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26 Feb, 2024 by Karen pfeil
Denise Wilson recently represented me in a Restraining Order case. She was so supportive in helping me with a difficult situation. She listened to my concerns and answered all my questions. If I ever need legal assistance again, I will definitely contact Denise.
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12 Feb, 2024 by Dana deal
30 Sep, 2023 by Kyle lawrence
26 Feb, 2024 by Karen pfeil
Denise Wilson recently represented me in a Restraining Order case. She was so supportive in helping me with a difficult situation. She listened to my concerns and answered all my questions. If I ever need legal assistance again, I will definitely contact Denise.
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12 Feb, 2024 by Dana deal
30 Sep, 2023 by Kyle lawrence
19 Apr, 2024 by Janet moser
Julie Short did not go through with the original probate process she told us about. It cost alot and was not completed properly. We had to hire another lawyer to get the deed correct on our home.
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19 Apr, 2024 by Susan adamson
Julie Short is very experienced, and she gets things done in a timely manner. I highly recommend her for all of your needs guardianship, estate planning, etc
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19 Apr, 2024 by Jeff kuske
26 Sep, 2024 by Marcus rockiett
My brother hired this firm to handle his divorce. From the very beginning it was a bad decision. The first hearing was handled by an attorney in their office he had never even spoken to before, the guy showed up minutes before the hearing unprepared causing the need for another hearing. He then showed up at this hearing with all of the documentation needed to fix his original blunder, which by the way my brother paid for by needing to have another hearing which they charged him for. He proceeded thru this hearing and totally forgot to speak on one of the reasons he was there and the judge made her judgement leaving an order in place that should’ve never been. So another hearing was needed which again they charged him for. Time after time throughout the divorce they have dropped the ball, too many to list in this review. Long story shorter he ended up paying them over $30k and had a balance of $4k with an agreement he was paying. They decided to drop him as a client with less than a month to go before the final trial leaving him without an attorney knowing it would cost no less than $10k to get another. I’ve never been around a bigger group of blood sucking vultures in my life.
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16 Sep, 2024 by Brad canard
I hired attorney Kathleen Hessel to help me with a contempt hearing. From the start, Ms. Hessel was not looking out for my best interests. She did not offer concrete steps I could take. I had to require her to take my offers to the other side. I was able to do that myself. It was a complete waste of money for me to hire this law firm.
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30 Apr, 2024 by Bored vet
26 Sep, 2024 by Marcus rockiett
My brother hired this firm to handle his divorce. From the very beginning it was a bad decision. The first hearing was handled by an attorney in their office he had never even spoken to before, the guy showed up minutes before the hearing unprepared causing the need for another hearing. He then showed up at this hearing with all of the documentation needed to fix his original blunder, which by the way my brother paid for by needing to have another hearing which they charged him for. He proceeded thru this hearing and totally forgot to speak on one of the reasons he was there and the judge made her judgement leaving an order in place that should’ve never been. So another hearing was needed which again they charged him for. Time after time throughout the divorce they have dropped the ball, too many to list in this review. Long story shorter he ended up paying them over $30k and had a balance of $4k with an agreement he was paying. They decided to drop him as a client with less than a month to go before the final trial leaving him without an attorney knowing it would cost no less than $10k to get another. I’ve never been around a bigger group of blood sucking vultures in my life.
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16 Sep, 2024 by Brad canard
I hired attorney Kathleen Hessel to help me with a contempt hearing. From the start, Ms. Hessel was not looking out for my best interests. She did not offer concrete steps I could take. I had to require her to take my offers to the other side. I was able to do that myself. It was a complete waste of money for me to hire this law firm.
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30 Apr, 2024 by Bored vet
29 Sep, 2023 by Steve laking
29 Sep, 2023 by Sydney ertl
28 Sep, 2023 by Candy leigh
Efficient service and excellent attorneys! Emily has handled our issues with grace and compassion. She is my first call for consultation and guidance.
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25 Feb, 2024 by Joel kinzel
Worked with Will K after a recent layoff to review and understand my severance. Will was great, responsive, and laid things out in a way I could understand. I would recommend Pines Bach if you're looking for legal guidance.
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15 Dec, 2023 by Todd bluhm
10 Dec, 2023 by Ann tress
Will Kramer is an excellent attorney. Some of his great qualities are thorough, patient, he took the time to explain things that were confusing to me, until I understood. I highly recommend him.
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25 Feb, 2024 by Joel kinzel
Worked with Will K after a recent layoff to review and understand my severance. Will was great, responsive, and laid things out in a way I could understand. I would recommend Pines Bach if you're looking for legal guidance.
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15 Dec, 2023 by Todd bluhm
10 Dec, 2023 by Ann tress
Will Kramer is an excellent attorney. Some of his great qualities are thorough, patient, he took the time to explain things that were confusing to me, until I understood. I highly recommend him.
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25 Feb, 2024 by Joel kinzel
Worked with Will K after a recent layoff to review and understand my severance. Will was great, responsive, and laid things out in a way I could understand. I would recommend Pines Bach if you're looking for legal guidance.
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15 Dec, 2023 by Todd bluhm
10 Dec, 2023 by Ann tress
Will Kramer is an excellent attorney. Some of his great qualities are thorough, patient, he took the time to explain things that were confusing to me, until I understood. I highly recommend him.
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04 Nov, 2023 by Doug payne
Highly competent firm. Great experience.
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28 Oct, 2023 by Vanessa h
Highly recommend Johanna Alex & Karyn! A wonderful team to work with, they know their stuff, and very organized⭐️
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22 Sep, 2023 by Kay curtin
04 Nov, 2023 by Doug payne
Highly competent firm. Great experience.
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28 Oct, 2023 by Vanessa h
Highly recommend Johanna Alex & Karyn! A wonderful team to work with, they know their stuff, and very organized⭐️
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22 Sep, 2023 by Kay curtin
04 Nov, 2023 by Doug payne
Highly competent firm. Great experience.
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28 Oct, 2023 by Vanessa h
Highly recommend Johanna Alex & Karyn! A wonderful team to work with, they know their stuff, and very organized⭐️
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22 Sep, 2023 by Kay curtin
03 Jan, 2024 by Randall ruenger
Explained things so great and put my mind to ease!!!
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24 Oct, 2023 by John denboer
Terrible and unethical service. Defrauded myself and my family. Tried to bill for services without contract. Attempted to resolve situation professionally, but Mr. Stewart engaged in yelling and threatening behavior. Ultimately was forced to file an official grievance with the WI Office of Lawyer Regulation.
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18 Oct, 2023 by Calvertron
Walt is a pleasure to deal with, I hired him after my father passed to deal with the estate, best decision I ever made!
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03 Jan, 2024 by Randall ruenger
Explained things so great and put my mind to ease!!!
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24 Oct, 2023 by John denboer
Terrible and unethical service. Defrauded myself and my family. Tried to bill for services without contract. Attempted to resolve situation professionally, but Mr. Stewart engaged in yelling and threatening behavior. Ultimately was forced to file an official grievance with the WI Office of Lawyer Regulation.
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18 Oct, 2023 by Calvertron
Walt is a pleasure to deal with, I hired him after my father passed to deal with the estate, best decision I ever made!
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26 Sep, 2024 by Marcus rockiett
My brother hired this firm to handle his divorce. From the very beginning it was a bad decision. The first hearing was handled by an attorney in their office he had never even spoken to before, the guy showed up minutes before the hearing unprepared causing the need for another hearing. He then showed up at this hearing with all of the documentation needed to fix his original blunder, which by the way my brother paid for by needing to have another hearing which they charged him for. He proceeded thru this hearing and totally forgot to speak on one of the reasons he was there and the judge made her judgement leaving an order in place that should’ve never been. So another hearing was needed which again they charged him for. Time after time throughout the divorce they have dropped the ball, too many to list in this review. Long story shorter he ended up paying them over $30k and had a balance of $4k with an agreement he was paying. They decided to drop him as a client with less than a month to go before the final trial leaving him without an attorney knowing it would cost no less than $10k to get another. I’ve never been around a bigger group of blood sucking vultures in my life.
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16 Sep, 2024 by Brad canard
I hired attorney Kathleen Hessel to help me with a contempt hearing. From the start, Ms. Hessel was not looking out for my best interests. She did not offer concrete steps I could take. I had to require her to take my offers to the other side. I was able to do that myself. It was a complete waste of money for me to hire this law firm.
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30 Apr, 2024 by Bored vet
19 Feb, 2023 by Anonymous
Jeff Nichols is the most incompetent attorney I ever had represent me in a legal matter. Mr Nicholas is Non Skilled, and not Tactical in the courtroom. You’re better off hiring my cousin Vinny . I speak only from my personal experience. “Do Not Hire This Guy”
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03 Dec, 2016 by Anonymous
He was very efficient and delivered everything he promised and more. I could not have been more impressed with his performance.
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14 Apr, 2015 by Alina
I had the opportunity to hire Jeff and work with him for several years. Before I hired him I talked to a number of attorneys about my case. I chose to work with Jeff, because I respected the way he handled himself at our first meeting. Through the three years I worked with him I could tell he had a good understanding of both the law and the court system. He worked hard to get the best outcome for me in my cases. Also, he was good at keeping me informed on all of my options throughout the whole process. I would be happy to work with him again.
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04 Mar, 2022 by Heidi
I used Lisa Friedrich from March 2013-April 2014. Recently, I withdrew her from my CCAP case. Overall, I felt she was a pretty good fit for what I needed at the time. She was brutally honest with me, and helped me achieve maximal placement with my children, considering my family and personal history as a child support paying mother.
Two years after the divorce case concluded, I was extremely nasty to Lisa in an email sent to her as well as our family custody study expert. I was in a medical crisis at that time, on medication that clouded my judgment.
In 2021 when I emailed her to withdraw representation, Lisa didn't seem to remember or hold me in judgment over my prior email. She was calm, caring and detached, and fulfilled my request to withdraw representation in an efficient and timely manner.
The only thing I wanted from Lisa (as well as other attorneys I've worked with) was a more open mind regarding my self-employment that had become my breadwinner income for the last five years. I lost my job in healthcare in 2017 as a result of my health crisis. Had I followed Lisa's judgmental advice about my self-employment out of shame and "kept it hush", I would not have built it up to a sustainable venue to pay child support for the past five years. I also had help from an unexpected inheritance from a parental death which paved the way to become the parent I was not capable of becoming from that opportunity.
I hope this unbiased, honest review helps bring to light Lisa's strengths and weaknesses as your attorney.
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10 Sep, 2021 by James topp
Have a consumer issue. They can't make any money off it so they won't take the case. Period.
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06 Oct, 2020 by Ian h (noproduct)
I brought a very complicated case to Mr. Wayne. As unfair as the totality of the circumstance was, Mr. Wayne did a lot of work, and maximized my return. He leveraged his contacts to create a think-tank for my case, he focused on technical fouls to prevent the Court from being able to easily dispose of my case, and he worked with me to make sure my side was heard without adding to the complexity. At the end of it all, he negotiated a settlement that minimized the damage that the Court did to my jury verdict, and led to a timely resolution to a long-standing ordeal. Highly recommended.
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01 Feb, 2019 by Russ beier
Wayne Law has handled all our contractual and legal business affairs swiftly at an affordable rate. Highly recommended.
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26 Sep, 2024 by Marcus rockiett
My brother hired this firm to handle his divorce. From the very beginning it was a bad decision. The first hearing was handled by an attorney in their office he had never even spoken to before, the guy showed up minutes before the hearing unprepared causing the need for another hearing. He then showed up at this hearing with all of the documentation needed to fix his original blunder, which by the way my brother paid for by needing to have another hearing which they charged him for. He proceeded thru this hearing and totally forgot to speak on one of the reasons he was there and the judge made her judgement leaving an order in place that should’ve never been. So another hearing was needed which again they charged him for. Time after time throughout the divorce they have dropped the ball, too many to list in this review. Long story shorter he ended up paying them over $30k and had a balance of $4k with an agreement he was paying. They decided to drop him as a client with less than a month to go before the final trial leaving him without an attorney knowing it would cost no less than $10k to get another. I’ve never been around a bigger group of blood sucking vultures in my life.
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16 Sep, 2024 by Brad canard
I hired attorney Kathleen Hessel to help me with a contempt hearing. From the start, Ms. Hessel was not looking out for my best interests. She did not offer concrete steps I could take. I had to require her to take my offers to the other side. I was able to do that myself. It was a complete waste of money for me to hire this law firm.
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30 Apr, 2024 by Bored vet
17 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
Ms. Karls did not seem skilled in estate/probate matters. She was our attorney for over two years on what should have been an open-and-shut probate case. She did a poor job advising on estate matters, often giving conflicting advice to the executor and beneficiaries. No one was clear on what approximate timelines were, what next steps were, and whether Ms. Karls was advising the executor. Her fees mounted and the probate deadlines got pushed back further and further until it was necessary to hire a different estate attorney.
I would not hire Ms. Karls for any future legal matters, specifically anything probate related.
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11 Jan, 2017 by Rebecca s.
I met with a few other divorce lawyers around the Madison area but ended up choosing Nanette as my attorney. She was wonderful and treated me with care and compassion during a very difficult time in my life. Her knowledge and understanding of the ins and outs of divorce helped me feel confident in the outcome and I knew she was working hard for the best interests of me and my children. I would recommend Nanette and her office to anyone looking for an attorney and I would definitely hire her again for legal help in the future.
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06 Dec, 2016 by Anonymous
I hired Nanette Karls to handle my divorce proceedings in 2016. She is pleasant to talk to, but I had multiple issues with attention to detail, lack of communication and privacy issues. Multiple times, Atty Karls selected the wrong person in her email contacts when exchanging very private and confidential documents about my divorce proceedings with my ex-husband and his attorney. The incorrect contact was a former client of hers, and he continued to receive information such as my social security number, name and address, financial information, etc. I brought these errors to her attention each time, but it continued to happen throughout the entire process. I would not return to Atty Karls for additional work.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Mike
I retained Tiffany on the advice that my estranged spouse had hired an attorney known to be difficult to negotiate with. Divorce is never easy, but she was able to help me navigate a settlement that I believe is very fair to me. She was proactive in her communication and I really appreciate the way she kept my expectations managed and she never over-promised along the way. For me the end was very fair to me and fair to my ex, neither of us were taken advantage of and that's all I ever wanted when I hired Tiffany.
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13 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
I had a post divorce judgement case going on 3 years. Tiffany came in and gave me great advice and my case settled before trial. I would highly recommend her - she knows the law and my ex is an attorney and she didn’t back down to him or his lawyers. She was the third attorney I had hired on my case.
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26 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
Tiffany was good to start with (about 3 months) but when my ex's lawyer got aggressive she backed down and led me to believe it was in my best interest to give him what he wanted. I ended up paying a huge amount of marital support AND child support. She also told me I had to pay support before I had orders. By the time I switched lawyers we were 1.5 years into the process and I had spent $10,000 for nothing. She was always on vacation and didn't return my calls near the end. Come to find out she was shopping for a new job. Once I got a new lawyer my case was done in a month and my bill was reduced by half because all she had done was print off my emails and save them in a binder. I recommend you get someone else!
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04 Nov, 2014 by Anonymous
Gricel was my lawyer for my divorce. I am so grateful to have had her help me, I had met with other lawyers but they didn't understand how to handle international divorce. Gricel had tons of experience with international clients and was very honest and effective in court. She explained everything to me, helped me to prioritize what I wanted in the divorce and understand what I could reasonably expect from the judge. We were able to come to an agreement on our home and other important items and Gricel fought to help me have full time with my children.
She understood what I was going through, was sympathetic and very professional. Gricel went through all the questions she anticipated which made the actual court less intimidating. She was efficient and didn't waste a lot of lawyer time making a huge bill like my friends have had happen to them. I hope you do not have a divorce, but if you have one you should hire Gricel. I highly recommend her for any divorce or child support case especially if there are international issues.
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05 Jul, 2014 by Anonymous
This attorney did my divorce, and I had worst experience in my life. If you thinking to hair her as your lawyer, please wast your money for something else. Do not even approach her office, if you do, you will regret about that rest of your life.
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17 Jul, 2013 by Anonymous
Ms. Santiago-Rivera was prompt and helpful she listened to find out my goals for the case and helped me achieve them.
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30 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
I was referred to Chad by a friend. I texted him to see if he was interested and was given a response to call him. I tried like 4 times, left detailed messages, no response. In my opinion, another attorney looking to bask in a $25,000 cookie cutter divorce. DO NOT USE THIS GUY!
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31 May, 2015 by Anonymous
Chad responded promptly to my phone calls and went out of his way to talk me through the process of my divorce. He listened to my concerns and did his very best to be sure my needs were met. I would recommend Chad Kemp to anyone going through a divorce.
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28 Aug, 2014 by Anonymous
I hired Attorney Kemp to represent me with my bankrutpcy. He was knowledgable and assisted me through the process. I would recommend Mr. Kemp to anyone that is going through this difficult time.
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04 Nov, 2023 by Doug payne
Highly competent firm. Great experience.
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28 Oct, 2023 by Vanessa h
Highly recommend Johanna Alex & Karyn! A wonderful team to work with, they know their stuff, and very organized⭐️
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22 Sep, 2023 by Kay curtin
26 Dec, 2021 by Anonymous
My ex finally wrote me a proposal that we could agree to while he was on “vacation”. We agreed to it and when he finally came back he vetoed it even though it could have ended my divorce. Since then they have sent over a “revised” copy that negated everything that was said in the first proposal. He is too personally invested, likely because they are sleeping together (so unprofessional). If not, I cannot fathom another idea as to why. Never has a legit argument but sticks to unproven, made up propaganda. He is a joke, and not the funny kind. Don’t waste your time or money on this self righteous joke.
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13 Jul, 2021 by Aaron
Hired this guy to help remove an abusive wife. My trauma was triggered during a transaction he dropped me next day. Because that no way to act.
He cost me thousands and I have to pay my abuser. I'm in a very difficult place because of his intolerance to PTSD . He dropped me right as my retainer ran out. So a bit crooked also.
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26 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
I spoke with Tim regarding some custody/placement issues I had regarding my son. He spoke knowledgeably about the subject and offered me options. I wish I would have hired him when I was going through my divorce then I probably wouldn’t be in this situation.
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25 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
Attorney Louderman was very prompt in replying to any questions or problems I had in my case. His fees were very low compared to the amount of money my ex paid her atttorney. He solved problems and did not make problems. Very satisfied.
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25 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
Let's face it. Divorces stink. You're feeling at your worst and the issues get personal very quickly. John helped me through some really tough times and fairly and equitably resolved my case. Highly recommended.
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08 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
He is the worst attorney for divorce. He's extremely hard to get a hold of since he doesn't do email and all correspondence is done through his assistant. I would not recommend him for anything,
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30 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
Incredibly rude and unwilling to clarify basic questions on a contract. Was supposed to get a 30 minute conversation, instead got a sales pitch and a very pushy attitude. Do your job next time Dan
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16 Oct, 2012 by Anonymous
Dan Schlichting was recommended from a good friend, and I was very happy with the lawyer that I choose. I was scared and nervous and he was so understanding. He was also very trustworthy, knowledgeable and dependable.
I definitely recommend him....I plan on hiring him if I need a lawyer again and if he can't help me I will ask him for a recommendation.
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20 Jul, 2023 by Anna carlson
Atty. Roman did not represent me competently and diligently and did not earn her fee. Atty. Roman committed a criminal act in my presence; I rode with her to my first court hearing and she hit a parked car while she was parking then proceeded to say as we were walking away “I’m going to
Pretend like I didn’t do that” I would never have assumed a lawyer could be capable of such disregard and shameless conduct. She said things to me such as “Please just sign the document and stop trying to add or change language” I never received a thank you, any inquires if was satisfied with services rendered etc. At no point in time did I feel like Attorney Roman negotiated in my name or on my behalf, advise or represent me efficiently in court, and before the GAL, communicate effetely, proficiently, or professionally, conduct research into the information provided to her and analyze provided information, nor did she interpret laws, rulings, and regulations for me to understand or advocate for me whatsoever.
Attorney Roman certainly had no problem taking my money and, in my opinion, charging me for the same thing over and over i.e., going over the same emails and attached documents she had previously charged me for going over, she also had no problem charging me for all the "work" she had to do after her self-admitted mistake when she mis informed me during our settlement discussions. I had to pay Attorney Roman thousands of dollars, depleting my savings for email correspondences, phone calls and mistakes.
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01 Jul, 2019 by Tommy lancaster
04 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
If you want a lawyer that will not fight for you at all, hire Greg. Every step of the way in my divorce, all he did was take the easiest route to ensure an easy $30,000 in his pocket. He did nothing to fight for my assets or my child. If it wasn’t for the fact that I already had $30,000 invested I would have fired him and went with an attorney that would fight for my rights, not my exes rights.
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27 Aug, 2021 by Anonymous
He’s a 9-5 er lawyer who has is assistant do the work.
Never did much but watch the clock spin for payment. Don’t waste your time or money.
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24 Nov, 2018 by Anonymous
I believe I had one of the more contentious divorces for Greg's firm and I can attest to his above and beyond stance. He spent many a long hour into the night emailing or talking with me on the phone to ease my anxiety from all that was being thrown at me by a very vengeful Ex. The Divorce lasted a very long time with numerous calls back to court by the Ex for years after. Greg stood firmly beside me and protected me, esp. when leaving the court...as I had a retraining order and my Ex was very volatile. I Highly Recommend Greg and his firm. They helped me more than I could have ever imagined I would need.
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17 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
I was working with a horrible attorney who did absolutely nothing for my case. I was facing jail time up to a year. I fired my old attorney and hired Kim about 1-2 months before my case was set to go to trail. After hiring Kim she was able to get the judge to reschedule my trail dates . But trail was not required as Kim was able to get my criminal charges reduced to a Civil ticket. I will be using her services again and again!
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12 Dec, 2019 by Anonymous
I was being sued by my ex-wife for an increase in maintenance payments. Attorney Zion talked a very promising plan in her office but provided minimal (if any) defense in court. Even my ex-wife’s attorney made a comment to me afterwards. Result: maintenance payments increased by over 50%.
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11 Jun, 2016 by Anonymous
Kim Zion was very knowledgeable, yet I had a very difficult time with her. I felt if I wasn't calling everyday nothing would get done. I had to constantly remind her of important information, resend photographs and had to make suggestions. I felt very stuck. She could never remember anything and felt as though she didn't take my case seriously, though it was a very serious case. I would call and not hear from her for weeks, which was not appreciated. she shouldn't have taken my case if she could not keep up with her work load. In the end I am glad we had an attorney, but I felt with a different lawyer everything would have been better communicated and the process would have gone faster.
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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.
