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27 Jun, 2023 by Carsten quinlan
Pam helped me in my divorce case. She was fair, hardworking, and honest, and reliable. Highly recommend her.
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03 Feb, 2023 by Ms. never another me only1
I can say my experience w/this attorney was great very successful!! She's patient, caring & very understanding!! You deal directly w/her no third party. If you're having issues Pam Baumgartner is the go to lady!!!💯 😊
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28 Nov, 2022 by Sarah grant
She was my free public defender. I asked for a different lawyer as she wasn't interested in really helping me in my case. Pam then told me how I could end up with an even worse lawyer. And when I lost, she showed not an ounce of compassion during the whole process.
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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
08 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
Mr Nagel has represented me in several matters professionally and attentively over many years. I entirely trust him to pursue my interests.
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08 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
Attorney Nagel is a wonderful attorney who went above and beyond to help me through tough times when I needed it the most. If I were to recommend an attorney, I would choose Attorney Nagel without hesitation.
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20 Mar, 2023 by Phil
Attorney Nagel did an amazing job. I will definitely contact attorney Nagel if I need an attorney in the future.
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11 Aug, 2024 by Nathan
Her legal knowledge was in serious question when she argued that her witness need not be cross examined because the other party did not subpoena to crossexamination. Basic court procedures is a party calls a witness and then the other party has a right to cross examine or the witnesses testimony is invalid.
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05 Dec, 2020 by Chad
Lynn worked on my LTD case with Bill Parsons and I couldn’t be happier with the outcome. She was there every step of the way and was always available. Consider yourself lucky if You get to Work with Her. Thanks for everything Lynn, I won’t forget what You did for Me.
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04 Aug, 2018 by Holly
Lynn is truly amazing. She took the time to understand my situation. Lynn was so honest and prepared me 100% for my restraining order hearing. I couldn't of done this without her. She is the reason I am where I am today.. She saved my life, literally.
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21 Oct, 2024 by Matthew fish
Worked with them for my divorce and truly wish I'd of gave up and found a new attorney to work with. Was charged for any email sent or received even when I was being asked for paperwork I'd already turned in and for them to redo paperwork I'd already done literally nickle and dime you to death. They claim to be "father's rights" while I felt like I was pushed to accept getting wrecked in court. do yourself a favor and find someone else.
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16 Oct, 2024 by Vas dudnik
Maria Sobrido is an excellent attorney.
I had a highly contested divorce where my ex tried to throw everything she got at me to get full custody and primary placement of the child, tried to sell the house I live in. Maria Sobrido started to represent me as a divorce attorney about one month after I filed for the divorce. I don’t know how I am so lucky to have found her. Maria has extensive knowledge about family law and she is very experienced attorney with thousands of cases under her belt. Maria is very good in the courtroom too, and during pretrial conferences the opposing counsel paled in comparison to Maria. I think even the commissioner noticed that. One thing I learned the hard way is I should do everything Maria says to the tee. For example, how I should talk to my ex, how I should run things I want to do in the divorce by Maria first, instead going rogue. Maria has helped me prepare to meet with Guardian ad Litem and to meet with Custody Evaluator. And when I was ready to give up, Maria said no and I am glad I listened. Even though my ex wanted to go to trial, Maria settled the case with a stipulation, where everything was fair. I get to keep my child 50% of the time and I get to keep the house. I knew the divorce attorney fees will be high no matter what attorney I would use, but with Maria every minute she spent on my case has had tremendous value to me (and my child). During a year long divorce I did feel like my case was a priority, even though Maria being a good lawyer has other cases to work on too. She is so good, I almost want to get married and divorced again so she will be my divorce attorney 😊
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06 Aug, 2024 by Jennifer welhouse
Chelsea Williams was the absolute best! She was supportive and always made me feel like she cared about my case! Professional and in the courtroom well spoken! She knocked it out of the park! I know Cordell got me in the good place I’m at in my divorce. This would have never happened without them. Make the right choice!!! Cordell and Cordell… Attorneys that KNOW! Thanks Chelsea your my champion!!!
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14 Oct, 2024 by Rebecca paz
Immensely thankful for the assistance in a couple critical legal matters!
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30 Jul, 2024 by Jacquelynne miller
The experience with The Law Center was simplified for us so much. We had a more complicated case but Emily took all the stress off of us. They were incredibly personable, kind, and flexible with us. The most amazing experience with a lawyer I’ve ever had!
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15 Jun, 2024 by Stacey hansen
On Wednesday, June 12, 2024, I contacted The Law Center, S.C. and spoke with paralegal Stephanie. I was emailed an offer to consult, scheduled a zoom meeting with Cedric for next week Tuesday, June 18, 2pm-4pm.
I made the $350 payment, then received an email from Stephanie on the same day stating that The Law Center, S.C. was unable to assist me. I was told to contact an attorney in Minnesota where I live, the other family members concerned live in Wisconsin. On The Law Center, S.C. website it states that Cedric is licensed in both Minnesota and Wisconsin.
It's definitely not good business to accept, schedule appointments with clients, take their money then decline their case. Especially because your attorney team claims to care about families.
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14 Oct, 2024 by Rebecca paz
Immensely thankful for the assistance in a couple critical legal matters!
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30 Jul, 2024 by Jacquelynne miller
The experience with The Law Center was simplified for us so much. We had a more complicated case but Emily took all the stress off of us. They were incredibly personable, kind, and flexible with us. The most amazing experience with a lawyer I’ve ever had!
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15 Jun, 2024 by Stacey hansen
On Wednesday, June 12, 2024, I contacted The Law Center, S.C. and spoke with paralegal Stephanie. I was emailed an offer to consult, scheduled a zoom meeting with Cedric for next week Tuesday, June 18, 2pm-4pm.
I made the $350 payment, then received an email from Stephanie on the same day stating that The Law Center, S.C. was unable to assist me. I was told to contact an attorney in Minnesota where I live, the other family members concerned live in Wisconsin. On The Law Center, S.C. website it states that Cedric is licensed in both Minnesota and Wisconsin.
It's definitely not good business to accept, schedule appointments with clients, take their money then decline their case. Especially because your attorney team claims to care about families.
Read more
14 Oct, 2024 by Rebecca paz
Immensely thankful for the assistance in a couple critical legal matters!
Read more
30 Jul, 2024 by Jacquelynne miller
The experience with The Law Center was simplified for us so much. We had a more complicated case but Emily took all the stress off of us. They were incredibly personable, kind, and flexible with us. The most amazing experience with a lawyer I’ve ever had!
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15 Jun, 2024 by Stacey hansen
On Wednesday, June 12, 2024, I contacted The Law Center, S.C. and spoke with paralegal Stephanie. I was emailed an offer to consult, scheduled a zoom meeting with Cedric for next week Tuesday, June 18, 2pm-4pm.
I made the $350 payment, then received an email from Stephanie on the same day stating that The Law Center, S.C. was unable to assist me. I was told to contact an attorney in Minnesota where I live, the other family members concerned live in Wisconsin. On The Law Center, S.C. website it states that Cedric is licensed in both Minnesota and Wisconsin.
It's definitely not good business to accept, schedule appointments with clients, take their money then decline their case. Especially because your attorney team claims to care about families.
Read more
14 Oct, 2024 by Rebecca paz
Immensely thankful for the assistance in a couple critical legal matters!
Read more
30 Jul, 2024 by Jacquelynne miller
The experience with The Law Center was simplified for us so much. We had a more complicated case but Emily took all the stress off of us. They were incredibly personable, kind, and flexible with us. The most amazing experience with a lawyer I’ve ever had!
Read more
15 Jun, 2024 by Stacey hansen
On Wednesday, June 12, 2024, I contacted The Law Center, S.C. and spoke with paralegal Stephanie. I was emailed an offer to consult, scheduled a zoom meeting with Cedric for next week Tuesday, June 18, 2pm-4pm.
I made the $350 payment, then received an email from Stephanie on the same day stating that The Law Center, S.C. was unable to assist me. I was told to contact an attorney in Minnesota where I live, the other family members concerned live in Wisconsin. On The Law Center, S.C. website it states that Cedric is licensed in both Minnesota and Wisconsin.
It's definitely not good business to accept, schedule appointments with clients, take their money then decline their case. Especially because your attorney team claims to care about families.
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20 Jan, 2025 by George heathcote
I have so much peace working with Brenda, Julie, Eric and their staff for my family's needs and my clients. I have worked with Brenda for 22 years. They help me keep the "benefit bullies" off my daughter and clients. So Thankful!
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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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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
15 Aug, 2024 by Shari bernstein
After working with this firm for years, I had an extremely disappointing interaction earlier this year. I hired this law firm to set up a trust that was outlined in my parents’ will. I had a single meeting in which a lawyer gathered information from me and then sent the lawyer vthe will to review, with the understanding that they would set up the trust. The lawyer that I met with left the firm. The firm told me that they no longer had anyone who could set up the trust. I had already paid them $400 — for which I received no legal advice and no trust documents. I asked for them to refund the money, as they did not do the task and I got no legal advice, and they refused.
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16 May, 2024 by Tanya anderson
I recently worked with Liz Bach-Van Horn, and I couldn't be more elated with the end result!! The entire process was lengthy and complex, she was extremely communicative and thorough. I felt very confident in her abilities and she allowed me to feel supported throughout the process. Highly recommend!!
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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 Aug, 2024 by Shari bernstein
After working with this firm for years, I had an extremely disappointing interaction earlier this year. I hired this law firm to set up a trust that was outlined in my parents’ will. I had a single meeting in which a lawyer gathered information from me and then sent the lawyer vthe will to review, with the understanding that they would set up the trust. The lawyer that I met with left the firm. The firm told me that they no longer had anyone who could set up the trust. I had already paid them $400 — for which I received no legal advice and no trust documents. I asked for them to refund the money, as they did not do the task and I got no legal advice, and they refused.
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16 May, 2024 by Tanya anderson
I recently worked with Liz Bach-Van Horn, and I couldn't be more elated with the end result!! The entire process was lengthy and complex, she was extremely communicative and thorough. I felt very confident in her abilities and she allowed me to feel supported throughout the process. Highly recommend!!
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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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16 Oct, 2024 by G j
01 Jul, 2024 by Tucold davis
My family was truly blessed to have Attorney Andrea Winder and staff handling my son's case.The level of care and effort they put into his tough case was excellent. They went above and beyond for the win.I thank God Nicholson Goetz & Otis, S.C. was chosen to try my son's case. My entire family is thankful & grateful for all your hard work.
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08 Mar, 2024 by Paul karl kleinschmidt
I cannot give enough praise to this law office, truly. I had the most unfortunate experience of needing to hire a defense attorney when some absurd and false accusations were made against me. Everything happened so fast, it was frightening, shocking, and everything terrible that you might imagine.
Somehow, within such a short period of time, attorney Emily Bell came through to cover every single imaginable base of possibility with me. She dedicated herself to my case with more heart, soul, and time than I thought was possible. When the time came for the hearing, I could not have been more confident in who was there to represent me, which was the very last thing I would have said when I was first served. I was still scared, but I had good, strong, and reasonable faith in Emily. At the end of it all, Attorney Bell got the case dismissed in less time than any of us expected. The swiftness of it all was just incredible. She also got me facial tissues before I even began to cry with relief, which was just the sweetest thing she could have done!
If you are not sure who to go with, please trust me when I say that this office is the one. Everyone whom I worked with in the narrow period of time that we had was kind, considerate, sensitive, and showed genuine care for me as a human being.
Thank you all, so very much, for protecting my humanity, my career, my life. I do not know what I would have done without you by my side.
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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 Oct, 2024 by Pierre h
I would like to bring to your attention the dissatisfaction I have experienced with the legal services provided by the individual in question. Throughout the duration of our engagement, I have encountered numerous issues, including lost documents, incorrect paperwork filings, missed and delayed meetings, and a lack of transparency. Despite assurances to promptly address a time-sensitive matter following my initial payment, I find myself four months later without any progress. Furthermore, the individual has ceased responding to my attempts to communicate, prompting me to consider filing a formal complaint in order to seek a resolution.
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08 Oct, 2024 by Roman leclercq
Richard is knowledgeable especially divorce and bankruptcy . Good man he has done alot for the law
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23 Sep, 2024 by Hannah dewberry
If I could leave 0 stars I would. Richard is a liar, he’s extremely disorganized, and wasted months of time in a custody battle. He was over an hour late to one court date and missed two other court dates entirely. When I asked for my money back he refused. He’d make inappropriate comments about my appearance or what I was wearing. He is one of the absolute worst attorneys I’ve had the displeasure of meeting, I am surprised he’s still allowed to practice.
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05 Oct, 2024 by Matt bayer
I’m facing some difficult legal challenges with my buisness that other attorneys wouldn’t tackle. Attorney Krekeler not only accepted our case but has exceeded expectations. His ability to navigate litigations and court proceedings has given me a sense of security and comfort I haven’t had in a long time. I would highly recommend him to anyone in need of professional legal assistance. You won’t be disappointed.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Sam wisconsin
Great place for expert help
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16 Jul, 2024 by Clayton elmhorst
Very fair. David took the time to help me with my financial struggles. He is very generous with his time and is a very caring and considerate Lawyer. You won't be disappointed!
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15 Aug, 2024 by Shari bernstein
After working with this firm for years, I had an extremely disappointing interaction earlier this year. I hired this law firm to set up a trust that was outlined in my parents’ will. I had a single meeting in which a lawyer gathered information from me and then sent the lawyer vthe will to review, with the understanding that they would set up the trust. The lawyer that I met with left the firm. The firm told me that they no longer had anyone who could set up the trust. I had already paid them $400 — for which I received no legal advice and no trust documents. I asked for them to refund the money, as they did not do the task and I got no legal advice, and they refused.
Read more
16 May, 2024 by Tanya anderson
I recently worked with Liz Bach-Van Horn, and I couldn't be more elated with the end result!! The entire process was lengthy and complex, she was extremely communicative and thorough. I felt very confident in her abilities and she allowed me to feel supported throughout the process. Highly recommend!!
Read more
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.
Read more
15 Aug, 2024 by Shari bernstein
After working with this firm for years, I had an extremely disappointing interaction earlier this year. I hired this law firm to set up a trust that was outlined in my parents’ will. I had a single meeting in which a lawyer gathered information from me and then sent the lawyer vthe will to review, with the understanding that they would set up the trust. The lawyer that I met with left the firm. The firm told me that they no longer had anyone who could set up the trust. I had already paid them $400 — for which I received no legal advice and no trust documents. I asked for them to refund the money, as they did not do the task and I got no legal advice, and they refused.
Read more
16 May, 2024 by Tanya anderson
I recently worked with Liz Bach-Van Horn, and I couldn't be more elated with the end result!! The entire process was lengthy and complex, she was extremely communicative and thorough. I felt very confident in her abilities and she allowed me to feel supported throughout the process. Highly recommend!!
Read more
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.
Read more
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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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
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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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 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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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⭐️
Read more
22 Sep, 2023 by Kay curtin
03 Jan, 2024 by Randall ruenger
Explained things so great and put my mind to ease!!!
Read more
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.
Read more
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!
Read more
16 Oct, 2024 by G j
01 Jul, 2024 by Tucold davis
My family was truly blessed to have Attorney Andrea Winder and staff handling my son's case.The level of care and effort they put into his tough case was excellent. They went above and beyond for the win.I thank God Nicholson Goetz & Otis, S.C. was chosen to try my son's case. My entire family is thankful & grateful for all your hard work.
Read more
08 Mar, 2024 by Paul karl kleinschmidt
I cannot give enough praise to this law office, truly. I had the most unfortunate experience of needing to hire a defense attorney when some absurd and false accusations were made against me. Everything happened so fast, it was frightening, shocking, and everything terrible that you might imagine.
Somehow, within such a short period of time, attorney Emily Bell came through to cover every single imaginable base of possibility with me. She dedicated herself to my case with more heart, soul, and time than I thought was possible. When the time came for the hearing, I could not have been more confident in who was there to represent me, which was the very last thing I would have said when I was first served. I was still scared, but I had good, strong, and reasonable faith in Emily. At the end of it all, Attorney Bell got the case dismissed in less time than any of us expected. The swiftness of it all was just incredible. She also got me facial tissues before I even began to cry with relief, which was just the sweetest thing she could have done!
If you are not sure who to go with, please trust me when I say that this office is the one. Everyone whom I worked with in the narrow period of time that we had was kind, considerate, sensitive, and showed genuine care for me as a human being.
Thank you all, so very much, for protecting my humanity, my career, my life. I do not know what I would have done without you by my side.
Read more
13 Aug, 2024 by Glenn mathews
Ruth Westmont is an excellent attorney and I am pleased with how she has handled my case over the past eight years. Attorney Westmont took on my case as I was struggling with child custody issues. She made it all worth it by having her in my corner. She has compassion and listens to her client (me). I recommend her to anyone who need a expert attorney.
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28 Jul, 2024 by Nick lemmer
23 Feb, 2024 by Jill johnson
I have practiced law with Attorney Westmont and have know her for many years. She is a fierce advocate for her clients and really cares about their welfare. I am happy to refer clients to her.
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FAQs
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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:
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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.
