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16 Mar, 2023 by Mw
I reached out to Joe Jacobs and he was quick to respond and got results within 48 hours. He knows the law and was honest, straightforward, efficient, empathetic and knowledgeable. 10/10 would recommend. THANK YOU.
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02 Mar, 2019 by Matt
Mr. Jacobs is the best lawyer I have ever had . He is very fair priced, and is willing to work with you on payments. He is very honest with you on every aspect of your case. He is always on time to court. And he is very ,very good with communication through calls and text. He is by far the best attorney I have ever had and unfortunately I have had several. He is a great family man who loves his wife and kids and you can see that by the way he treats all the people he comes in contact with. Over all if you choose Joe you are making a great Choice.
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09 Dec, 2018 by Dennis
Mr. Jacobs has served as lead legal counsel for Positive Results since 1998. He has been an integral part of all aspects of our business. He created our Master Services agreement, Statements of Work (SOW) templates, created and continuously updates our employment and independent contractor agreements, and provides solid legal advice on all of our 3rd party reseller agreements. His attention to detail in all aspects of his work has been noticeable throughout our ongoing relationship. In fact, Mr. Jacobs recently saved us what could have been thousands of dollars in lost revenue by pointing out a specific clause in a partnership agreement where the 3rd party company held rights to sever the relationship without cause. In our industry, that can be a huge disaster. I would recommend Joseph Jacobs to anyone seeking solid corporate legal advice at reasonable rates. Mr. Jacobs has always demonstrated the highest regard for integrity and character. He represents us, but is always mindful to be fair to all parties involved.
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24 Nov, 2018 by Gloria
Upon contacting attorney Lowder she returned my call in a timely manner and set up an appointment for a consultation. At the appointment she listened to our situation, explained what all of our options were and what the most effective one would be best for us. Attorney Lowder was always very patient with us, answering all our questions and concerns to the best of her ability. Our case was open approximately one year.
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19 Nov, 2018 by Clifford
I have used Ms. Lowder on numerous occasions, she has been very informative,and professional in her approach to whatever matter she has represented us on.
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19 Nov, 2018 by Laura
I have been working with cristina for nearly 4 years now and I continue to use her services because she is knowledgeable, professional, compassinate, personable and reasonable. I have recommended her to friends family ans colleagues over the years and everyone was satusfied with her services.
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07 Jan, 2016 by Andrew
John was invaluable to me and my family following my accident last fall. He was on top of all aspects of the court and litigation process. Never had to wait long for a response, and he was eager to answer all my questions and lay out all my options. In the end, he helped to secure my family's well being in a difficult time.
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13 Jun, 2013 by Jason
John was great at litigating an issue I had with my HOA. He was very professional and responsive to my needs. I would highly recommend John, and plan on using him in the future if needed.
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15 Jan, 2013 by Anonymous
I never thought i would find myself in need of an attorney. I was blessed to find Mr. Sackett. He was extremely knowledgable, and very responsive to my million questions. He know's the law in cuyahoga and Lorain counties and will truly work in the best interest of you and your family.
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18 Sep, 2014 by Melissa
I've dealt with lawyers that didn't let me get in a word in edgewise - Mr. Endress was the opposite. He helped me with my divorce case and spent extra time explaining things to me. He continues to help with answering my questions even months later. I would definitely recommend him.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Devin dorame
I called Ed with an extremely complex legal question in regards to a Real Estate Portfolio I mange in Cleveland . Ed was able to answer all my questions thoroughly and help me better weigh my options. Before Ed I went through 6 attorneys that could not answer my questions correctly or give me any clearly in my case. For an Real Estate related case in Ohio I would strongly recommend Ed.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Anny and shaun
I had an exceptional experience with Ed. His expertise in real estate law was impressive. He was proactive, addressing potential issues before they arose, and communicated clearly throughout the process. What stood out most was their dedication and personal touch—they genuinely cared about my best interests. If you're looking for a knowledgeable, reliable, and client-focused real estate lawyer, Ed is the one to trust. Highly recommend!
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14 Aug, 2024 by Monique mcghee
Defended 2 of my close family members. Wonder service and even a better person. Highly recommend.
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06 Jun, 2023 by Bradley edwards
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19 Sep, 2022 by Carlitta's way
Highly recommend!!!
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09 Aug, 2022 by Robert krosky
I thought I had no chance whatsoever to remain a part of my daughter's life. However, through the efforts of Joe, Deb and all else involved at Lanter Legal, still have an opportunity to. Can never thank them enough for everything they did for me. Highly recommended!
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22 Aug, 2024 by Tanya jenkin
Thank you so much!! Very professional
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22 Aug, 2024 by Truthworldorder
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22 Aug, 2024 by Tiffany oaddams
Thank to Nathalie for helping me with my first experience! She helped me with all the steps and was there when I needed her!
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02 Aug, 2024 by Hugo ramirez
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11 Apr, 2024 by Nipsy falcon
It just wanted to say that It was a amazing experience be represented by DWSMITH LEGAL. And also Miss Evelyn Lazo thank you for be there for me every time I called you with a question you didn't mine at all helping me and I appreciate that. Thank you again Nipsy Allen Falcon Morales
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25 Mar, 2024 by Asheley vazquez
Súper peofecionales .ya nuestro 2 caso ganado en la familia gracias a ellos hablan espaañol y inglés
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15 Oct, 2022 by Jap
Not only was Lindsey professional and responsive, she was the first attorney I have dealt with in family law/domestic violence that truly cared about the protection/safety of my children and myself. She was appointed to my case through ODVN and even though she could have given me the bare minimum in service, she exceeded all of my expectations. Lindsey hung in during terrible situations when her own safety was threatened and when prior attorneys/GALs got scared and dropped my case. I can say that my children and I will be forever thankful for the peace and healing she has given us through her excellent representation for us in court. She worked hard to make sure we were safe and that the law enforced our protection for years to come.
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21 Jan, 2021 by Ashtabula county (is a joke)
Being that I was going through a Domestic Violence situation and a divorce, this particular attorney was part of a funded programs for victims of DV that could not afford an attorney because of the DV. With that being said, when I was appointed Mrs. Gardnia I was very confident in the beginning. Plans were made out with a way and strategy and sonI was somewhat relieved when our first appointment was finished. That was in 2017. I battled my divorce for over 2 years and was completely disregarded when I had quesrions regarding my divorce case as well as the DV charges (which to no thanks to the attorney are still open, he has his guns [thanks ACSO] and there is always a continuation my hearing with my ex husbands attorney Malcomb Douglas, when I needed legal advice for my cases and would reach our my phone calls were returned 3only have an attitude or a disposition of "well because I am funded by the state, all I really need to do is show.up". She was not advocating for the fact I was a "victim" in the DV, let alone that I was even human, or a woman. I was afraid of losing everything I had busted runo for in that marriage, including the money I had brought with me. And ya know what, I lost EVERYTHING. HE awarded the house, cars, money, he was awarded disability, he was given every aspect of my entire being except my kids. Tha k the heavens above that my kids are grown and he is not their dad. I was persuaded to agree on the terms he wanted, I was awarded a vehicle that did not run, a small.anount if money that was well under even $10k and still have yet to receive that, and if I attempt to.reachnout now about this I am railroaded to the point to where I am avoided and told that the case was closed and she was no longer being paid to be my lawyer. The domestic is still an open case that SHE represented me in as it was part of the divorce per the judge! I was screwed with this attorney and in my honest opinion I was treated as if I were an inconvenient waste of time because she was busy with paying clients. Just like I was treated by my ex husband, as an inconvenient existence. I do not reccomend her, I do not recommend her for any type of case. She may be very professional in the beginning and will surely convince you she has your back and that she will fight fire with fire. Well, isn't that what an attorney does? I had to find out my own inform, I had to do my own investigations and when she asked me to give her what I found knowing that I knew what I had was pertinent about my case, she completely disregarded me, and was disrespectful in her responses as far as telling me that I was being dramatic. This attorney is not someone I would ever want on my side ever again. I was screwed. And I never saw it coming. I wouldn't want Gardnia to represent a flea in my dog let alone anyone else. Extremely poor representation.
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19 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
Believes in you and your case. Gets the facts straight. Not afraid to negotiate. Not afraid of trial. Persistent until you get the very best outcome.
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19 Aug, 2024 by Keith gregg
This man was my attorney on a criminal case and he would not listen to a word I had to say. My first time ever getting in trouble and was told the whole time I would not get incarcerated then day of sentencing I was given 2 years and after the bailiff arrested me and we went in the back he said your a bigger guy you will be ok!! My family always tried to contact him and couldn’t get ahold of him!! I my own judicial release from prison and he had no idea because he wouldn’t return phone calls!! So I wrote my own judicial release and got it filed on my own and day of my judicial release hearing he randomly showed up and had no clue because I did everything on my own then after it was granted from the work I did I sat in Cuyahoga County jail another 7 days because he didn’t make sure judge signed off on all paperwork so I finally got released 7 days later on Christmas Eve when my family went to the judge and explained I was still in county!! So stay away do not waste ur money even if you’re life depended on it stay away from this crook!! If he is your court appointed lawyer ask for a new one or you will get incarcerated and told you are a big fella you will be ok it will all be a lie he doesn’t help you just looks to get money!!! Never shows up on time or if at al!!! DONT DO IT STAY AWAY trust me
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08 Jul, 2024 by Jeff hiller
Fantastic. Got the job done on multiple traffic violations, a will , and an eviction. And fascinating to have lunch with after court. Was no longer covered under my lagak insurance but was worth every penny to have confidence in him at full price.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Dennis kristof
Unprepared and ineffectual, and then sent his senior partner when we appeared in the Lakewood municipal court, who was even less prepared. Forgot we even had a lawyer during the hearing. Phoned it in. Hope my parishioner didn't have to pay too much for this non-representation.
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10 Sep, 2023 by Raphe lawson (luca_brassy)
I was Faced with murder charges. John D Patta got it dismissed! And Bae helped too.
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03 Dec, 2021 by Anonymous
Never, ever, consult or hire this so called lawyer. Did not uphold me in a civil court action. Was more interested in a padded bill than representing me in court. Something is drastically wrong here. Feel as though he was working for the opposing party, not me.
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30 Aug, 2021 by Carmen zydiak
Mr Patta was very knowledgeable and explain everything to us page by page , recommend, and I will be back .
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22 Sep, 2017 by Nawal
I have been working with Tamara over the last month regarding my case. She has been very responsive and clear about what to expect when we go to court. She is affordable compared to other firms, however, this does not compromise the quality of her representation. She offers clients the ability to make payments if you can't afford the total cost upfront. She has met me locally because Lakewood was too far for me. She has filed motions in the correct amount of time and has shown up for every meeting that we scheduled. I highly recommend Tamara and I look forward to successfully finishing with this case soon.
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18 Sep, 2016 by Anonymous
We hired Tamara last October and she represented us well and we won our custody case. Have been unable to reach her since about April, was contacted by another person stating there is an ongoing family emergency concerning her child. She is no longer practicing but I do know her cases are being forwarded to other agencies to make sure everyone gets their original paperwork back. Over all she was an amazing attorney.
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16 Sep, 2016 by Salimah
I hired this poor excuse of an attorney last October and it has been the biggest mistake of my life! I met with her and did the free consultation which she assured me that she would be of much assistance. The first hearing she sent another lawyer in her place which in turn prompt a continuance. The next hearing was scheduled two months later; she sent a letter out stating that she would be on maturity leave and will return to work 2 weeks after she had her baby. I called her phone two weeks prior to the hearing and no answer.....FOR THE WHOLE TWO WEEKS. So I contact her "replacement" and she tells me there's nothing she can do for me and that she will try to get in contact with her. Needless to say it never happened and I went to court attorney-less which PISSED the magistrate off!!!!! I found out she never file motions or contacted the appropriate people she claimed she had and it just left me in a very bad situation. Please, if you are reading this do not hire this scam artist.
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28 May, 2021 by Anonymous
Do NOT hire him. Please, take my word for it. I provided him with evidence proving my innocentance, yet he never provided them to the courts. I ended up going to trial with a new lawyer 10k dollars later on too of the 17000 I paid Chris, and my case was dismissed because of the evidence I had. I am very close to reporting him the the national bar association. He is NOT a good lawyer. Morally or ethnically. All he cares about is money and milking you as much as he can for it.
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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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

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