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Edward Michael Thompson, experienced Family Law attorney in Lexington, KY with 86 reviews
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22,91
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4.2/5
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1.0
2 Reviews
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4.2
84 Reviews
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08 Jul, 2024 by Diane sumney
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27 Jun, 2024 by M p
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14 Jun, 2024 by Sarah hensley
Dori was amazing! She represented me and my children during an extremely awful and unexpected situation in family court. She moved quickly and fiercely to get us the outcome we needed. She’s responsive and compassionate. I highly recommend Dori for a complex family law situation!
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Joseph P. Schuler, experienced Child Custody, Criminal Defense attorney in Lexington, KY with 18 reviews
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22,61
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3.7/5
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5.0
2 Reviews
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3.5
16 Reviews
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16 Jan, 2025 by Miranda hinchman
I was so impressed with the way this team handled my case. They were honest and straight forward. They helped me to realistically evaluate my options and told me what I needed to hear regardless of what I might want to hear. I was able to come to reasonable terms without litigation, but I have total confidence that had I needed to litigate my case they would have been prepared and successful in taking my case to trial. Their attention to detail and thoroughness was excellent. I highly recommend this firm.
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28 Feb, 2024 by Elizabeth baker
Run!
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02 Oct, 2023 by Ben allen
Timely and efficient work and communication. Central downtown location with easy parking.
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John Crafton Cornett, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Lexington, KY with 16 reviews
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18,54
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3.5/5
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3.5
16 Reviews
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16 Jan, 2025 by Miranda hinchman
I was so impressed with the way this team handled my case. They were honest and straight forward. They helped me to realistically evaluate my options and told me what I needed to hear regardless of what I might want to hear. I was able to come to reasonable terms without litigation, but I have total confidence that had I needed to litigate my case they would have been prepared and successful in taking my case to trial. Their attention to detail and thoroughness was excellent. I highly recommend this firm.
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28 Feb, 2024 by Elizabeth baker
Run!
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02 Oct, 2023 by Ben allen
Timely and efficient work and communication. Central downtown location with easy parking.
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Elizabeth Anne Hill, experienced Appeals, Child Custody attorney in Lexington, KY with 22 reviews
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17,81
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3.0/5
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1.7
6 Reviews
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3.5
16 Reviews
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16 Jan, 2025 by Miranda hinchman
I was so impressed with the way this team handled my case. They were honest and straight forward. They helped me to realistically evaluate my options and told me what I needed to hear regardless of what I might want to hear. I was able to come to reasonable terms without litigation, but I have total confidence that had I needed to litigate my case they would have been prepared and successful in taking my case to trial. Their attention to detail and thoroughness was excellent. I highly recommend this firm.
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28 Feb, 2024 by Elizabeth baker
Run!
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02 Oct, 2023 by Ben allen
Timely and efficient work and communication. Central downtown location with easy parking.
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Robert W Baxter, experienced Family Law attorney in Lexington, KY with 13 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
16,39
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3.6/5
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3.6
13 Reviews
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22 Nov, 2024 by Drake johnson
We've done a fair amount of real estate closings over the years and today marks our first closing in Lexington. I cannot speak highly enough about Graham. He's polite, responsive, professional, and accommodating and if you've ever dealt with attorneys, you know they lack at least 2 of those qualities. This is one of the first times I've seen an attorney have all of them together. Thank you
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17 Oct, 2023 by Gina renee
She deserves negative stars. If you ask me, she is in bed with the prosecution. She is a plea bargain factory. I caught her in absolute lies. She acts warm and personable, but do not trust this person. I cringe to even refer to her as an attorney. She's a prosecutor's helper.
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31 Jan, 2023 by Leeann trent
Very impressive group. Julie, the receptionist is so lovely and friendly. She just made my visits every time I came in.
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Heather Anisa Hadi Esq., experienced Family Law, Immigration attorney in Lexington, KY with 12 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
15,13
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2.7/5
Avvo
2.7
12 Reviews
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08 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
Hired Ms. Hadi for K-1 Visa, terrible experience. Initial meeting sounds hood however Once money is paid you talk to the staff who have little knowledge. communication lacking, constant staff turn over, lost documents. Beware, if you hire her keep all communication & email-mail-telephone correspondence, documentation and still get ready to be disappointed. Finally consulted other lawyers about the case and they gave different advice. Don’t walk, RUN!!
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06 Jan, 2024 by Miguel
For my daughter and her mom she got them both status quickly and was very nice. Has a new staff and new building- much better now
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04 Jan, 2023 by Corey
Go to Church Law, way better! I should have listened to these reviews when I first read them! My 2022 Experience, Sept.-December: Yes, she showed up for the first two calls because she was directly paid for them. Then, complete lack of communication in response. Eventually got an appointment, then back to complete lack of communication (Call, text, email). This continued throughout the 4 month process. Failed on many counts: (1) I had all the papers sent to Heather's office by Sept. 29th and confirmed everything was all set, but a week later I was told they forgot to charge me another $1k fee so that delayed getting things sent out. (2) Heather's office filed our papers with dozens of clerical errors we will have to fix when we finally get a USCIS appointment. The last thing you want is to get on the radar in any way with immigration! These were careless mistakes made by someone guessing dates and names instead of looking at the papers we actually filled out. (3) Was told by Jacque that all our papers were filed on Oct. 6 and when I contacted them to confirm and double confirm I was told to just wait for their response. 4 weeks later the papers were still NOT sent! They lost them along with my $ orders. Eventually they discovered them and Heather Hadi herself assured us everything was fine and that in fact the papers were filed the previous month. NOT TRUE! USCIS records an upload day for the papers and it was Nov. 6 they were finally uploaded digitally not via snail mail. So, she is a liar. Actually, Jacque the liaison had left her job (I don't blame her, it's a crap show over there in the office) and NO ONE had been checking her email all the times I had been sending out email check-ins. (4) We submitted a medical form for Advance Parole and only found out 2 months later when USCIS kicked it back to us that they require an English translation. This is pretty basic and we should have been informed before sending in our papers the first time. More time delay due to incompetence in Heather Hadi's office. (5) Failed to file Medical Examination and Vaccination Record (I-693) with all the rest of the papers. When filed concomitantly, there is a chance USCIS may even skip the interview and speed up the process. But by NOT filing at the same time = Guarantee MORE DELAY because of her office. (6) She told us that she doesn't file I-693 with the other papers until an appointment is scheduled because it expires 6 months after it's done. The official USCIS page for I-693 clearly states there is a waiver in effect until March 2023 (well before our time). So, she doesn't stay up to date on what they are doing or the most expedient way to file the papers. (7) Failed to inform us about the requirements of the Medical Examination and Vaccination Record (I-693). We didn't even know this was a thing until my Peruvian wife read it on a FB chat group which proved more helpful than Heather Hadi. You have to find a Certified Civil Surgeon who can order a blood test & attest that you have received Flu, MMR, Tetanus, Hep B (just the first dose). If your country does not keep records you can either (a) re-do the vaccines, or, (b) get a lab to do an Immunity Test for the antigens in your blood which you can give to a doctor as proof (warning, $500+ in the KY area just for that). The whole thing turned out to be extra $ I did not originally factor in. Don't expect any $ back, a discount, or an offer to support you for the rest of the process IF there is any kind of mess up. You will get random responses to emails and calls, just enough to give you hope but not enough to be helpful.
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Carl D Devine, experienced Family Law attorney in Lexington, KY with 2 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
13,69
star star star star star
3.0/5
Avvo
3.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
08 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
This is my wife’s lawyer, and throughout our divorce I have doubted his motives. He has given my wife bad advice. He has told her to do illegal activities like how to destroy evidence without penalty, and swearing out a false EPO to get “leverage” on the other party. My wife was arrested for ASSAULT 4th-Domestic Violence. Then, 12 days later filed an EPO on me. His scare tactics are laughable and very easy to maneuver. The thing about it is that every trip he makes to the courthouse he puts coins in his pocket so he keeps making things happen. Let’s say to keep him in the courtroom. If you want a Scheister then,
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11 Sep, 2020 by Krystal
The Honorable Carl Devine has the highest moral standards. He is very knowledgeable about law, and when you have your consultation with you he will be very honest with you about your case. My husband and I recently consulted this attorney and were blown away by his professionalism and his very classy demeanor.
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Henry C T Richmond III, experienced Estate Planning, Family Law attorney in Lexington, KY with 6 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
13,07
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2.3/5
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2.3
6 Reviews
star star star star star
08 Aug, 2024 by Annuity pros
Called multiple times with zero response back. Clearly they do not care about their clients despite agreeing to take a case.
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07 Aug, 2024 by Nannypod sitters and nannies
Complete waste of time. Do not waste your time with this law firm.
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21 Jun, 2024 by Katelyn segreti
Robert Welleford and the team at Fowler Bell were able to help our client close a collections case that crossed many state lines and was more than 15 years in the making. We could not be more thankful for their patience, assistance, and understanding in this matter. Both our firm, and our client are thrilled with the result. We highly recommend both Robert and Fowler Bell for all your legal needs.
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Stephen Crandall, experienced Family Law, Medical Malpractice attorney in Lexington, KY with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
12,00
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0.0/5
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Justin Peterson, experienced Business, Consumer Protection attorney in Lexington, KY with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
12,00
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0.0/5
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J. Conner Niceley, experienced Consumer Protection, Family Law attorney in Lexington, KY with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
12,00
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0.0/5
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Matthew Isaac Boggs, experienced Family Law attorney in Lexington, KY with 6 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
10,47
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2.3/5
Google Maps
2.3
6 Reviews
star star star star star
08 Aug, 2024 by Annuity pros
Called multiple times with zero response back. Clearly they do not care about their clients despite agreeing to take a case.
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07 Aug, 2024 by Nannypod sitters and nannies
Complete waste of time. Do not waste your time with this law firm.
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21 Jun, 2024 by Katelyn segreti
Robert Welleford and the team at Fowler Bell were able to help our client close a collections case that crossed many state lines and was more than 15 years in the making. We could not be more thankful for their patience, assistance, and understanding in this matter. Both our firm, and our client are thrilled with the result. We highly recommend both Robert and Fowler Bell for all your legal needs.
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Jerome P. Prather, experienced Consumer Protection, Family Law attorney in Lexington, KY with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
8,00
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0.0/5
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James J. Varellas III, experienced Business, Consumer Protection attorney in Lexington, KY with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
8,00
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0.0/5
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Corey M. Nichols, experienced Divorce, Family Law attorney in Lexington, KY with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
8,00
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0.0/5
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Jeremy V. Prichard, experienced Consumer Protection, Family Law attorney in Lexington, KY with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
8,00
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0.0/5
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Benjamin Coleman, experienced Business, Consumer Protection attorney in Lexington, KY with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
8,00
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0.0/5
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P. Kevin Hackworth, experienced Business, Consumer Protection attorney in Lexington, KY with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
8,00
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0.0/5
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Kendra Craft, experienced Business, Consumer Protection attorney in Lexington, KY with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
8,00
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0.0/5
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Denotra Spruill Gunther, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Lexington, KY with 2 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,59
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1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
2 Reviews
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17 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
when seeking assistance after taking over a week or more to respond, there was a rude, boisterous, discourteous, and overall unprofessional encounter. very embarrassing. poor representative of one who advertises as a "counselor"
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13 Feb, 2018 by Anonymous
I sought legal counsel for family court; spoke to her on the phone for maybe 10 minutes and never has anyone made me feel so small, and discouraged. The way this woman talked to me was very uncalled for, and she sounded very similar the people I was going up against. Her aggression and poor judgment was directed at me and that was in no way what I expected. Her attitude was very "know it all" and blatantly rude.. And anyone who behaves that way will NOT represent me. The purpose of legal counsel in family court is to have someone who will fearlessly represent and fight for the rights you might not know you had, but I honestly did not feel she could do that for me. My fears seemed unreasonable, "impossible" and "stupid". She assumed I was some silly, bitter ex girlfriend wanting revenge and treated me as such.. Not a mother or protector. I will never forget the words she spoke to me. And if I can prevent another person from feeling the way she has made me feel by leaving this review, I will do so.
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Bill R. Garmer, experienced Consumer Protection, Family Law attorney in Lexington, KY with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Thomas Cothran, experienced Bankruptcy, Elder Law attorney in Lexington, KY with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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John Crafton Cornett, experienced Criminal Defense, Divorce attorney in Lexington, KY with 0 reviews
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4,00
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James O'Toole, experienced Construction, Criminal Defense attorney in Lexington, KY with 0 reviews
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4,00
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Anna L Dominick, experienced Divorce, Family Law attorney in Lexington, KY with 0 reviews
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4,00
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Chandler Maze, experienced Business, Family Law attorney in Lexington, KY with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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Elizabeth Pratt Bernardi, experienced Family Law, Medical Malpractice attorney in Lexington, KY with 0 reviews
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4,00
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Heather Hadi-Cupps, experienced Family Law, Immigration attorney in Lexington, KY with 0 reviews
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4,00
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James Roscoe Stinetorf, experienced Car Accident, Family Law attorney in Lexington, KY with 0 reviews
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4,00
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Joseph Harrison Wolfe, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Lexington, KY with 0 reviews
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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:

  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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