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28 Dec, 2015 by Anonymous
Stephanie was such an amazing attorney, start to finish. Right from the initial consultation, she was able to put me at ease about my legal situation. Throughout my case, I found her and her paralegal very accessible. In fact, I was provided her paralegal's cell phone number and Stephanie never took longer than an hour or so to return an email if it was urgent, regardless of whether it was at night, on a weekend, or during a holiday. She knew that it was difficult for me to miss work, so she always agreed to meet with me to prepare for my deposition, temporary hearing preparation and trial preparation on a Saturday or Sunday morning or afternoon. At the hearing and at trial she arrived prepared and obviously knew her way around the courtroom. I know that my experience could have been much different than it was, so I am thankful I found and hired Stephanie to be my attorney. I would definitely go back to her if I every needed legal help again and I would recommend her to anyone needing legal assistance.
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09 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
My attorney Stephanie Linam was very unprepared for my hearing. Her response time is long for phone calls and emails. Stephanie's representation embarrassed me (and I was embarrassed for her) in front of the judge. Look elsewhere
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20 Jul, 2023 by Jim
Sloppy, names misspelled, a ton of grammatical errors in documents a letters
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10 Jul, 2013 by Richard
It is easy for me to recommend Brad Walker as a top notch attorney. I was involved in a lawsuit in Federal Court concerning a real estate issue. The process was lengthy and required a great deal of document review, legal knowledge, and diligence. At every point during the process I found Brad to be resourceful and prepared. His wise counsel allowed me to stay confident and informed through a legal process that was unfamiliar to me. At trial the immense volume of reference documents were quickly and deftly handled by his team. His use of computers and exhibits were enhanced by a technological approach that was clear and compelling to me and the jury. I found him to be tireless in his preparation and alert to the shifting issues that arose throughout the case. Always prepared to see it through to the final moments, he backed the opposition into a spot that swayed settlement negotiations strongly in my favor. A true gentleman and a brilliant mind are hallmarks of this man who succeeded in steering me and my company successfully through a very trying time. I would not hesitate to recommend him strongly in any legal matter and can relax with confidence in his judgment.
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05 Sep, 2014 by Anonymous
Represented me in difficult adoption case. She investigated the facts with a determined Mindset to find and represent the truth. She has the tenacity to uncover and serve justice. She was true to her values and inspiring to me throughout the whole process. She led the case to its just and successful conclusion. Very knowledgeable, constantly learning, A true friend and defender of children.
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30 Apr, 2009 by Anonymous
Has no concept of family law. It took me $2,500.00 dollars to figure that out before our case even got started. Returns calls or emails hardly ever.
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11 Aug, 2023 by Matthew padilla
Phenomenal loring staff very well-versed able to resolve my issue with an incense definitely look forward to working
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04 May, 2022 by Crosseyed creations lacy mitchell
Horrible experience! Do not recommend for some many reasons. One being he just doesn’t care
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05 Sep, 2019 by Tiffany
When flies or documents were needed for court Lisa would tell me last minute. I had to self help my self because she forgot to mention I needed a parenting class, and calling her and emailing her was like surgery. Now that my case is prolonged she hasn’t answered my emails. What’s important to me isn’t important to her.
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03 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
Please be careful with Moody. She took advantage of my family's situation to gain a shameful win for pure money. She plays unfairly and will change "her mind" at the last moment, or to make you think so... Likely she was toxic to her own family and probably has no one. If she gets "appointed" then walk on egg shells. If she doesn't have to cross your life, you are a lucky person.
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16 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
She is completely biased, lazy, and flat out lies!! She told me multiple times that it didn’t matter how many times the child told her where he wanted to live because she bases her decision on what’s best not on what they want. She misled me over and over. Claimed she had the same concerns I had. Then she goes awol for an entire year!! By that time things had definitely changed and she took advantage of that. She had multiple meetings with my child that I wasn’t aware of, her bill is inaccurate to say the least, and she lied to my face about what my child had said to her and was going to say in court. I told my lawyer when she was first assigned that I wasn’t comfortable with her based on the horrible, and very true, reviews. I was assured she was the best. She’s the worst! She will side with the dad even when the child is provided with more at moms. She needs to retire and get away from tearing apart innocent families.
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19 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
This woman will lie and hide the truth. She will never speak for the children but lies to them and says she will. Instead of presenting the judge with legitimate evidence, she makes a courtroom drama and focuses on hearsay and minor issues that are truly unimportant while hiding the stack of reports that the court should see and hear. I have evidence of her misconduct and would gladly share it with the proper authorities to get this wretch removed from her unfortunate position of power.
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13 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
It has taken me over 2 decades to recover from the damage she caused. I hired her to represent me, but she was not my advocate. She dragged her feet on everything and was easily rebutted in court by opposing counsel because she failed to prepare and didn't have her facts straight. She had papers for me to sign, but as I was reading over them, I noticed several glaring errors. She told me to go ahead and sign the papers and she would fix the errors. Foolishly I signed. It was one of the biggest mistakes that I have ever made in my life. I didn't hear from her for a few weeks and she didn't respond to messages that I left on the phone. The only communication I got from her were bills. I consulted a different attorney who told me that I had to release Ms. Hicks-McDonald first before the new attorney could represent me. When I left a message that I wanted to start using a different attorney and that I was releasing her, she called and told me that my case was final. It had been filed with a judge. When I got a copy of the documents that she had filed, I saw that she never corrected any of the errors and she didn't even have my name correct. The name wasn't even close to mine. I don't know who the person was whose name was on my documents, but I am guessing it was another one of her clients and she had mixed up the papers. All Ginger Hicks-McDonald cares about is padding her bill, which she can do quiet easily. I would have been better off representing myself. The outcome may have been the same, but at least I wouldn't have been out all the money I paid her for nothing.
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23 Nov, 2021 by Anonymous
Hired Ginger for a case and of course our first encounter she sold herself. I had never been in a position before to use an attorney so, being inexperienced, I believed everything she said. Well, when I called, texted, or emailed her, the response was lacking urgency. Also, when I would call, she seemed like I was inconveniencing her time and most of the time she was yelling at her animals. She is apparently “retired” but still working some cases. Her rate is over double the other offers I received so I thought maybe it will be worth it because the legality of my situation would be vitally important for the rest of my life. No, terrible mistake. She sent me my final bill and the refund check. This told me she no longer represented me. Then, she decided she was not done and charged 100 more dollars out of the initial refund amount. She basically typed up a 3-page statement over analyzing a conversation we had over text. This told me she was just trying to get more money from me. It was the wrong thing to do, so please hire someone else.
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14 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
Honestly, I wouldn't give her a single star because she doesn't deserve it. Ms Ginger J McDonald doesn't keep in contact with her clients, there were several occasions I called and couldn't even leave a message because her office phone's voice mail was full. When I tried calling her cell phone I would never get an answer and could not leave a voice message because she does not have a voice mailbox that has been set up. She is hardly ever in her office when I do get through to someone on the phone or just show up at her office by surprise. She won't keep me informed about anything going on with my case, and keeps dragging her feet on absolutely everything. She has not filed a single subpoena or court order, she has not even made phone calls to have information faxed or emailed to her. I have been doing all the leg work, getting all the evidence needed for my case. On instances that I needed her to accompany me to a DHS meeting she said that I never told her when I know for a fact she did, and on another occasion I had a meeting scheduled and called her about it, then she said she couldn't make it that day, so I said when would be a good day for her, that I would have it rescheduled. Once she gave me a few days that would work for her I called and rescheduled the appointment and then called her back to notify her. The day before the meeting was to take place, I called her to make sure she would still be coming and she said yes, but the following morning when my mother called to make sure she was coming, Ginger said that I had never mentioned it to her, when my mother knew for a fact that I had on several occasions because she had been sitting next to me on the occasions that I had made the phone calls. She puts forth as little effort as possible. If you want a lawyer to take your case seriously, don't hire Mrs Ginger McDonald.
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29 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
I’d give zero stars if possible. Couldn’t even focus on the facts when discussing my case. Lazy and does not do the work necessary or maybe he is not smart enough. Our big mistake, you will be wasting your money.
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31 May, 2017 by Anonymous
He promised me that he was in it to win and that I had a good case. I had an emergency custody battle and he never even presented the evidence. the whole case I had several pieces of hard evidence and he swore they would not hold up in court but thanked me for doing my own "investigating." He suggested that we postpone the court date that I had set 6 months prior and now the opposing attorney is using that against me in my case. Theodis Thompson fired me because he said I yelled at him and that we disagreed about where my case was going. I now have a new attorney that has done more with one motion that theodis did the whole time he was my lawyer!!!! I paid him $1900 to keep my children in danger longer than they should have been. God bless this man. He has no heart or soul. It's pretty bad to screw people out of money but's it's even worse when children's lives are at stake!!!!
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14 Dec, 2016 by Anonymous
This attorney provided a very poor experience for my self as a client. Throughout my representation, Mr Thompson's communication was horrendous or non- existence except when it involved time about collecting payments. Information or details regarding my case were never explained or advised unless initiated by myself ( the client). No clear resolution or guidance was never discussed or mentioned during my case. The methods of Mr. Thompson's practice resulted in me Relieving him from my case and proceeding with self-representation. This was by far the worst representation from an attorney ever experienced.
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09 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
Used for divorce. Came highly recommended. Maybe he was very good once, but he isn't any longer. Totally disorganized. A child visitation hearing was held without Mr. Kidd even informing me, the plaintiff(!); and he agreed to changes to the visitation agreement in ways that I had specifically told him previously that I would not accept. He seemed completely unaware of filings that the opposing council (my ex's lawyer) had made - I had to find them on the Court Connect website and tell HIM about them, instead of the other way around. He is unreachable by phone or email for weeks at a time. I think he has way too many clients / cases - he told me "we have 250 cases going on, so I can't know everything." Don't be #251....
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31 Dec, 2015 by Anonymous
He is in Arkansas magazines as awesome, NOT TRUE! A close friend that told me about him, and went with me to meet him. I used him for my divorce, although not listed as his specialty, just says family, he assured me he would be on top of my case. It was awful. My soon to be ex was on the stand lying and I told Kidd during. When it was his turn to question him (ex), he didn't say a thing. Then while I'm being questioned, neither side said a thing about the lies. It was humiliating. I stayed on top on what I owed him and paid all up front and continued to ask what I owed. Was told, face to face, I owed nothing more. Month after divorce final I received a large bill. (I will just leave it at that)
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18 Jul, 2024 by Anonymous
We wanted to fight for custody. We were ready and motivated. We poured our hearts and souls into the case, thinking he was doing his part too. Only for him to do NOTHING helpful the day of. He spoke to the defendant for maybe 35 seconds and the plaintiff for maybe 2 minute. We left heart broken, blindsided, and feeling betrayed. This was years ago. Maybe he's changed.
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What a Family Law Lawyer Can Do for You

A family law lawyer provides legal services related to family relationships, including marriage, divorce, child custody, and adoption. Family lawyers help clients navigate emotionally charged legal issues, providing guidance and representation in disputes that affect spouses, children, and parents. Whether you're going through a divorce, seeking custody of your children, or drafting a prenuptial agreement, a family law lawyer ensures your rights are protected and your interests are represented.

Family law attorneys often handle sensitive matters and offer objective legal advice, helping clients reach fair outcomes either through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.

When Should I Hire a Family Law Lawyer?

Hiring a family law lawyer is beneficial in several situations, especially when legal matters involve close personal relationships. Common reasons to hire a family law lawyer include:

  • Divorce or separation: When ending a marriage, a lawyer can help you navigate issues such as division of assets, spousal support, and child custody arrangements.
  • Child custody and visitation disputes: If you and your co-parent can't agree on custody or visitation, a lawyer can represent your interests and work toward a solution that benefits your children.
  • Child support: Whether you’re seeking child support or defending against a claim, a lawyer can help ensure the appropriate amount is calculated and enforced.
  • Prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: A lawyer can help draft or review agreements that protect your assets in case of divorce.
  • Adoption: Family law lawyers guide you through the legal process of adoption, ensuring that all requirements are met.
  • Domestic violence or restraining orders: If you're a victim of domestic violence or being falsely accused, a lawyer can help you obtain or challenge protective orders.
  • Paternity cases: If there are questions about the paternity of a child, a lawyer can help establish or dispute legal fatherhood.

Hiring a lawyer early can prevent issues from escalating, and they can offer you the best chance of achieving a favorable outcome in emotionally charged situations.

What Does a Family Law Lawyer Do?

A family law lawyer provides a wide range of services depending on your specific legal needs. Their responsibilities may include:

  • Advising on legal rights and options: Helping you understand your legal rights regarding divorce, child custody, support, and other family law issues.
  • Filing legal documents: Drafting and filing petitions, motions, and agreements with the court, such as divorce papers, custody agreements, or support orders.
  • Representing clients in court: Arguing your case in front of a judge if a settlement can’t be reached through negotiation or mediation.
  • Mediation and negotiation: Assisting with alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, to reach agreements on issues like custody, property division, and support without going to trial.
  • Enforcing court orders: Helping you enforce court orders related to child support, alimony, or custody if the other party fails to comply.
  • Drafting prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: Creating agreements that protect your assets in the event of a divorce.
  • Handling adoption proceedings: Ensuring that the legal process of adoption is followed, from filing paperwork to finalizing the adoption in court.

How Are Family Law Lawyers Paid?

Family law lawyers typically charge clients in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Common payment arrangements include:

  • Hourly rates: Most family lawyers charge by the hour, with rates varying based on experience and location. Clients are billed for the time spent working on their case, including consultations, court appearances, and document preparation.
  • Flat fees: For more straightforward legal services, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, some lawyers offer flat-fee arrangements.
  • Retainer fees: In cases that are expected to require significant time and attention, such as contentious custody battles, a lawyer may charge a retainer, which is an upfront payment that covers the initial costs of legal services. The lawyer then bills against the retainer as they work on your case.

The exact cost will depend on the complexity of your case and the lawyer’s fee structure, which should be discussed upfront.

How Much Does a Family Law Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a family law lawyer varies based on factors such as the lawyer's experience, the location, and the complexity of your case. Here are some general cost guidelines:

  • Hourly rates: Family law lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour, depending on their experience and the complexity of the case.
  • Flat fees: For simpler cases, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, fees may range from $1,000 to $5,000.
  • Retainers: For more complex matters, such as contested divorces or custody battles, lawyers may charge a retainer ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 or more. The lawyer will bill against the retainer for the work they do on your case.
  • Additional costs: You may also be responsible for additional costs, such as filing fees, mediation fees, or expert witness fees.

Always ask for a clear breakdown of the lawyer’s fees and any additional expenses during your consultation.

Top Questions to Ask a Family Law Lawyer

Before hiring a family law lawyer, it's important to ask questions to ensure they're the right fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:

  1. What experience do you have with family law cases like mine?
    Make sure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it's a contested divorce, child custody dispute, or adoption.
  2. How will you charge for your services?
    Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, a flat fee, or requires a retainer. Ask for an estimate of the total costs involved.
  3. What are the possible outcomes of my case?
    An experienced lawyer should be able to give you a general idea of what to expect based on the facts of your case.
  4. What is your approach to resolving disputes?
    Ask whether the lawyer tends to favor negotiation and mediation or whether they prefer to take cases to court. This can help you determine if their style matches your goals.
  5. How long do you expect my case to take?
    While it’s difficult to predict, the lawyer should give you an estimate based on similar cases.
  6. Who will be handling my case?
    In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may do much of the work, so make sure you understand who will be your main point of contact.

How to Check the Credibility of a Family Law Lawyer

To ensure you're hiring a reputable family law lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and reputation:

  • Check state bar association records: Verify that the lawyer is licensed to practice in your state and is in good standing with no disciplinary actions.
  • Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on websites like Avvo, Google, or Martindale-Hubbell. Previous clients can give you insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and success in family law cases.
  • Request references: Ask the lawyer for references from past clients who can speak to their experience with the lawyer.
  • Review their website or professional profile: Look at the lawyer’s background, case history, and areas of focus to ensure they have substantial experience in family law.
  • Look for professional memberships: Membership in reputable organizations, such as the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), can indicate a lawyer's expertise and dedication to family law.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To get the most out of your first consultation with a family law lawyer, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what you should bring:

  • Relevant documents: Bring any documents related to your case, such as marriage certificates, prenuptial agreements, financial records, custody agreements, or court orders.
  • List of assets and debts: For divorce cases, prepare a detailed list of all assets (e.g., homes, bank accounts, retirement funds) and debts (e.g., mortgages, loans, credit card balances).
  • Details of the family issue: Provide a written summary of the situation, including key dates and facts related to your divorce, custody dispute, or support issue.
  • Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions you have about the legal process, costs, and potential outcomes.
  • Your goals: Be prepared to discuss your objectives, such as custody arrangements, property division, or spousal support, so the lawyer understands your priorities.

Being organized and clear about your situation will help the lawyer evaluate your case more effectively and offer the best advice for moving forward.

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