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03 Nov, 2023 by Matt
Judge for yourself, which reviews are true and which are people who have sour grapes, which may be of a personal nature and clearly malicious. They don’t talk about their case. They don’t talk about the results they just attack. And that’s unfortunate. I spent 30 years giving heart and soul blood sweat and tears to the profession I was grateful and privileged to serve. my record speaks for itself,
And, it is truly sad that two years after some health problems, caused me to slow down and not take new cases. That people felt the need to post, false, malicious, and hateful reviews on every format they could find these are people who never built anything or never create anything or never attain a professional degree and you never communicated any complaints if they ever clients. Judge for yourself. True reviews give details of the matter and relate the experience I had in factual terms, not conclusions. But it’s not my job to judge. Nor would I violate the sanctity of the confidential information related to representation. What I can tell you is after being harassed, threatened, and attacked by an imbalanced person that clearly needs help, I am not angry, but concerned and have compassion for those who seek to tear down because of their own issues.
Thankfully, my health has improved, but after 30 years of giving my best, working 20 hour days more often than one should, and caring about each and every client ….that the time for me to endure misplaced and malicious attacks…ended. While many of the families that I was privileged to assist still reach out to coax me to take up their cause, I will not. When those in need of mental health care attempt to cause harm to my family, they must expire in their own negative energy. And, be grateful that I chose not to wield the sword of justice and rebuke their attempts to harm. After all, what is the sound of one hand clapping.
Last, thank you to thousands of clients that I was so honored to assist. For 30 years, I lived the motto when you love your job you will never “work” a day in your life. So true, it was true gift to be able to say “I can help” and then exceed the expectations of decent folk. So, thank you! Life is an amazing journey and it’s magnificently imperfect.
It is what … it is.
Yours Matthew O’Connor
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14 Jun, 2023 by Nancy
It’s not just us !!!!
Em would you mind contacting us. We have our own horrible experience with this Lawyer.
We are over $25,000 into it with Zero results!! He will not show where the money has gone. He won’t show up to court and acts as if he is overwhelming put out by be being asked ANYTHING about the case IF you can actually make contact with him. Maybe he was a good Lawyer at one time but experience is that he is a scam artist.
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14 Jul, 2022 by Em
I am very dissatisfied with how my case was handled. After finally reaching an agreement with the opposing counsel, they refused to honor the agreement. Unfortunately, Mr O'Connor did nothing to see that the agreement was honored; he made absolutely no effort on my behalf. This could have been resolved in my favor during the final court hearing however, Mr. O'Connor did not bother to show up in court that day for the hearing.
In addition to mishandling my case, Mr. O'Connor's behavior toward me was utterly repugnant. While we were preparing for the hearing, Mr. O'Connor was extremely impatient and condescending. When I hired him I told him that I had never been in court before and had no idea what to expect. Rather than explain what the Judge's expectations would be, how best to answer questions, and walking me through the process, he belittled me and even yelled at me. Mr. O'Connor turned a situation that was stressful and upsetting to begin with into a complete nightmare.
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18 Aug, 2023 by Kara
Casey stepped in to represent me in my divorce after a total failure by my previous attorney. My divorce was an absolute mess. Ugly in every way; from child custody, assets, abuse allegations, orders of protection cases, unpaid child support. There were a lot of facets involved. Casey navigated them all, not only with knowledge and personal care for me but efficiency and quickness. My divorce was sitting in limbo for almost a year, and he jumped in and drafted motions right away. I cannot recommend him enough. He is a hard fighter and a very caring attorney. I literally will not trust anyone else with future legal handlings.
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21 Feb, 2023 by Steve
Casey represented me in my divorce. It was very complexed.
I own a business with rental properties. I retained everything and paid no maintenance 0. Win Win
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09 Jun, 2022 by Maria & oscar
On the name of our family, we want to thank Mr. Casey J. Symonds, for the positive outcome on the criminal case of our son.
Two years ago, our son was accused of a criminal case, he was AFB, MO, we are from Arizona.
Being in Arizona and never been involved in a criminal case it’s overwhelming and stressful. At that time of need, I found the firm of Mr. Casey J. Symonds. Our son had the interview and Mr. Symonds took his case. For two years we had communications back and forth by emails and phone calls. The firm of Mr. Casey was affordable compared to other lawyers I contacted it. On the final court date, after two years of delay’s because of covid, the day of deliberations came with a NOT GUILTY on three counts! Thanks be to God and the efficient work that Mr. Casey did, our son can live his life.
What I like about Mr. Casey, was his acknowledgement when he talked to accusers and defendant. His words were concise, precise , and strong. We will never forget the excellent representation our son had with Mr. Casey J. Symonds. In addition, Mr. Casey is a kind person, that understands his client’s pain. He has great skills, he is confident, efficient, knowledgeable and no matter how long it takes for a case, he never charged more than we agreed. We highly recommend Mr. Casey J. Symonds as a Lawyer. He is great!
Spanish version:
A nombre de nuestra familia, queremos dar las infinitas gracias al abogado Casey J. Symonds, por el resultado positivo en el caso criminal de nuestro hijo. Dos años atrás nuestro hijo fue acusado de un caso criminal, el estaba estacionado en Whiteman AFB, MO.
Vivir en Arizona y nunca haber estado envueltos en este tipo de acusación, es muy abrumador y estresante porque estamos en diferentes estados y no conocemos a alguien que pueda referir un buen abogado. Encontramos a Mr. Casey y nuestro hijo hizo una entrevista gratis con él, y Mr. Casey tomo su caso. Por dos años, tuvimos comunicación vía email y teléfono acerca de el caso de nuestro hijo. La firma de Mr. Casey fue más económica comparada con otras firmas de abogados.
En la corte final; ¡después de dos años a consecuencia del COVID, el día de deliberaciones llego con un resultado de NO CULPABLE en tres cargos! Gracias a Dios y al excelente trabajo que Mr. Casey hizo con este caso criminal. Nuestro hijo esta libre sin ningún cargo que afecte su vida.
Lo que admiro de Mr. Casey, en primer lugar, es su seguridad en la representación de nuestro hijo, sus preguntas fueron concisas, directas y precisas.
Nunca olvidaremos la excelente representación que nuestro hijo tuvo con Mr. Casey J. Symonds. Mr. Casey es una persona organizada, con conocimiento, considerada, cordial, seguro de si mismo y no tan caro comparado con otros abogados que primero piden una fuerte cantidad y después te escuchan.
Nosotros altamente recomendamos a Mr. Casey J. Symonds como abogado y rezamos por el para que haga verdadera justicia en los casos que represente.
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18 Mar, 2024 by Bryan deba
14 Jun, 2023 by Karlin york
I got charged with a DWI in September, 2022. I hired Denise Kirby and she started by calling me and getting all the information she needed from me asap. She was very impressive with how she handled the case and she constantly kept me in the loop with what was going on. After watching the video of my arrest, she filed for a motion to suppress and won that, which resulted in the case being dropped. She came to court incredibly prepared and had a counter for everything the prosecutor said. Overall, watching Denise handle this case was very impressive and I would highly recommend her to anyone in this situation.
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09 Jun, 2023 by Seth corless
Wow! I initially spoke to a few different lawyers once I was charged with a DUI. Denise gave me advice and asked a ton of questions about the incident on the very first call I had with her. It was above and beyond what I had received with any other lawyers. Then she continued to fight my case until she was able to successfully win both the license and criminal case. Denise is by far the best attorney I’ve ever worked with and would recommend her 100 times out of 100!
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18 Mar, 2024 by Bryan deba
14 Jun, 2023 by Karlin york
I got charged with a DWI in September, 2022. I hired Denise Kirby and she started by calling me and getting all the information she needed from me asap. She was very impressive with how she handled the case and she constantly kept me in the loop with what was going on. After watching the video of my arrest, she filed for a motion to suppress and won that, which resulted in the case being dropped. She came to court incredibly prepared and had a counter for everything the prosecutor said. Overall, watching Denise handle this case was very impressive and I would highly recommend her to anyone in this situation.
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09 Jun, 2023 by Seth corless
Wow! I initially spoke to a few different lawyers once I was charged with a DUI. Denise gave me advice and asked a ton of questions about the incident on the very first call I had with her. It was above and beyond what I had received with any other lawyers. Then she continued to fight my case until she was able to successfully win both the license and criminal case. Denise is by far the best attorney I’ve ever worked with and would recommend her 100 times out of 100!
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04 Jul, 2024 by Barbara oct.20 ,2015
This week I had the pleasure of meeting with David in the capacity of preparing a will.He gave me his full attention and made many suggestions that were helpful in getting it done in a quick and efficient manner.
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21 Jun, 2024 by Felicitas
Mr Wells was very accommodating halt his lunch listen intently to my dilemma. For little information I can share He diligently looked into details that can be involved and had assured me that I am free. I could not thank Mr Wells enough for his kindness and compassion.
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04 Oct, 2019 by Jonah
I had been charged with possession of marijuana, paraphernalia, failure to registry, and failure to equip vehicle with 2 working headlights. David got the marijuana reduced to littering, and had both the failure to register and the paraphernalia dropped completely. In total the court had charged me officially with littering and a broken headlight fine coming out to less than $700 in court fees. He defended me well, and if anyone were to need a lawyer I'd highly suggest Mr. Wells to anyone.
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28 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
I did feel my case was given the time it deserved. At first meeting Phil was very attentive and ready to help. As we started, the amount communication was less than desired. I felt I was in large part ignored and pushed to agree to a parenting plan at the very last minute. I would not use him again.
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14 Jan, 2024 by Mishawn davis
It is a shame it has taken me more than a decade to find a law firm that knows the law, operates in a top-caliber manner, and treats the client like a human. I have had a couple of attorneys at Hale, but the one who helped us the most was Suzanne. Not only is she a bomb a** attorney, but she also knows how to handle and run a business, be classy, and professional, and have customer service. I appreciate her no-frills approach to handling cases and client situations.
She keeps a client-centered approach and looks out for everyone's best interest. Attorneys are indeed expensive but Suzanne makes sure the money spent on your case is allocated in a manner that does not leave your account on zero or paying unnecessary fees. She believes in transparency, honesty, and integrity; which is rare when an attorney is involved in difficult cases. She understands that the way she is represented in and out of the courtroom is a reflection of her business and there is not a time that she does not take her work seriously. The few times we had to speak with her on the phone, she has always been patient and attentive while listening closely to our concerns. She is very responsive and treats the attorney-client relationship as an important investment. You are not just a number to her, but a human. Should I ever need an attorney again, I will hire them again in a heartbeat. To all who work at Hale, we appreciate you. Suzanne, thank you for constantly standing on business and doing right by your clients. You are a real one.
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12 Jan, 2024 by Adam isern
19 Sep, 2024 by Ronda cuington
03 Jun, 2024 by Lillian heiman
29 Sep, 2023 by James wisemore
Nice to have a lawyer that really does put you first and takes great care of you. I have worked with Jeff many years now, so give him a call and see what he can do for you.
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19 Sep, 2024 by Ronda cuington
03 Jun, 2024 by Lillian heiman
29 Sep, 2023 by James wisemore
Nice to have a lawyer that really does put you first and takes great care of you. I have worked with Jeff many years now, so give him a call and see what he can do for you.
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09 Aug, 2024 by Pic vid
27 May, 2024 by Alexandria tapp
I've been trying to work with him to get my case taken care of and for some reason there's no contact I've did what he's asked and still no contact
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04 May, 2024 by I b
09 Jul, 2024 by Payton woydt
I would highly recommend this place! John was great with communication on my case and followed through with results. They definitely took a lot of stress off of me during this process as well.
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25 May, 2023 by Kansascityprofessional cleaningcrew
I have been going here for my legal help for many years.
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19 Sep, 2021 by Frankie gilmore
People friendly
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02 Oct, 2023 by Roy
a day ago
NEW
Moreno Law is a shady practice. They do not guinenly care for clients. They are in it to make money alone. They promise you things they cannot deliver. They cannot be trusted. Be very wary of this practice! Katie and Anthony give the illusion that they have perfect families. They do not and are cheaters and in a relationship together. His wife caught them in the act while they were at their office! Zero stars is not an option.
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03 Sep, 2023 by Terri
Anthony and Katie were extremely professional and meticulous when handling my case for the past 21 months. Due to their dedication to my child (her best interests) and the evidence they presented at trial, I succeeded at getting the parenting plan necessary for my daughter’s highest good. I know exactly where I would be without the aid, advice, and counsel they provided and am beyond glad I decided to follow my first mind and hire Moreno Law, to handle this case for my baby girl and I. I can’t lie, these past 2 years were a nightmare, no one should want to go this route; but you must understand that at times this route is absolutely necessary when advocating for what is best for your child and yourself. It would have been tortuous without them being there to explain the law to me and intercede when necessary. There’s no way I would have been able to co-parent as my daughter deserves, without them.
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03 Aug, 2021 by Rebekah
This attorney knows how to use you just for your money. My case was solely in regards into pleasing one parent and not the child. Totally got jacked by the attorney and the other person on specific paternity case and the child misses or loses out both bad for the child. I wouldn't even give a star. Kids lives matter. Honestly should be at the heart of major decisions especially children. #honesty
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28 Apr, 2024 by C. davis
Christen Shepherd was amazing, transparent, and professional. I felt like she fought for me and stood up for me and got the results I was wanting. I couldn’t ask for more from my lawyer. She got me 50/50 and time with my daughter. I highly recommend her and will always go back to her for her proven results. Thanks again!! 👍
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28 Apr, 2024 by Valerie beitinger
Christen Shepheard helped my family greatly. She was very diligent and knowledgeable. A process that could’ve taken a very long time was taken care of in an impressive time. Very greatlful for her service.
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22 Apr, 2024 by F hg
Miss Shepherd excels at her job!
She is very professional. Knowledgeable. Honest. Trustworthy . Transparent. Honorable. And very responsible.
In my opinion; she has the best qualities, that a competitive lawyer needs…
5+ stars!
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19 Sep, 2024 by Ronda cuington
03 Jun, 2024 by Lillian heiman
29 Sep, 2023 by James wisemore
Nice to have a lawyer that really does put you first and takes great care of you. I have worked with Jeff many years now, so give him a call and see what he can do for you.
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29 Jun, 2024 by Nina
27 Mar, 2024 by Becki lavery
27 Jan, 2024 by Donna vanhoye
So grateful to have Ed helping me. In my time of need, it's a comfort to be able to rely on him - Thank you Ed, and yes refered by Kat
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29 Jun, 2024 by Nina
27 Mar, 2024 by Becki lavery
27 Jan, 2024 by Donna vanhoye
So grateful to have Ed helping me. In my time of need, it's a comfort to be able to rely on him - Thank you Ed, and yes refered by Kat
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19 Sep, 2024 by Ronda cuington
03 Jun, 2024 by Lillian heiman
29 Sep, 2023 by James wisemore
Nice to have a lawyer that really does put you first and takes great care of you. I have worked with Jeff many years now, so give him a call and see what he can do for you.
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29 Jun, 2024 by Nina
27 Mar, 2024 by Becki lavery
27 Jan, 2024 by Donna vanhoye
So grateful to have Ed helping me. In my time of need, it's a comfort to be able to rely on him - Thank you Ed, and yes refered by Kat
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06 Sep, 2024 by Andre soto
Buena abogada, pero el trabajo de su empleada es horrible ,quiere trata ala gente muy mal
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31 May, 2024 by Vivi
To start the legal assistants are super rude, they get mad when u call for updates they are not helpful, there was a lot of mistakes made since the beginning with the paper work which delayed the whole process, and then my dad got rejected due to uscis stating the medical report was incomplete, which the lawyer said that the law stated he did not need that part of the physical so she suggested we do motion to reconsider and then we were told the motion was Sent to the wrong place , and then every time we tried calling to get an update the assistants would be rude and they would tell us we needed to stop calling, we were obviously worried bc it kept getting rejected for mistakes that lawyer was suppose to take care of, and when we tried to get an explanation by the lawyer ( Angela) she literally told us she did not know what happened she could not explain, and then she told us that we needed to stop calling and wait until she called us, she was super rude and told us we could just get another lawyer, when we kept asking for an explanation about why it got rejected or why it said it was sent to the wrong place, Thank God we found someone to do things right and my dad was able to get his green card. I do not recommend this law firm if you are the kind of person who like to call for updates and likes to know what is going on, they were super rude after the process started but we tired to deal with it bc we had already paid some part, by the way they were supposed to send back the money that immigration was gona sent back for the motion and it never happened.
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07 Feb, 2024 by Diana gardea
Angela Ferguson helped me with my immigration status to become a Permanent Resident here in the United States in 2017, she was always very kind and always spoke the truth, highly recommended.
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15 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
Hands down, Maggie is one of most knowledgeable regarding family law. She gave sound guidance and was straight forward on what where we stood. Maggie and her team worked tirelessly to mediate with my ex-husband and attorney however ultimately, we had to go to trial. I was impressed with her attention to details, her quick response within communication, and overall genuineness throughout my yearlong case. Don't get me wrong, Maggie is no push over and can pull punches when needed! She demonstrated the right balance to win our case.
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14 Aug, 2023 by B m
Unsettling meeting with this attorney, 0/10 do not recommend
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03 Mar, 2023 by Guru guy
Told me 1500 to do an eviction. Send me the paperwork which is free from the court, then said it was cheaper for me to do the eviction myself but he would talk me through it instead of representing me after I already paid him the money. Would trust him if I was you.
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01 Aug, 2023 by Kim vanalst
He is suppose to be our 6 year old grandsons attorney. Never talked to any of the paternal family members. Placed him with maternal grandmother who is his first abuser. He has had boling "noodles " poured on him. Mr. Gordon does not care at all if this child lives or dies.
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15 Jun, 2023 by Miranda pacheco
Horrible lawyers! Stay way!
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08 May, 2023 by Mike hawk
25 May, 2023 by Cionni ross
03 Mar, 2022 by Timothy timberlake
30 Dec, 2021 by Sammie dukovich
04 Apr, 2014 by Anonymous
This attorney represented my children in my child custody case. He was standoffish but thou rough when interviewing me as a parent. Most importantly, was extremely thorough and diligent interviewing, investigating, and representing the kids in court. This is an attorney that knows his law, and represents "old school". He was a force to be respected and appreciated.
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06 Aug, 2024 by Youa thao
Like all the other 1 star review they will take your money...then say you don't have a case and will be short with you and try to talk you out from moving forward because they know they will not get any money out of the case. Brian and his team barely wanted to communicate or give us updates, but they want to charge us on discussing on reimbursing us back for the remaining work they didnt want to do..seriously?! What a joke!
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18 Mar, 2024 by Lynn toliver
The Harrah Law firm helped me through a difficult situation & supported my interests throughout the legal process. All the team members were professional and kind and seemed to be understanding of my situation. They handled items promptly and met deadlines throughout the whole process. I would definitely use their services again if I ever find myself in need of legal real estate representation.
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10 Mar, 2024 by Me de
They will lie to you until they get your money, then they will ignore you until you threaten them with another firm. I just can't believe they have any good reviews. They are obviously reviews from a paid firm.
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16 Aug, 2024 by Annie tokeak
Steven was awesome! Helped me out so much
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16 Jul, 2024 by Adora campbell
very respectful handle my case well
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05 Jul, 2024 by Connie lanton jr
Stacy handled my personal injury case, and did an excellent job! The insurance company was trying to lowball me and she wasn't having it! She was able to get me what I was asking!!! I appreciate her hard work!
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01 Aug, 2023 by Kim vanalst
He is suppose to be our 6 year old grandsons attorney. Never talked to any of the paternal family members. Placed him with maternal grandmother who is his first abuser. He has had boling "noodles " poured on him. Mr. Gordon does not care at all if this child lives or dies.
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15 Jun, 2023 by Miranda pacheco
Horrible lawyers! Stay way!
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08 May, 2023 by Mike hawk
14 Aug, 2023 by B m
Unsettling meeting with this attorney, 0/10 do not recommend
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03 Mar, 2023 by Guru guy
Told me 1500 to do an eviction. Send me the paperwork which is free from the court, then said it was cheaper for me to do the eviction myself but he would talk me through it instead of representing me after I already paid him the money. Would trust him if I was you.
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22 Jan, 2020 by Tiff mob
I wished this attorney didn’t make false promises to the client.( ME )
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24 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
I hired Paul to represent me and in the first meeting told him I needed two motions filed. He had three months and did not file them so my court date was continued another 3 months. The day before court he submitted the motions so the prosecution said they havent had time to review and I spent an additional 3 months in jail. He was also paid to represent me in immigration court but never told me he was suspended in immigration court. His incompetence will cost you.
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13 Jul, 2018 by Anonymous
Mr. Paul Franco is a kind hearted genuine attorney who truly cares about the individuals he is working with and not just the case he is working on. Hiring Mr. Franco im the middle of my custody battle was a challenge but he jumped right in and is doing his best, I would recommend this attorney for all your legal matters.
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22 Sep, 2011 by Maria
Franco has been my attorney since he became an attorney. He is honest sincere , and he will not cross or betray you. I used him in criminal law. And he is not reluctant or afraid to buck the system.
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25 May, 2023 by Cionni ross
03 Mar, 2022 by Timothy timberlake
30 Dec, 2021 by Sammie dukovich
09 Sep, 2024 by Chonda
I wouldn't recommend this firm. Initially when choosing this firm, I felt comfortable and that the attorney truly cared. However, with the primary method of communication being electronic, I've felt lost and very confused during my divorce process. I missed information, I've not been able to complete request in a timely manner and for this reason my there has been delays. Unfortunately I have an ex that won't participate and instead of the attorney helping me, I've been blamed and told what can't be done. It really seems like she doesn't care at all. Even with something I misunderstood, I was verbally checked and told how it was my fault. There seems to be no value for the client. Unfortunately, I paid my fees upfront but am definitely regretting it.
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01 Oct, 2021 by Andersen
Kelisen was referred to me by a friend who had used her for an Order of Protection. She was extremely helpful and responsive. Her team was professional. I was very glad to have found her.
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24 Aug, 2020 by Camilah
During my first consultation with Kelison, I thought she was nice and informative. However, after I hired her to take on my case, she was not easy to get in contact with and I felt as though she was not taking my case serious. After several texts from my ex stating he knew that was getting ready to have a baby and that she was on maternity leave. I felt as though Kelison was way too personal with the opposing counsel. And I did not appreciate that at all. Especially, with all the stress I was already going through with having a newborn baby and having to go through a court case. After seeking new counsel, I sent Kelison an email stating that I would no longer be seeking advice from her and that I had found a new lawyer. I have sent a few emails after parting ways with her and her firm and I have still not received any of my retainer from the Binder Firm. If I could give 0 stars, I would! How do you not refund someone part of their $1500? I understand her services had an hourly fee, however, I only met with her face to face twice and spoke on the phone with her once or twice. The services used did not equal $1500. And I should have received something as a refund! It is now August of 2020 and I parted ways with Kelison in December of 2019. Why has it taken so long for me to receive a refund?? There are better lawyers in the KC area than this firm!!
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11 Dec, 2023 by James
We retained Henry for a child custody and parenting plan revision. He came to court unprepared, didn't advise us of certain forms that had to be completed, failed to represent the key areas of the case, and failed through appeals. Nice person, but not a good lawyer.
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06 Mar, 2019 by Anonymous
I contacted this firm months and had an appointment immediately, but it was basically for nothing. He was rude, dismissive, and not helpful at all. Unprofessional at its finest. It was almost like he was the prosecutor in my trial before my trial!!! Poor customer service from his staff too. If you have a strong case I would recommend you go to someone else.
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10 Jan, 2017 by Ddm
I contacted Mr. Service in response to a letter I received from his office offering services when my Ex husband filed a modification. When I called, I was immediately offered a consultation appointment despite his full schedule, they made time to see me. Mr Service took the time to get details about my case specifics and explain the process, and what is important to legally focus on in family/civil cases. He was also upfront about possible issues but took time to listen and explain so it pertained to my circumstances; not a general speech I got when trying to make appointments/consult with other lawyers.
Mr. Service is very knowledgeable in these areas and I believe he will be good representation for what is important to me and my family in court.
Thank you
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What a Family Law Lawyer Can Do for You
A family law lawyer provides legal services related to family relationships, including marriage, divorce, child custody, and adoption. Family lawyers help clients navigate emotionally charged legal issues, providing guidance and representation in disputes that affect spouses, children, and parents. Whether you're going through a divorce, seeking custody of your children, or drafting a prenuptial agreement, a family law lawyer ensures your rights are protected and your interests are represented.
Family law attorneys often handle sensitive matters and offer objective legal advice, helping clients reach fair outcomes either through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.
When Should I Hire a Family Law Lawyer?
Hiring a family law lawyer is beneficial in several situations, especially when legal matters involve close personal relationships. Common reasons to hire a family law lawyer include:
- Divorce or separation: When ending a marriage, a lawyer can help you navigate issues such as division of assets, spousal support, and child custody arrangements.
- Child custody and visitation disputes: If you and your co-parent can't agree on custody or visitation, a lawyer can represent your interests and work toward a solution that benefits your children.
- Child support: Whether you’re seeking child support or defending against a claim, a lawyer can help ensure the appropriate amount is calculated and enforced.
- Prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: A lawyer can help draft or review agreements that protect your assets in case of divorce.
- Adoption: Family law lawyers guide you through the legal process of adoption, ensuring that all requirements are met.
- Domestic violence or restraining orders: If you're a victim of domestic violence or being falsely accused, a lawyer can help you obtain or challenge protective orders.
- Paternity cases: If there are questions about the paternity of a child, a lawyer can help establish or dispute legal fatherhood.
Hiring a lawyer early can prevent issues from escalating, and they can offer you the best chance of achieving a favorable outcome in emotionally charged situations.
What Does a Family Law Lawyer Do?
A family law lawyer provides a wide range of services depending on your specific legal needs. Their responsibilities may include:
- Advising on legal rights and options: Helping you understand your legal rights regarding divorce, child custody, support, and other family law issues.
- Filing legal documents: Drafting and filing petitions, motions, and agreements with the court, such as divorce papers, custody agreements, or support orders.
- Representing clients in court: Arguing your case in front of a judge if a settlement can’t be reached through negotiation or mediation.
- Mediation and negotiation: Assisting with alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, to reach agreements on issues like custody, property division, and support without going to trial.
- Enforcing court orders: Helping you enforce court orders related to child support, alimony, or custody if the other party fails to comply.
- Drafting prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: Creating agreements that protect your assets in the event of a divorce.
- Handling adoption proceedings: Ensuring that the legal process of adoption is followed, from filing paperwork to finalizing the adoption in court.
How Are Family Law Lawyers Paid?
Family law lawyers typically charge clients in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Common payment arrangements include:
- Hourly rates: Most family lawyers charge by the hour, with rates varying based on experience and location. Clients are billed for the time spent working on their case, including consultations, court appearances, and document preparation.
- Flat fees: For more straightforward legal services, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, some lawyers offer flat-fee arrangements.
- Retainer fees: In cases that are expected to require significant time and attention, such as contentious custody battles, a lawyer may charge a retainer, which is an upfront payment that covers the initial costs of legal services. The lawyer then bills against the retainer as they work on your case.
The exact cost will depend on the complexity of your case and the lawyer’s fee structure, which should be discussed upfront.
How Much Does a Family Law Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a family law lawyer varies based on factors such as the lawyer's experience, the location, and the complexity of your case. Here are some general cost guidelines:
- Hourly rates: Family law lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour, depending on their experience and the complexity of the case.
- Flat fees: For simpler cases, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, fees may range from $1,000 to $5,000.
- Retainers: For more complex matters, such as contested divorces or custody battles, lawyers may charge a retainer ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 or more. The lawyer will bill against the retainer for the work they do on your case.
- Additional costs: You may also be responsible for additional costs, such as filing fees, mediation fees, or expert witness fees.
Always ask for a clear breakdown of the lawyer’s fees and any additional expenses during your consultation.
Top Questions to Ask a Family Law Lawyer
Before hiring a family law lawyer, it's important to ask questions to ensure they're the right fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:
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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.
