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12 Dec, 2024 by Reginald curts
Scott Drake is the best lawyer ever. He promised me his best, and that’s what he gave me. He kept me out of prison. Dealt with a case in trial status for almost 4 years and I never missed a court date thanks to the amazing team and their communication. Definitely recommend 10/10.
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15 Nov, 2024 by Kristin h
Scott Drake gets the job done! I have personally worked with him on 2 different cases and he is informative and straight shooter! Thanks Scott for all your hard work!
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03 Jul, 2024 by Keishadavis74
Great attorney who knows her "stuff". She goes above and beyond for her clients and have their best interest (including children). I am a very difficult person to please and I must say that she does phenomenal work and very thorough!!!
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26 Aug, 2024 by Mary blomgren
Do not recommend. Sloppy, don’t listen, can’t provide basic court information and make you go hunting for it yourself. Provides basic info and somehow gets my address completely wrong on “final letter” 0/10 find another lawyer!
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30 Jul, 2024 by Leea norton
June and her team at Lynn Law Firm are absolutely amazing! I came to them with a divorce that I was in over my head with and they helped me work through it. The case was (in my opinion) a special case and I would not have been able to achive what I did without them. They treated me like family and not just a client, which is somthing I really appreciate. I recommend the Lynn Law Firm for any famliy legal matters you need.
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30 Jul, 2024 by Ba ba
Ms.June is the most dedicated lawyer. My family and I had a great experience with Lynn Law Firm. She is very dedicated, detailed and will do everything she can to get you JUSTICE and exactly what you want and need. She is an expert on her field. I am very pleased with her work and recommend her to anybody going through a divorce.
ALIOUNE BA
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5.0
1 Reviews
3.6
7 Reviews
24 Sep, 2024 by Jurga
Anthony was recommended to me by a friend and for a good reason. Anthony displayed confidence from the start and was very attentive to every detail in my divorce case. His experience and advocacy was exactly what I needed in what could've become a costly and drawn out divorce proceeding. Nevertheless, if I would've had to fight; this is the attorney who I would want on my side. Highly recommend.
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28 Jun, 2024 by Nat valdivia
02 Jan, 2024 by Megan guy
10 Dec, 2024 by Black yoga
Terrible lawyer.
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10 Dec, 2024 by Alex co
22 Nov, 2024 by Nikki searcy
If you need an attentive, sharp, diligent, and EXPERT attorney, hire Crystal Wright! I knew I had the RIGHT person representing me when I found her. I have had the pleasure of being represented by Attorney Wright twice, once for a custody issue and a second time for a divorce. Each time she was AMAZING! Her ability to hear me, understand my concerns, and advise me really put my mind at ease. In both cases, her dedication, experience, and knowledge of the law allowed me to achieve an outcome that was in my best interests. I feel like I got my life back because of her. 10/10 HIGHLY RECOMMEND!! Thank you for EVERYTHING, Attorney Wright!
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07 Nov, 2024 by Mary elizabeth enrile
Robert Greenwald was my court appointed lawyer in Gwinnett County Court Solicitors Court for a case from over two years ago. Not only did my previous lawyer didn’t show up to my court date but I was assigned to Robert Greenwald after 8 hours of waiting in the court house. I was incarcerated for 48 days, waited over 2 years for a court date, & plead into one year probation under Judge Kay Dove. I was incarcerated for 16 days second time reporting into Southeast Correction because Probation officer Alixandrea Clark Martin failed to inform me of my next reporting. I’m suppose to be getting treatment from viewpoint health for alcohol dependency & 3 psychiatric treatment. It’s been over 6 months, Viewpoint health has seen me multiple times with only one psychiatric session. I’m suppose to be in an in person outpatient substance abuse program. There isn’t any ASAM 2.1 program in Gwinnett only in Cobb County & Barrow County. I had to resign from my job of 6 months since Gwinnett County Court wasn’t clear on the status of my case. Judge Kay Dove who sentenced me isn’t available regardless of the letter & email I sent her. The court of Gwinnett is suppose to help me with my dependency on alcohol that’s why I’m on probation. Yet, Judge Kay Dove, Viewpoint Health, Southeast Correction Probation, & my court appointed lawyer Robert Greenwald aren’t any of aid in my so called “recovery”. I don’t have a job to pay my probation officer or the extensive outpatient program. I called Robert Greenwald second time in concern of how things are getting handled in Southeast Correction & Viewpoint Health & all he did was yell & be belligerent when I’m genuinely concern at how ridiculous things are. Robert Greenwald is suppose to represent me since he’s my court appointed lawyer but obviously the Court of Gwinnett isn’t concern for bettering of the citizens of the community of Gwinnett. They’re just milking each inmate for whatever money they’re worth. If I can give Gwinnett County Lawyers a negative star, I would.
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08 Nov, 2023 by D reel
Non responsive. Doesn’t alert you about what’s going on with your case. If he’s appointed, get you another one !
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01 Nov, 2022 by Gitzel zarate
can not believe what he tells you, at the end of the day the courts will do what they want with you and Rob pretends to help
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13 Jan, 2025 by Jack ballner
Katrina is wonderful! She is super responsive and detailed oriented. She was super helpful throughout the process and was a huge difference maker. 100% would work with her again
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13 Nov, 2024 by Rashun walker
I don’t think it’s enough space to express how grateful I am for attorney Williams for representing me on getting legitimacy and visitation with my daughter. She was so compassionate towards my case. She truly believes in FATHERS RIGHTS!! Ms.Williams is so affordable for all the work she does. She made me feel so secured that everything was being taken care of. Communication is amazing. Ms. Williams was very quick to answer back to any questions that I had. Because of Ms.Williams I am now able to see my daughter after 5 years of no contact. FATHERS I’m telling you, Ms.Willams gets the job done! I’m a living testimony! Peace and Blessings!
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30 Jan, 2024 by Sarah alexander
Please take a moment to review other complaints about him online. We engaged Mr. Ney to handle a conflict of interest case. Through email, phone calls, and face-to-face meetings, he assured us that our former attorney was not entitled to any money. After providing him with $1000.00 for a case study, he returned confirming his acceptance of our case and reiterated that our ex-attorney had no claim to funds. Consequently, we ceased negotiations on a $25000 settlement with the ex-attorney. Upon receiving the remaining flat fee of $7000.00, he stopped communication. we went to his office he did not show uo. Despite assurances of a jury trial and the use of expert witnesses, none materialized – these promises proved false. Furthermore, he neglected to inform us of the hearing date, attending alone, resulting in the case being lost. As a consequence, we now find ourselves obligated to pay the ex-attorney $57000.00. Once he gets the money he is gone. I filed a complaint with Bar hoping they discipline him, then I will sue him.
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04 Jul, 2023 by Salah ahmed
Ms. Gloria is a great lawyer and she will treat you like a family. Definitely recommend her!!!
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04 Jul, 2023 by Ismail ahmed
Great lawyer, made us feel like family
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01 May, 2023 by Consuela n.
Ms. Grimes was recommended to me while I was in the middle of a divorce. She kindly assisted me, answering every question I raised in a clear and concise manner, making the process much easier! She is very responsive, patient, and understanding, providing the utmost help to those who reach out to her. I will highly recommend her law firm to anyone!
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15 Feb, 2016 by Anonymous
Ms. Miller affords you her expertise as a Judge, State Legislator, Educator, Attorney, and Parent for your court matters.
Her understanding of family law provided me an attorney who listened, and explained all matters that would be forthcoming in my divorce case based on the outcome I had desired when we first met.
Ms. Miller is well versed in the courtroom and continually reads cases and situations, keeping them at the ready when needed for your case.
Ms. Miller successfully defended me in a very complex family law case that had all elements of a bad and difficult divorce with many accusations being presented to the court. Each accusation was dissected, questioned openly in the courts, and dismissed by the courts. Her successful representation gave me immediate access to my child, and a voice in the legal system that made opposing attorneys and Judges pay attention to.
While waiting on my case to be heard, I have witnessed Ms. Miller assist younger attorneys in the courtroom on proper protocol, and coach them on procedure and direction. She is not only passionate about her clients but also passionate about the law.
You cannot receive any better legal representation in family law than Phyllis Miller.
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13 Feb, 2016 by Denise
After spending the past four years in and out of the courtroom with my ex-husband, I finally found the BEST Attorney!! Phyllis Miller was highly recommended to me through other lawyers in the community. Ms. Miller's years of experience as an attorney and a former judge shows in the courtroom!
Phyllis always answered my emails and/or phone calls promptly. She was fantastic at keeping me up to date on any information that I needed regarding my case. Phyllis went above and beyond for what was best for me and my children. She knows what she is doing and will Fight to Get You a Great Outcome! I recommend Phyllis Miller to anyone who needs a dedicated, knowledgeable, and experienced attorney.
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12 Feb, 2016 by Kirk
This Itailian gal has spunk and passion. If you'd like to hire one of the best, I highly recommend this lawyer. She helped me get my kids and my house in my divorce proceedings. After watching her in the court room I gave her the nickname Barracuda. You would have to see it to understand it. I am lucky enough to be one of the 2% of men....thanks to Phyllis Miller...hire her, you'll see...she is worth every penny. :-)
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12 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
Did nothing to prepare for court dates. Never filed needed motions as promised. Did not show up to most important hearing. The absolute worst experience working with his firm.
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16 Jan, 2019 by Marcus
Adam was great! He worked with me close on my case and did an outstanding job in the court room which got me a not guilty and won my case.
I would suggest hiring him to anyone.
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15 Jun, 2018 by Kori
I found Adam to be quite energetic, easy to talk to and, most importantly, effective. He has apparently formed a great relationship with the solicitor's office I dealt with. My case was disposed of quickly and to my satisfaction, short of outright dismissal! He pours himself into this stuff.
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17 May, 2015 by Michael
Mr Mullinax is a great lawyer. He was able to get me custody oh my two boys. He is a very good trial lawyer and he knows the law. I am very greatfull for what Mr Mullinax accomplished for me.
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17 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
Mr. Mullinax filed an erroneous motion because he assumed something and did not check it out. DA knew the truth. Defense case was severely hurt. Then he was not man enough to take responsibility for his mistake. He falsely tried to blame an innocent member of the defendant's family. He is wishy washy and passive aggressive if you do not hold your nose right, and he gets angry with you. He plays psychological war games and can be very mean. He takes on too many cases out of greed and then lets some important aspects of the case go by the wayside for lack of time. He lazily encouraged a plea bargain to save himself time and trouble. In reality, the case should have been tried. The guilty plea destroyed my career and retirement. I should have been found not guilty by reason of temporary insanity. I had had a nervous breakdown.
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20 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
Mr Mullinax was referred to me by a Gwinett County Judge. I was very pleased with his service and legal skills! He is very expensive, but worth the cost. He really gets results.
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14 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
Don’t use her. I did all the discovery myself and then she charged me for it. She did absolutely nothing to help my case. She was rude and obnoxious. She jacked up my bill every chance she could get.
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25 Feb, 2021 by Liz
She was highly recommended by a friend of mine. Making the decision about a divorce is hard. I did not realize how difficult it would be just to get a return call to schedule an appointment. I tried for 1 1/2 weeks. 3 calls. She was always busy and never had the professional courtesy of having anyone call me back to schedule an appointment or even tell me she was too busy to take me on. All I ask is for the courtesy of a call back. Have times changed so that it is too much to ask for a call back?
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18 Dec, 2016 by Cassandra
I was highly recommended by a friend who had used Judy King for his divorce and he was very happy with the end result.
I am a survivor of domestic abuse. He abandoned me and walked away from all responsibilities, leaving me with all the debt and no income. I tried several time to get a divorce on my own, filing with the Court but then he fled the State and went into hiding. I was hoping not to use an Attorney so that we both could go on with our lives without heartache and costs.
I was served divorce papers this April, 2016. I was extremely excited when the Police Officer delivered them thinking he had come to his senses and we could do a non-contested divorce. I was wrong. He still had his narcissistic personality and was out to get me.
My friend told me to call Judy King. As soon as I had my first consultation meeting with Judy, I knew she was the one for me. Judy got right to the point and explained all that was involved. Judy is a no-nonsense, go-getter who only deals with the facts and I immediately felt a sigh of relief. Judy and her assistant/paralegal Kristen are a great team. They walked me through the process of getting all the paperwork done and were very patient and understanding of my emotional state. Judy is extremely knowledgeable and knew exactly how to handle my case.
I am very thankful to have had Judy and Kristen on my team while going through such a stressful and emotional time. And, I can say now, that I am happily divorced with a most satisfactory result!!
If you are reading my review, stop looking now and call Judy King because she is the best Attorney you could hire :)
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14 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
This lawyer was assigned to my child's case this past year and overall I would rate him as so so. And although I think he is a decent attorney (he knew the basics), I wouldn't rate him as excellent. This is because there were details missed and important things about the case not brought up that I think should have been. Fair is the fairest rating I can give.
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21 Apr, 2017 by Ann
What you dont see behind the scenes is this man is truly working hard for his client(s). Give Jody your time and he will work his hardest and best. Be patient he told me!!! Being patient is not easy but it will pay off with Mr Everette on your side.
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07 Nov, 2024 by Mary elizabeth enrile
Robert Greenwald was my court appointed lawyer in Gwinnett County Court Solicitors Court for a case from over two years ago. Not only did my previous lawyer didn’t show up to my court date but I was assigned to Robert Greenwald after 8 hours of waiting in the court house. I was incarcerated for 48 days, waited over 2 years for a court date, & plead into one year probation under Judge Kay Dove. I was incarcerated for 16 days second time reporting into Southeast Correction because Probation officer Alixandrea Clark Martin failed to inform me of my next reporting. I’m suppose to be getting treatment from viewpoint health for alcohol dependency & 3 psychiatric treatment. It’s been over 6 months, Viewpoint health has seen me multiple times with only one psychiatric session. I’m suppose to be in an in person outpatient substance abuse program. There isn’t any ASAM 2.1 program in Gwinnett only in Cobb County & Barrow County. I had to resign from my job of 6 months since Gwinnett County Court wasn’t clear on the status of my case. Judge Kay Dove who sentenced me isn’t available regardless of the letter & email I sent her. The court of Gwinnett is suppose to help me with my dependency on alcohol that’s why I’m on probation. Yet, Judge Kay Dove, Viewpoint Health, Southeast Correction Probation, & my court appointed lawyer Robert Greenwald aren’t any of aid in my so called “recovery”. I don’t have a job to pay my probation officer or the extensive outpatient program. I called Robert Greenwald second time in concern of how things are getting handled in Southeast Correction & Viewpoint Health & all he did was yell & be belligerent when I’m genuinely concern at how ridiculous things are. Robert Greenwald is suppose to represent me since he’s my court appointed lawyer but obviously the Court of Gwinnett isn’t concern for bettering of the citizens of the community of Gwinnett. They’re just milking each inmate for whatever money they’re worth. If I can give Gwinnett County Lawyers a negative star, I would.
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08 Nov, 2023 by D reel
Non responsive. Doesn’t alert you about what’s going on with your case. If he’s appointed, get you another one !
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01 Nov, 2022 by Gitzel zarate
can not believe what he tells you, at the end of the day the courts will do what they want with you and Rob pretends to help
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26 May, 2024 by Constance
I recently had the absolute pleasure of working with Attorney Calvin David Williamson
, and I can't praise him enough for his exceptional service and dedication. In a stressful last-minute situation, I reached out to him late on a Friday night, urgently needing representation for the following Monday. Despite the incredibly short notice, he immediately made time to listen to my concerns, providing insightful feedback and instilling a level of confidence in me that no other attorney had ever achieved.
By Monday morning, he had seamlessly added himself as my attorney of record and met with me to go over the details of my case, even though we had only a few minutes to do so. His professionalism and ability to grasp the intricacies of my situation in such a limited timeframe were nothing short of impressive.
In court, his representation was outstanding. He was articulate, and I was well represented. I’m so grateful to his expertise and commitment.
If you're looking for a dedicated, competent, and reassuring attorney who can handle even the most urgent and challenging situations, I wholeheartedly recommend Attorney Calvin David Williamson
His support and skills are unmatched, and he truly goes above and beyond for his clients.
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16 Nov, 2017 by Donald barrett
WHAT A JOKE! HE DIDN'T EVEN KNOW THE CORRECT NAMES OF THE PEOPLE IN THE CASE. WAS NOT PREPARED IN ANYWAY FOR THE CASE THEREFORE I LOST. COMPLETE WASTE OF MONEY AND TIME! DO YOURSELF A FAVOR AND FIND ANOTHER ATTORNEY
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21 Sep, 2017 by Hannah
I would recommend Mr. Calvin Williamson and his paralegal Lisa to anyone. I enjoyed their respectfulness and thoroughness.
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09 Apr, 2020 by Anonymous
...and hired her for my divorce case. Having never experienced a divorce, I was expecting to get the metaphorical shaft based on the many divorce stories that friends of mine have been through albeit with a different attorney. Fortunately for my case, Tamela demonstrated advanced 11th dimension legal jiu jitsu arguments and tactics which far exceeded any of my expectations. I still don't know how she turned what I already thought to be a completely lost case into an overwhelming legal win. Absolutely magic and worth every dollar.
Aside from the highly unexpected "W", the only remotely frivolous thing I have to say about Tamela is that she sometimes takes 2-3 days to return my messages. Then again, I just have to reason with myself that a lawyer of her caliber very likely has many more clients besides me and the world - for better or worse - does not revolve around my life. So I remained patient, let her do her job, and could not be happier with the results.
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12 Jul, 2019 by Anonymous
She did nothing with the private investigator stuff. And my daughter got molested by my x wife boyfriend. Darrell McDaniel. She did nothing except take my money and do zero work. Don’t hire her. She is bad
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16 Jun, 2019 by Anonymous
Handled a divorce case in professional manner. Good grasp of strategy. Ultimately the case turned out the way I wanted and met my goals.
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15 Nov, 2023 by Ghulam
Thrift Store service for Niemen Marcus price with an attitude of George Castanza's mother. You are better off representing yourself.
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05 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
John Welsh ll, Att at Law from Lawrenceville, Ga took thousands from us and did nothing. Have all kinds of proof but in Gwinnett County anything goes I guess. Always has, always will. He takes $2000 on 9/21/15 and runs to the bank right away for it. We got our background checks, paid for them, took them to his office. We try and call, leave messages and go to office to leave messages. Nothing. On 10/5/16 he wants another $2000 (I knew I should have went with my gut and left then, figured he blowing smoke up my ass and telling me lies for more funds) but I wrote another $2000 and he was at my bank again within minutes (as they called me). We had to re-do our background checks again, pay for them and take them to his office. Again he does not respond or do anything. Initially he told us this would only take 6-12 months. My husband checked around, it should only take that. So my husband sends an e-mail and he gives him some run around about how it takes a long time. We finally sent a certified letter on 4/11/17 for a statement and refund (signed for 2 days later) 2 months ago but of course we hear nothing. The normal with this attorney. Never hear from him. Today is 6/5/17, never heard a word again.
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05 Feb, 2016 by Shannon
I have to say hands down Mr. John Welsh is the best attorney I have ever had. Mr. Welsh was my saving grace in helping me survive the process of handling my late husbands affairs. I was completely lost and was about ready to give up and somehow I found Mr. Welsh. Within one visit I had hope again that somehow things might be possible. He stepped right in and took charge and has been unbelievably amazing in every way. I was a happily married woman and stay at home mom of three "little" children when my worst nightmare happened, my husband of 10+ years hit a tree in the black ice of January 2015 and suffered a traumatic brain injury and remained in a coma for 8 months before he passed away. My case was far from simple, my husband was young and had no will plus he had a fairly new business that he had started, not to mention we had 3 young kids. My husband handled all the affairs outside of the household stuff and left me completely lost when he hit that tree. This all made my case become more and more complicated as time went on. Not to mention the mistakes I had made trying to apply for my husbands estate myself with the court. Mr. Welsh was able to take what I had done and completely turn it around for us. He became like family to my kids, myself and even my mother. His assistant Heather was always happy and welcoming, quick to respond to my needs or questions and even when the kids and I were there we always felt more like we were with family than at an attorneys office. They had toys for my kids to play with and were very accepting of having children around, making me much more comfortable and able to concentrate. He is a very kindhearted and thoughtful man and I could tell he had only our best interest at heart. Even to the point of being concerned that I needed to eat after a long day at the courthouse, and urging me to take care of myself. I wish there was a way to convey with words how grateful I am to Mr. Welsh and to Heather- for all their hard work on my case, but words are not adequate to how thankful I am to have had the help of such a kind and caring lawyer. I don't know what I would have done without Mr. Welsh!!!!! If you want an attorney who will treat you like his own family then Mr. John Welsh is it, he's absolutely wonderful in every way. And even my kids loved him... Wonderful attorney and I highly recommend him to everyone!
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10 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
Not easy to deal with, operates with no patience. He's overworked and mad at you for asking any questions. I recommend staying away as he is not looking to treat his client in their best interest.
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24 Apr, 2020 by Anonymous
3 days ago
I have dealt with Greg before. There were seldom times where he was very informative and helpful and others where he was the most obnoxious, condescending, rudest attorney that you could ever imagine. This last occasion was just far too much and the point I had to take time to write this post to warn anyone else that takes the risk to retain this guy. If you just want to be belittled and treated like gum on the bottom of this guy's shoe then by all means good luck with that. What's even more amazing is I called to obtain information from him on how to proceed with filing bankruptcy. He was impatient, didn't listen, and extremely belligerent towards me. And I was simply was trying to follow-up with him with an update from a previous discussion to let him know I was officially prepared to retain his services and move forward with the next steps. The response I received was he abruptly told me find to another attorney and hung up in my face. My mouth just dropped. I couldn't believe how this turned out this way. I was completely dumbfounded. I was like what did I say or do to deserve this? I just called to give an update on certain circumstances that have changed in my situation since we last spoken and wanted to know if the process would be different or cover those things. I really got completely lashed out at for just even asking and calling. It's utterly unprofessional and quite sad. I hope that this was him having a bad day.. but obviously based on other reviews from clients expressing he that he was similarly unprofessional with them too. Unfortunate.
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Family Law Lawyer Can Do for You
A family law lawyer provides legal services related to family relationships, including marriage, divorce, child custody, and adoption. Family lawyers help clients navigate emotionally charged legal issues, providing guidance and representation in disputes that affect spouses, children, and parents. Whether you're going through a divorce, seeking custody of your children, or drafting a prenuptial agreement, a family law lawyer ensures your rights are protected and your interests are represented.
Family law attorneys often handle sensitive matters and offer objective legal advice, helping clients reach fair outcomes either through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.
When Should I Hire a Family Law Lawyer?
Hiring a family law lawyer is beneficial in several situations, especially when legal matters involve close personal relationships. Common reasons to hire a family law lawyer include:
- Divorce or separation: When ending a marriage, a lawyer can help you navigate issues such as division of assets, spousal support, and child custody arrangements.
- Child custody and visitation disputes: If you and your co-parent can't agree on custody or visitation, a lawyer can represent your interests and work toward a solution that benefits your children.
- Child support: Whether you’re seeking child support or defending against a claim, a lawyer can help ensure the appropriate amount is calculated and enforced.
- Prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: A lawyer can help draft or review agreements that protect your assets in case of divorce.
- Adoption: Family law lawyers guide you through the legal process of adoption, ensuring that all requirements are met.
- Domestic violence or restraining orders: If you're a victim of domestic violence or being falsely accused, a lawyer can help you obtain or challenge protective orders.
- Paternity cases: If there are questions about the paternity of a child, a lawyer can help establish or dispute legal fatherhood.
Hiring a lawyer early can prevent issues from escalating, and they can offer you the best chance of achieving a favorable outcome in emotionally charged situations.
What Does a Family Law Lawyer Do?
A family law lawyer provides a wide range of services depending on your specific legal needs. Their responsibilities may include:
- Advising on legal rights and options: Helping you understand your legal rights regarding divorce, child custody, support, and other family law issues.
- Filing legal documents: Drafting and filing petitions, motions, and agreements with the court, such as divorce papers, custody agreements, or support orders.
- Representing clients in court: Arguing your case in front of a judge if a settlement can’t be reached through negotiation or mediation.
- Mediation and negotiation: Assisting with alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, to reach agreements on issues like custody, property division, and support without going to trial.
- Enforcing court orders: Helping you enforce court orders related to child support, alimony, or custody if the other party fails to comply.
- Drafting prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: Creating agreements that protect your assets in the event of a divorce.
- Handling adoption proceedings: Ensuring that the legal process of adoption is followed, from filing paperwork to finalizing the adoption in court.
How Are Family Law Lawyers Paid?
Family law lawyers typically charge clients in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Common payment arrangements include:
- Hourly rates: Most family lawyers charge by the hour, with rates varying based on experience and location. Clients are billed for the time spent working on their case, including consultations, court appearances, and document preparation.
- Flat fees: For more straightforward legal services, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, some lawyers offer flat-fee arrangements.
- Retainer fees: In cases that are expected to require significant time and attention, such as contentious custody battles, a lawyer may charge a retainer, which is an upfront payment that covers the initial costs of legal services. The lawyer then bills against the retainer as they work on your case.
The exact cost will depend on the complexity of your case and the lawyer’s fee structure, which should be discussed upfront.
How Much Does a Family Law Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a family law lawyer varies based on factors such as the lawyer's experience, the location, and the complexity of your case. Here are some general cost guidelines:
- Hourly rates: Family law lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour, depending on their experience and the complexity of the case.
- Flat fees: For simpler cases, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, fees may range from $1,000 to $5,000.
- Retainers: For more complex matters, such as contested divorces or custody battles, lawyers may charge a retainer ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 or more. The lawyer will bill against the retainer for the work they do on your case.
- Additional costs: You may also be responsible for additional costs, such as filing fees, mediation fees, or expert witness fees.
Always ask for a clear breakdown of the lawyer’s fees and any additional expenses during your consultation.
Top Questions to Ask a Family Law Lawyer
Before hiring a family law lawyer, it's important to ask questions to ensure they're the right fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:
-
What experience do you have with family law cases like mine?
Make sure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it's a contested divorce, child custody dispute, or adoption. -
How will you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, a flat fee, or requires a retainer. Ask for an estimate of the total costs involved. -
What are the possible outcomes of my case?
An experienced lawyer should be able to give you a general idea of what to expect based on the facts of your case. -
What is your approach to resolving disputes?
Ask whether the lawyer tends to favor negotiation and mediation or whether they prefer to take cases to court. This can help you determine if their style matches your goals. -
How long do you expect my case to take?
While it’s difficult to predict, the lawyer should give you an estimate based on similar cases. -
Who will be handling my case?
In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may do much of the work, so make sure you understand who will be your main point of contact.
How to Check the Credibility of a Family Law Lawyer
To ensure you're hiring a reputable family law lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and reputation:
- Check state bar association records: Verify that the lawyer is licensed to practice in your state and is in good standing with no disciplinary actions.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on websites like Avvo, Google, or Martindale-Hubbell. Previous clients can give you insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and success in family law cases.
- Request references: Ask the lawyer for references from past clients who can speak to their experience with the lawyer.
- Review their website or professional profile: Look at the lawyer’s background, case history, and areas of focus to ensure they have substantial experience in family law.
- Look for professional memberships: Membership in reputable organizations, such as the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), can indicate a lawyer's expertise and dedication to family law.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a family law lawyer, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what you should bring:
- Relevant documents: Bring any documents related to your case, such as marriage certificates, prenuptial agreements, financial records, custody agreements, or court orders.
- List of assets and debts: For divorce cases, prepare a detailed list of all assets (e.g., homes, bank accounts, retirement funds) and debts (e.g., mortgages, loans, credit card balances).
- Details of the family issue: Provide a written summary of the situation, including key dates and facts related to your divorce, custody dispute, or support issue.
- Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions you have about the legal process, costs, and potential outcomes.
- Your goals: Be prepared to discuss your objectives, such as custody arrangements, property division, or spousal support, so the lawyer understands your priorities.
Being organized and clear about your situation will help the lawyer evaluate your case more effectively and offer the best advice for moving forward.
