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09 Oct, 2024 by Josh leek
Brent is the best of the best. He's extremely knowledgeable about the law, professional, and an overall great guy. This is his passion and it is clearly reflected in his work and the personal interest he places in his clients and their cases. You will definitely be thankful for his expertise as it's impossible to do better! He's definitely the person you want on your side!
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10 Sep, 2024 by Roking70
I have faith in Mr. Snyder's professionalism and legal expertise. His character and kindness are a much-appreciated bonus. You can trust him to handle your financial needs expeditiously and effectively if within his purview and scope of practice.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Tony cody
Brent takes the time to get the information needed and handles the case with great care and makes you feel more than just a client. I would highly recommend his services to all that need someone to trust to be on their side.
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21 Oct, 2024 by Katie parker
I appreciate that Mr.Mullins was very honest and polite. I was talked to with kindness and compassion. If you ever finding yourself needing a lawyer give these folks a call first. I was gave wonderful advice to help in my situation. Thanks again
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16 Oct, 2024 by Thomas cambron
Richard T. Scrugham, Jr. has represented me both personally, and with business over the past years. He has made some stressful situations go away for me with his calm, calculated demeanor. Each and every time that he has represented me, it came out better than I expected.
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11 Oct, 2024 by Ross slagle
Rich Scrugham helped us with our wills. He did a fantastic job for us. He showed us how we needed to change some things to make sure everything went where we wanted it to go.
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21 Oct, 2024 by Katie parker
I appreciate that Mr.Mullins was very honest and polite. I was talked to with kindness and compassion. If you ever finding yourself needing a lawyer give these folks a call first. I was gave wonderful advice to help in my situation. Thanks again
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16 Oct, 2024 by Thomas cambron
Richard T. Scrugham, Jr. has represented me both personally, and with business over the past years. He has made some stressful situations go away for me with his calm, calculated demeanor. Each and every time that he has represented me, it came out better than I expected.
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11 Oct, 2024 by Ross slagle
Rich Scrugham helped us with our wills. He did a fantastic job for us. He showed us how we needed to change some things to make sure everything went where we wanted it to go.
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09 Aug, 2024 by Matt palyo
Mandy and her team are top notch! She helped me get through my divorce asap and didn't tolerate the b.s. the opposing counsel repeatedly attempted. Highly recommend using Mandy Hancock Law!!
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02 Aug, 2024 by Kim caldwell
Mandy and her team has always taken care of my legal affairs and have done a great job.
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28 Jul, 2024 by Terry dalton
She is the best attorney in Knoxville. No one else compares.
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27 Feb, 2024 by Jay smith
The closing of an estate in TN while living quite a distance away and having no experience with the process made me very fearful. Went to the internet for help and selected “Family Law Practice of David A. Montgomery”. Glad I did. I was panicking on the first phone call to David but his kind calm manner and patience put me at ease right away. Plus, I only had to travel 2 times throughout the year of closing. The second trip would not have been needed but there was a difficult bank. David’s guidance made my job as executor easy and stress free. He was very quick to answer emails. I also appreciated that he kept information and directions short and pointed. I highly recommend David A. Montgomery and would gladly have him as my attorney again.
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04 Jan, 2024 by Kay king
When my husband and I needed some estate planning and probate work done, we searched the internet and came up with David Montgomery. We went to our first meeting with high hopes of finding the right person who would understand our needs, address our concerns, and protect our interests all while charging a fair price. David has not only fulfilled our hopes, but exceeded our expectations. My husband has worked with more than 20 attorneys over the years and his biggest complaint has always been the responsiveness he has gotten. That is not the case with David. He might not have the answer right away, but he gets back to you in an expected amount of time and keeps you informed of his findings. That is huge to us! Our estate planning was not easy, but David dug deep with his research and, after every stone was turned, offered us the options he thought were best and we could not have agreed more. During probate, he exhibited professional and knowledgeable experience and knew how to interact effectively with the judge and other attorneys to get the best possible outcome for everyone involved, not just us.
We feel that David's high morals and strong Christian beliefs are lived out in his daily practice and makes him our first choice for an attorney. Because of our confidence in David, even though our estate and probate work is done, we have decided to keep him on as our general counsel for our personal business matters and would highly recommend him to anyone.
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11 Dec, 2023 by Leo
David was great. I hired him to write our prenup and am really happy with that decision. The prenuptial agreement was well written, thorough, and accurately reflected my intent. The price was very reasonable for a top notch attorney
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01 Jun, 2024 by Jeff bucher
Rodger promised to work with me on many projects. During my time with Rodger, I had to pay him money to do this and do that in the end. Rodger failed to live up to his side. Be very careful with giving him money in advance. I’m not over $70,000 with Roger do not trust him or his team.
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29 May, 2024 by Jeremiah harper
10/10 recommend Adam for any family law matters. He is responsive and straight to the point and keeps you updated and very intelligent in his line of work. He has went above and beyond for me from day one and has been great from day one!! I highly recommend him and will be using him for any future matters! You will not be disappointed
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04 May, 2024 by Janet simpson
28 Nov, 2018 by Kayce
Jason answered all my questions promptly. All I has to do was show up, and he took care of everything else. I left feeling much lighter. Jason is a very genuine, professional man.
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09 Nov, 2018 by Anonymous
I was very scared until I called Jason. He got my case dismissed the very next day. He is honest and he won't overcharge you. Stop reading reviews and call him now.
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08 Nov, 2018 by Penny
Live 200 miles away, my son had a speeding ticket in the area. Did a search for attorneys in the area. Inquiry's varied wildly! I liked Jason, Everything went smoothly, no surprises, and very reasonable. I would highly recommend his law firm.
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09 Aug, 2024 by Beth tucker
After hiring Mr.English for a custody and civil matter, it is clear to me that his legacy will be all the families he has helped and will help during his time as a skillful attorney. I put great value in knowledge, wisdom, tact, openness, discretion, boldness, and kindness. He embodies all of these wonderful traits and was immeasurable to myself and my family. I'm grateful for his help and hope he and his firm know how many prayers were answered through him and his staff. From the bottom of my heart, thank you.✌️
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26 Jul, 2024 by Margaux wallace
Sam was invaluable throughout my divorce process, especially mediation. He helped to make sure we got the results wanted, while keeping things civil. He approached things in a way where I felt secure and confident that we would all walk out satisfied and able to move forward. I truly can't thank him enough.
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07 Jul, 2024 by Jason cameron
01 Jun, 2024 by Jeff bucher
Rodger promised to work with me on many projects. During my time with Rodger, I had to pay him money to do this and do that in the end. Rodger failed to live up to his side. Be very careful with giving him money in advance. I’m not over $70,000 with Roger do not trust him or his team.
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29 May, 2024 by Jeremiah harper
10/10 recommend Adam for any family law matters. He is responsive and straight to the point and keeps you updated and very intelligent in his line of work. He has went above and beyond for me from day one and has been great from day one!! I highly recommend him and will be using him for any future matters! You will not be disappointed
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04 May, 2024 by Janet simpson
01 Jun, 2024 by Jeff bucher
Rodger promised to work with me on many projects. During my time with Rodger, I had to pay him money to do this and do that in the end. Rodger failed to live up to his side. Be very careful with giving him money in advance. I’m not over $70,000 with Roger do not trust him or his team.
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29 May, 2024 by Jeremiah harper
10/10 recommend Adam for any family law matters. He is responsive and straight to the point and keeps you updated and very intelligent in his line of work. He has went above and beyond for me from day one and has been great from day one!! I highly recommend him and will be using him for any future matters! You will not be disappointed
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04 May, 2024 by Janet simpson
11 Oct, 2024 by William coleman
A ticket I received turned out to be a Class A misdemeanor. Couldn't just pay a fine, had to appear in court. After looking up Class A misdemeanor it appeared more serious than a standard ticket, so I chose to seek legal advice. I called the Baker law firm and Mr Baker himself returned my call. I was set up with a meeting the next day and related what had happened. He felt quite certain he could get the case dismissed, possibly without a court appearance, and if that wasn't possible a short appearance in court and court costs, and the problem would be solved. Within a few hours his secretary called and informed me he had negotiated the dismissal. I did have to appear in court the next day but that went smoothly in less than a half hour. I felt like he and his staff truly cared about my problem. I give the Baker Law firm my highest recommendation.
Lynn Coleman
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08 Oct, 2024 by Baden friday
08 Oct, 2024 by Allen west jr
11 Oct, 2024 by William coleman
A ticket I received turned out to be a Class A misdemeanor. Couldn't just pay a fine, had to appear in court. After looking up Class A misdemeanor it appeared more serious than a standard ticket, so I chose to seek legal advice. I called the Baker law firm and Mr Baker himself returned my call. I was set up with a meeting the next day and related what had happened. He felt quite certain he could get the case dismissed, possibly without a court appearance, and if that wasn't possible a short appearance in court and court costs, and the problem would be solved. Within a few hours his secretary called and informed me he had negotiated the dismissal. I did have to appear in court the next day but that went smoothly in less than a half hour. I felt like he and his staff truly cared about my problem. I give the Baker Law firm my highest recommendation.
Lynn Coleman
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08 Oct, 2024 by Baden friday
08 Oct, 2024 by Allen west jr
06 Mar, 2024 by Sharon stout
He represented me in my case with my grandson and he is an excellent attorney. Very smart and professional. I highly recommend Mr Brinson.
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01 Mar, 2024 by Timothy chambers
Miles Brinson is an excellent, compassionate, and knowledgeable attorney. Having gone against him in a hotly contested child custody case, I can say without a shadow of a doubt that he brings great honor to the legal profession.
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11 Jan, 2024 by Aaron simerly
Miles has been my lawyer for about 4 years now. He's represented me in the 3 cases that I have had and always got me what I wanted and gave me a walk through of what's to be expected during the process. He's very responsive and easy to get in touch with. Super pleased with him and will always refer anyone who needs legal counsel to go through him.
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03 Dec, 2023 by Kevin r
Mr. Cole is one of the finest attorneys I have met. That includes my father and the 200 person firm he used to have. Honesty is so very hard to find these days and that's what you'll get, honesty, a man with integrity, and ethics. If you're in need of assistance, this should be your first call.
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11 Oct, 2023 by Samir guindi
21 Sep, 2023 by James “xenolai” long
Deno is an extremely professional and down to earth lawyer. He will give you direct answers, even if they are hard to hear. That way you have a complete understanding of the situation you are in, and what he believes he can help you with.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Courtney green
Rochelle did an AMAZING job!!! She's hands down the best lawyer I've ever had! My case was far from easy, but she still gave it her all and we ended up winning! She's hard working, communicative, and aggressive (when she needs to be). I felt like she genuinely cared about me and my family. I recommend her to ANYONE!!
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29 Aug, 2024 by Tiffany salley
I would highly recommend Rochelle A. Oldfield. When you need someone to fight for you like they are defending their own family she is what you need! She is compassionate, intelligent, and a force in the court room.
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08 Aug, 2024 by Tina kayy
Rochelle has helped us tremendously with our adoption case. She is very responsive and extremely knowledgeable. I would highly suggest Rochelle for any family law/adoption case.
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11 Oct, 2024 by William coleman
A ticket I received turned out to be a Class A misdemeanor. Couldn't just pay a fine, had to appear in court. After looking up Class A misdemeanor it appeared more serious than a standard ticket, so I chose to seek legal advice. I called the Baker law firm and Mr Baker himself returned my call. I was set up with a meeting the next day and related what had happened. He felt quite certain he could get the case dismissed, possibly without a court appearance, and if that wasn't possible a short appearance in court and court costs, and the problem would be solved. Within a few hours his secretary called and informed me he had negotiated the dismissal. I did have to appear in court the next day but that went smoothly in less than a half hour. I felt like he and his staff truly cared about my problem. I give the Baker Law firm my highest recommendation.
Lynn Coleman
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08 Oct, 2024 by Baden friday
08 Oct, 2024 by Allen west jr
15 Aug, 2024 by Tyler king
I had a very contentious child custody case. From day 1 Ben and his team took great care of me. In the end we got an extremely favorable outcome, due to following Ben's advice. I would recommend The Barnett Firm to anyone needing a family law attorney.
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12 Jul, 2024 by Amy langley
22 Apr, 2024 by Matt bratton
Mr. Barnett is an able and attentive attorney. His keen eye for relevant details, persistence, and perseverance are a tremendous advantage over the opposition
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23 Aug, 2024 by Kimberley houston
Michelle listened with such patience and compassion I look forward to speaking with the attorney tommorrow. Thank you 🌹
Update: No attorney called me the next day I am very disappointed we will continue to seek and find someone to help us.
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19 Aug, 2024 by Paul kinfolk hall
Tony Hill is very Knowledgeable!! When he says they will fight just let him do his work. I will use him in the future for sure!!
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01 May, 2024 by Samantha hopper
Tony Hill was professional and extremely knowledgeable when representing me through my divorce. He is tough on the opposition and got me more than what I originally asked for during mediation because of his excellent negotiating skills. He will fight for you and make sure you get what you deserve. He is who you want representing you if you want results in your favor.
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04 May, 2024 by Allen mcgill
Have referred two people to Mr. Crouse, one for a Special Needs Trust and another for a Will, Powers of Attorney and a Living Will. Mr Crouse is very knowledgeable and well versed in his profession, and takes the time to explain things in detail and answer any questions. Both clients were well pleased with his work product. Would highly recommend Mr Crouse to anyone needing estate planning. He is a credit to his profession and to Elder Law
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13 Mar, 2024 by Rebecca
Dustin was extremely helpful and caring in assisting me in dealing with my rights in terms of my parent’s end of life issues. It was a complicated situation and he helped me immensely.
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22 Jan, 2024 by Staci holt
My elderly father and I met with Mr. Crouse to discuss asset protection. We found out early in our consultation that Mr. Crouse would not be able to help us going forward, because my father lives out of state, and he would need an attorney from his state to draw up the trust.
However, Mr. Crouse still spent over an hour with us, educating us about our options. He explained everything in a way that we could comprehend. He answered all of our questions and really made sure we understood. He could have easily sent us home, but didn’t!
I highly recommend Mr. Crouse. He’s extremely knowledgeable and you can absolutely tell he is passionate about his calling.
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01 Jun, 2017 by Chris popp
Jerry did a great job representing on my behalf. Even a whole state away he kept me informed and did everything he could to keep my case on track. I would highly recommend him.
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31 May, 2017 by Eric
I had hired a lawyer to handle a civil matter. Long story short the lawyer I hired did not turn out to be professional or truthful. Jerry stepped in asked for no extra money and got the matter handled.
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31 May, 2017 by Andrea
I hired Mr. Givens for an uncontested divorce involving minor children. His team was always available to answer any questions I had, no matter how small or trivial they may have seemed. Mr. Givens is very personable and down to earth and makes you feel at ease with the entire process.
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27 Feb, 2024 by Jay smith
The closing of an estate in TN while living quite a distance away and having no experience with the process made me very fearful. Went to the internet for help and selected “Family Law Practice of David A. Montgomery”. Glad I did. I was panicking on the first phone call to David but his kind calm manner and patience put me at ease right away. Plus, I only had to travel 2 times throughout the year of closing. The second trip would not have been needed but there was a difficult bank. David’s guidance made my job as executor easy and stress free. He was very quick to answer emails. I also appreciated that he kept information and directions short and pointed. I highly recommend David A. Montgomery and would gladly have him as my attorney again.
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04 Jan, 2024 by Kay king
When my husband and I needed some estate planning and probate work done, we searched the internet and came up with David Montgomery. We went to our first meeting with high hopes of finding the right person who would understand our needs, address our concerns, and protect our interests all while charging a fair price. David has not only fulfilled our hopes, but exceeded our expectations. My husband has worked with more than 20 attorneys over the years and his biggest complaint has always been the responsiveness he has gotten. That is not the case with David. He might not have the answer right away, but he gets back to you in an expected amount of time and keeps you informed of his findings. That is huge to us! Our estate planning was not easy, but David dug deep with his research and, after every stone was turned, offered us the options he thought were best and we could not have agreed more. During probate, he exhibited professional and knowledgeable experience and knew how to interact effectively with the judge and other attorneys to get the best possible outcome for everyone involved, not just us.
We feel that David's high morals and strong Christian beliefs are lived out in his daily practice and makes him our first choice for an attorney. Because of our confidence in David, even though our estate and probate work is done, we have decided to keep him on as our general counsel for our personal business matters and would highly recommend him to anyone.
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11 Dec, 2023 by Leo
David was great. I hired him to write our prenup and am really happy with that decision. The prenuptial agreement was well written, thorough, and accurately reflected my intent. The price was very reasonable for a top notch attorney
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11 Oct, 2024 by William coleman
A ticket I received turned out to be a Class A misdemeanor. Couldn't just pay a fine, had to appear in court. After looking up Class A misdemeanor it appeared more serious than a standard ticket, so I chose to seek legal advice. I called the Baker law firm and Mr Baker himself returned my call. I was set up with a meeting the next day and related what had happened. He felt quite certain he could get the case dismissed, possibly without a court appearance, and if that wasn't possible a short appearance in court and court costs, and the problem would be solved. Within a few hours his secretary called and informed me he had negotiated the dismissal. I did have to appear in court the next day but that went smoothly in less than a half hour. I felt like he and his staff truly cared about my problem. I give the Baker Law firm my highest recommendation.
Lynn Coleman
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08 Oct, 2024 by Baden friday
08 Oct, 2024 by Allen west jr
21 Aug, 2024 by Sydney wolfenbarger
I truly cannot express my gratitude for all of the help that Lisa and her team did for me during the course of my divorce. I was supported, encouraged, and put at peace knowing that my case was being handled with the utmost priority and professionalism. I would recommend Lisa to anyone who is going through a difficult divorce and needs the best there is to offer. Thank you again Lisa for all that you have done for my daughter and I.
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19 Aug, 2024 by Greg hill
Lisa Hall helped me with some legal/finance questions and issues. Lisa was very personable and knowledgeable. I highly recommend her !
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18 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
My divorce spanned several years but Lisa never threw in the towel. Every time we could take a next step with the courts, she had her new petition sent to me for approval and filed with the courts within 24 hours. It was a waiting game, but only as long as the process took, never a delay from her, and never a deadline missed. She stayed on it, accurately responding to the courts, and cooling advising me. Lisa stayed calm, never giving emotionally charged negative or positive advice. She kept it accurate from a legal perspective outlining the various possible outcomes of how the situation could play out, and she step by step built our case for the best possible outcome. All the filings with the court for sanctions and ultimately ending in an agreed order for the opposing side to be charged in contempt of court. She would say, we are showing the judge who he is. Filing all those documents is time consuming but it was a clear method of showing who the parties are to the judge. And ultimately, it was checkmate. She’s a cool one when it comes to the courts, but warm and supportive for the client. She never promises the moon, but she sure tries her best to deliver it.
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11 Jan, 2024 by Brandon
I highly recommend Mark Pienkowski for his exceptional knowledge, unwavering support, patience, respect, and strong moral character. His expertise was invaluable in securing a favorable permanent parenting plan order. I live outside of the state of Tennessee, and I needed to find a lawyer to represent me in Tennessee. I am stoked that I found Mark. He offered great insight throughout the process of mediation. Great guy and even better lawyer!
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03 Dec, 2023 by Kevin r
Mr. Cole is one of the finest attorneys I have met. That includes my father and the 200 person firm he used to have. Honesty is so very hard to find these days and that's what you'll get, honesty, a man with integrity, and ethics. If you're in need of assistance, this should be your first call.
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11 Oct, 2023 by Samir guindi
16 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
Ms. Human is so passionate about her work - she is kind and thorough with everything she does. I would HIGHLY recommend her for any legal needs.
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19 Jul, 2023 by Wade phillips
28 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
Nicole helped me navigate the most tumultuous time of my life. She advocated for me when I wasn't able to do it for myself.
I originally visited her office with an offer my ex extended me, in the end, with Nicole's help I ended up with 3x the original offer.
She took the time to explain the process, charged fair rates, and was conscience of my budget restraints.
Thanks to her I got to the other side of this!
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11 Oct, 2024 by William coleman
A ticket I received turned out to be a Class A misdemeanor. Couldn't just pay a fine, had to appear in court. After looking up Class A misdemeanor it appeared more serious than a standard ticket, so I chose to seek legal advice. I called the Baker law firm and Mr Baker himself returned my call. I was set up with a meeting the next day and related what had happened. He felt quite certain he could get the case dismissed, possibly without a court appearance, and if that wasn't possible a short appearance in court and court costs, and the problem would be solved. Within a few hours his secretary called and informed me he had negotiated the dismissal. I did have to appear in court the next day but that went smoothly in less than a half hour. I felt like he and his staff truly cared about my problem. I give the Baker Law firm my highest recommendation.
Lynn Coleman
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08 Oct, 2024 by Baden friday
08 Oct, 2024 by Allen west jr
24 Sep, 2024 by Rita nesbit
24 Sep, 2024 by Joseph tidwell
It really was a awesome lawyer and they treated me with good care and they got to my case fast as possible
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19 Sep, 2024 by Jamie nunn
They helped me with my case and always kept me informed.
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07 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
PLEASE BE CAREFULL ABOUT SPEAKING TO THIS LAWFIRM ASK ABOUT PRICES UP FRONT . PAID $300 FOR 45 MINUTES.
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01 Mar, 2018 by Jonathan
Melanie and her team at Held Law firm were efficient and informative during my recent divorce settlement. Melanie was courteous and listened to my many questions. She seemed to be genuinely concerned about me and my situation and had good suggestions. Melanie represented me well in the proceedings and it would be easy to recommend her to someone else.
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08 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
Melanie did a good job of informing me of options and acted quickly to do what she said she would do.
Difficult circumstances made tolerable by efficiency. Thank You
Made a big difference in my future.
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05 Feb, 2021 by Holly
Divorce alone is one of the most difficult things you can go through in life. And then to have your ex spouse come back later and try to take your kids away is devastating. My case was a petition to change the PRP, Britini it’s not only really good at what she does but very patient and understanding of the emotions her clients may have going through a custody battle. Britini was quite eloquent in her presentation to the court I knew exactly where to pack the punch. She did an excellent job with proving there was no material change in circumstances proved by the other side, and that my ex husband was simply trying to gain more control and that the changes he sought presented no real benefit to the child.
In the end I not only won huge but actually came out with more than I asked for, which was simply for the court to uphold the agreement currently in place. If you’re going through divorce or custody battles it’s going to be costly no matter what. With Britini you will get the experience of a seasoned attorney at a more than fair rate. If you’re looking for a family law attorney and need a real bulldog in the quart room, look no further… Britini is the one you need on your side!
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04 Feb, 2021 by G
I can't say enough good things about Britni. She truly went above and beyond on my case, making time to meet with me via FaceTime during the COVID pandemic and going out of her way to make sure I felt prepared and at ease about my case. She destroyed the other side in court and my case was a huge win. I recommend her to anyone in need of a good lawyer.
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05 Dec, 2019 by Lisa
I met Britni when I was at my lowest. I had just left my husband after a 36 year abusive marriage. She got a one year protective order for me and fought with me to obtain my divorce. She is caring and compassionate and a fighter! She treated me with respect and for once I felt safe. I highly recommend Britni, she is amazing.
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10 Sep, 2024 by Kenna martin
He answered the phone being very rude. He was very unprofessional I would never recommend him
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17 May, 2024 by Rebecca cook
I was the victim of a domestic assault and was physically injured as a result. however, I was falsely accused and charge with a class D felony for as legally providing a false report to the investigator officer. But Mr. Bell believed in me and fought for me and my rights and having a hearing general sessions court. After question the officer on the stand, Mr. Bell was able to establish that any information given to the officer claimed was not true, had nothing to do with whether or not the assault occurred. So the judge dismissed the case right on the spot. If you want a good lawyer, one that really kind, intelligent and Works fast Mr. Bell is your man!
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15 Jun, 2023 by Savannah jones
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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.
