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26 Dec, 2024 by Ashley alonzo
Wonderful person she helped answer my question when I was lost thank you Hutton
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26 Dec, 2024 by Jay arriaga
No lawyer has ever helped me when I asked for help like this lawyer. Understood me and what I needed! Highly recommend
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22 Nov, 2024 by Nadia freeman
If there were a 0 star option I would have chosen it. This woman actually hurt my case. My second lawyer even said this. If I had known her advice was bad I’d have gone elsewhere. But I didn’t. This woman belittled me. Appointments with her were a waste she was so disorganized and took phone calls that weren’t even urgent while “working” with me. (Taking calls from people inquiring about issues that weren’t her clients). Then when I asked what to do about something she belittled me and didn’t even help. When she realized she didn’t turn off voice to text in an email reply —and sent me an ugly e-mail, and I called her out on it for saying what she did and then not helping me she had me come to her office. She wanted to save face and said a bunch of bull to protect her image but did nothing for my case. She had me schedule a time to come back. When I came back for my appointment she sat in the parking lot on her phone. I waited 45 min and left. Never even got a call back from her. I did speak to the office staff and they said it was an emergency. If it was, she would have called me back. That’s the way she operates.
She likes to preach about God and push you to go to church. Even HER church. Maybe that’s what you have to do for her to work for you. I dunno. I hope you read this Tempie I can back up everything I said with proof.
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12 Sep, 2024 by Mary jane
Helped with my divorce and even a little afterwards. Great friendly ladies. Would use em again if I was to get married but one and done 😂
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04 Aug, 2024 by Anallency ramirez
When we encountered a family issue that seemed like an elephant was sitting on our chest, Lindsay and Lezlie stepped up to help in a major way. These ladies are absolutely amazing and kept us informed every step of the way until our problem was resolved. Their office staff was super courteous and professional, as well. I would highly recommend them for any family issue. We appreciate them so much!
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19 Jul, 2024 by Juan jose villa
Bueno, antes que todo quiero agradecer al gran equipo de Olibas Law Firm, en especial a mi abogada Leslie Olibas y su asistente Edna, por haberme representado con éxito durante este largo tiempo de mi divorcio, en realidad las recomiendo, por que, no solo es una relación legal entre abogado y cliente si no que están siempre dispuestos a escuchar y tener empatía con las personas, gracias por todo, se les va a EXTRAÑAR!!!
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27 Dec, 2024 by Brettney jones
Kyra, and her team, helped me after my automobile accident and they were amazing to work with! Everyone in her office is extremely friendly and knowledgeable and explained every step throughout the process. She truly advocated for me and I highly recommend Kyra if you ever experience a personal injury!
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05 Nov, 2024 by Carcie ballard
Kyra's definitely my new go-to attorney. She's very personable and takes her job dead serious. Communication was lacking in the early stages of my case when it was being managed by another lady in the office, but as soon as it got to a point where Kyra took over, she was on top of things. I think part of my frustration was not being familiar with the process and not fully understanding just how long negotiations take. In the end, though, my final settlement was a bit more than she estimated in the beginning, which was fantastic! I will absolutely call her again if I ever need to.
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09 Oct, 2024 by Elijah stewart
When my baby mother passed away in Lubbock Tx she conspired against me getting custody for my kids. Then turned around and representing the Grandmother who kidnapped them for a civil suite. Very unethical and I would not recommend her
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20 Sep, 2021 by Nicholas larsen
A very excellent meal, very reasonable prices, and very friendly and professional staff as always,,,,,
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07 Dec, 2020 by Dannie trigo
01 Nov, 2020 by Raquelle gutierrez
18 Jul, 2023 by Robert williams
Supreme In everything.
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13 May, 2023 by Sergio martinez
16 Dec, 2022 by Vickie rimer
23 Oct, 2024 by Ryan settles
28 Sep, 2024 by Brian stevens
Highly recommend
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24 May, 2024 by Ruby sierra
Best Attorney in town!!
He will go beyond his way for you!!
Hire him and see for your self!!
You will agree. Very GREAT Attorney.
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14 Dec, 2024 by Stefanie gonzalez quintero
Shannon is one of the best lawyers in Lubbock. A great mentor to me and an intelligent, Trustworthy attorney!
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26 Dec, 2016 by Anonymous
Child support review etc.
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24 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
She was up front and quick with my divorce, and fairly aggressive in asserting my wants and needs.
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16 Mar, 2024 by Joe moore
I wouldn’t go to her. She hates men deeply and her judgement is clouded with her own hate for men and she takes it out on your soon-to-be ex husband. This means she doesn’t put your interests before her own. This will cost you and your children. Money out of your hands is money out of their mouths.
I paid for a Post Nuptial and she never provided it to me or return my calls because I stayed with my husband when he went on hospice. Without the Post Nuptial, I lost everything.
She also said Russell Dave’s played “fast and loose” and couldn’t be trusted. It turns out that Russell Dave’s was the best attorney we ever hired. He represented us in many matters and even gave us his personal cell phone and stayed in contact with us when he was on a cruise to Alaska. He saved us a house and an unlawful Lis Pendence (sp?) placed in one of our houses by a shady Lubbock law firm. We even kept Mr Daves when we moved to San Antonio. Too bad he is retired. He practiced law, not politics.
Dannie Botros is good and tough, but truly doesn’t put clients first, in my strong opinion. Evidently her ex husband did her wrong. You’ll pay to hear that bitter story, too.
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12 Jun, 2023 by Nite crawla
22 Feb, 2023 by Scott freeman
She is not reliable in any sense
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09 Apr, 2024 by Emily busse
My Nebb got an assault charge against me dismissed, I will give him that. However, now I would like to get the dismissed charge properly expunged off of my record, which he initially seemed happy to do. I had a consultation with him about the expungement and never heard from him again. After numerous emails and phone calls I know he is aware of over the last two years, I give up. He could have just said he isn't interested and have saved me two years of wasting my time. Would not recommend Mr. Nebb over his rudeness and unprofessionalism. He also mentioned doing meth throughout law school, maybe that's why he doesn't know how to fill out a simple expungement form available for free to the public on the Texas Bar's website. Your guess is as good as mine.
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02 May, 2023 by Mike bowlin
26 Apr, 2023 by Chris deleon
Great lawyer!! Thanks for your help! Very caring and takes care of business!
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11 Oct, 2024 by Pedro villegas
I had Sara Moore as my attorney and she was a badass. She was on everything from day one for my divorce. So when I needed to do a modification for custody of my kids, I went back to her. Unfortunately, she retired before we could get to cost and have my case over to Solorzano. I had no problem since I thought since Sara trusted him with her case load, I should too. Big mistake. I won't get into everything that this law firm stopped the ball on, which there was several, he never fought hard to get me any type of hearing for my case. I never knew what was going on, and every time I had a meeting with him I had to refresh him on the case. I'm not a lawyer but the case was strong in my favor, and because he allowed it to go stagnant I am now at the point where I'm just hoping to get any kind of hearing so I can go ahead and appeal and change jurisdiction.
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02 Oct, 2024 by Sonia torres
I called and spoke to Mr. Solorzano about an issue i had and he explained to me to start the process he needed 3k down i agreed. He said he needed a couple days to do a contract i agreed. 1 week passed no call from Mr. Solorzano. I called and I would leave voice-mails no call back. I called after 2 weeks again and I was told I needed 5k down per Mr Solorzano i declined. They can't even answer the phone or call back why would I agree to more money plus there customer service is terrible. Do your research before hiring this man.
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18 Jul, 2024 by D. warlick
I used Brandon Callahan for a matter involving a company using my credit for a sizeable loan without my knowledge. Brandon was nothing short of awesome! He put me at ease during the year long process to get the matter corrected. He was knowledgeable, professional and prompt with responses in keeping me updated on the case. I would recommend him time and time again! Thanks Brandon!
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20 Dec, 2024 by Patty griggs
Tina did an excellent job of taking care of my legal needs. I required some legal assistance in a fairly short time frame and she and her office staff did an outstanding job working me in and accommodating my timeframe. You couldn’t find a more professional pleasant office to take care of your legal needs!
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04 Jun, 2024 by Sandra turner
If you are reading the reviews, more than likely you are wanting to know how good they are. Christina was court appointed to represent me in my cps case so I did the same and looked at these same reviews and did my own research. My experience with Christina at first, I felt like I was just another case and she didn't have time to hear me. Of course my world was turning upside down as I was all over the place, and told her all the details even the ones that didn't seem to matter to anyone but me. And it may seem like that but I realized that Christina is a Beast at what she does which makes her busy. If you feel like she doesn't hear you , she does but it might just be best to write her an email with all those points you want made and I promise she will read it and pick out the ones that really matter not to just your case but you as well. She is like that honest aunt you know you can count on lol.
Ps. TO CHRISTINA ,
EVER SINCE I HAD TO MEMORIZE "INVICTUS" FOR 8TH GRADE ENGLISH, IT HAS BEEN MY #1 FAV. WE REALLY ARE THE MASTERS OF OUR FATE BUT WHEN I WAS UNSURE OF MINE, I WAS ABLE TO STAY ON COURSE WITH MY BOYS BC OF YOU AND YOUR TEAM!!
WITH THE UTMOST GRATITUDE, THANK YOU ALL...
Sandra, J & M
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28 May, 2024 by Cheri lujan
20 Sep, 2021 by Nicholas larsen
A very excellent meal, very reasonable prices, and very friendly and professional staff as always,,,,,
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07 Dec, 2020 by Dannie trigo
01 Nov, 2020 by Raquelle gutierrez
04 Feb, 2024 by Freddy sanchez
Was recommended by the towing company.
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08 Oct, 2023 by Maria ramirez
25 Sep, 2023 by Elena ugarte
The worst
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12 Jul, 2024 by Harlan burk
Got me out of a sticky situation and was always very responsive to my calls. Also, Bill was a bulldog in the courtroom.
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07 Jun, 2024 by Ben guy
This man made it happen... Could not be more appreciative for his service.. in new Mexico he would be a high powered attorney
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28 Mar, 2024 by Christian counterman
Amazing Defense Attorney. He made sure I honestly got the best possible scenario.
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18 Aug, 2023 by Phoenix marshall
23 Sep, 2022 by Marisha henderson
30 Jun, 2022 by Pamela scott
I can’t get through on the number listed. Can anyone help ?
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13 Jun, 2022 by Christine
When I called Stacey Barber to confirm that she received my paperwork and remind her about an upcoming hearing, she had no clue who I was! After refreshing her memory, she asked me to call her first thing Monday morning, and when I did, she says "Look, I am very busy with over 45 cases! I am sure you understand. I have not even opened a file for you yet! Feel free to call another lawyer!" My hearing was the next day! I was impressed with her during our initial consultation, but she became a complete opposite person. She barely let me speak, and finished by saying "it's obvious that we are unable to communicate clearly" and hung up on me. Stay away from this one!
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31 Jan, 2019 by Angela
When my husband's ex took him back to court over his child support & custody rights, Stacey was there every step of the way. She worked tirelessly on our account and sincerely cared about the outcome. We had a very difficult case and she really helped us to navigate all of it. Stacey was prompt with our communications, transparent and gave sound advise. The kids are now over 18 but if we did have to do it again I wouldn't want anyone else on our team!
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24 Apr, 2017 by Erica
Stacey helped my husband and I with our prenuptial agreement. She was very easy to deal with, very knowledgeable, responsive and considerate at all times. Would highly recommend her as a family lawyer.
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12 Jul, 2024 by Harlan burk
Got me out of a sticky situation and was always very responsive to my calls. Also, Bill was a bulldog in the courtroom.
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07 Jun, 2024 by Ben guy
This man made it happen... Could not be more appreciative for his service.. in new Mexico he would be a high powered attorney
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28 Mar, 2024 by Christian counterman
Amazing Defense Attorney. He made sure I honestly got the best possible scenario.
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18 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
She demonstrated strong knowledge and confidence in court. I liked her courtroom presence as my advocate.
I don't know what is typical when it comes to lawyers but I got the feeling she didn't care about me but was just in it for the money.
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11 Oct, 2024 by Pedro villegas
I had Sara Moore as my attorney and she was a badass. She was on everything from day one for my divorce. So when I needed to do a modification for custody of my kids, I went back to her. Unfortunately, she retired before we could get to cost and have my case over to Solorzano. I had no problem since I thought since Sara trusted him with her case load, I should too. Big mistake. I won't get into everything that this law firm stopped the ball on, which there was several, he never fought hard to get me any type of hearing for my case. I never knew what was going on, and every time I had a meeting with him I had to refresh him on the case. I'm not a lawyer but the case was strong in my favor, and because he allowed it to go stagnant I am now at the point where I'm just hoping to get any kind of hearing so I can go ahead and appeal and change jurisdiction.
Read more
02 Oct, 2024 by Sonia torres
I called and spoke to Mr. Solorzano about an issue i had and he explained to me to start the process he needed 3k down i agreed. He said he needed a couple days to do a contract i agreed. 1 week passed no call from Mr. Solorzano. I called and I would leave voice-mails no call back. I called after 2 weeks again and I was told I needed 5k down per Mr Solorzano i declined. They can't even answer the phone or call back why would I agree to more money plus there customer service is terrible. Do your research before hiring this man.
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18 Jul, 2024 by D. warlick
I used Brandon Callahan for a matter involving a company using my credit for a sizeable loan without my knowledge. Brandon was nothing short of awesome! He put me at ease during the year long process to get the matter corrected. He was knowledgeable, professional and prompt with responses in keeping me updated on the case. I would recommend him time and time again! Thanks Brandon!
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12 May, 2017 by Anonymous
This lawyer has a live and let live outlook. This is fine in one's personal life, but NOT what you want from a lawyer (especially when YOU have to live with the consequences of the lawyer's laziness). She does not follow up, does not return calls. I needed an order of protection filed after my child's father was unhappy with the mediation process and assaulted me. I gathered the documents the officer on my case provided, and called her for another appointment. No one called back. I mean EVER. I called no less than 4 times in one month. I emailed her during this same time, with no response until 1.5 months later with the response 'you can try to file for a protective order if you want to.' That's it. After being retained for almost a year, wasting thousands of dollars....nothing (I mean nothing) got done. I ended up taking out a loan and paying one of her competitors. This new attorney had the order filed in 2 days and was put into place by the judge.
ms. Wilkins is a disgrace to the profession and should practice law that does not deal with people, as she has absolutely no empathy for her clients. After you pay your retainer you will never hear from her again, unless it's in the form of a bill for reading your emails.
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11 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous
I hired Jolyn to help with a child custody case. The opposing party emailed and called her upwards of 23 times in one day. I was billed for this. She does not respond in a timely manner. As others have said, she gives little to know response, charges for reading emails, and sends the bill. I am very disappointed with the outcome of what should have been an open and shut case. I feel that she intentionally drug out the case with little regard to the safety and wellbeing of my child, in order to have more billing hours. I now have another lawyer to finish what should have been done almost two years ago.
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18 Jul, 2014 by Kimatha
Ms Wilkins kept me informed constantly, and if I had questions I would email her & usually get same day response. When my husband & his attorney tried to intimidate & "legal fee" me into submission I was ready to give in & give up. Ms. Wilkins pulled me up & gave me back my self confidence
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18 Aug, 2023 by Phoenix marshall
23 Sep, 2022 by Marisha henderson
30 Jun, 2022 by Pamela scott
I can’t get through on the number listed. Can anyone help ?
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18 Sep, 2024 by Beckie casarez
I recently attempted to reach out to Howard Bailey Jr regarding my father's case back in the late 90's but unfortunately, my experience has been less than satisfactory. I felt ignored when my calls went unanswered, and during my last attempt, I was unexpectedly hung up on by Mr. Howard Bailey Jr.
Effective communication is crucial in legal matters, and I was hoping for more professionalism and responsiveness. I would recommend potential clients consider these factors before making a decision.
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31 May, 2024 by Toni boyer
Spoke on the phone...was matter of fact and we appreciate that, but felt dismissed and talked over like we didn't matter. Felt as if I was spoken down to...but my husband and I appreciate that he called us back. I'm sure overall he's a good lawyer.
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05 Feb, 2024 by Freddy sanchez
A friend was calling 4 an Attorney.
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03 Apr, 2023 by Anonymous
If your not paying this guy don't expect a call a text an email back for any matter of importance. He is the exact stereotype of a public defender will do the bear minimum for your case and will only talk to you about your case in person if you have an opportunity to even see him run while you can.
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08 Nov, 2022 by Ashley
If I could give him negative starts I would 100%. My husband had the worst luck of getting him as his court appointed attorney, because we just weren't making enough to have a personal paid attorney. He does not return phone calls, text messages, or emails. It's like he doesn't listen when we told him about what happened the night that everything started, we have given him more than enough for him to file a motion to discover, and even a motion to dismiss. We will sit in court for almost 2 hours before he even acknowledges us, only to say reset. He has done nothing on any of the offers from the DA, nor made a counter offer. We've been dealing with this since April(first court date) it is now November and I not lying when I say my husband has had maybe 20 minutes of his time, but far from undivided attention. And we watch as more and more people are assigned to him. He is a personal injury attorney, not a criminal attorney. He doesn't care about his clients, their families, or trying to get justice. We watched multiple people come and go in court today, one which was a first degree felony max sentence life, assault of a peace officer and he walked on 7 years deferred adjudication probation, but when it comes down to it he does absolutely nothing to fight for his clients. He laughed in my face today, and asked me what he should do? Follow up with everything we told you, show some sort of initiative on trying to help. I literally hate this man, and feel sorry for anyone who has to have him represent him.
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21 Jan, 2022 by Christopher
Was very responsive to me while I was in jail and also communicated with my fiance as well during the process, As a court appointed attorney he was very professional and prompt to help get a resolution for my case, Thank You Mr Auguilar!!!
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22 May, 2022 by Kory
Mr.Olguin is a horrible attorney and did nothing but take my money and run, I wouldn’t advise anyone to use him due to his crooked ways, he was to busy in Oklahoma so my case meant nothing
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20 Jan, 2022 by Estella
My husband and l hired Nick he was a God sent to us he is very knowledgeable in the law and very kind he listened to our concerns, and his office staff are wonderful, l would use Nick again if I ever need a Attorney he is Excellent
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09 Jul, 2024 by Bre
03 Feb, 2024 by Ana rodriguez
Hopefully they help me with my divorce!
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12 Jan, 2024 by Santos reina
Very pleasant very good conversation
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09 Jul, 2024 by Bre
03 Feb, 2024 by Ana rodriguez
Hopefully they help me with my divorce!
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12 Jan, 2024 by Santos reina
Very pleasant very good conversation
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09 Jul, 2024 by Bre
03 Feb, 2024 by Ana rodriguez
Hopefully they help me with my divorce!
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12 Jan, 2024 by Santos reina
Very pleasant very good conversation
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20 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous
I wish I could forget his name for the rest of my life. After going to court, and not winning, he did not have the nerve to even call me and tell me that we did not win the case. He had his secretary call me and do that part. Bill gave me some of the worst advice during the case and looking back, I wish I would have listened to my friends and family about him thousands of dollars later. I ended up hiring a lawyer out of Amarillo to fix as much of the damage that he caused, which was life-changing. Stay far away from this guy. There are plenty of other lawyers in Lubbock.
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12 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous
We paid $250.00 to get laughed at and told we were lucky we got what we got? Our grand daughter now gets to suffer court ordered mental abuse and yet another Lubbock lawyer keeps his friendship with the self proclaimed gods among men aka judges. Best interest of the child,,,I didnt wait to hear the excuse of his definition. I could have wasted $250.00 in so many better ways.
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13 Sep, 2013 by Benjamin
I'm not sure how Bill ranks in expense vs. other lawyers. Divorce is expensive, but it pays to have the best on your side. Bill and his staff took very good care of my needs and I got the result I wanted. He is honest and will tell you the hard truth about your situation. Never the less he will fight hard for you in court. He is very organized and comes fully prepared to argue your case. I would look no further and would certainly use this firm again if the needed, hopefully not needed.
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24 Oct, 2024 by M mm
I’ve had a horrible experience with this company! There is no negotiating with them and all they’re out is to try to make as much money as possible, regardless of your financial hardship.
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18 Oct, 2024 by Reyna alvarado
I had a terrible experience with one of their representatives. She was unbelievably rude and hung up on me. It was clear she had no interest in helping me or even looking into my case. When I called back, another person managed to find the information easily, which just shows how unhelpful the first person was. Completely unprofessional.
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02 Aug, 2024 by Luis valenciano
Abigail Flores was very helpful in dealing with my issue I appreciate the whole staff for working with me for something I was not even aware of.
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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.
