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19 Mar, 2024 by Tevonne64
Last year I hired Kirkland attorney Glen St. Louis after my husband and his attorney got me to sign divorce papers saying that I would receive a 35k judgment on "distribution of property" in a divorce if I have up a claim for spousal maintenance. My husband had agreed to take all the credit card debt which accumulated over 17 years of marriage. after I signed the documents, I decided it was still best that I see an attorney to review what I thought was a good deal. I was shocked when Mr. St. Louis explained that it appeared my husband had tricked me into a "35K Judgment" because it was clear from all the paperwork and debt that he took, that my husband was going to declare bankruptcy when the divorce was final to get out of the credit card debt and to get out of paying the 35K judgment. Mr. St Louis also explained to me that it was practically impossible to pull my ex-husband into court for contempt of property distribution award because he explained the family law did not allow that. In other words I was about ready to lose everything I thought I was getting in the divorce, and there was absolutely nothing I could do about it. My ex-husband later admitted to me that this was indeed his intentions. I had to spend over 5K to Mr. St. Louis to get out of the agreement, and with hard work and ingenuity, Mr. St. Louis got everything tossed out of court and forced a settlement on my husband and his attorney in my favor to re-structure my 35K bankrupt able property award into spousal maintenance, plus attorney fees. I could not have been happier. My regret was that I did not consult with an attorney before I got myself into the problem, but I was very very happy and satisfied that Mr. St. Louis got the agreement thrown out and a whole new settlement that my ex-husband could not discharge himself out of in bankruptcy. He now has to pay me court ordered spousal maintenance until the total sum of 35K is paid in full. Mr. St. Louis is very good in court and knows how to weave the facts and tell the story of a client's case into the process of the law to the court and best represent the client very well in court. I now receive monthly installment of spousal maintenance I never would have received without Mr. St Louis help. I got the additional small bonus justice was done and my ex-husband is very angry with what Mr. St. Louis accomplished for me. I would hire Mr. St. Louis in an instant if I ever needed legal services. I highly recommend his skills and talent to anyone with family law problems.
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25 Jul, 2022 by Ma
My divorce in King County Superior Court is finally done and I am thankful to my attorney, Glen St.Louis as he managed to get me a parenting plan that protected my daughter and got me a lot more in property settlement proceeds than I ever could have imagined. Mr. St.Louis is a very cerebral long term planner, yet he was very tenacious when he had to be, and knows how to think outside of the box. I’m a mom with a daughter that is nearly a teen-ager and had no experience with the family law courts or the way the system works. Mr. St.Louis explained it every step of the way. I had all sorts of nasty and false accusations toward me, and Mr. St.Louis knew how to disarm the untruths and lies. He was very thorough and thoughtful and knows how to deal with challenges. He understands human behavior which is a big plus in dealing with family law issues. He could almost predict every one of my husbands or his lawyer’s dirty tricks and was always prepared for them. My former husband was a pain in the caboose nearly the entire case and threw three different attorneys at me, and each time they threw a curve ball at Mr. St.Louis he treated it as a form of exercise and never got thrown off his game. It didn’t matter what pitch they threw, he knew how to hit it right back at them with more zing and spin. Mr. St.Louis ”responds” rather than “reacts” to things and does not let his buttons get pushed. He’s calm and has a sense of humor which helps. It was apparent at each step in my case (including at hearings and mediation) that he was at least two steps ahead of my husband’s attorneys in knowing what had to be done to place the advantages in my favor. He did not charge me for every meeting and phone call like other attorneys do and for that I am thankful. Mr. St.Louis is talented and disciplined lawyer. If I needed an attorney ever again, he will be the one I want on my team. I enthusiastically recommend him. You will be served well. One Happy Mother
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22 Jul, 2022 by Vance
I make this well earned referral for my former attorney, Glen St.Louis and his law firm in my divorce. They obtained for me 50% time with my son and daughter. The fact that I do not have to pay child support is also a plus because I do financially provide for my kids, but the BIG thing for me is that I get to be a highly involved father with my children; something I was unsure of two years ago. Glen worked very hard, tirelessly and intelligently in representing me and turning around a situation for me. He gave me great advice and was always probing to come up with the best result he could get for me. He charged a reasonable rate and worked with me to be sure I’d weather the litigation storm. He knoew how to lean into the negative things and turn them positive. Glen is a planner and he and his staff were very helpful in guiding me with tips on how not to shoot myself in the foot which is easy to do in emotional situation like family law. He gave me tips on how to get along with my estranged spouse and to try to turn things positive in raising our children together. He’d politely challenge me on my thinking, and I learned a lot about myself in how I dealt with things. When I adjusted my attitude, my spouse seemed to notice and her attitude toward everything changed and it helped big time in getting a great parenting plan for our kids. I cannot emphasize enough the importance of understanding the human behavior aspect of divorce and feeling like you are losing your family, and all the fear it causes. Glen did much to give me a different perspective, and yet still stood up for me against my ex wife and her law firm with politeness, professionalism and determination. His law firm is interested in what is best for children and he does not play bulls*hit in that regard. He may be a little demanding of his clients, but it is because the law firm actually cares about children and doing the right thing to be sure that the client turns out to be the best parent they can be. I’ve never had a law firm before that goes the extra lengths. I could not be any more happy than I am right now to be a big part of my children’s lives. I highly recommend the services of attorney Glen St.Louis, and his law firm for any family law related legal matters a person may be experiencing. If I ever need help again, Glen St.Louis will be the attorney I turn to. Signed; A Very Happy Father 2022
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16 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
Mr. Fox agreed to represent me in a custody case at a point that I was already served, confused, and helpless. My wife had an attorney but I did not. Therefore, she was way ahead of the game and my lack of knowledge prior to Mr. Fox had done serious damage to my own case. When Mr. Fox took over, everything changed within days. Mr. Fox‘s professionalism and integrity was above any other attorney I had ever come to contact with. He is an amazing person and an exceptional human being.
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07 May, 2018 by Dan
Chris came highly recommend and I couldn’t be more satisfied with the outcome. I came to Chris with a divorce case involving tricky financial issues and student loan debt. Chris found the case law to reinforce my position, and consulted outside sources to make sure all the bases were covered.
The process lasted a year and through it all Chris was honest and straightforward about the challenges of our case. He’s a great lawyer because he never promised an outcome or inflated expectations. He understands the legal and emotional issues that arise. He kept my expectations realistic at every move and he was right every time.
My case was resolved in a settlement hearing luckily and not a trial. I credit Chris’ steadfast preparation of arguments and case law that showed the other side a settlement would be best.
Chris was constantly evaluating and adjusting our strategy during the case which was great because the demands of the other side morphed. Chris was prompt at communicating, whether it was a phone call, text, or e-mail. He was a staunch, ethical advocate and I recommend him highly.
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06 Jun, 2017 by Kerry
Chris made a very difficult divorce much easier. He is readily available. Extraordinarily knowledgeable about the law and process. I would recommend him to any one needing a family law attorney in the Seattle area.
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22 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
It has been several years since I had contact with Jonathan, however, his integrity, professionalism and kindness is that I will never forget. My teen daughter used CPS with her father with complete lies when not getting her way. I requested supervised visits to protect myself during the investigation. Jonathan was amazing, respectful and could see her demeanor and relationship with me. I appreciate his professionalism and integrity through this difficult time.
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14 Dec, 2016 by Aj
I hired Mr. Milestine for a CPS case. He handled my case with professionalism and sensitivity. He helped me make logical decisions when I was an emotional wreck. He is the type of attorney that is on your side, not only understanding the law but human nature as well. I would highly recommend Jonathan.
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04 Apr, 2013 by John
I am a licensed mental health counselor, a therapist in private practice for over 30 years, and recently retained Jonathan on the advice of another attorney that I regard quite highly but was unavailable. His high praise for Jonathan proved true, as he was both very professional and personable in his representation of my case, which was basically a delusional ex-client claiming that I and members of my family were stalking her. She was able to use the state to get a domestic violence restraining order against me and my son, who did not know her, and the assistance of a "victim's" advocate at taxpayer expense as the state has written these laws to "protect" the "victim" even if everything they say is utterly fallacious. Jonathan put together an excellent defense (you have to basically prove you are innocent as the state is quite willing to assume otherwise) demonstrating that dates and times she said she was being "stalked" were times when I was out of state, along with other impossible scenarios she contrived. This has made a deep impression up me that there are a lot of very deeply disturbed individuals out there who are even worse off than you might detect or imagine in a counseling session. And should you come across one who wants to mess with your life for their own insanely self-indulgent motives, it is good to know an effective, kind, skillful and reasonably-priced lawyer to protect and vindicate you. Jonathan is one such attorney and I will be referring all of my clients who need legal consultation to him from now on, knowing they will be well served. He also gives a one hour free consultation to fully understand your situation and assess what can be done to help you.
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25 Apr, 2021 by Mo yousef
Mr. Rosecrans is truly an amazing Attorny but most of all he he truly cares and he listens. Let’s just say he is the best in his field of practice. I highly recommend Mr. Rosecrans.
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29 Apr, 2017 by Paul
John Rosecrans and his colleague provided outstanding service defending me from aggressive frivolous family law hostility. He is a great communicator, matching clarity with dependable service. Such an attorney brings honor to his profession, and certainly can provide much needed understanding (and even assurance) facing difficult challenges. He has my best recommendation an appreciation!
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06 Apr, 2015 by Wanda
John Rosecrans represented me in a divorce proceeding (2014-2015). John definitely achieved excellence in each of the above ratings. Also, he is a man of principle. His reports for mediation were free of hearsay and malignment towards both parties in the divorce. I learned from this experience that, while divorce is never easy or pretty, the attorneys have the capacity to either moderate or exacerbate dissension between the parties. John Rosecrans demonstrated his commitment to a cooperative and respectful divorce experience.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Mickey
Brandy helped me with my case and was wonderful to work with throughout the process. She executed brilliantly on my behalf on a very challenging case.
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22 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
I recently worked with both Brandy Andersson and her paralegal Tena Kibbey to renew a court order. I found they were both very responsive and on top of the details of my case. I think their rates are fair comparable to other firms in the Seattle area, and loved that I was able to work with a paralegal to keep costs down as much as possible. Brandy is a thorough and highly experienced attorney who will fight for you. I've been working with her for years on a complex case and wouldn't trust anyone else to get the job done.
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13 Feb, 2012 by Scott
Jim got me my 2 girl's.... Yes a man won in Wash. State.... I could not have been better represented.... At the very least go sit down with Jim and you will know where you stand. Our goal was to keep my daughter's in the home they grew up in as Mom bounced all over the place trying to drag girls 8 & 10 thru her boyfriend extraviganza's
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30 Oct, 2009 by Bryon
I entered into my first meeting with 'Jim' on a referral.... and his first question to me was he could help me only if I was totally honest to him. I will always remember that question because he was always truthful to me as a client. He is very well respected and drives for a conclusion. I can not give a higher set of recommendation for someone in family law than Jim.
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08 Oct, 2015 by Guyl
Elizabeth has done some amazing work for me as my lawyer. She has gone above and beyond what any average lawyer would do. Thanks to her we have won a custody battle that has taken a year to get anywhere. I recommend her to everyone I know. She has worked hours on end during the week and on weekends non stop to make sure that we can do everything possible for my son to have the best life he can have
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24 Sep, 2015 by John
In just the one hour initial consultation I had with Elizabeth she captured everything that was important to me in terms of my desires and goals. She never lost sight of my personal needs through the entire process. Good faith mediation was important to my ex, as was keeping costs under control. Elizabeth charted a course that allowed for exactly that. In the end I have good relations with my ex, a thoughtful parenting plan, and I have my beautiful kids half time in my own home.
I would not hesitate to recommend Elizabeth in the strongest of terms!
John
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03 Jul, 2012 by Anonymous
Erin provides the services busy somewhat knowledgeable people need, someone to help us wade through all the legal much to get the forms, and answers we need.
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06 Jul, 2009 by Anonymous
Darcia's calm, no-nonsense approach made the challenging process less traumatic and collaborative. She was accessible to answers after our meetings and was very direct, clear and helpful. Her compassionate nature, her easy speaking style, her core understanding of the law and the challenges in conflict resolution made the experience far less anxiety-ridden, faster and more positive than my or my ex could have predicted.
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29 Mar, 2011 by Anonymous
I only wished that I had been able to hire Kelly at the time of my trial. I had met with her for a consultation but was unable to pay the retainer at the time. We went with someone who allowed us to stretch our payments out over time and are really sorry we had to go that route. Kelly was very confident and knowledgable. She even showed up to my pre-trial and offered legal advice when my attorney was 30 min. late.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Joey deleon
It was a great experience in dealing with Michelle! She really was thorough and accommodating in responding to our questions. She made sure we were satisfied and confident in developing our living trust. Thank you, Michelle!
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03 Oct, 2024 by Senthil nanjaiyan
Exceptional service from CMS Law Firm! Their team expertly guided me through WILL preparation with clarity, patience, and professionalism. Smooth process, knowledgeable staff, and prompt responses. Highly recommended!
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30 Sep, 2024 by Joyce l
Our friend referred us to CMS for estate planning. We worked with Adam. Adam is very knowledgeable. He was very responsive, clear, and patient in answering all of our questions. The process was very smooth and efficient. Adam continued to follow up with us even though all the paperwork was signed. His expertise and professionalism made all the difference.
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5.0
20 Reviews
4.6
10 Reviews
20 Sep, 2023 by Jason
I was really happy with the work Bita did as my attorney. She was very responsive, answered calls and emails promptly, gave me great advice and helped me to navigate an extremely stressful episode in my life. She is fair minded and empathetic while working hard for her clients. She helped me to get the results that I hoped for in my divorce when I wasn't sure it would be possible. And I was able to maintain a positive relationship with my ex. I highly recommend her to anyone looking for legal counsel.
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29 Mar, 2023 by Jeanie pendleton
I just had a super helpful consultation with Leslie Blankman. She went above and beyond with her time, advice, and expertise. I highly recommend her services.
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07 Jul, 2022 by John smith
Hoping to find somebody chat with at end of day, Leslie, took 15 mins of her time initially to consult me on the phone, in the most earnest fashion! Provided references to other representatives
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22 Oct, 2024 by Loriann rapone
Divorce is never easy - but it can be made less traumatic.
5.0 stars
Posted by Loriann
October 22, 2024
While I thought this would be easy and even considered not hiring an attorney as everything seemed straight forward with no contest, what came to light very early on is that my husband’s attorney was incompetent, reckless and sloppy with his work. While my husband had paid 5x the amount that I was paying, Mary Sakaguchi caught numerous mistakes which would have led to a prolonged divorce process. Her careful eye to detail and attention prevented that from happening and expedited the whole process which actually made me less fearful and the entire process less traumatic. I cannot convey how much this impacted me in a positive way. I am grateful for her immense knowledge of the law and watching out for my best interest all the while communicating with compassion and kindness.
I highly recommend Ms. Sakaguchi and her entire team! Thank you!
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12 Apr, 2023 by Fran jenkins
Thank you. Mr. Sifferman knows his clients and identifies their needs.
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02 Mar, 2023 by Luis josé rivera godínez
You had helped me before and thanks for your help in my DUI case with that dropped it off to Reckeless, which is pretty much a wet DUI but it could be more bad
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5.0
2 Reviews
4.8
61 Reviews
3.7
3 Reviews
14 Sep, 2024 by Lauren kelly
I highly recommend Neil Lindquist for personal injury cases. His professionalism, expertise, and dedication made a huge difference in my case. Neil kept me informed and fought tirelessly for the best outcome. His support and commitment are truly outstanding.
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13 Sep, 2024 by Ryan mckenzie
I highly recommend Neil Lindquist for any personal injury case! From the moment I reached out, Neil and his team were compassionate, professional, and attentive to my needs. Neil took the time to understand the details of my case, and I always felt like I was in good hands. He explained everything clearly and made sure I was informed every step of the way. His dedication to my case was solidified by him securing a life changing outcome that I didn't even think was possible. I am truly grateful for his hard work. If you're looking for a professional, skilled and caring attorney, Neil Lindquist is the advocate you can trust.
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27 Aug, 2024 by Nicole dimak
Neil Lindquist is everything you could want from a lawyer. Extremely knowledgeable and understanding. Commutative and kind. Made a hard and anxious time into the best possible results. Would highly recommend him and his team.
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28 Oct, 2018 by Sara wahl
Melissa is a skilled Collaborative family law attorney who I highly recommend!
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12 Jun, 2017 by Stella
I got more than I expected meeting Ariella. She was understanding, understood my budget and my very dynamic situation. She was always available when I needed her, which at times was often and urgent. She is aware of when to push and when to hold back. Her personality and attitude make the world of difference when being faced with the hardest thing I have ever gone through . Since this was my second lawyer for separation, I can attest that I got more than I ever would have with my previous lawyer .
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08 Jun, 2017 by Brian
I've known Ariella for several years, and I can honestly say that she is one of the most hard-working, honest people i've ever met. She also has incredible insight into the legal process and strategies involved in family law. I wasn't able to use her as my primary lawyer due to the distance to my location, but she's consulted with me, and been an invaluable resource. My divorce is very complicated and she's helped me navigate through some of the more complex issues. I would strongly recommend her for any type of family law.
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22 Oct, 2024 by Loriann rapone
Divorce is never easy - but it can be made less traumatic.
5.0 stars
Posted by Loriann
October 22, 2024
While I thought this would be easy and even considered not hiring an attorney as everything seemed straight forward with no contest, what came to light very early on is that my husband’s attorney was incompetent, reckless and sloppy with his work. While my husband had paid 5x the amount that I was paying, Mary Sakaguchi caught numerous mistakes which would have led to a prolonged divorce process. Her careful eye to detail and attention prevented that from happening and expedited the whole process which actually made me less fearful and the entire process less traumatic. I cannot convey how much this impacted me in a positive way. I am grateful for her immense knowledge of the law and watching out for my best interest all the while communicating with compassion and kindness.
I highly recommend Ms. Sakaguchi and her entire team! Thank you!
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19 Apr, 2023 by Zack
My ex and I did a collaborative divorce. We had the documents underway and needed assistance to get across the finish line. Courtney and team did a great job of reviewing the materials, advising on items, and then finalizing and filing the papers. I am very grateful that I engaged her services.
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12 Apr, 2023 by Fran jenkins
Thank you. Mr. Sifferman knows his clients and identifies their needs.
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22 Oct, 2024 by Loriann rapone
Divorce is never easy - but it can be made less traumatic.
5.0 stars
Posted by Loriann
October 22, 2024
While I thought this would be easy and even considered not hiring an attorney as everything seemed straight forward with no contest, what came to light very early on is that my husband’s attorney was incompetent, reckless and sloppy with his work. While my husband had paid 5x the amount that I was paying, Mary Sakaguchi caught numerous mistakes which would have led to a prolonged divorce process. Her careful eye to detail and attention prevented that from happening and expedited the whole process which actually made me less fearful and the entire process less traumatic. I cannot convey how much this impacted me in a positive way. I am grateful for her immense knowledge of the law and watching out for my best interest all the while communicating with compassion and kindness.
I highly recommend Ms. Sakaguchi and her entire team! Thank you!
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12 Apr, 2023 by Fran jenkins
Thank you. Mr. Sifferman knows his clients and identifies their needs.
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02 Mar, 2023 by Luis josé rivera godínez
You had helped me before and thanks for your help in my DUI case with that dropped it off to Reckeless, which is pretty much a wet DUI but it could be more bad
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22 Oct, 2024 by Loriann rapone
Divorce is never easy - but it can be made less traumatic.
5.0 stars
Posted by Loriann
October 22, 2024
While I thought this would be easy and even considered not hiring an attorney as everything seemed straight forward with no contest, what came to light very early on is that my husband’s attorney was incompetent, reckless and sloppy with his work. While my husband had paid 5x the amount that I was paying, Mary Sakaguchi caught numerous mistakes which would have led to a prolonged divorce process. Her careful eye to detail and attention prevented that from happening and expedited the whole process which actually made me less fearful and the entire process less traumatic. I cannot convey how much this impacted me in a positive way. I am grateful for her immense knowledge of the law and watching out for my best interest all the while communicating with compassion and kindness.
I highly recommend Ms. Sakaguchi and her entire team! Thank you!
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12 Apr, 2023 by Fran jenkins
Thank you. Mr. Sifferman knows his clients and identifies their needs.
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02 Mar, 2023 by Luis josé rivera godínez
You had helped me before and thanks for your help in my DUI case with that dropped it off to Reckeless, which is pretty much a wet DUI but it could be more bad
Read more
29 Mar, 2023 by Jeanie pendleton
I just had a super helpful consultation with Leslie Blankman. She went above and beyond with her time, advice, and expertise. I highly recommend her services.
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07 Jul, 2022 by John smith
Hoping to find somebody chat with at end of day, Leslie, took 15 mins of her time initially to consult me on the phone, in the most earnest fashion! Provided references to other representatives
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11 Jan, 2022 by Karen young
We had the privilege of working with Leslie after 2 previous attempts to resolve our differences in our divorce.
Leslie was a pleasure to work with and helped us tremendously in resolving and dissolving our marriage. During a difficult situation such as divorce, Leslie Consistently showed up for us with Kindness, Fairness, and Compassion. Leslie helped us to work through our differences, always listening and providing us with a peaceful resolution that always felt fair. She helped us with all the paperwork, legalities and really made the whole process quite easy.
I am honestly so grateful to have had the opportunity to work With Leslie Blankman. She is Very Knowledgeable an Excellent Mediator snd Attorney.
Thank you Leslie!
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29 Mar, 2023 by Jeanie pendleton
I just had a super helpful consultation with Leslie Blankman. She went above and beyond with her time, advice, and expertise. I highly recommend her services.
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07 Jul, 2022 by John smith
Hoping to find somebody chat with at end of day, Leslie, took 15 mins of her time initially to consult me on the phone, in the most earnest fashion! Provided references to other representatives
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11 Jan, 2022 by Karen young
We had the privilege of working with Leslie after 2 previous attempts to resolve our differences in our divorce.
Leslie was a pleasure to work with and helped us tremendously in resolving and dissolving our marriage. During a difficult situation such as divorce, Leslie Consistently showed up for us with Kindness, Fairness, and Compassion. Leslie helped us to work through our differences, always listening and providing us with a peaceful resolution that always felt fair. She helped us with all the paperwork, legalities and really made the whole process quite easy.
I am honestly so grateful to have had the opportunity to work With Leslie Blankman. She is Very Knowledgeable an Excellent Mediator snd Attorney.
Thank you Leslie!
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07 Nov, 2024 by Anonymous
He will take your money and fail to file the case correctly. He tried 3 times and failed three times - He couldn't get past filing paperwork. He knows nothing about law and then blames it all on "law school teaches us to being creative ..." on not being able to handle simple paperwork that most attorney's seem to handle weekly. Being creative and then being ridiculed by the Commissioner because a simple paperwork wasn't filled out correctly; Ultimately costing you to lose because he simple cannot file in time during the window where law would've stepped in for you.
This complain is common in all reviews. There's a reason for it.
He is incapable of spelling, he wasted your money making a million drafts (even against your request and charges for them) and then fails to use the draft because he does not understand how to use his computer; and after paying $4000 for drafts alone, will use the original one because it was all he could find.
He last advice to me was to commit a felony and do nothing. I will be pursuing a grievance and I will claim victory over this scammer. God is on my fight.
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30 Sep, 2024 by Braydn foley
13 Nov, 2023 by Ramonah engbert
Don’t say I didn’t warn you. Things were constantly misspelled and names confused. I basically filled out the paperwork myself. I got charged for so many back-and-forth phone calls because of all of the mistakes on the paperwork. So my fees for simple tasks, were very high. He was just not good. He served the person I had a case with twice because he didn’t know the first one was done properly. And then ended up missing a VERY important deadline, which made me cancel him and find someone else that could do the job better. Terrible. When I ended up getting my new attorney, the attorney advised looking into a malpractice for Jeff Jared because of the missing deadline. I wish I could get my money back. He did nothing for me, except cause me more issues.
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25 Apr, 2022 by Katya
I do not recommend Zara as a lawyer! she took money and made many mistakes in business. she did not give advice in those cases that I did not understand, money was spent but the job was not done, I am in despair how to fix it now. don't go to her!
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03 Mar, 2021 by Ionela
Mrs. Zara handled and explained everything step by step and made sure everything was in order. Communication was easy. I was a bit scared when filed the divorce papers but upon speaking with her I felt much better.
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20 Jun, 2020 by Dumitru
Thank you very much for helping with my divorce, really easy to deal with, very helpful and understanding. Definitely would recommend to friends and family.
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12 May, 2023 by Ryan bejna
Do not use! Website says 30 day money back guarantee. Been fighting for that refund and they say since I had access to website they can't give me a full refund. The gave me a partial and then removed access to my answers, so all my work went to waste. Use a different company.
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14 Dec, 2022 by Ron running
My experience with Mr Parnell far exceeded my expectations. I swear he doesn't sleep at all, since I received timely communication at all hours. The process was clear, concise and remarkably cost effective. I would highly recommend his services!!!
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01 Nov, 2022 by Teress kay
Been waiting 2 months for them to send my husband his paper work and they just keep saying 7-10 more business days. This place just wants your money. And you will never get that divorce!
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13 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous
She left me unprotected in my PSA, requiring my ex’s name be removed from my home mortgage, but NOT requiring my ex to remove my name from two commericial properties, leaving me millions in debt with an evermore plummeting credit score tied to my ex’s action.
She allowed opposing counsel to cut my proposed budget in half without specifics, as well as to bully me directly continually. She allowed the divorce coach to repeatedly badger me regarding my ex’s tardiness, creating a toxic NON-collaborative, litigious environment.
She never discussed my need for a QDRO resulting in a year-long struggle transferring a retirement account.
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07 Nov, 2019 by Linda
Rachel Felbeck was my attorney in a collaborative divorce several years ago. She was superb in providing information and support during a very painful ending to a long term marriage. While my former spouse and I had no minor children, the marital settlement agreement was complicated, and I was impressed by Rachel's ability to guide both of us through the process. We met indivially as well as with our collaborative team. She was responsive to requests for information but more importantly to providing clarity to different options that might be taken. I found it easy to communicate with her. I will be forever grateful for her help at a very painful transition in my life.
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Family Law Lawyer Can Do for You
A family law lawyer provides legal services related to family relationships, including marriage, divorce, child custody, and adoption. Family lawyers help clients navigate emotionally charged legal issues, providing guidance and representation in disputes that affect spouses, children, and parents. Whether you're going through a divorce, seeking custody of your children, or drafting a prenuptial agreement, a family law lawyer ensures your rights are protected and your interests are represented.
Family law attorneys often handle sensitive matters and offer objective legal advice, helping clients reach fair outcomes either through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.
When Should I Hire a Family Law Lawyer?
Hiring a family law lawyer is beneficial in several situations, especially when legal matters involve close personal relationships. Common reasons to hire a family law lawyer include:
- Divorce or separation: When ending a marriage, a lawyer can help you navigate issues such as division of assets, spousal support, and child custody arrangements.
- Child custody and visitation disputes: If you and your co-parent can't agree on custody or visitation, a lawyer can represent your interests and work toward a solution that benefits your children.
- Child support: Whether you’re seeking child support or defending against a claim, a lawyer can help ensure the appropriate amount is calculated and enforced.
- Prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: A lawyer can help draft or review agreements that protect your assets in case of divorce.
- Adoption: Family law lawyers guide you through the legal process of adoption, ensuring that all requirements are met.
- Domestic violence or restraining orders: If you're a victim of domestic violence or being falsely accused, a lawyer can help you obtain or challenge protective orders.
- Paternity cases: If there are questions about the paternity of a child, a lawyer can help establish or dispute legal fatherhood.
Hiring a lawyer early can prevent issues from escalating, and they can offer you the best chance of achieving a favorable outcome in emotionally charged situations.
What Does a Family Law Lawyer Do?
A family law lawyer provides a wide range of services depending on your specific legal needs. Their responsibilities may include:
- Advising on legal rights and options: Helping you understand your legal rights regarding divorce, child custody, support, and other family law issues.
- Filing legal documents: Drafting and filing petitions, motions, and agreements with the court, such as divorce papers, custody agreements, or support orders.
- Representing clients in court: Arguing your case in front of a judge if a settlement can’t be reached through negotiation or mediation.
- Mediation and negotiation: Assisting with alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, to reach agreements on issues like custody, property division, and support without going to trial.
- Enforcing court orders: Helping you enforce court orders related to child support, alimony, or custody if the other party fails to comply.
- Drafting prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: Creating agreements that protect your assets in the event of a divorce.
- Handling adoption proceedings: Ensuring that the legal process of adoption is followed, from filing paperwork to finalizing the adoption in court.
How Are Family Law Lawyers Paid?
Family law lawyers typically charge clients in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Common payment arrangements include:
- Hourly rates: Most family lawyers charge by the hour, with rates varying based on experience and location. Clients are billed for the time spent working on their case, including consultations, court appearances, and document preparation.
- Flat fees: For more straightforward legal services, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, some lawyers offer flat-fee arrangements.
- Retainer fees: In cases that are expected to require significant time and attention, such as contentious custody battles, a lawyer may charge a retainer, which is an upfront payment that covers the initial costs of legal services. The lawyer then bills against the retainer as they work on your case.
The exact cost will depend on the complexity of your case and the lawyer’s fee structure, which should be discussed upfront.
How Much Does a Family Law Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a family law lawyer varies based on factors such as the lawyer's experience, the location, and the complexity of your case. Here are some general cost guidelines:
- Hourly rates: Family law lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour, depending on their experience and the complexity of the case.
- Flat fees: For simpler cases, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, fees may range from $1,000 to $5,000.
- Retainers: For more complex matters, such as contested divorces or custody battles, lawyers may charge a retainer ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 or more. The lawyer will bill against the retainer for the work they do on your case.
- Additional costs: You may also be responsible for additional costs, such as filing fees, mediation fees, or expert witness fees.
Always ask for a clear breakdown of the lawyer’s fees and any additional expenses during your consultation.
Top Questions to Ask a Family Law Lawyer
Before hiring a family law lawyer, it's important to ask questions to ensure they're the right fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:
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What experience do you have with family law cases like mine?
Make sure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it's a contested divorce, child custody dispute, or adoption. -
How will you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, a flat fee, or requires a retainer. Ask for an estimate of the total costs involved. -
What are the possible outcomes of my case?
An experienced lawyer should be able to give you a general idea of what to expect based on the facts of your case. -
What is your approach to resolving disputes?
Ask whether the lawyer tends to favor negotiation and mediation or whether they prefer to take cases to court. This can help you determine if their style matches your goals. -
How long do you expect my case to take?
While it’s difficult to predict, the lawyer should give you an estimate based on similar cases. -
Who will be handling my case?
In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may do much of the work, so make sure you understand who will be your main point of contact.
How to Check the Credibility of a Family Law Lawyer
To ensure you're hiring a reputable family law lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and reputation:
- Check state bar association records: Verify that the lawyer is licensed to practice in your state and is in good standing with no disciplinary actions.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on websites like Avvo, Google, or Martindale-Hubbell. Previous clients can give you insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and success in family law cases.
- Request references: Ask the lawyer for references from past clients who can speak to their experience with the lawyer.
- Review their website or professional profile: Look at the lawyer’s background, case history, and areas of focus to ensure they have substantial experience in family law.
- Look for professional memberships: Membership in reputable organizations, such as the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), can indicate a lawyer's expertise and dedication to family law.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a family law lawyer, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what you should bring:
- Relevant documents: Bring any documents related to your case, such as marriage certificates, prenuptial agreements, financial records, custody agreements, or court orders.
- List of assets and debts: For divorce cases, prepare a detailed list of all assets (e.g., homes, bank accounts, retirement funds) and debts (e.g., mortgages, loans, credit card balances).
- Details of the family issue: Provide a written summary of the situation, including key dates and facts related to your divorce, custody dispute, or support issue.
- Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions you have about the legal process, costs, and potential outcomes.
- Your goals: Be prepared to discuss your objectives, such as custody arrangements, property division, or spousal support, so the lawyer understands your priorities.
Being organized and clear about your situation will help the lawyer evaluate your case more effectively and offer the best advice for moving forward.
