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Mark E. Allen, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Liberty, MO with 197 reviews
Average
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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.
44,10
star star star star star
4.9/5
Avvo
5.0
20 Reviews
Google Maps
4.9
177 Reviews
star star star star star
18 Jan, 2025 by Terry kellogg
Outstanding service from this law firm! Mark took swift action and got me positive favorable outcome on my cases and kept me informed through the process as needed. Very professional and I highly recommend this law firm!
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16 Jan, 2025 by Brandon liebig
After calling down to their office and getting an appointment set up. Tom took very good care of me was always getting back with me or giving me a heads up when he found out something new with our case the same day. The girls in the office were great with helping getting things signed correctly. Highly recommended to use Tom!
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07 Jan, 2025 by Mark dreher
Tom was very efficient and straight forward. Got the job done quickly and made my part easy.
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Thomas Devin Allen, experienced Criminal Defense, Domestic Violence attorney in Liberty, MO with 190 reviews
Average
info
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.
43,89
star star star star star
4.9/5
Avvo
5.0
13 Reviews
Google Maps
4.9
177 Reviews
star star star star star
18 Jan, 2025 by Terry kellogg
Outstanding service from this law firm! Mark took swift action and got me positive favorable outcome on my cases and kept me informed through the process as needed. Very professional and I highly recommend this law firm!
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star star star star star
16 Jan, 2025 by Brandon liebig
After calling down to their office and getting an appointment set up. Tom took very good care of me was always getting back with me or giving me a heads up when he found out something new with our case the same day. The girls in the office were great with helping getting things signed correctly. Highly recommended to use Tom!
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07 Jan, 2025 by Mark dreher
Tom was very efficient and straight forward. Got the job done quickly and made my part easy.
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Kenneth Lee Jamison, experienced Criminal Defense, Estate Planning attorney in Liberty, MO with 388 reviews
Average
info
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.
43,79
star star star star star
4.9/5
Avvo
4.7
13 Reviews
Google Maps
4.9
375 Reviews
star star star star star
22 Jan, 2025 by North caselman
Ken was assigned to my case as the GAL. Our first face to face meeting on or around July 12th 2020. Ken showed up empty handed. Not a pen computer or notebook. He was there to tell me the out come of his investigation that he hadn’t even properly completed or even spoke with me. He came in sit down and as I gave him my info regarding the case, I leant him a pen and paper to write notes down. I told him I was looking forward to getting my witnesses interviewed. Then he said “this has already been “corroborated”. I told him that seemed a little premature considering the only people that he had spoken with that time were the accusing party. They have a fiduciary duty to objectively go into each case. Since we had never met or spoken beyond scheduling, I was surprised he was telling me his mind was made up and this could be bad or worse. He made deals if I would take xyz class then I could get overnights. I’d take the class he would say yeah well sorry no change. Ken should never have control over kids and I would not consider him for any job. He lacked integrity, honesty, double billed me, didn’t conduct all interviews, but worst of all was not objective in working with my case. Never reunited with my oldest son and took 1093 days for the other 2. In my opinion, please do not trust this person in any legal capacity in your case.
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16 Jan, 2025 by John d
Would highly recommend Ken for your legal needs. He was great to work with and kept me informed the whole time. Everything was taken care of and finalized without concern
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20 Nov, 2024 by Tiffany muller
I have had the pleasure of working with Ashley and Paemon since August. Their continuous commitment to their firm, clients, and business has been incredible to watch and their willingness to do what it takes is admirable, respectable, and honorable.
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Peter William Schloss, experienced Business, Car Accident attorney in Liberty, MO with 377 reviews
Average
info
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.
43,75
star star star star star
4.9/5
Avvo
5.0
2 Reviews
Google Maps
4.9
375 Reviews
star star star star star
22 Jan, 2025 by North caselman
Ken was assigned to my case as the GAL. Our first face to face meeting on or around July 12th 2020. Ken showed up empty handed. Not a pen computer or notebook. He was there to tell me the out come of his investigation that he hadn’t even properly completed or even spoke with me. He came in sit down and as I gave him my info regarding the case, I leant him a pen and paper to write notes down. I told him I was looking forward to getting my witnesses interviewed. Then he said “this has already been “corroborated”. I told him that seemed a little premature considering the only people that he had spoken with that time were the accusing party. They have a fiduciary duty to objectively go into each case. Since we had never met or spoken beyond scheduling, I was surprised he was telling me his mind was made up and this could be bad or worse. He made deals if I would take xyz class then I could get overnights. I’d take the class he would say yeah well sorry no change. Ken should never have control over kids and I would not consider him for any job. He lacked integrity, honesty, double billed me, didn’t conduct all interviews, but worst of all was not objective in working with my case. Never reunited with my oldest son and took 1093 days for the other 2. In my opinion, please do not trust this person in any legal capacity in your case.
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star star star star star
16 Jan, 2025 by John d
Would highly recommend Ken for your legal needs. He was great to work with and kept me informed the whole time. Everything was taken care of and finalized without concern
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star star star star star
20 Nov, 2024 by Tiffany muller
I have had the pleasure of working with Ashley and Paemon since August. Their continuous commitment to their firm, clients, and business has been incredible to watch and their willingness to do what it takes is admirable, respectable, and honorable.
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Jennifer Susanne Wagner, experienced Adoption, Family Law attorney in Liberty, MO with 2 reviews
Average
info
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.
39,06
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
03 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
Highly professional and skilled in working with high conflict personalities. Truly advocates for the best interest of the children.
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21 Nov, 2013 by Tony
I had Jennifer re-do my parenting plan and make some "adjustments" to the way my ex-wife was acting and, I got the results I was looking for, quickly and very professionally.
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Timothy Joseph Murphy, experienced Criminal Defense, Estate Planning attorney in Liberty, MO with 1 reviews
Average
info
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.
39,03
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
03 Jan, 2023 by Anonymous
Tim has been by FAR the BEST lawyer I have ever worked with. He was very straight to the point, always had his hands open to giving his client what exactly it was she wanted. Definitely isn't in it for the money, I will use Tim in the near future if anything would come to air.
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Jennipher M.C. Hawkins, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Liberty, MO with 374 reviews
Average
info
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.
38,69
star star star star star
4.9/5
Google Maps
4.9
374 Reviews
star star star star star
22 Jan, 2025 by North caselman
Ken was assigned to my case as the GAL. Our first face to face meeting on or around July 12th 2020. Ken showed up empty handed. Not a pen computer or notebook. He was there to tell me the out come of his investigation that he hadn’t even properly completed or even spoke with me. He came in sit down and as I gave him my info regarding the case, I leant him a pen and paper to write notes down. I told him I was looking forward to getting my witnesses interviewed. Then he said “this has already been “corroborated”. I told him that seemed a little premature considering the only people that he had spoken with that time were the accusing party. They have a fiduciary duty to objectively go into each case. Since we had never met or spoken beyond scheduling, I was surprised he was telling me his mind was made up and this could be bad or worse. He made deals if I would take xyz class then I could get overnights. I’d take the class he would say yeah well sorry no change. Ken should never have control over kids and I would not consider him for any job. He lacked integrity, honesty, double billed me, didn’t conduct all interviews, but worst of all was not objective in working with my case. Never reunited with my oldest son and took 1093 days for the other 2. In my opinion, please do not trust this person in any legal capacity in your case.
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star star star star star
16 Jan, 2025 by John d
Would highly recommend Ken for your legal needs. He was great to work with and kept me informed the whole time. Everything was taken care of and finalized without concern
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
20 Nov, 2024 by Tiffany muller
I have had the pleasure of working with Ashley and Paemon since August. Their continuous commitment to their firm, clients, and business has been incredible to watch and their willingness to do what it takes is admirable, respectable, and honorable.
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M. Andrew Roffmann, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Liberty, MO with 16 reviews
Average
info
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.
35,74
star star star star star
4.8/5
Google Maps
4.8
16 Reviews
star star star star star
25 Jul, 2022 by Ashlee martine
Excellent Attorney!!!
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star star star star star
25 Jun, 2022 by Kevin shaw
Google Maps
star star star star star
05 May, 2022 by Tonya stanley
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Nickolas Andre Marshall, experienced Child Support, Family Law attorney in Liberty, MO with 57 reviews
Average
info
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.
35,06
star star star star star
5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
57 Reviews
star star star star star
29 Nov, 2024 by Daniel cartagena
I was a client of Tony, and I have worked with other lawyers but none was as good as the service Tony gave me. He was very nice, responsable and he looked for the best solution. I am very great full with his services.
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29 Nov, 2024 by Jason pence
Tony was recommended to me and I see why. Very responsive he made himself available for my court date with very little notice. Great personality and clearly has positive relationships with clay county prosecutors he had me wait outside the court room and 20 minutes later he walked out with case dismissed! Now I recommend him! Will be using him in the future.
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11 Sep, 2024 by Derek nickel
Great attorney & very easy to talk to. If you're looking for a responsive and easy to reach attorney this is your guy! Can't recommend this guy enough!
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Steven Beau Broussard, experienced Business, Child Support attorney in Liberty, MO with 73 reviews
Average
info
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.
31,33
star star star star star
4.7/5
Google Maps
4.7
73 Reviews
star star star star star
12 Dec, 2024 by Damon gard
We went in knowing next to nothing about a contingency plan for our business and nothing about estate planning for our growing family. Isaac left us feeling so much better with a straight forward approach breaking everything down for us and answering all of our questions. We are so glad to have a new partner to help make the lives easier of the people we love heaven forbid anything happen!
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27 Nov, 2024 by Jm lehnardt
Mr. Broussard was a pleasure to work with! He listened to what my worries were and what outcome I wanted and was focused and thorough in his work. I will be referring friends and family to him if they need his services and will refer them confidently knowing that Mr. Broussard will take care of them. I have known a number of attorneys and he is top shelf!
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13 Nov, 2024 by Neila demaree
Working with Beau I felt I had a thorough understanding of the options and opportunities in regard to my estate planning at this point in my life. His interaction was timely and efficient and I would definitely recommend him.
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Jennifer Ann Noland Wettstein, experienced Criminal Defense, Estate Planning attorney in Liberty, MO with 14 reviews
Average
info
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.
30,19
star star star star star
4.5/5
Google Maps
4.5
14 Reviews
star star star star star
31 Oct, 2024 by Marygrace holden
I have been battling a certain dealership for what felt like forever. Noland Law Firm took my case on and had a solution within days. I will now be recommending them wherever and whenever I can.
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08 Mar, 2023 by Brandon crawford
Ms. Noland represented a loved one and was extremely professional and went above and beyond for them!
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07 Mar, 2023 by Jesi moon
Kate and her staff are some of the most talented and highly skilled lawyers. Kate's bull dog attitude is what blew me away. She fought for my rights and never let up even when things seemed impossible. Her kind demeanor made me feel like family, I'll forever be grateful to her and the staff! I highly recommend Noland Lawfirm
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Emily Margaret Schwappach, experienced Adoption, Child Custody attorney in Liberty, MO with 23 reviews
Below Average
info
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.
29,01
star star star star star
4.3/5
Google Maps
4.3
23 Reviews
star star star star star
24 Jun, 2024 by Chantel hamrick
I had a wonderful experience with HPM! Jenny is the best. Everyone was very helpful and friendly. Thank you Jenny, Molly, and everyone who helped along the way!
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22 Dec, 2023 by Scorpions missouri
To be laughing as we leave is highly unprofessional and the biast you have shown is utterly unacceptable and will be asking for you to recuse yourself from this case and any cases involving my cases as the biast you have shown in my cases in the past and current ...from making deals with out lawyers saying "I don't normally make deals like this with out a lawyer but in the Christmas spirit I will "to saying we're not ready for trial when said last court appointment saying we are going to trial in December then not being ready for trial to comments about contacting the attorney general when I won the case against the city of Gower for my snakes this has festered since that day with you and chief Adam Hill I will be asking to file a motion under rule 2.-2.11 Sincerely Colt Skouby
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30 Aug, 2023 by L daleo
I used kelly for my divorce. She helped me through every step start to finish. She kept me well informed and on schedule with court dates, I always got a phone call to tell me how hearings went if didnt have to attend or any communications she had with oposing counsel. Kelly is well in tune with clay county court. She fought hard for me in a difficult case. And the outcome was much better than I had expected going into the proceedings. I highly recommend Kelly and have actually referred a good friend and a family member to her
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Christina Denise Finley, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Liberty, MO with 61 reviews
Below Average
info
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.
28,35
star star star star star
4.1/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
Google Maps
4.1
60 Reviews
star star star star star
11 Oct, 2024 by Timothy plummer
If you are looking for the best in the business, look no further. Kathy's attention to detail and ability to get things done is second to none. I will forever be grateful to this amazing team of genuine professionals. From the beginning to the end, all of my questions and concerns were addressed and/or answered.
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10 Oct, 2024 by Ian childers
Matt has gone above and beyond for me. Anything from child custody to DUI case. Highly recommend if you want an attorney that gets things done in your favor!
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29 Sep, 2024 by Mark mccoy
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Molly Jane Lauber, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Liberty, MO with 60 reviews
Below Average
info
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.
24,57
star star star star star
4.1/5
Google Maps
4.1
60 Reviews
star star star star star
11 Oct, 2024 by Timothy plummer
If you are looking for the best in the business, look no further. Kathy's attention to detail and ability to get things done is second to none. I will forever be grateful to this amazing team of genuine professionals. From the beginning to the end, all of my questions and concerns were addressed and/or answered.
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10 Oct, 2024 by Ian childers
Matt has gone above and beyond for me. Anything from child custody to DUI case. Highly recommend if you want an attorney that gets things done in your favor!
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29 Sep, 2024 by Mark mccoy
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Sherri Lynne Edwards, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Liberty, MO with 1 reviews
Below Average
info
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.
7,17
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
13 Nov, 2015 by Sarah
I hired Sherri to represent me in a paternity, custody and child support case. She did no work on my case. She went to court unprepared, she agreed to things that she knew I would never agree to, she filed paperwork late. She did not explain what she had or had not done. Not until I hired a new lawyer did I find out that she had agreed to have the garnishment lifted from my son's father, even though he did not pay without being garnished. She was suppossed to rebut the Motion to have the wage assignment lifted, but she agreed to it without asking me or anything, but knowing I would not agree. Then after I fired her and recieved her final bill, she had billed me for all kinds of work she had not done and for meetings we never had, she billed me for going to court on other cases. DO NOT HIRE THIS WOMAN!
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David McCollum, experienced Business, Consumer Protection attorney in Liberty, MO with 0 reviews
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info
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
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Thomas Cain Capps, experienced Family Law, Litigation attorney in Liberty, MO with 0 reviews
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info
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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John Roger Brage, experienced Criminal Defense, Estate Planning attorney in Liberty, MO with 0 reviews
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info
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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Jerry D. Deering, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Liberty, MO with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
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.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Kate Noland, experienced Family Law, Personal Injury attorney in Liberty, MO 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.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Kathryn Lynn Beeman, experienced Adoption, Child Custody attorney in Liberty, MO with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
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.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Scott Ralph Gum, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Liberty, MO with 0 reviews
Below Average
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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.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Carrie Elizabeth Martsching, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Liberty, MO with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
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.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Robert Kevin Kirkland, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Liberty, MO with 0 reviews
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info
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.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Tracy A. McFadin, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Liberty, MO with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
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.
0,00
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0.0/5
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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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