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04 Mar, 2022 by Mtisha
Attorney Letitia Simmons Johnson was awesome. Attorney Johnson worked very hard and diligently on my case. She explained all processes, procedures and paperwork to make sure that I understood.
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16 Feb, 2022 by Laurise
Attorney Letitia Johnson did not hesitate to take my case after I told her the problems that I was having. She knew the best route and I am a very well pleased client. You will not be disappointed….
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16 Feb, 2022 by Jamie
She has been with me from day one. I am always able to get in contact with her. She always answers all questions and makes sure o understands. Very helpful and down to earth. It’s not just a paycheck for her.
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01 Feb, 2022 by James
Mr Springer was an excellent lawyer in every way. He provided help for me regarding my divorce, and he was exceptionally patient, understanding of the law, friendly, and empathetic to all parties. He was super helpful and knowledgeable every step of the way, and always willing to talk about any particular detail no matter how complicated. I would highly recommend him to anyone.
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24 Jan, 2022 by Justin
Miss Springer is an excellent attorney he is very knowledgeable of the cases at hand very pleased with his work and I would highly recommend him for any future work. He has gone above and beyond what most lawyers would do, hes very persistent.
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14 May, 2018 by Glynese
Mr. Springer was very understanding and walked me through the process we were involved in assuring that I understood each step and kept me up to date on any change or action. He is someone you can feel very comfortable with and confident that your legal concern is getting the attention and expertise needed.
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16 Jan, 2021 by Molly
We used Ashley as a recommendation from our fertility clinic! She was wonderful! Everything was able to be done remotely which made the process extremely easy for all parties. She made changes at our request and had everything ready to go very quickly! I would only recommend using her! We appreciate everything she did for us!
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31 Jul, 2020 by Ignacio
I really appreciated the collaboration with Ashley and the work she did for me concerning an international surrogacy case. She is so profesional ! Always extremely reactive, available, and willing to meet your needs with good advice, and ready to help with any new matter and issues which may arise within the long process it was for me. I really thank Ashley because my project would not have been possible without her and her high expertise and profesional experience.
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06 Feb, 2020 by Adam
We hired Mrs. Pittman for a gestational carrier contract. She was very attentive to our needs and worked with us well. She was very compassionate and kind. She worked overtime and on the weekends. She was very flexible to our schedule and timeline. She was supportive when at all times and helped us with finding another attorney for our carrier as well. She is a delight to work with and encourage anyone looking for a family lawyer to choose her for their services.
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02 Nov, 2021 by Anonymous
I had a tough case and was looking at jail time. Mark took my case and told me he would do whatever he could to keep me from going to prison and he did !!! He saved me and my freedom!! He is an amazing lawyer ! He got things done, fought hard for me and he won my case ! Mark really cares about his clients and I am so very thankful for him!
I would HIGHLY recommend him to anyone !!
And his sweet assistant is just as amazing ! She always welcomed me with kindness and compassion.
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18 Dec, 2019 by Peter
I consulted with Mr. Hutchison and was very impressed with his immediate response as well as his knowledge of the law. It was apparant that he knows the Judge and Prosecutor in the area where I was refering to which is important in how to go about handling the situation. I would highly recommend his service to anyone who needs help with legal matters.
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04 Oct, 2019 by Anonymous
I was falsely accused of a major crime. Spent time in jail, and my judge let me out on an unsecured bond. I hired him as my lawyer, and after months of worrying sick, he consulted with the DA, and I was cleared of my charge. Huge relief and eye opener. I thank him and Laura soooooo much. They were kind, understanding, and up front. Definitely the man to hire. Thank you so much.
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10 Nov, 2018 by Anthony
I don’t really understand the one star rating by another reviewer and after looking at all of her reviews it seems they aren’t satisfied with any attorney just take a look at their reviews on google.
Monique is not only a top notch attorney but she will always go the extra mile to fight for her client!
I personally have had to hire several different attorneys in my lifetime and can truly tell you she is the first I have ever felt and witnessed go the extra mile .
I have witnessed the size of her heart for children in need of something as basic as a pair of shoes !!
She is not at all anything like the one star reviewer says , I don’t someone money hungry when I witness giving to ANYONE she runs across whom is in need!!!!
On a scale from one to ten she is absolutely a 10!!!!!
If your skeptical just give her a call.
Thank you and god bless you Monique,
May the lord continue to lift you for you deserve to be fulfilled till your cup run over and spill your decency like a blanket around those that you have and to the ones you have coming in the future!
God bless
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09 May, 2018 by S.w.
If you are looking for an attorney to not only represent you in court but to genuinely care about your family- Ms. Barrett is the one. She formed a relationship with my children that I would have never expected from hiring an attorney, for example she made sure they had back packs and school supplies when the court got continued and I didn't have any money to get my babies the stuff they needed because my ex was refusing to pay child support and owed me thousands. They never quit fighting for me and for my boys and that is why I will sign her praises forever- she made me feel like family not just another file folder.
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28 Apr, 2017 by Samantha brown
Moniqui and her staff work hard for their clients my husband had a battle for seeking custody of his 4 children never give up no matter how hard it gets Moniqui is the most down to earth sweetest person. She is hardcore and worth every dollar. My family cant ever thank her and her staff enough for helping our family. DID I MENTION MY HUSBAND HAS SOLE CUSTODY OF HIS 4 CHILDREN thanks to Moniqui Brown Barrett Lawfirm! Give her a call today you want regret it!
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20 Sep, 2021 by Dionne taylor
01 Feb, 2020 by Adam wessel
20 Jan, 2019 by Jamyron minor
They can help u out right then and there
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28 Nov, 2019 by Anonymous
Matt has been such a GREAT attorney for me. He’s guided me through every step, and fought with me in every corner. Despite a highly complicated situation, he’s produced great results, and offered incredible guidance.
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12 Nov, 2019 by Ashley
Matthew Poole and his team have been exceptionally good to me and my son. I am a single mother and he has been very understanding of my circumstances. This case is a very sensitive and Matthew Poole is willing to go to extreme lengths to accommodate my family. Matthew is the attorney you want on your side in a child custody battle, he will put up a dog fight and make sure you are satisfied with the outcome. I honestly could not have picked a better attorney to represent my family. Mr. Poole is the man you need on your side, you will not have any regrets by going with this lawyer.
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31 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
The Law Office of Matthew Poole includes a particularly interesting group of individuals. The office staff is tenured which is rare to find in the legal realm. I came to their office as a "transplant" I had an open custody/paternity case with another attorney that was referred to me by a reputable individual. I have used the attorney for many years and by the time I realized that nothing was moving forward in my case besides my fees and expenses, I had to find another attorney. I couldn't risk finding another "Oh you should go see, Random Lawyer down the street I used him/her for years". I researched carefully and interviewed several family lawyers before deciding to give the case to the Law Office of Matthew Poole. The attorney I encountered has no parallel in this market. Matthew is proficient at looking at the bigger picture and understanding his client's ultimate goal and finding ways to break it up into a manageable timeline. It's rare you encounter someone who is HIGHLY competent and at the same time effective in communicating with his/her clients. I would hate to be on the other side of any case family or not if the opposing party is being represented by Matthew Poole, his strategy and organizational skills definitely played a huge role in my selection for his firm to take my case.
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02 Oct, 2018 by M.rod
Emilia is an outstanding immigration attorney who goes above and beyond. She is very professional, very very knowledgeable, honest, and I know that she genuinely cared about my case. She made the whole process seamless and was always ready to answer any questions I had. Without a doubt, I will always trust any immigration matter to Emilia and I highly recommend her services to everyone. I'm extremely grateful for Emilia helping during my case.
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04 May, 2018 by Claudia
I needed someone fluent both in Spanish and English. Someone recommended Emilia, she is not just bilingual but she has cross-cultural competence. Where cultural values differ, the same comment, concept, text or act may be understood completely differently. She was also compassionate about my case and I never felt that money was the first thing on her mind. I was in Tennessee and she in Mississippi but she kept up constant communication with me and always took the time to answer all my questions in a timely manner. Thank you so much!
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15 Mar, 2018 by Anonymous
Great experience with lawyer. My husband's case was resolved very fast and efficient. All our questions were answered.
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23 Oct, 2015 by Katie
Bill has helped me on 2 separate Occasions. He's is a fantastic lawyer. Kept it very professional and always took care of any concerns I had. He was always 2 steps ahead of me. I would Recommend him over and over again.
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12 Dec, 2014 by Sandi
Ms. Carafello has represented my family on not one but three occasions and she has been nothing but professional in all three cases. Very personable and easy to work with, but, yet extremely professional. If professionalism and results oriented is what you are looking for, I would recommend her without hesitation.
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07 Oct, 2024 by Bellah nobles
10/10, I recommend!! Ballard Law Firm is very knowledgeable and professional! Mr. Will walked me through every step of my car wreck claim and anytime I had any questions, he was very prompt to respond! Thanks again! I am happy with the outcome!!
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17 Jul, 2024 by Shelia hilton
19 Jun, 2024 by Takyra green
The best lawyer in Mississippi! Provided exponential service & results. Will most definitely recommend & support again!
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07 Oct, 2024 by Bellah nobles
10/10, I recommend!! Ballard Law Firm is very knowledgeable and professional! Mr. Will walked me through every step of my car wreck claim and anytime I had any questions, he was very prompt to respond! Thanks again! I am happy with the outcome!!
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17 Jul, 2024 by Shelia hilton
19 Jun, 2024 by Takyra green
The best lawyer in Mississippi! Provided exponential service & results. Will most definitely recommend & support again!
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10 Sep, 2024 by Shandler
Mr. Chinn and staff are very professional and knowledgeable. I was informed throughout the entire divorce process and I'm very pleased. My lawyer showed a deep understanding of my personal situation and demonstrated empathy throughout the entire process. This helped me tremendously to get through this difficult situation. I highly recommend this law firm.
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19 Aug, 2024 by Mije johnson
Bankruptcy was my last resort, they took their time and explain everything and made this decision the right decision, would highly recommend this firm, thanks Mr T C Rollins and Vanessa
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16 Aug, 2024 by Darlene dean
30 Aug, 2024 by Aivi swipe
I personally love little tigers! They have good service and also good good quality products. I highly recommend these guys. My name is Derek Hines. Please leave a good comment here because this company works with us Non-Stop. Love you guys. Law Tigers 💪💪💪💪💪
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30 Aug, 2024 by Kenny graves
Thanks Colleen, It's good to know there are good friendly lawyers to help bikers when they need it the most..
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30 Aug, 2024 by Theresa hunnicutt
Amazing organization! Colleen has been so helpful to the riders in our area. Thanks to these guys we are learning about riders rights and legal protections while on the road. RIDE SAFE!
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30 Aug, 2024 by Aivi swipe
I personally love little tigers! They have good service and also good good quality products. I highly recommend these guys. My name is Derek Hines. Please leave a good comment here because this company works with us Non-Stop. Love you guys. Law Tigers 💪💪💪💪💪
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30 Aug, 2024 by Kenny graves
Thanks Colleen, It's good to know there are good friendly lawyers to help bikers when they need it the most..
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30 Aug, 2024 by Theresa hunnicutt
Amazing organization! Colleen has been so helpful to the riders in our area. Thanks to these guys we are learning about riders rights and legal protections while on the road. RIDE SAFE!
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30 Aug, 2024 by Aivi swipe
I personally love little tigers! They have good service and also good good quality products. I highly recommend these guys. My name is Derek Hines. Please leave a good comment here because this company works with us Non-Stop. Love you guys. Law Tigers 💪💪💪💪💪
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30 Aug, 2024 by Kenny graves
Thanks Colleen, It's good to know there are good friendly lawyers to help bikers when they need it the most..
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30 Aug, 2024 by Theresa hunnicutt
Amazing organization! Colleen has been so helpful to the riders in our area. Thanks to these guys we are learning about riders rights and legal protections while on the road. RIDE SAFE!
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12 Sep, 2024 by Tanya varnado
Excellent lawyer! Robert is very responsive with emails, phone calls or texts. You can tell from the start he takes your case seriously and represents you well. I would definitely rehire him again!
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19 Aug, 2024 by Michael noworyta
I am SO grateful to ike law firm. I had spoken to at least 15 other attorneys before I became discouraged as I was being denied by all of them. By chance, I met someone that gave me their number and I gave it one last try. My settlement has just been settled and my and my daughters lives are about to change. They are an awesome group of good hearted people and I recommend them to Anyone. I sincerely thank them from the bottom of my heart. Praise God!
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17 Jul, 2024 by Margo adams
Jennie Eichelberger handled 2 different cases for me. She was very thorough and got me a settlement that was fair for my injuries in both cases. I would highly recommend her to represent anyone.
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07 Oct, 2024 by Bellah nobles
10/10, I recommend!! Ballard Law Firm is very knowledgeable and professional! Mr. Will walked me through every step of my car wreck claim and anytime I had any questions, he was very prompt to respond! Thanks again! I am happy with the outcome!!
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11 Sep, 2024 by Greg
Coming from a law-enforcement background federal and state, I’ve worked with a lot of attorneys in my life. I hired Melissa to help Me with my divorce and it was the best money I ever spent . I highly recommend using Melissa for any of your divorce or legal needs. You won’t be let down.
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17 Jul, 2024 by Shelia hilton
07 Oct, 2024 by Bellah nobles
10/10, I recommend!! Ballard Law Firm is very knowledgeable and professional! Mr. Will walked me through every step of my car wreck claim and anytime I had any questions, he was very prompt to respond! Thanks again! I am happy with the outcome!!
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28 Aug, 2024 by Dana
Mr. Andrew is very professional and showed a deep understanding of my personal situation throughout the legal process. This was a very stressful time in my life but he answered my questions and texts when I needed answers. You will not go wrong by hiring him for your legal needs. I have one more matter to clear up and he was ready for the challenge. I am thankful he cares for his clients and he treats you with respect. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
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17 Jul, 2024 by Shelia hilton
30 Aug, 2024 by Fred harting
I would like to thank your firm for all your help and patience in helping me with my bankruptcy for helping me keep. My home once again thanks Fred harting you guys did a amazing job!!!!;;
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23 Aug, 2024 by The magical kids
I contacted then about filling bankruptcy. Our filling is this coming Tuesday 8/27/24. So far the process has been going well. Hopefully soon we will have everything worked out and I can have some stress taken off me and my family.
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17 Aug, 2024 by Jeanine balmer
Very helpful and knowledgeable on all types of bankruptcys. A little out of my price range at this time.
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13 Mar, 2024 by Crystal pickell
He's been my Lawyer for years and he's a good Lawyer.
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08 Jan, 2024 by Sherrol deniece
19 Dec, 2023 by Roneshia armstrong
Buchanan Law Firm is amazing! The services I received were fast and Attorney Buchanan was very thorough
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11 Sep, 2024 by Jason arnold (badazzwelder)
22 Jul, 2024 by Johnathan bibbs
Not good seem like I’m the one have to reach out in do all the work.
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01 Feb, 2024 by Shay jones hi gcchddj
She is an amazing Lawyer!!!
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24 Sep, 2024 by Ashley diaz
Very helpful. Willing to listen and provide insight. Cares about his clients and community.
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24 Mar, 2024 by Lindsay day
16 Feb, 2024 by Alan
13 Jun, 2024 by James lucas
Mr. Sellers is a great attorney. He stand firm behind you. If you need a lawyer he is the right choice.
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21 May, 2024 by Keith bland
I called these people and talk to a Ms Johnson for months to see if they could help with my case. When they declined me I had to call back to find this out. Unprofessional, no compassion, and thoughtless. If these are the qualities you seek waste your time with them.
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01 May, 2024 by Joya janelle
18 Jan, 2024 by Joseph jenkins
14 Aug, 2023 by Reptar rawrz
01 Jun, 2022 by Jb buckhault
They are stuck and they talk down to there clients. I just wanted to ask a few questions and they seemed they were to good to talk to me I will never recommend them to anyone.
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28 Dec, 2023 by Natasha spidle
Haven't received a call back since I reached out three weeks ago
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27 Mar, 2023 by Chanel cannon
Terrible attitude. Wasn't helpful at all Very bad attitude.
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03 Mar, 2023 by Jennifer bray
28 Dec, 2023 by Natasha spidle
Haven't received a call back since I reached out three weeks ago
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27 Mar, 2023 by Chanel cannon
Terrible attitude. Wasn't helpful at all Very bad attitude.
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03 Mar, 2023 by Jennifer bray
27 Oct, 2023 by Starla mujaahid
14 Oct, 2023 by Monique n.
Super raggedy legal skills. Did not prepare for trial at all. Her clients were so ill prepared and unable to answer basic questions that the Judge said it was "worse testifying in all of Holmes county!!"
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22 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
One of the best attorneys I have ever met. She is truly passionate and knowledgeable about the law.
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20 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
Mrs. Barnett has represented me in MS, FL, and has helped me in an advisory capacity in NM. She has done her utmost to help me and has routinely assisted me throughout her tenure as my attorney.
Furthermore, it should be noted that the supposed car crash suit, was never directly related to her so much as it was her insurance company ALLSTATE which even the clarion-ledger covered. This means, it wasn't even related to her in any financial capacity as it was ALLSTATES financial capacity.
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15 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
A Big Game it is. Promises made/promises broken. She was too involved in her own battle in 2017 - Court awarded her to pay $2MM in punitive damages. All she wanted was the $$ to fight her own battle. Would never recommend her.
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17 Jun, 2020 by Anonymous
Misrepresented herself as being knowledgeable and more than capable of providing dual representation in proving my innocence against Criminal Arson Charges, fighting my Insurance company with results of having my Loss Claim being honored per my Policy, as well as representing my best interest in ending an abusive marriage via Divorce.
Knowing nothing about anything to do with any of this, under an absorbent amount of stress, traumatized and suffering with PTSD I entrusted her to do what was adamantly assured she could & would provide.
A nightmare of a decision on my part and years of one after another mind boggling shenanigans that ended up being the opposite of what I’d been assured the outcome would be.
To tell the entire story would require writing a novel.
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06 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous
Hired her but she continued to delay my case...long after the law required. I constantly had to call her...I mean constantly to get an update on my case. I got so fed up, I tried requesting she move my case to another available attorney in her office. However, that was to no avail. Had I known my matter would have been held up so long, I would have not given my business to this attorney. I am sorry, but I initially went with this attorney because I desired to support another African American business. However, I should have chosen my counsel based on competency, efficiency, and timeliness. This experience has been terribly frustrating. Time I gave up that I wish I could get back.
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10 Oct, 2019 by Anonymous
Very intelligent individual that displays knowledge about the laws and also the courtroom. Very professional. She presented my case in a fair manner and I was satisfied with the outcome. Will recommend.
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23 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
-appeared to lack knowledge on family court
-more interested in writing names down than actually listening to the situation so I can determine if she is qualified to help.
- The woman called me and I explained I was searching for an attorney with experience in family law for my husband and she was more concerned about why he wasn't calling opposed to listening to the case to determine if I would hire her. I'm the one paying you, you would have talked to him if WE decided to hire you, but why is that the primary focus during my "consultation"?
- attorney made it seem like I had to hire her before she could tell me why I should...
- I'm not banking on anyone, there tons of lawyers I could reach out to, so what about you stands out so much that I should hire you and not lawyers in the office next to you? This is important because we are talking about thousands of dollars that I'm sure you will charge and I refuse to let that go down the drain.
- again our conversation was very brief as she kept cutting me off to ask me why my husband wasn't calling or what are the names of the involved parties.
- it was a very poor consultation and I wish she hasn't called Because she was no help at all.
- this is an honest review , I don't know how she is in the court room but based on that consultation she is not going to bark in court... I need someone who is ready, eager and willing and most of all someone who knows how to listen!
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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:
-
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.
