelson
I recommend Adam Brewster to anyone dealing with the polk county courts. He’s a wonderful person to meet and work with. He’s efficient from what i encountered. Wishing him the best in life!
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08 Aug, 2024 by Mandy mahr
They communicated clearly and timely with me throughout the process. I felt heard and advocated for!
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06 Aug, 2024 by Friendshelpingfriendssurvive! no one fights alone!!
02 May, 2024 by Kevin yoder
08 Jul, 2023 by Hd luers
Buyers Attorney (Craig) failed to meet the contracted terms I had signed.
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29 Apr, 2023 by Jan wagenknecht
Had some help over the phone from Craig, it was a traumatic time and we will get through it, appreciate the staff.
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09 Jan, 2024 by Michelle kuhl
Very helpful
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19 Mar, 2023 by Iconic jordan
Handled my divorce in a fast and timely matter.
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04 Jun, 2021 by Megan prater
06 Mar, 2022 by Nick
Lost tens of thousands of dollars due to negligence, incompetence and procrastination. Can you imagine hiring an attorney and still ending up with a default judgement! This was a slam dunk case and he could not put the pieces together in time and consistently lied about it. Would never hire this person who kept the money without even minimally doing his job!
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08 May, 2019 by Des moines guy
I briefly consulted with Erik, I did not hire him. His responses were friendly, accurate and helpful. Based on this correspondence I would hire him.
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26 Apr, 2018 by Anonymous
I have relied on Erik Fisk's services multiple times, as have others I have referred to him. He gave me excellent advice on what to do and what to avoid in multiple cases involving finance, he was a strong advocate when dealing with opposing counsel, and he used his knowledge of the law to help me navigate situations I was unfamiliar with. I was able to get a completely satisfactory result, but would have been equally happy with Mr. Fisk had the result been otherwise. I highly recommend Mr. Fisk for his professionalism and excellent advocacy.
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03 Nov, 2017 by Matt
Jase prepared wills & trusts for my wife and I. He was professional and engaging. He also provided some keen insights which we implemented but would not have had the foresight to cover on our own. Jase also charges a very reasonable fee. For all the reasons above, I have referred a number of people to him.
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02 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
I hired Jase for a Real Estate transaction. Not only was he super helpful and easy to work with, his staff was very helpful as well. From start to finish he walked me through the process of buying my first home. The documents were put together and explained to me using language that I could understand. I was super impressed with the way he handles business. 10 out of 10 would work with again!
Thank you for making my life super easy during what should have been a stressful time in my life.
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01 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
I had a great experience at Howes Law Firm! Jase was a great attorney to work with! He was friendly, very attentive with my case. Fair priced and very thorough with explaining everything. I would recommend him to any and everyone!
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03 Jul, 2022 by Justin
He was respected enough by the county attorney to get me probation officer for 1 felony charge (3rd offense) and 1 aggravated misdemeanor (3rd offense)
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01 Sep, 2015 by Corey
I had Mr.Heinicke for my defense. He is very detailed oriented and professional. O recommend him for any criminal defense case.
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19 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
When I first talked to Kristen I was very distraught over what I had learned about my marriage and my spouses behavior during our marriage. Kristen was very patient and compassionate, which over time brought a lot of calm and reason to the situation for me.
I was able to move forward in a collaborative process to attempt to bring stability to our family and an approach to find compromise and peace. Allowing all parties to move on to the next phase of our lives.
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28 Feb, 2024 by Susan greiner
21 Feb, 2024 by James kozak
19 Jul, 2023 by Danielle gorden
31 Jul, 2024 by Kelly tomkins
07 May, 2024 by Patrick madison
Men, steer clear of this place...Here's the reasons why.
...It's exactly how all of these other reviews are. Dana Judas is one of the worst attorneys we have ever hired. We have hired numerous real estate and family law lawyers throughout the years. Hands down doesn't have any fight, sided with other counsel numerous times just to get a tentative decision without going to court. Would go as far as to begin deals without consulting us.
WE created all the exhibits, and she billed us for that.
We would ask a question about the case and wouldn't receive a call back for weeks. When she did call back she wouldn't have anything prepped from our exhibits, emails. Prepping for court we went in and she wouldn't have anything figured out as she was trying to ask questions about all the info we had already sent her, which means no review at all. We put down a retainer for court and our first visit with her things starting going south. She started getting frustrated by us having an opinion of how we wanted the problem handled. Save your money,
They conveniently billed out the retainer to the max without going to court . My belief it was to keep our money (BTW). Just shows distrust. She stated the retainer would be for review, prep, and hearing. You know most of the retainer is when you sit in court all day. Didn't end up in court because i was feeling she wasn't qualified to handle my case. Either she was getting fired or withdrawing from the case. She didn't even file all of our exhibits. Once again conveniently billed it all the way up to our full retainer.
What a joke! If you're a guy it's tough already. Having an attorney that doesn't fight makes it even worse.
She just laughed and said my wife sent her a thank you email saying "sorry it ended up like this".
I mean what else is someone suppose to say "with class" to part ways with someone who doesn't perform their job correctly.
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28 Jan, 2024 by Deanna smith
Greg Usher and staff are a great group to have on your side. Highly recommend
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13 May, 2024 by Ryan carlstedt
Down to earth and professional. Made the process very simple. I'd recommend to anybody going through a divorce.
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29 Mar, 2024 by Charles hoag
I left them a voicemail outlining my entire situation to them about my divorce and asked them to call me back. Instead of calling me back, they took in my wife as a client and are using the information that I trusted to them against me.
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23 Feb, 2024 by Andrew kachel
If you are male I'd highly advise staying away from this law firm. On our first mediation attempt Stacey advised me to get a vasectomy. She was also hard to get a hold of and didn't follow through with what she said she'd do.
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24 Sep, 2024 by Olivia nelson
I recommend Adam Brewster to anyone dealing with the polk county courts. He’s a wonderful person to meet and work with. He’s efficient from what i encountered. Wishing him the best in life!
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08 Aug, 2024 by Mandy mahr
They communicated clearly and timely with me throughout the process. I felt heard and advocated for!
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06 Aug, 2024 by Friendshelpingfriendssurvive! no one fights alone!!
08 Jul, 2024 by Rick basden
Rudest people ever!! Record all correspondence with them!!
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08 Jul, 2024 by R c
Anthony Epping was arrested and charged with OWI in June 2011. Anthony pled guilty in August 2011 and listed it as his first offense. However, Anthony previously pled guilty to a separate OWI in 2007. As a result, Anthony was disciplined by the Iowa Supreme Court Attorney Disciplinary Board for "A pattern of repeated offenses."
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08 Jul, 2024 by Ashley henderson
My experience with this company has been very difficult. The attorneys are rude and un pleasant to communicate with.
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26 Jun, 2024 by J r
I am writing to express my profound disappointment with the service provided by your firm regarding my recent legal case. Initially, I was optimistic about the level of expertise and support I expected to receive. However, the events that transpired have left me with no choice but to communicate my dissatisfaction.
One of your lawyers, whom I entrusted with my case, abruptly informed me a couple weeks before my trial that they would no longer be able to represent me due to accepting a position elsewhere. This last-minute notification put me in an extremely precarious position, leaving me without adequate time to secure alternative representation. What compounded my frustration was the lack of initiative from your firm to rectify the situation or offer assistance in finding a suitable replacement. This lack of support during such a critical time is not only unprofessional but also reflects poorly on the commitment you profess to your clients.
The absence of a contingency plan or even an attempt to make amends for this oversight is bewildering. It is reasonable to expect a law firm of your stature to handle such transitions smoothly and with the client's best interest in mind. Unfortunately, this was not my experience, and it has significantly impacted my view of your firm.
I had hoped for a partnership that valued professionalism and client welfare, but instead, I was met with negligence and a disregard for the gravity of my situation. It is with regret that I must state that I cannot recommend your services based on my experience.
Read more
18 Jun, 2024 by Dallas britt
Bryan Webber has been my attorney in a difficult case with my children for over a year. He always represents my aggressively in court and he knows the law. I would not go anywhere else for legal representation in Iowa.
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13 Jun, 2024 by Timothy faas
Erin is a rare attorney who returns calls promptly and gives you his full attention even when in the middle of a very busy caseload… Highly recommend!
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22 Sep, 2022 by Jeramie doran
They take care of the people that need take care of. Just don't break the law and you'll be good
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23 Feb, 2022 by Jacob van cleaf
14 Jun, 2021 by Jessica bond
14 Aug, 2024 by Aron muteba
16 Aug, 2023 by Jerry denney
Worst lawyer around, dropped out the day be fore court. Paid for 4 years and didn't even finish anything they started
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29 Apr, 2023 by Sanel kadusic
Very honest and to the point
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14 Aug, 2024 by Aron muteba
16 Aug, 2023 by Jerry denney
Worst lawyer around, dropped out the day be fore court. Paid for 4 years and didn't even finish anything they started
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29 Apr, 2023 by Sanel kadusic
Very honest and to the point
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23 Sep, 2024 by Chop nyagoa
Unprofessional and Disrespectful
I had a terrible experience with Catherine Scott while inquiring about a family member’s case. Not only was she unprofessional, but she was also unnecessarily sassy and condescending throughout our conversation. I expected someone handling juvenile cases to be compassionate and understanding, but instead, I was met with dismissiveness and a lack of basic courtesy.
It was difficult to get clear answers, and Catherine Scott seemed more interested in cutting me off and being rude rather than providing helpful information. If you’re looking for a lawyer who actually respects you and takes your concerns seriously, I would recommend looking elsewhere.
The icing on the cake was when she didn’t even know Name or the Contact information for the MOTHER of the juvenile she was meant to represent! What kind of show are these people running? BFFR
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08 Jun, 2024 by John tjelmeland
24 May, 2024 by Brian hulse
16 Mar, 2024 by Tracy wooten
Mr. Widdison is the nicest lawyer I have ever met. He did an amazing job for me. I definitely would recommend him to anyone that needs help.
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07 Jun, 2023 by Kyle geveshausen
Couldn't have asked for a better Lawyer. Was great to work with through a child custody case several years ago.
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08 Jan, 2023 by Friday “فريدي مبروك” ayaj
24 Sep, 2024 by Olivia nelson
I recommend Adam Brewster to anyone dealing with the polk county courts. He’s a wonderful person to meet and work with. He’s efficient from what i encountered. Wishing him the best in life!
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08 Aug, 2024 by Mandy mahr
They communicated clearly and timely with me throughout the process. I felt heard and advocated for!
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06 Aug, 2024 by Friendshelpingfriendssurvive! no one fights alone!!
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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.
