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13 Aug, 2024 by Hawraa brown
I had the privilege of working with Steffanie Kotik on a complex family law case, and I can’t recommend her enough. From the very start, she demonstrated a deep understanding of family law and offered strategic yet compassionate guidance that made a huge difference throughout the process. Steffanie wasn’t just thorough and diligent—she truly cared about my well-being and that of my family.
What really stood out was her clear and consistent communication. She kept me updated regularly and was always available to answer any questions, no matter how small. This made a challenging time feel much more manageable. Steffanie’s ability to handle the complexities of my case with both professionalism and empathy played a big part in my case progression.
Steffanie’s thoughtful and straightforward approach made sure I felt informed and prepared every step of the way. Her combination of empathy, directness, and tactical expertise is rare, and I’m incredibly grateful for her support.
If you're looking for a lawyer who is not only highly competent but also genuinely cares about her clients, Steffanie Kotik is the one to call. I'm deeply grateful for her help and highly recommend her services.
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13 Aug, 2024 by Jennifer frye
Angie has represented me all 3x when my ex decided to be a jerk. She’s been upfront & honest about my choices and given great insight for which path would best protect me & my children. Her advice to bring in a guardian ad litem for my kids was spot on so we could get my children what they most needed. She’s thorough but balances that with not wasting time & thus not wasting my money which is much appreciated. She’s timely in communication both in response to my questions and in updating me as the case proceeded. She’s been my lawyer for over a decade & will continue to be my lawyer for years to come. Thanks for what you accomplished on the latest case!
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20 Apr, 2024 by Carey nesmith, md
13 Aug, 2024 by Hawraa brown
I had the privilege of working with Steffanie Kotik on a complex family law case, and I can’t recommend her enough. From the very start, she demonstrated a deep understanding of family law and offered strategic yet compassionate guidance that made a huge difference throughout the process. Steffanie wasn’t just thorough and diligent—she truly cared about my well-being and that of my family.
What really stood out was her clear and consistent communication. She kept me updated regularly and was always available to answer any questions, no matter how small. This made a challenging time feel much more manageable. Steffanie’s ability to handle the complexities of my case with both professionalism and empathy played a big part in my case progression.
Steffanie’s thoughtful and straightforward approach made sure I felt informed and prepared every step of the way. Her combination of empathy, directness, and tactical expertise is rare, and I’m incredibly grateful for her support.
If you're looking for a lawyer who is not only highly competent but also genuinely cares about her clients, Steffanie Kotik is the one to call. I'm deeply grateful for her help and highly recommend her services.
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13 Aug, 2024 by Jennifer frye
Angie has represented me all 3x when my ex decided to be a jerk. She’s been upfront & honest about my choices and given great insight for which path would best protect me & my children. Her advice to bring in a guardian ad litem for my kids was spot on so we could get my children what they most needed. She’s thorough but balances that with not wasting time & thus not wasting my money which is much appreciated. She’s timely in communication both in response to my questions and in updating me as the case proceeded. She’s been my lawyer for over a decade & will continue to be my lawyer for years to come. Thanks for what you accomplished on the latest case!
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20 Apr, 2024 by Carey nesmith, md
13 Aug, 2024 by Hawraa brown
I had the privilege of working with Steffanie Kotik on a complex family law case, and I can’t recommend her enough. From the very start, she demonstrated a deep understanding of family law and offered strategic yet compassionate guidance that made a huge difference throughout the process. Steffanie wasn’t just thorough and diligent—she truly cared about my well-being and that of my family.
What really stood out was her clear and consistent communication. She kept me updated regularly and was always available to answer any questions, no matter how small. This made a challenging time feel much more manageable. Steffanie’s ability to handle the complexities of my case with both professionalism and empathy played a big part in my case progression.
Steffanie’s thoughtful and straightforward approach made sure I felt informed and prepared every step of the way. Her combination of empathy, directness, and tactical expertise is rare, and I’m incredibly grateful for her support.
If you're looking for a lawyer who is not only highly competent but also genuinely cares about her clients, Steffanie Kotik is the one to call. I'm deeply grateful for her help and highly recommend her services.
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13 Aug, 2024 by Jennifer frye
Angie has represented me all 3x when my ex decided to be a jerk. She’s been upfront & honest about my choices and given great insight for which path would best protect me & my children. Her advice to bring in a guardian ad litem for my kids was spot on so we could get my children what they most needed. She’s thorough but balances that with not wasting time & thus not wasting my money which is much appreciated. She’s timely in communication both in response to my questions and in updating me as the case proceeded. She’s been my lawyer for over a decade & will continue to be my lawyer for years to come. Thanks for what you accomplished on the latest case!
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20 Apr, 2024 by Carey nesmith, md
22 Oct, 2024 by Casey kindt
Fantastic legal representation. Was able to help me through a very contentious divorce.
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21 Oct, 2024 by Anna reim
I reached out to Nebraska Legal Group to originally get legal advice to navigate a difficult situation with an ex. I had no idea where to start and I felt overwhelmed and lost.
Thanks to Alyson Ryan I feel like I can finally breathe. I have heard horror stories about attorney's and she immediately relieved all those worries for me. She is kind and I feel like she actually cares about the work she does and the people she helps. She is very intelligent and super responsive and put all my worries to ease. She was always just a phone call or email away.
If anybody else is going through a situationship with an ex. I hands down recommend Alyson to help guide you through the way.
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28 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
Alex, was like a big sister to me the way she fought for me. I was the underdog but Alex stood her ground and put in the work for me. If not for her I would have been left a big mess. I highly recommend her for your case.
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14 Jan, 2022 by Chelsea anson
Collins is my maiden name, your files would show that for what you tried to accomplish for us.
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26 Mar, 2020 by Jeff pettz
26 Mar, 2020 by David brown
24 Jul, 2024 by Alejandra alvarez
Excelente atendieron todas mis dudas todos son muy generosos y amables
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17 Jul, 2024 by Bryce robinson
Very professional and outstanding quality of service.
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15 Jul, 2024 by Justine yeo bircher
Raul Guerra and his legal assistant Michelle Garcia worked on my case and I couldn't have asked for anyone better. They were so organized and communicated clearly, and helped me build the best possible application with ample documents and evidence. Consequently, I got my green card in about 3 months, which is wild! They definitely know what they are doing and I would recommend them to any immigrant within and around Lincoln who require legal service and advice. Note that there is a $150 intake interview with the attorney, so do some early research and come prepared with questions. 📑
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12 Aug, 2024 by Ashlie slatt
Small law firm with passionate attorneys who care about your case.
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10 Aug, 2024 by James atmore
All our questions were answered, very nice and polite people. Willing to help and meet our needs. We have been very pleased with the Morrow Poppe Law Firm
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06 May, 2024 by Collin hargitt
17 Jun, 2024 by Sid mccartney
Excellent service.
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27 May, 2024 by Derek olson
They stole 17 thousand dollars from me. I'm disabled. Lived thru a two year coma after a 90 mph Porsche wreck neither my seatbelt or airbag worked. They suck. Steer clear from a group of thieves! Linsey camplin stole mine. The entire office assisted her with her THEFT from a DISABLED PERSON. Google "Derek Olson Porsche" I'm first result. F this place. Everyone knows the word I'm abriviating. Best of luck with your own trials! DONT LIE. DONT CHEAT. DONT STEAL. I'm out. BE CAREFUL! DEUCES!
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12 Mar, 2024 by Anthony lujan
Linsey was amazing! Got everything we wanted out of our adoption/custody case! Super friendly! Family oriented!
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12 Aug, 2024 by Ashlie slatt
Small law firm with passionate attorneys who care about your case.
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10 Aug, 2024 by James atmore
All our questions were answered, very nice and polite people. Willing to help and meet our needs. We have been very pleased with the Morrow Poppe Law Firm
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06 May, 2024 by Collin hargitt
21 Dec, 2023 by Jeffrey ficken
26 Nov, 2023 by John duggar
Meditation is usually a far better option to ligation and these mediators are professionals in helping people find workable solutions.
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26 Nov, 2023 by Monica hass
The staff is knowledgeable, kind and understanding.
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21 Dec, 2023 by Jeffrey ficken
26 Nov, 2023 by John duggar
Meditation is usually a far better option to ligation and these mediators are professionals in helping people find workable solutions.
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26 Nov, 2023 by Monica hass
The staff is knowledgeable, kind and understanding.
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30 Jul, 2024 by Samar akins
Great attorney, man of his word, competent and shrewd
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28 Mar, 2024 by N k
In my opinion based off of my experience in his office this morning Sandy was condescending and refused to listen. If you want somebody who puts the best interest of victims at heart be very cautious in retaining his services. At the end of the day your money is your money but the impression I was given lead me to believe this man may possibly be an advocate for child abuse over child safety based on the conversation we had with him because the only solution he wanted to give was leaving a child in an abusive situation. I definitely felt like he was rooting his assumptions in old sexist, ageist, sit down and shut up because you’re a woman ideologies unwilling to hear anything outside of his own unhinged thoughts.again this is all just my opinion and the way I felt and may not reflect as fact. Do your own research and make your own opinion.
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04 Mar, 2024 by Ashley jo graves
17 Jun, 2024 by Sid mccartney
Excellent service.
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27 May, 2024 by Derek olson
They stole 17 thousand dollars from me. I'm disabled. Lived thru a two year coma after a 90 mph Porsche wreck neither my seatbelt or airbag worked. They suck. Steer clear from a group of thieves! Linsey camplin stole mine. The entire office assisted her with her THEFT from a DISABLED PERSON. Google "Derek Olson Porsche" I'm first result. F this place. Everyone knows the word I'm abriviating. Best of luck with your own trials! DONT LIE. DONT CHEAT. DONT STEAL. I'm out. BE CAREFUL! DEUCES!
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12 Mar, 2024 by Anthony lujan
Linsey was amazing! Got everything we wanted out of our adoption/custody case! Super friendly! Family oriented!
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17 Jun, 2024 by Sid mccartney
Excellent service.
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27 May, 2024 by Derek olson
They stole 17 thousand dollars from me. I'm disabled. Lived thru a two year coma after a 90 mph Porsche wreck neither my seatbelt or airbag worked. They suck. Steer clear from a group of thieves! Linsey camplin stole mine. The entire office assisted her with her THEFT from a DISABLED PERSON. Google "Derek Olson Porsche" I'm first result. F this place. Everyone knows the word I'm abriviating. Best of luck with your own trials! DONT LIE. DONT CHEAT. DONT STEAL. I'm out. BE CAREFUL! DEUCES!
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12 Mar, 2024 by Anthony lujan
Linsey was amazing! Got everything we wanted out of our adoption/custody case! Super friendly! Family oriented!
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17 Jun, 2024 by Sid mccartney
Excellent service.
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27 May, 2024 by Derek olson
They stole 17 thousand dollars from me. I'm disabled. Lived thru a two year coma after a 90 mph Porsche wreck neither my seatbelt or airbag worked. They suck. Steer clear from a group of thieves! Linsey camplin stole mine. The entire office assisted her with her THEFT from a DISABLED PERSON. Google "Derek Olson Porsche" I'm first result. F this place. Everyone knows the word I'm abriviating. Best of luck with your own trials! DONT LIE. DONT CHEAT. DONT STEAL. I'm out. BE CAREFUL! DEUCES!
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12 Mar, 2024 by Anthony lujan
Linsey was amazing! Got everything we wanted out of our adoption/custody case! Super friendly! Family oriented!
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09 May, 2024 by Courtney conklin
07 May, 2024 by Marius sadauskas
I got pulled over by a state trooper in Lancaster county for driving a semi truck while my license was suspended. State trooper gave me a ticket which disqualified me from being able to hold a CDL license for next two years. Glasz law legal team took care of the matter for me so I wouldn’t lose my license. Also I didn’t physically had to appear in court. Which is amazing since I do live in CO. Five stars all around. Thank you again!
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28 Mar, 2024 by James loos
The best law firm hands down always there for me when I needed them even late nights cared about my we’ll being handled my divorce flawlessly an got rid of my headache thank u so much happy customer
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17 Sep, 2024 by Taylor jones
I highly recommend Ryan Caldwell for any of your bankruptcy needs. He is very knowledgeable and put my mind at ease while answering any questions I had. The entire process was very smooth and easy!
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05 Jul, 2024 by Robin gillam
20 Jul, 2023 by Jacquie goehman
Very fast, and wonderful staff that worked my case over a dog bite. Waiting for ssi decision for the state of Missouri. If denied, will totally use Morgan and Morgan again. Thank you all.
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17 Sep, 2024 by Taylor jones
I highly recommend Ryan Caldwell for any of your bankruptcy needs. He is very knowledgeable and put my mind at ease while answering any questions I had. The entire process was very smooth and easy!
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05 Jul, 2024 by Robin gillam
20 Jul, 2023 by Jacquie goehman
Very fast, and wonderful staff that worked my case over a dog bite. Waiting for ssi decision for the state of Missouri. If denied, will totally use Morgan and Morgan again. Thank you all.
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22 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
At first, he is great, but years later, when you are awarded child support, alimony, home and vehicles, you are left waiting, and only getting billed for his half attempts. Never available when you call, Mr. Poppe is out of the office for weeks, no one in the office can contact him. He may have been a great attorney in the day. Files and fails to follow through with getting the rest done.
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12 Aug, 2024 by Ashlie slatt
Small law firm with passionate attorneys who care about your case.
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10 Aug, 2024 by James atmore
All our questions were answered, very nice and polite people. Willing to help and meet our needs. We have been very pleased with the Morrow Poppe Law Firm
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02 Feb, 2024 by Greg schubert sr
26 Oct, 2023 by Ronna hahn
I cannot stress enough how helpful, knowledgeable and efficient David Webb was in dealing with my estate matters after the death of my husband. We had a few complications and David explained everything to me in a manner which was easy to understand. He even gave me the statues to look up at home to familiar myself with how the law works in settling his estate. You won't go wrong in having the law firm of David R Webb handle your needs. Thank you David for everything.
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31 Jul, 2023 by Jessica johnson
He’s the first one listed when needing a lawyer for tenant/landlord situations but is not excepting new cases. Don’t waste your time calling him, he was rude and short with me. If I could give a negative star I would!
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02 Feb, 2024 by Greg schubert sr
26 Oct, 2023 by Ronna hahn
I cannot stress enough how helpful, knowledgeable and efficient David Webb was in dealing with my estate matters after the death of my husband. We had a few complications and David explained everything to me in a manner which was easy to understand. He even gave me the statues to look up at home to familiar myself with how the law works in settling his estate. You won't go wrong in having the law firm of David R Webb handle your needs. Thank you David for everything.
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31 Jul, 2023 by Jessica johnson
He’s the first one listed when needing a lawyer for tenant/landlord situations but is not excepting new cases. Don’t waste your time calling him, he was rude and short with me. If I could give a negative star I would!
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02 Feb, 2024 by Greg schubert sr
26 Oct, 2023 by Ronna hahn
I cannot stress enough how helpful, knowledgeable and efficient David Webb was in dealing with my estate matters after the death of my husband. We had a few complications and David explained everything to me in a manner which was easy to understand. He even gave me the statues to look up at home to familiar myself with how the law works in settling his estate. You won't go wrong in having the law firm of David R Webb handle your needs. Thank you David for everything.
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31 Jul, 2023 by Jessica johnson
He’s the first one listed when needing a lawyer for tenant/landlord situations but is not excepting new cases. Don’t waste your time calling him, he was rude and short with me. If I could give a negative star I would!
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26 Aug, 2024 by Blanca aguilar
Es una excelente abogada la recomiendo trabajo el caso de custodia de mi hija lo conseguí gracias a su excelente trabajo, si tienen algún caso de custodia u otro caso ella excelente la recomiendo por mi experiencia q he tenido con otros abogados ella logró lo que otro no pudo gracias a la abogada
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15 Aug, 2024 by Jeremy littrell
This was an incredible transition. Adam Barritt has been awesome to work with, and I plan to stay with him if I have any other legal issues in the future I need help with. He has integrity, accountability, and awesome legal knowledge. Lady Justice Law Firm gets top ratings from my experience with 2 firms in Lincoln!
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02 Jul, 2024 by Zach krueger
Chelsea provided a great experience for my parenting agreement case. Extremely professional, always able to be reached via phone or email. 10/10 experience and highly recommend!
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26 Aug, 2024 by Blanca aguilar
Es una excelente abogada la recomiendo trabajo el caso de custodia de mi hija lo conseguí gracias a su excelente trabajo, si tienen algún caso de custodia u otro caso ella excelente la recomiendo por mi experiencia q he tenido con otros abogados ella logró lo que otro no pudo gracias a la abogada
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15 Aug, 2024 by Jeremy littrell
This was an incredible transition. Adam Barritt has been awesome to work with, and I plan to stay with him if I have any other legal issues in the future I need help with. He has integrity, accountability, and awesome legal knowledge. Lady Justice Law Firm gets top ratings from my experience with 2 firms in Lincoln!
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02 Jul, 2024 by Zach krueger
Chelsea provided a great experience for my parenting agreement case. Extremely professional, always able to be reached via phone or email. 10/10 experience and highly recommend!
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16 Nov, 2018 by Anonymous
she is junior lawyer, still she is eager to learn and deals your case with more caution and care. she does good research and do takes advice from superiors and also listens to the clients very well. my case is still under process, but i still like her way of dealing the case in more professional manner.
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21 Dec, 2023 by Jeffrey ficken
26 Nov, 2023 by John duggar
Meditation is usually a far better option to ligation and these mediators are professionals in helping people find workable solutions.
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26 Nov, 2023 by Monica hass
The staff is knowledgeable, kind and understanding.
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14 Feb, 2021 by Cottie
If she's Court appointed don't expect much doesn't return calls doesn't show up to court on time won't fight for you to get your children shes best friends with CPS and will continue to represent you with a unannounced personal conflict of interest just to make sure she neglects to file the paperwork she needs to and walks you right in to termination of your parental rights and so much more she won't do her job if it mean fighting CPS she will give your child away to an abuser first
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19 Aug, 2015 by Tovey
Linsey handled our adoption. My husband wanted to adopt my son who had abandoned him. Linsey was excellent and was very thorough in everything. She was great explaining things to us and was very patient with us when I had to call her or email her with more questions that came up later through the process. After court she asked if we had any other questions and said if we needed anything else to not hesitate to call her. We did run into a situation to where the grandparents of the adopted child was contacting us and the child after being told not to, she was very pleasent and helpful as to how to handle the situation. Linsey is a very good attorney and knows the Nebraska Law. I was so hesitant at first considering my bad experience from a previous Nebraska attorney I had had to handle a modification and visitation schedule. With Linsey's outgoing and soft personality but yet a fighter I just knew she was the one to hire. I needed an attorney that would fight for me and believe in me and stand by me the whole way and not just think about the paycheck that thought about what was right and important. When it comes to my children I take things seriously and want what is best for them not me. Linsey stood by me the whole way and she is one attorney that I would definitely hire again, but I hope that will never be necessary.
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16 Apr, 2024 by Rnewcomeriii
Out of town friends were directed to use Mr. Marolf for their parents estate. What a mistake!
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13 Dec, 2022 by Aaron freehling
Helped out tremendously
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15 May, 2020 by Switchhat llc
Gary and Doug are long seasoned attorneys with almost a century of experience between them, and they've always treated our company fairly, with integrity and sincerity.
With that said, the one thing they won't do, is mess around and waste everyone's time. You'll simply get bold and insightful action that you can trust.
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10 Apr, 2024 by Tim
Janelle never created a balance sheet for me or the mediator, that I know of. Janelle said she had 2 foot of paperwork, but when I observed it, she had only looked at a very few pages may be 30 pages. Janelle did not know what I wanted out of the divorce. When we went to mediation, Janelle told me I needed to agree with the mediator. she said I was a fool. She never said during mediation what I requested. Only 2 things were discussed during mediation.. the house and some land. Nothing else. Very many incorrect dollar amounts requarding the land. Jeanelle didn’t have a clue about this.
Jeanelle was not prepared for mediation.
She immediately filed court papers to assign a guardian for me after mediation. She never told me before she filed this.
She never asked me for my assets I had before marriage. I needed winter clothing, I never got. I wanted some tools I never got.
I wanted furniture - I never got.
Thousands of dollars were removed from bank accounts and Jeanelle was not concerned about that.
I asked her to subpoena bank records, she did not.
I wanted some furniture, she tells me - wait till mediation . during mediation, she said I would not get any furniture only my personal belongings.
I asked her how much money was withdrawn from accounts. She never got back to me.
I would not recommend her.
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02 Feb, 2024 by Greg schubert sr
26 Oct, 2023 by Ronna hahn
I cannot stress enough how helpful, knowledgeable and efficient David Webb was in dealing with my estate matters after the death of my husband. We had a few complications and David explained everything to me in a manner which was easy to understand. He even gave me the statues to look up at home to familiar myself with how the law works in settling his estate. You won't go wrong in having the law firm of David R Webb handle your needs. Thank you David for everything.
Read more
02 Feb, 2024 by Greg schubert sr
26 Oct, 2023 by Ronna hahn
I cannot stress enough how helpful, knowledgeable and efficient David Webb was in dealing with my estate matters after the death of my husband. We had a few complications and David explained everything to me in a manner which was easy to understand. He even gave me the statues to look up at home to familiar myself with how the law works in settling his estate. You won't go wrong in having the law firm of David R Webb handle your needs. Thank you David for everything.
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31 Jul, 2023 by Jessica johnson
He’s the first one listed when needing a lawyer for tenant/landlord situations but is not excepting new cases. Don’t waste your time calling him, he was rude and short with me. If I could give a negative star I would!
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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.
