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08 Jul, 2024 by Thesuper21gunsalute
Marty is a great guy and a great lawyer. He really does go above and beyond for his clients. I 100% recommend.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Josh self
Marty is an amazing attorney and hard worker for his clients dont wait just hire him for your legal needs definitely 5 star service
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08 Jul, 2024 by Jason kim
If I could give him more stars I would. He was very professional and did everything in a timely manner. Great communication, I highly recommend.
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19 Sep, 2024 by Shelby
Andrew is one of the most passionate, kind hearted attorneys I have ever met. He goes above and beyond to make sure you get what you want in your case. I highly recommend using him as an attorney! Very responsible, knowledgeable, trustworthy, friendly and gets the job done in a timely manner.
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05 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
My experience Andrew Korduba as my legal counsel was excellent. I was changed with multiple misdemeanor offenses in Medina, Ohio, known to be one of the harshest charging and sentencing areas in the State of Ohio. Mr. Korduba particularly excelled in dealing with the Medina Prosecutors Office to reduce the criminal charges, which more accurately aligned with the incident itself. Due to Mr. Korduba's negotiating skill and diligence, I received no jail time and no probation. I can see why he is one of the most well-respected attorneys in Medina, Ohio.
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27 Feb, 2024 by Colin
Andy provided a 20 minute free consultation for me and made the most sense of any attorney I've talked with. He was efficient, and got right to the point of what I needed to do next. It involved advising me to retain an attorney in a different state, but he will definitely be the first on my list to call if I need to pursue litigation in Ohio.
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06 Feb, 2022 by Kristen
I have worked with many lawyers in my life and Tom is the best of the best. Tom works with integrity and has an in-depth knowledge of general law and case law. Tom worked tirelessly to ensure that all of our needs were met and went above and beyond our expectations for legal representation. I will never forget what you did to ensure that we were given a fair trial and your ability to prove our case beyond a reasonable doubt was very impressive. I feel indebted to you for all of your hard work. You cannot put a price on the well-being and best interest of your children. Thank you, from the bottom of our hearts.
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22 Jan, 2022 by Michael
Tom is a excellent lawyer one thing I do have to say is pay attention to what he saying and do exactly what he says he will not steer you wrong
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24 Feb, 2021 by Scott
Tom handled my child custody case professionally and efficient. Tom got me the custody agreement I wanted. Thank you Tom and associates.
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20 Jun, 2022 by Angelo
I was introduced to Michael last year, ran into some problems with a business I owned and contacted Mike. Within 2 weeks he had the situation resolved in my favor. Would highly recommend Mike if you are in need of terrific "5 star" professional attorney!!
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11 Mar, 2017 by Shawn
Had a 15-minute call with him regarding guardianship of a sick parent. He was sympathetic to the situation I am dealing with and offered me some additional advice on how to save on court fees. Best $40 I ever spent.
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13 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
My question was regarding child support. Mr. Callow was very informative and knowledgeable. Really enlightened me as my options and legal ramifications. Well worth the time and $ to speak to him. I highly recommend his services.
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13 Aug, 2020 by Jessica
I really from the bottom of my heart can not say enough about what a great lawyer Maryann is. I had a very emotional Relocation custody case. She never ever told me what I wanted to hear she told me the truth. She took extra time on a Saturday when I flew into town to rewrite a emergency motion after taking the time to Speak with me and my daughter. She is compassionate but never breaks her professionalism in any situation. She always returned my questions in a timely manner. If I ever needed a lawyer in the Medina area again I would use her every single time. I would recommend her to my best friend. I have met with other lawyers in the past who lie to take your money or use scare tactics to once again take your money. I don’t believe Maryann would sacrifice her integrity or her reputation to ever do something like that. If your looking for someone knowledgeable that is a straight shooter and will do her very best to help you she is absolutely the lawyer for you.
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11 Jun, 2018 by Autumn
Shayne was a wonderful attorney that I used during a horrible divorce. She kept me up to date and was always working. Thank you Shayne for your service. ❤
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03 Apr, 2010 by Ryan
I have only had to hire a lawyer a couple of times. If i had to do it again Mr. Maynard would be hands down the guy i would call He went above and beyond to help me recieve justice.
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30 Sep, 2024 by Alycia postlethwait
08 Jul, 2024 by Margaret pieronek
Absolutely outstanding counsel.straight forward.professional and dedicated to stand on your behalf.i am very relieved of the outcome of my offense of ovi
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08 Jul, 2024 by Ethan immel
08 Jul, 2024 by Carey bryant jr.
He was punctual, willing to stand beside and not only represent me in this case but fight for the people and their situation. Mr. Korduba is professional from the top to the bottom. A stellar individual who takes what he does seriously
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19 Aug, 2024 by Victoria's music bertram
He amazing
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19 Aug, 2024 by Christine craig
I would recommend Attorney Pedro and his office to anyone seeking legal counsel. He is attentive and listens to you. He will make every effort to help you make sense of your situation even when it can become confusing. I like that his office staff keeps you updated and are organized. I like that you can expect him to be there when he says he will. I feel that he was able to steer me in the best direction for my circumstances. He made dealing with the court system easier for me and my family during an incredibly tough time.
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03 Jun, 2024 by Krissi lauzon
I can’t explain enough how much Mr. Pedro has helped out my fiancé. Cameron has put in so much hard work towards my fiancés case towards his ex wife. She’s been refusing to let my fiancé pick up his daughter for her visitation and Mr. Pedro has not only made it possible to see my step daughter on a regular basis, but has also made it more difficult for my fiancés ex wife to refuse visitation. And on top of all of his hard work, he’s made it easy for us to make payments to him! There isn’t a bad thing I think I would say about Cameron and highly recommend him for any kind of divorce case! He’s made our lives so much better and easier, thank you Cameron!
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12 Jul, 2024 by Family guy
Medina local, and local guide. I never use MetLife through my job but Skidmore was listed and I wanted to give local folks the business. Hopefully they’re not too busy for your case, I was told to call someone else on the MetLife list because they didn’t have capacity to take my case. She was nice so I gave 3 stars.
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12 Jul, 2024 by Gary drlik
11 Jul, 2024 by Ben fitch
Worked with Rob and his team on a legal matter and they handled it quickly and with the results I couldn’t get on my own. Will definitely use them again.
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07 May, 2023 by Kelly
Don’t even consider anyone else for your case! Read that again.
Cameron is the BEST! He’s a class act professional,very personable,and has the best legal strategies that will help you win your case. Have a question? He’s just a phone call away! If he’s away from the office, he will ALWAYS call you back in a timely manner. Communication is no problem for Cameron or his excellent staff, which is an all too common problem with other Attorney’s. He’s a Lion in the court room,but with the utmost professionalism and class! Having Cameron by your side in front of a Judge or Magistrate will put you at ease and give you confidence
as his client in the court room sitting next to him. He is the BEST and no real good opposing Attorney no matter how good they are, or how good their reputation is will get one over on him. I witnessed that first hand as his client. Cameron is the BEST! Don’t waste your time or your money on anyone else.
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23 Jan, 2021 by Regan
Absolutely straight forward.. no nonsense.. get the job done AND quickly...The BEST attorney you can hire in Northeast Ohio ..If you need honest, dependable, and an aggressive attorney to fight for you this IS THE MAN....
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02 Mar, 2020 by Andy
Cameron was my attorney from the beginning of my divorce case up until the final hearing and trial. I had paid this man approximately 15,000+ and then he gave me an outrageous bill to wrap it up. Knowing I'm a single father of 4 with full custody, his bill was over 10,000 to complete this. I recorded him saying I have until the court hearing, to pay the full amount. Btw, this was way higher than the estimate he gave me in the beginning of maximum 20,000. He calls me out if the blue a couple weeks later basically demanding payment, but I still had approximately 3 months. Long story short it wasn't what we agreed to, but then he did the inevitable. He literally bailed on me in the end severely hurting me in court. He has appologized numerous times to myself and my girlfriend for acting extremely biligerant on at least a couple different instances. In my opinion he's a hothead, and he said it in his own words, his name and legacy needs to be protected in court, so he likes to settle things not win them even if there in your favor. Is this the individual you want fighting for you???? I give him -500 stars. Oh I almost forgot, when I mentioned I recorded him saying I had until the court date to pay him, he even said he'd stand to be corrected. So I sent him my recording and he still bailed. Honestly..... If I had to start over again with him, I'd rather take life in prison. Lol a joke
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04 Oct, 2024 by Katie lockard
09 Jul, 2023 by Rebecca delvecchio
Love the firm. They have worked tirelessly to get my husband full custody of his boys. A+ team!
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27 Jun, 2023 by Jay
I've been with Andrea since 04-5 ish, She's taken care of my family's needs with always surprising results. I should have written this last year when she wrapped up my divorce. She has and had my complete confidence for almost 20years.
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04 Oct, 2024 by Katie lockard
09 Jul, 2023 by Rebecca delvecchio
Love the firm. They have worked tirelessly to get my husband full custody of his boys. A+ team!
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10 Mar, 2023 by Brandon sams
Andrea and Coreen are the best. Very professional. I highly recommend ABW Law.
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04 Oct, 2024 by Katie lockard
09 Jul, 2023 by Rebecca delvecchio
Love the firm. They have worked tirelessly to get my husband full custody of his boys. A+ team!
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10 Mar, 2023 by Brandon sams
Andrea and Coreen are the best. Very professional. I highly recommend ABW Law.
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04 Oct, 2024 by Katie lockard
09 Jul, 2023 by Rebecca delvecchio
Love the firm. They have worked tirelessly to get my husband full custody of his boys. A+ team!
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10 Mar, 2023 by Brandon sams
Andrea and Coreen are the best. Very professional. I highly recommend ABW Law.
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30 Nov, 2021 by Jason davidson
I was referred to Mr. Miller through a few friends for a custody issue and a bankruptcy. When we first met, I did not bring the documents I was asked to bring. He was willing to reschedule, and I brought the papers. He was honest about the issues in my custody case and that some things from a few years ago would probably be brought up by my ex, which they were. He stood up for my rights as a father and made sure I had time with my kids. Even though the court ruled against me having custody (based on the past issues), I know he fought hard for me and I plan to go back to him in the future. As for the bankruptcy, he walked me through all of the steps, answered all my questions. I was freaking out about filing, but he kept me informed and made the whole situation easy to manage.
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03 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
The Justin C. Miller that I retained was impatient , used fowl language and told me off on 3 separate occasions. The Justin C. Miller I retained charged me $1500 to go to litigation but blew through that before the mediation date arrived and then demanded $1000 more. I never received hard copies and only knew what was happening with my case because I looked it up on line. We were notified the case was going to be dismissed and agreed to the next step he would take on my behalf. Justin C. Miller never took the next step, but charged me for his time as if he had. My experience was he didn't file or send things in a timely manner. One of the pages he filed as an attachment with the Court was in my handwriting on notebook paper. He said he would print it out but filed it just as I had sent it to him. I would not recommend this attorney. Do yourself a favor and go elsewhere.
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30 Jan, 2017 by Vickie
Justin has and is handling currently some civil matters for us. He is very attentintive and caring. We will continue to utuilize his services in the future ans highly reccommend him.
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30 Jul, 2024 by Don don
this office is the worst Ms Whitney whitmore doesn't return emails or calls at all & her staff talks reckless" to you over the phone, &she steady ask courts for continuance. & Don't show up she send someone else in to court to represent you on zoom that don't know about your case at all. I wouldn't recommend this law office at all.
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10 Nov, 2023 by Laura phillips
I cannot say enough on what an intelligent, amazing and compassionate Attorney Andrew Parker is. He's not your typical attorney. He truly cares about his clients and goes the extra mile.
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25 May, 2023 by Chris p
I would give his paralegal Lauran 00000. I called to set up meeting with attorney Parker his paralegal answered the phone unprofessionally, rudely assaulted me over the phone. She was horrible not sensitive in my matter, confused me with days that were available. I could not get from her the day that attorney PARKER is available. Whatever the day I asked she would answer NO HE IS NOT Available. After half hour on a phone she said; " You know what go see other attorney" she asked to see my ex partner attorney. She did not even check for conflict of interest. BUT SHE DID NT FORGONT asked for large retainer right away and his rate she said $400 an hour first
Can you imaging if paralegal acts this way what does it says about firm.
STAY AWAY FROM THEM IF YOU WANT TO HAVE A SUCCESS WITH YOUR CASE.
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11 Jun, 2024 by Janice adams
Great attorney, wise, patient and thoughtful. I highly recommend Ron Stanley!
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04 Jan, 2024 by Mckenna hemmings
30 Sep, 2023 by Krystle
And she is one of the nicest people I ever met is she's very great at what she does and she's my disability lawyer and I don't know if I got my disability yet cuz we just had the hearing but she worked great with me she made sure she made me feel comfortable she's a very good lawyer definitely recommend and I also started working with her because she is with Roose & Ressler disability law form so definitely give her a call because she's great
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13 Aug, 2024 by Britt bresley
Rick helped us finalize our adoption in June. We are out of state so everything was done virtually via email, texts, and phone calls. He made it super easy and even helped out with an issue we had with accounting for a different aspect of the adoption. He showed genuine care about our boys and asked how they were adjusting to being home with us. He was just about the only enjoyable part of the Ohio aspects of the adoption and we are super grateful to him.
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25 May, 2024 by James hotchkiss
Richard Marco Jr is a lier and a danger to children.
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01 Mar, 2024 by Jake pieronek
Rick has made the impossible possible. I never imagined a turnout like this and I appreciate him and his team immensely. I could tell he does this for the best interests of the child and only that. He is very professional and on point with everything. Thanks again Rick
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23 Apr, 2023 by Edward flemming
I first started going to Bruce Hall in 2001 when he helped me with gaining custody of my two children. Bruce is always professional and easy to talk to. He is always willing to work around your schedule as he understands people work and cannot make an appointment during the day. I went back to Bruce recently for another situation and he did an amazing job. I would recommend Bruce to anyone. Thank you Bruce
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18 Apr, 2023 by Bryan maira
Nothing but positive things to say about my experiences with Mr. Hall. I would and have recommended to many
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06 Oct, 2020 by Kim sigler
Horrible service, wouldn’t return any of my calls, I called for weeks and left messages to no avail. Very crude service, vulgar language and unprofessional. Cancelled several appointments and I had to file everything myself. Do Not hire this lawyer.
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15 Apr, 2024 by Pamela
I have been a client of David McArtor and office for 3 years for custody matters. I can not say enough about him and his office staff, especially Jess. She was always bright, understanding, easy to talk to! David ALWAYS made me feel comfortable and confident in the decisions I was making from the initial consultation to the final resolution. He is excellent with communicating, being transparent, and ALWAYS ensuring that my rights as a parent were protected and that the best interests of my children were always prioritized. He truly took my case to heart. David and his staff treated me fairly and made sure that I understood everything that was happening in my case. He and the whole team were very knowledgeable, supportive, responsive, proactive, patient, hardworking, courteous, organized, demonstrated exceptional professionalism, expertise, and dedication.Their thorough understanding of family law and attention to detail were evident throughout the process. They kept me informed every step of the way, promptly, addressed any concerns I had, and consistently advocated on my behalf. David always made me feel HEARD, as so many attorneys out there are only concerned about money! David is definitely NOT one of them! Walking into the office as a scared single mother of 4 children, David and his staff were very welcoming and now have become part of my family! I would not have trusted anyone else with my case! 1000% highly recommend David and his whole team to anyone in need of legal representation for custody and child support matters. Their expertise and professionalism truly made a difference in my case, and I am grateful for their outstanding service
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25 Feb, 2023 by Anonymous
I retained David Mcartor on a civil matter against my ex husband in November 2023. HORRIBLE attorney. Do not use if you’re a woman. Takes the man’s side. For the preliminary meeting he sent an assistant that wasn’t prepared. Embarrassed me and himself in his inability to answer the Magistrates questions. David would never return my phone calls or answer my emails. In addition any meetings with him he would degrade me. He asked if I needed a tissue when I entered the room . I asked him why would I need a tissue. He proceeded to say I was stupid.I feel he didn’t know how to proceed with my case. He discharged himself prior to the court date.
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12 Feb, 2021 by Jay
Remember. Not many people submit positive reviews. They only do it when they are not satisfied. So over the decades. 3 negatives is an A+
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18 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
We retained Ms. Clark for a custody matter and once we paid the $5000 retainer, which we never received a contract or receipt for, she almost completely quit answering messages or calls. Ms. Clark promised to immediately file custody papers, and both times she failed to do so as promised. Then, when the issue cam before the magistrate, James Palmquist instead of Ms. Clark appeared at the hearing. Mr. Palmquist, obviously unprepared, bullied our daughter into signing an agreement that even the magistrate seemed to question, and which has caused complete chaos. When we fired them, they refunded about $1800, but they kept over $3200, for which we have yet to receive an expense breakdown nearly 2 months later. We have retained new counsel who are now burdened with trying to undo the mess the Palmquist's firm has created. We intend to pursue this with the Ohio Bar Association and are considering other action.
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13 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous
She runs from her own abilgations! Fight or flight! Flight is here! You can do better without paying for this help.
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16 Nov, 2015 by Ashley
Very passionate, and great at what she does. Anytime I need her she's there. She's caring and honest and doesn't give u unreal expectations.
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23 Aug, 2024 by Sharon
He is a fraud. Worst lawyer ever! Rude, nasty and unprofessional!!! He will not represent you as he says he will. Save your time and money and find a good attorney!
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24 Oct, 2021 by Anonymous
Like most lawyers, initially told me everything I wanted to hear, then would tell me that I was hurting my own case over extremely trivial events … because he was softening me up to settle and not go to trial.
A predator, preying on his clients emotions, naïveté and fear in order to take as much money as possible while doing as little as possible and minimizing risk of a loss going on his official record by sabotaging my case in order to avoid trial and push towards a settlement with me having less and less leverage the longer he was my lawyer.
I did far better representing myself at a tiny fraction of the cost.
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11 Dec, 2015 by Anonymous
I was in shock and in a bad place financially and emotionally as I entered a new divorce, and Mr Palmquist was recommended to me from a friend, as I was told that he would fight for me and be my advocate. Needless to say, Jim came through plus some. He was attentive to my wants, reminded me of my needs, and with his help we were able to position ourselves into an upper hand for a beautiful settlement that fell heavily in my favor. I couldn't have imagined a better outcome or a more phenomenal attorney. When he is busy , Rebecca, his co-council, was always available to ensure that I was taken care of. His staff is efficient and never missed a call I made, and they were friendly and aware of my constant "millennium generation" mentality of impatience . They never showed annoyance or complained, even on my bad days. Jim would come in for me on weekends and evenings. He would text me to check on me, and remind me that I was in good hands. He and his team had my back. I felt strong walking into court with Jim by my side. Especially if you are in Medina court, you would be exceptionally wise to use Palmquist law. He is what a laywer should be, and sets the bar for all other attorneys in the area. I was positioned in a way where my X had a financial gain due to his income and my lack thereof, however despite he and his legal teams attempts, no one messed with me because they were in turn messing with Jim. It goes to show that money is meaningless unless your attorney knows what he is doing. I owe him my sanity. Jim and his team were the only support I had in Medina, and that was all I needed. Highly Highly recommended any day of the week, and twice on Sundays.
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11 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
I needed a court appointed attorney for contempt charges my ex husband filed. The charges were ludicrous. Michele bullied me into settling by sawing I was going to go to jail. She also didn't return calls or emails. If you can, just avoid her. I completely agree with the other review as well.
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28 Dec, 2013 by Beverly
All that mattered to her was what the father had to say, NEVER documented anything or bothered to seek the truth as a result the child, his siblings and mother and family paid the ultimate price, Supposedly the child's best interest is what she was to look out for, NOT the case, she looked out for the best interest of the father, who I will admit upon first meeting him, I thought he was wonderful, but after a while the dark side of him came out, and I am sure he manipulated Ms Sherrin just as he does everyone in his life. But she is suppose to be a lawyer, and lawyers seek the truth, and she didnt seek anything, the father and his mother along with others in his family physically abuse children, I have seen it with my own eyes, and when this child becomes another statistic, or worse it will be no ones fault but her's, and doing a improper job of Guardian ad litem for this child , it would be my option if she is your Guardian ad Litem , you file for a different one, one that will NOT take sides and will give the child justice, not anyone else !!!!! How do you take a child out of a loving caring home that is clean, the child is well cared for, by a mom that stays home with him 24/7, and give him to a man proven in court to be violent, who works 6-7 days a week 8-12 hour days, whos mother ( who has a record with dept of children and family services) will be baby sitting ( supposedly) and lives at least a 30 min drive away from him, when is he going to have time to be a father he has to work and sleep too, BAD BAD BAD thing for this child, so unfortunate that the court in Medina uses her as a guardian for children........ she doesnt know the first thing about the best interest of this child, in my option she is either not the brightest apple in the bunch or the father just pulled the wool right over her eyes !!!!
And for the record, I am NOT, the mother or grandmother, aunt or anything at all to this child or his mother or father, but do know both of them, and I am the one that paid the bill for her services and tried to contact ms Sherrin and she would not return my calls......... to me that is not doing your job !!!!!!!!!
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12 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
Ms. Gardner may be a good attorney in court, but she has yet to reply to a phone call. I consulted with her on my case. She was very polite. She scheduled a time to meet with me again, and cancelled. I called to reschedule, left a message and she did not return my call. She has been paid lots of money and does not have the courtesy to return my call ?
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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.
