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11 Apr, 2024 by Paige tortorelli
28 Jan, 2023 by A frye
Angie is a very valuable attorney to utilize. Her expedient response and swift actions demonstrate her passion for her clients. Her services are of highest quality. I highly recommend using her for any legal issues you may need.
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20 Jan, 2023 by Eric howes
Angie provided the clarity and steadiness I needed to get through a difficult, bewildering situation. I would recommend her to anyone who needs that sort of guidance. She is excellent.
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06 Aug, 2023 by Zane shami
Saraphoena is passionate, highly ethical, and professional attorney. She stive to find best resolutions to conflict, that put the child best interest first, even if it meant less fees paid to her services. I am a single dad, and not familiar with family law, didn't grow up here, my English is not perfect, but yet, she was patient with me explaining things to me in a language I could understand. She doesn't promise you the moon, she doesn't tell you what you want to hear, rather, she gives you the honest opinion about your case. She spent a lot of time on my case doing academic research with the FOC, then found out that it wasn't to the best of my interest to proceed, she decided to credit my account for the time she spent, then sent me back a check! I was very surprised! She is worth every dollar you spent, when the case is closed, you will find out that you actually saved money by hiring her because she is efficient and knowledgeable, does what make financial sense to her client, which was more important to her than making money on my case.
I enjoyed getting to know and working Saraphoena, I hope I don't have to deal with family law again, but if I do, I know I can depend on her to ensure my daughter interest is well protected, fair treatment for me as a single dad with FOC, and most importantly, continue to have a positive co-parenting with my daughter's mother.
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18 Feb, 2023 by Robert hundley
Saraphoena listened to my case with empathy, provided excellent guidance, prepared like no other, and ultimately represented professionally and passionately in the courtroom. I am so glad Saraphoena Koffran was my representation in a post-judgement matter regarding my child. I was shocked, and extremely pleased, with the vast difference of her preparation and knowledge in the courtroom than the opposing party.
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07 Feb, 2023 by Jeffrey bruss
Saraphoena is a pleasure to work with! She is an expert in her field and makes complicated issues easy to understand. She works hard to advocate for her clients and I would highly recommend her.
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19 Oct, 2024 by Mitch hanson
Great lawyer who cares about his clients!
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10 Oct, 2024 by Nick stevens
15 Aug, 2024 by Danny banana
Friendly, approachable attorney who offers excellent support and clear, helpful guidance
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21 Dec, 2024 by Guillermo rodriguez
Highly recommend for immigration issues. He was straightforward and answered all the questions I had about my mother’s case at the initial consultation.
He really knows his immigration stuff just be sure to have all your documents and questions ready for your case.
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16 Oct, 2024 by Ancella kristanti
We were trying to apply for a spouse visa. After trying to do it ourselves and got scammed by an immigration attorney, it was a blessing that we met Marc and it was the best decision we ever made to take him as our attorney
Process took about 1 year, yes it might seem long but the hold up was from our side. We were caught up with our daily life and didn't able to comply Marc's request according to his timeline, however, Marc is always patience with us
Once I got my interview schedule in my home country, Marc was willing to have video conference and did a trial interview with me
I've been in this country for almost a year and already got my green card. Every now and then I had some legal questions about legal documents and Marc is always able to answer my question thoroughly
Again, taking Marc as our attorney is the best decision ever. We met a lot of people that had issues with immigration and they all use Marc and they're successfully get what they need
Whenever we meet someone in need of an immigration lawyer, Marc is always on our speed dial
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04 Oct, 2024 by Benjamin etshim
Marc is an attorney with questionable ethics, integrity, and honesty, took on an immigration case for my sister-in-law, who was dealing with the U.S. Embassy in Kinshasa. He claimed to have handled similar cases and requested $3,500 from a vulnerable African woman. However, once paid, he began avoiding her and neglected the case entirely.
Despite the urgency of the situation, Marc wasted months without doing any meaningful work. By August, he had made no progress and consistently avoided meeting with us, claiming he was sick. In total, he only spent 2.5 hours with her, and even though we sent him over 45 emails, he never responded.
Marc has refused to refund the money and caused my sister-in-law’s case to miss critical deadlines. As a WMU alumnus and former resident of Kalamazoo, Marc is taking advantage of immigrant families. Please do not trust his services—he's only interested in taking your money. We ended up working on the case ourselves and left him with the money, but we know God is seeing him. DO NOT PAY HIM FULLY BEFORE THE END OF THE CASE.
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17 Dec, 2024 by Ginger smietana
Tibble law has helped me with both Trust document, set up an LLC & other minor items. he is quite knowledgeable and will suggest some options that I did not necessarily think of.
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23 Mar, 2024 by Cliff
Gary and Susan made my FSBO purchase of property smooth. Making the agreement and setting everything up for the closing on the property. Much appreciated.
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27 Feb, 2024 by Elizabeth ann
Mr. Smith as a lawyer needs a GREAT LONG review of HIPAA and it's policies when calling local medical facilities and DEMANDING PHI. It's truly saddening to see a lawyer not have the basic comprehension of HIPAA.
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05 Dec, 2022 by H8 xeus
do not trust this "man" to represent you. he sucks at his job. he should quit being a lawyer. you are better off with a public defender. save your money. this greedy bastard will take your money and then do a piss poor job. Bob, you should be ashamed of yourself.
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09 Aug, 2022 by Tracie brooks
Left a message and never got a return call ;( very disappointed
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14 Jul, 2022 by Vincent margol
An excellent attorney, patient and professional. If you have the misfortune to need an attorney for any of the situations Mr. Ryan handles, do yourself a favor and give him a call.
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05 Jun, 2024 by Sandy
Michelle and her assistant Jody are very knowledgeable,compassionate and willing to go that extra mile if needed. Handled my divorce in a professional manner, answered all my many questions , told me what to expect, and were reassuring .
Thank you both so much.
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15 Mar, 2024 by Linda
Michelle was there to assist me though very difficult divorce with children in 2014. She was always there to meet with me and had a quick response to any questions or concerns that I had. She always kept me up to date with the process. Over the last 8 years, I have faced repeating challenges with child support issues. Michelle has met with me on short notice, taken my phone calls and guided me through these challenging situations. I highly recommend Michelle as a trusted advisor and advocate. One thing to keep in mind is to interview each lawyer, and judge for yourself. I met with three to four attorneys before selecting Michelle. One person's bad review is not necessarily the true representation of everyone's experience. Excellent attorney.
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13 Mar, 2024 by Rachael
Michelle came highly recommended by a friend/business professional. She was excellent with communicating how to achieve my desired results concerning my divorce. She laid out concisely what our strategy would be and how to execute it. She instructed and advised clearly in regard to child support, spousal support, division of property, etc. She was heart felt in her approach and I felt that she could relate to what I was going through. I would absolutely recommend her to anyone struggling with the weighty issue of divorce.
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07 Nov, 2017 by Anonymous
Mitch helped me get my business started and provided other great legal advice.
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07 Nov, 2017 by Shannon
Mitchell has handled our divorce and also our trust and family estate planning. We have worked with him for over 10 years and have been extremely impressed with his level of service and excellence in all areas. Would highly recommend him!
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06 Nov, 2017 by Denise
Helped me with resolving estate issues due to sudden death of my husband.
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08 Jan, 2025 by Bradley
Wes is the best, I went 16 years without a drivers license and Wes helped me to get it back. Thank you so much !
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07 Nov, 2024 by B hos
Sarrissa Montague is always the best. 😍
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18 Oct, 2024 by Lenny luchetti
Mr. Todd was timely, respectful, and accessible throughout my legal process.
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22 Jan, 2020 by Rick
Ross helped me through a few difficult times in family court. I could not have asked for better legal representation! Thanks Ross and all office personnel, you guys are great!
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14 Dec, 2015 by Rick
Met Robert through the state bar website. Great guy to work with. Made everything super easy. Was willing to help and explain the process all the way through. He was very professional and accommodating - I was out of the country for a small time and he helped work everything through while I was gone. Couldn't ask for a better first time experience.
My case ended in my favor thanks to his work!
Thanks again Robert! - Rick
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26 Jul, 2019 by Josh danks
Mr. Swiderski is amazing. He took the time to explain thoroughly and effectively about my case. He was very empathetic and I know that I'm in good hands.
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19 Oct, 2024 by Ryan peabody
Love these people will use them again!
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16 Oct, 2024 by Kyle mead
Herbert has biblical values and for our family, that matters. Herbert gave his time to hear my family estate concerns with a civil matter. He was straight forward with pros and cons of this situation. His guidance was very helpful and if I ever need further assistance, I'll be calling this humble and honest lawyer. Truly what a lawyer should be.
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01 Oct, 2024 by Nurgle matthew
Absolutely luv working with the Attorney and Admin team at this office. They solve all my edge case real estate lending and property line related questions.
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06 Aug, 2023 by Zane shami
Saraphoena is passionate, highly ethical, and professional attorney. She stive to find best resolutions to conflict, that put the child best interest first, even if it meant less fees paid to her services. I am a single dad, and not familiar with family law, didn't grow up here, my English is not perfect, but yet, she was patient with me explaining things to me in a language I could understand. She doesn't promise you the moon, she doesn't tell you what you want to hear, rather, she gives you the honest opinion about your case. She spent a lot of time on my case doing academic research with the FOC, then found out that it wasn't to the best of my interest to proceed, she decided to credit my account for the time she spent, then sent me back a check! I was very surprised! She is worth every dollar you spent, when the case is closed, you will find out that you actually saved money by hiring her because she is efficient and knowledgeable, does what make financial sense to her client, which was more important to her than making money on my case.
I enjoyed getting to know and working Saraphoena, I hope I don't have to deal with family law again, but if I do, I know I can depend on her to ensure my daughter interest is well protected, fair treatment for me as a single dad with FOC, and most importantly, continue to have a positive co-parenting with my daughter's mother.
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18 Feb, 2023 by Robert hundley
Saraphoena listened to my case with empathy, provided excellent guidance, prepared like no other, and ultimately represented professionally and passionately in the courtroom. I am so glad Saraphoena Koffran was my representation in a post-judgement matter regarding my child. I was shocked, and extremely pleased, with the vast difference of her preparation and knowledge in the courtroom than the opposing party.
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07 Feb, 2023 by Jeffrey bruss
Saraphoena is a pleasure to work with! She is an expert in her field and makes complicated issues easy to understand. She works hard to advocate for her clients and I would highly recommend her.
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5.0
3 Reviews
3.9
10 Reviews
02 Jan, 2024 by Jake t
"If your child does not come with you for your parenting time, then you pick your child up, throw them over your shoulder, strap them in your car, and shut them in their room at your house." This was the advice Rex Brueggemann gave me when, in 2022, I engaged with him to represent me in the separation from my non-married partner of over 15 years.
Rex consistently gave me advice that was counter to my interests as a father/parent and as a business owner.
His tactic seems to rely on heavily pressuring his clients to "settle", much to the favor of the opposing party, while not acting on my requests that would balance the end results of the ruling order.
In the end, I had to terminate my engagement with Rex and hire another attorney to represent me. Hiring Rex was a waste of time and money, and it cost me significant leverage with gaining equal parenting time for my children. In the end, he wouldn't even refund the balance of my retainer, adding to the ridiculousness of this experience.
I only hope this review helps others save time and money and hardship.
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22 Feb, 2023 by Jody
Consummate professional, great communicator, creative problem solver, and a strong advocate. Would recommend Rex to any of my friends going through a divorce, and plan to work with him again for estate planning.
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05 Oct, 2022 by Devon
Hired Rex to assist in the facilitation of my divorce. Helped me save my company, fairly allocate the estate, and negotiate through marital assets. Rex was communicative, understanding, thorough, and successful.
He later helped successfully terminate un unnecessary PPO filed by previous spouse and followed through on his strategy to prove innocence. Rex had a difficult job ahead of him and I believe he did as much as he was able to.
Rex understands the system, the local agents at play, and will advise you with real time data and knowledge. I didn't always agree with Rex, but trusted him fully and chose to let him lead. We ended up with the most desirable outcome of a terribly undesirable situation.
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06 Dec, 2024 by Michael smith
08 Jul, 2024 by Jonathan k
Sarah was quick, but detailed. I tried to execute estate documents with 2 other law firms and none of them would call me back or respond to messages. Sarah was very attentive and made the process easy. Thanks Sarah- I plan to use Sharp and Associates in the future because of you!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Bryan van dam
08 Jul, 2024 by Donovan colo
Don’t know how to win cases. SAD.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Benjamin herbert
The attorneys at Keilen Law are highly recommended by myself as a colleague in the legal field as well as their professional peers and clients. Keilen Law is known for going above and beyond to provide excellent service to their clients, obtaining stellar results, all while treating the client with the respect they deserve.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Superstar mobile
Loved it
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08 Jul, 2024 by Brant shrimplin
When working with Adam I know there are always a few things I can count on: excellent attention to detail, thorough knowledge of the law and positive feedback from my clients that work with him. In addition, Adam delivers his work on time and on budget. All of these qualities have proven to be invaluable for my financial services practice.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Alistair lynch
Keilen Law has helped many of our clients achieve their goals, they are knowledgeable, reasonable, logical, and friendly all at the same time. I have seen first hand the work they do, and would recommend them to anyone.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Stan saddler
Great service
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21 Sep, 2017 by Jared
Mr. Brendan Guilford explained to me how the case could possibly turn out, and he was accurate. I am happy with my choice. I have recommended him to my family.
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07 Jun, 2017 by Kendra f.
Pros:
called me back fast, listened well, helped me understand court processes.
Cons:
lawyers cost money!
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14 Jun, 2016 by Trevor
Hired this attorney to fix custody prob. that got out fo control. He got to work the day we met and I was able to sign a new agreement with my ex. gf.
I am happy I chose him, would do it again, I hope not though!
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10 Dec, 2024 by Nick warner
Oliver and Nadia successfully guided us through a very tricky probate situation. I am so very thankful to have found this office. 10/10 highly recommend! Friendly, smart, very responsive, and reasonably priced.
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02 Apr, 2023 by Pierre van der westhuizen
Oliver Howell and the team at HPS helped us with our estate planning. They are attentive, helpful, and super professional. We loved our experience, and will be happy to recommend them to anyone in the future. Thanks for everything, Oliver!
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08 Feb, 2023 by Todd gray
Oliver has been extremely helpful helping me to manage two estates over the last year. There's even reserved parking spot!
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20 Oct, 2013 by Anonymous
Ms. Conklin represented me in numerous post-divorce issues. I regret that I did not retain her for my divorce. She was knowledgeable, tough, detailed, thorough, and articulate in mediation, arbitration and court. She was always available for consultations, and her many years of experience were evident in her in-depth understanding of many areas of the law including contracts and finance. She was able to deconstruct the legal process in a way that made me feel informed and confident of her representation. I would highly recommend Ms. Conklin as a lawyer, mediator and arbitrator.
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24 Feb, 2018 by Mark
I believe attorney Rob Kardatske to not only have thorough knowledge of the law but also a well-developed sense of defendants' rights. In my opinion he went above and beyond in my case to ensure the most favorable outcome. I would highly recommend his services to anyone needing legal defense.
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27 Dec, 2016 by Tia
Nicholas Vlachos is a warm hearted attorney who will not back down, who will win a fight for you at all odds. He has great devotion, a knowledge of law that will make your case stand out. He cares about his clients as a person, and fights for their rights. He is tough, steadfast, and will go after anyone who is standing in his way. We have used his services many times in the past and he has won each case. He is really a great lawyer
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02 Feb, 2012 by Emily
Did a great job representing me. Couldnt have asked for better help and more support.
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28 May, 2022 by 840 streets
Became part of CBH and everything became a scam. My 4k payment turned into a 9k payment at the end of my case. Find someone who doesn't trick you out of your money at the end. Lawyers with integrity do exist.
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06 Oct, 2021 by Courtney amrhein
They were excellent to work with and anytime I had a question, they always helped me through it! Mr. Rayman was very professional and courteous & was able to get my case through efficiently! Overall I was very happy to use this business!
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11 Jun, 2021 by Meggin verduzco
All of the interactions we had with the office were very responsive and professional. We felt heard and cared for and were given great guidance in our area of need. I would highly recommend hiring Rayman and Knight for your legal needs.
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12 Dec, 2024 by Melissa marie
08 Jul, 2024 by Steve piper
08 Jul, 2024 by Victoria racz
Thank goodness for DeMent & Marquardt! My dad started working with Bill Millard to organize his legal affairs several years ago, and it was one of the best decisions he ever made. When I had to take over legal/financial responsibilities after my dad couldn't, Bill was right there to make everything easy and understandable. After both of my parents died (my dad in 10-14 and my mom in 1-16) Bill was there again to help me navigate the complicated process. He also assisted me in finding a wonderful realtor (Rick Crepas - he really went above and beyond as well) to sell the family home, and Bill helped to deal with other assets, such as my dad's car. Charles Ofstein from DeMent & Marquardt helped with my mom's estate and was just as fabulous - it was great teamwork all around.
Here's the clincher - all of this took place took place cross country, as I live in Washington State! What should have been an extremely difficult undertaking was made Stress-Free because of Bill and his team. The Estate has just officially closed, and I couldn't be happier.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Summer walker
Adam was very helpful and knowledgeable about what we needed to do. He guided us through the steps we needed to take to ensure the plan we developed was exactly what we wanted. I would definitely recommend him to anyone who needs an attorney!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Amy abbott
My husband and I had a very positive experience using Keilen Law. Ross Keilen quickly responded to our request when needing legal advice for a business transaction. He not only expedited our case, but made us feel as if we were on the top of his list of clients. Ross was very thorough and comprehensive in his research as he prepared information for our legal matter. He was very prepared when we had questions and completed our legal situation in a very timely manner. You can be sure your legal matters will be confidential as Ross treats all his clients with great respect.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Luther trook
My wife and I met with Adam to do some estate planning. We were highly impressed with the knowledge and service that he provided. We knew very little about estate planning but Adam helped walk us through what was best for our family. We would definitely recommend Adam to anyone. Five star service all the way.
Thanks Adam!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Summer walker
Adam was very helpful and knowledgeable about what we needed to do. He guided us through the steps we needed to take to ensure the plan we developed was exactly what we wanted. I would definitely recommend him to anyone who needs an attorney!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Amy abbott
My husband and I had a very positive experience using Keilen Law. Ross Keilen quickly responded to our request when needing legal advice for a business transaction. He not only expedited our case, but made us feel as if we were on the top of his list of clients. Ross was very thorough and comprehensive in his research as he prepared information for our legal matter. He was very prepared when we had questions and completed our legal situation in a very timely manner. You can be sure your legal matters will be confidential as Ross treats all his clients with great respect.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Ryan jankovic
I highly recommend Keilen Law, and in fact, have done so on a few recent occasions. Specifically, Adam is everything you want in legal counsel - honest, fair and knowledgeable. Adam is different than other lawyers as he has personal pre-law experience starting his own business ventures. Keilen Law knows what businesses go through when they start up, partner and grow. If you reach out to Keilen Law, you will not be disappointed.
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08 Jul, 2024 by D rious
Gail Towne is the best attorney in family law. No doubt about it. Always prepared. Timely. Responsive. Professional. Expert in family law. Gail Towne takes pride in her work.
THE BEST!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Cory sabo
First off I’d like to thank Gail for everything and also Gail’s team for the work they put in. My experience with Gail was the best experience I could ask for going through such a tough time in my families life. She was extremely knowledgeable and helpful at every turn. I must say her attention to detail and her communication was absolutely outstanding. She was very responsive and explained things so I could understand it in laymen’s terms. I would highly recommend Gail to anyone going through a divorce or family matter with children involved or without children involved. She really did take all the headache and scariness out of it for me. A huge thank you to Gail’s team and Gail for delivering.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Tony lund
I contacted Gail not knowing who to talk to. From day one she did and said everything at the right time to accomplish everything in a timely manner. She and her team are top notch, money well spent 😁
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06 Dec, 2024 by Michael smith
08 Jul, 2024 by Tessa amadeu
Wow! This is my second review to give credit where credit is due. Attorney Podoll has consistently acted as if he’s known my family for twenty years. While he may not be as prompt in returning my novel length emails (hey, I’m new to this process and have been divorcing my divorce for six years), or strategizing with me before the hearings, after working with him I can set my anxiety aside and be assured that he has done his homework. Attorney Podoll is spot on… he even expresses pertinent info like my kids’ ages and my diagnosis. In meetings, he sometimes employs a self deprecating technique that works brilliantly to lighten the tone and by doing so, establish his place as a leader during negotiation. He’s quick to call me out on my stubborn ways of talking endlessly; I do reckon that Attorney Podoll owns some semi permeable strainer that extracts the objective from my charged stories. There is no room for the crazy ex stigma in his world and we are all treated as equals.
To employ a metaphor, he’s the difference between a luxury sports car and the Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio designed by the Pininfarina chief of Ferrari; rare to see on the road, but one that any car addict should know because it was designed with an amazing story, elegant flair, and impressive specs you’ll never forget. I’m forever in debt to his priceless advice and extremely pleased with the services I’ve received at Sharp Law, even if he hasn’t yet made tshirts for my self proclaimed nickname of Team Tessquire, nor has he started an email with the words, “as your attorney I advise you…” ——> both are easily forgivable 🤣 <——
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08 Jul, 2024 by Jenney lee
Tara is an excellent attorney, she always goes above and beyond. I know when I have a problem she will always be available to help me. My only regret with Tara is that she was not my first attorney. I can not speak highly enough about her ability as a lawyer and the type of person she is.
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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.
