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14 Sep, 2022 by Michael
Judy very professional at what she does fights for you very polite courteous and she is fantastic and what she does
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12 Sep, 2022 by John
Ms. Coleman was a huge help after my Mom passed away and helped us get through the paperwork process.
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15 May, 2022 by Marion e. becker
JUDY COLEMAN, COLEMAN LAW CENTER, LIVONIA, MI IS A STAR. SHE WILL FIGHT LIKE HELL FOR YOU. Judy represented me in a corrupt Wayne County Probate guardianship of my elderly aunt. The state dragged my 96 year old aunt kicking and screaming from her home April 18, 2022 with the baseless claim that she was legally incapacitated. . They held her , against her will, in isolation at Wyandotte Hospital; and, they wanted to show she was legally incapacitated. The claims made by AS and Guardian Care were all lies and baseless. The judge released my aunt and sent her home. Judy is still fighting for me and my aunt as Guardian Care froze my aunt's bank account and they are in contempt of court as the judge ordered them to immediately release her bank account so her 8 prescriptions and oxygen can be paid for...thus far they have not released her account. Judy is working on it. I highly recommend Judy and many people attended that hearing and have requested her information; which. I freely post on FB,
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28 Oct, 2010 by Mrs. jones
Mr. Clarke worked very hard to help me get custody of my son. He showed gerat character and compassion, he was truly concerned with the best interest of my son. He was professional and showed integrity. It was a very messy case that lasted two years. Throughout the whole two years he kept me informed and was diligent to see it through to the end. I would highly recommend Mr. Clark for any of your family law needs.
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21 Jul, 2010 by Dani l.
Mr. Clark made me feel comfortable right away. He explained things about my divorce so I understood the first time. He got the papers done as fast as possible and I felt I got good value.
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23 Nov, 2008 by Anonymous
I've used Mr. Clark in many instances and he's always performed and exceptional job as an attorney and advisor.
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26 Nov, 2013 by Anonymous
Neil is a rising star, and already a great trial attorney. He handled my case with the utmost attention to detail, researching the finest points of law to give me the best representation possible. I was very happy with the outcome.
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09 Feb, 2015 by Kim
Roman is an outstanding attorney who values his clients, truly cares for the youth and the parents of. I have dealt with a few attorneys in my life and he raises the bar in integrity, knowledge, true compassion, dignity of this clients, responsiveness and stead fast true concern. My son never forgets how valued he felt be Mr. Ficaj. Thank You Great!
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25 Nov, 2017 by Robert
Hired as criminal defense attorney, went to bat for me all the way. She had argued and won a case in Michigan Supreme Court, that was good enough for me, she got my issue dismissed.
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24 Jul, 2014 by Mike
Very good atty. Unlock others I've worked with returns calls promptly. Knows the law very well, but more so cares and gives advise based on what is right for the client not for her pocketbook (poor previous experience on that point).
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06 Dec, 2012 by Anonymous
Great in estate planning and elder law. Great in probate facilitation. This also applies to assisting in negotioiating my commercial/business interests Communication, trustworthy, fair pricing and caring person not the typical attorney. Excellent advocate and always responds. Settled family disputes in probate matters saving money. i understand this attorney also handles tickets.
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22 Dec, 2020 by Jeri dorr
Excellent, straight-forward advice and counsel.
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01 Feb, 2018 by Steve baker
Highly recommend
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25 Aug, 2024 by Shannah friedman
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16 Aug, 2024 by Kimberly mitchell
My husband and I met with Jeffrey to learn about estate planning. He was kind, knowledgeable, and patient. He answered all of our questions and guided us through the process of setting up a living trust and will. Jeffery and Cindy made us feel comfortable and they are highly professional. We feel very confident in recommending Jeffrey and Cindy for any/all of your estate planning needs. They are a pleasure to work with and we are very happy with the outcome of our business with them.
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28 Jun, 2024 by Allen jolagh
Steve Hilton Attorney is one of the best Attorneys out there.
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25 Aug, 2024 by Shannah friedman
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16 Aug, 2024 by Kimberly mitchell
My husband and I met with Jeffrey to learn about estate planning. He was kind, knowledgeable, and patient. He answered all of our questions and guided us through the process of setting up a living trust and will. Jeffery and Cindy made us feel comfortable and they are highly professional. We feel very confident in recommending Jeffrey and Cindy for any/all of your estate planning needs. They are a pleasure to work with and we are very happy with the outcome of our business with them.
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28 Jun, 2024 by Allen jolagh
Steve Hilton Attorney is one of the best Attorneys out there.
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05 Mar, 2022 by Anonymous
I had been told by other lawyers that the credit card company to whom I owed money "never settles, always sues". Then I found Robert Mouradian here on Avvo. He explained in detail what needed to be done and gave clear, concise answers to my questions, which were many because I have no background in legal matters. He got me a settlement of my debt for 45% less than I owed, and I didn't need to appear in court. He's the best!
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19 Jul, 2021 by Robert schaffer
Brian is a fantastic attorney, very detail oriented and well prepared. I would not hesitate to recommend him.
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18 Apr, 2021 by Steve crane
If you are charged with or are under investigation for CSC, Prain Law, PLLC is who you want. Brain Prain goes to trial and achieves more NOT GUILTY verdicts and acquittals than any other attorney I know.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Robyn robinson
Peter, I just want to say thank you for everything. The service you provided was outstanding. I am greatful for your support and guildance. I felt so overwhelmed with the failure of my business, however, with your encouragement and dedication, I'm able to move forward to a new beginning.
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24 Jul, 2024 by Sandra trevino
I have nothing but great things to say about Peter Behrmann at Phoenix Law. He really helped my son Michael out with an unfortunate but much needed bankruptcy. We got an appointment pretty quickly and Peter explained everything in detail about the process. We paid the deposit at that appointment and Peter got the ball rolling for us right away! He even arranged an affordable payment plan for all the fees. He treated my son with respect and answered all his questions and kept him in the loop throughout the whole process, which was surprisingly pretty fast. Michael and I thank you for helping him get his life back on track!
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28 May, 2024 by Sergio macias
Excellent all the way around. Mr. Behrmann and his staff were incredibly helpful every step of the way, they went above and beyond. Someone made a comment regarding how they clearly made the right choice after seeing some of the other options out there during their hearing and I can concur. Mr. Behrmann made sure I was prepared in every way possible, which made me feel confident from the start.
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03 Jul, 2024 by Tony vacek
Kelly Phillips is by far the best lawer I've ever had! I've been through a lot of law firms throughout my kids lives trying to get the courts to listen, and had zero good results with all of them except Kelly. I really feel that she cares about her clients and their situations. She will also not mislead you for a dollar. She told me it might not go my way, and asked if I was sure a few different times. But I pressed and so glad I did! The way Kelly Phillips handle my case and talked to the judge was amazing! She is a true professional and I would recommend her to all of my family and friends.
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28 Jun, 2024 by Vicky williams
Met with a helpful, knowledgeable attorney.
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12 May, 2024 by Kelly crump
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08 Jul, 2024 by Patrick coughlin
Friendly & great communication with al the staff. I worked with Kelley and she did not waste my time or money. Very efficient and to the point it.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Jim pardo
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08 Jul, 2024 by Noaitsjust nita (justnita)
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13 Dec, 2018 by Larry
Rod really worked hard and effectively to my benefit in a legal argument that involved us vs. a big time insurance company and a shady business. You want Rod working for you!
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03 Dec, 2018 by Larry
Mr. Johnson Was very personable, professional, trustworthy, transparent and really made me comfortable through the whole process of his services. He went above and beyond my expectations. I wouldn’t hesitate to hire his services in any situation.
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10 Jan, 2018 by Helen
Mr Johnson was very outstanding with my case he did every thing possible he could to get the honest outcome I would not hesitate to recommend him to any one he a great attorney
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15 Sep, 2021 by Anonymous
untruthful, slowly takes money without completing your service. Only in for the money and not serving justice to the people.
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30 Nov, 2020 by Primitivo
Do yourself a favour and don't even converse with this law firm. Their service was awful they recommended a contractor for me Little did I know that that person was being sued for the same crap that I had to put up with They are very good at taking your money very slow for any type of report on your case. They put me on the back burner. End turned out that the contractor that they referred to me rip me off too walked off the job because he was using my money to pay Off lawsuits and anyway they lost the case for him to.
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10 Feb, 2017 by Joe
Rahm has represented me in both a criminal case (no jail time) and child custody/support case. He has what studies have shown is the biggest predictor for success “people skills”. I’ve had a bad experience with a lawyer before who once they got my money wouldn’t return my calls or emails and gave me next to no communication. That’s not Rahm, he responds in a timely manner and answers all your questions and genuinely seems to care.
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25 Oct, 2023 by Primitivo iv
pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews. Primitivo G. 01 2 years ago Bad experience with this law firm. I was told that they were real good at their job,they were good at taking your money. Email aegatian or litigation she sat there like a lump on the log. We were in the process of suing a construction company we had problems big problems then Tracy refer us to another contractor to clean up the mess that the 1st company did and at 1st he was working out well and then he used $3500 of our money for his lawsuit or bills did note by our tile at all left the house unfinished electrical floors bathroom never finished. Then she told us she had a talk with her professor that she Had in college for ethics in supposably he told her that she had to drop one of her clients either us or Ascot home improvement she chose Not to help us after we paid them $3000 plus another $700 for some retired judge who was senile. Not a pleasant experience with that company I'm pretty sure that we were just a fill in. Ascott home services was referred by mormando law had work done to their house and it was not a good job so they hierd Scott Brooks to finish or corrected. Well of course Scott Brooks did a good job for them they are lawyers and I did not know they were representing him a lawsuits so they got rid of me talking about ethics and the ethics was that Scott Brooks was making them more money than I was that's mormando ethics
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04 Jan, 2019 by Shannon
Working with Tracey has been an absolute pleasure. She is very professional, but at the same time, gets connected with you on a comfortable, personal level. She listens, is extremely reasonable, and understandable. She kept me abreast of all pertinent information and worked with me diligently to reach the same goals. She was knowledgeable, relatable, determined and effective attorney who delivered the exact results I needed. I was extremely pleased with my outcome and would not hesitate to recommend her for any legal need. If you have a real estate issue and you want an attorney that is experienced, unpretentious, and will provide you with the best representation, you should retain the services of Tracey Guisbert!!
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15 Jul, 2016 by John
Tracey has been extremely helpful every step of the way. She set up our LLC for us as well as a trust. She did this in a timely manner, while still being effective and efficient, as well as constantly keeping in touch with us throughout the short process. She continues to go out of her way to go above and beyond to help our business move forward in any way that she can. I would absolutely recommend her services to any and all who are looing for a great attorney. Tracey simply is one of the best in the business!!
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30 Aug, 2024 by Meg
I hired Lukas to handle my custody case. A few of my friends have used him for their divorces. We were all extremely happy with his representation. We all received the best outcomes we could have gotten. Besides being super knowledgable, he is very kind and even has a great sense of humor. I would highly recommend him.
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18 Sep, 2019 by Melissa
I have used this firm’s services for bankruptcy and also a divorce with custody being the main dispute. Unfortunately my ex was extreamly difficult and would not agree to anything therefor my case ended up in a trial. Both Lukas and his wife Katherine attended which was awesome having two attorney’s fighting for not only my but my children’s best interest. The way they worked together and their level of expertise was incredible. They are personable and professional, strategic and compassionate. After a few long trying days of trial the judge ruled in my favor. I will forever be grateful for them, it is because of them that I was able to begin again with my children in my care. I refer anyone who needs legal representation to Sikorski, they are hands down the best attorneys. Oh and compared to other law firms, their prices are very reasonable!
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07 Mar, 2019 by Anonymous
I used Sitkorski law office for my divorce and was unhappy with my settlement from the divorce. I felt as if this office wasn't trying to fight for me at all and they tried to double bill me for services. Price was reasonable though and staff was nice but felt as if I was "just another $ sign. Only meet Lukas only once and that was at my initial meeting. Everything else was handle by the Legal Assistant. Definitely wouldn't recommend him.
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14 May, 2024 by Cassie korder
I can’t even express in words how amazing this firm is, and how much I appreciate all the effort David has put into my totally botched case! If you want real results I highly recommend this firm for any of your family, criminal, personal injury, or general civil legal matters. They handle their cases with determination to yield the best possible outcome for their clients. Overall best representation I have ever had!
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27 Feb, 2024 by April carr
Excellent Attorney !!! Friendly assistant I highly recommend 👌🏾
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16 Feb, 2024 by Nichole lee
Very understanding and professional attorneys.
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12 Jul, 2024 by Yosef dakari
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21 Jun, 2024 by Bennett dangelo
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12 Jun, 2024 by Cartier dallas
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12 Jul, 2024 by Yosef dakari
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21 Jun, 2024 by Bennett dangelo
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12 Jul, 2024 by Yosef dakari
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12 Jul, 2024 by Yosef dakari
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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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