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27 Sep, 2016 by Cindy
After being referred to Mr. Jones by a friend I knew after our first consultation he was very professional, knowledgeable, experienced,highly qualified lawyer with a great reputable position in any and all cases. I immediately retained him and to this date throughout last 15 years knowing him, consulting him and won all my cases he took on winning with great merit!! I know I can always just pick up the phone and without any hesitation immediately gets back with me on any issue or legal law matter . He showed strong intelligence, respect, integrity and knowledge in everything . Even to this very day I know I can efficiently depend on and rely on his words of law and experience!!...His reputation speaks for itself ..very satisfied with every case he won for me and any consulting was handled in confidential and professional matters . I even recommended him to my family and friends that he also took on winning their cases !!.. I personally highly recommend Mr. Jones to anyone with any legal matter of the courts !!!
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16 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
After trying to file for uncontested divorce myself, I had issues with the forms. I couldn't use them since my previous spouse had real estate. She was able to help me with all of the proper paperwork for a very reasonable price. She was great to work with and was very fast to answer any questions I had.
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20 Oct, 2015 by Genevieve
Mr. Zdancewicz is handling a probate issue for us. So far I am very pleased with his service! He is very easy to talk to and he is a great listener. He has proven to be thorough and proactive. We have one more court date and are looking for success at this one as we had with the others. I would definately recommend mr. Zdancewicz to anyone in need of his services!
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28 Aug, 2017 by Jim
John solved my legal issues quickly and efficiently. Will definitely use him again when the need arises. Highly recommend.
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29 Aug, 2018 by Anonymous
I am so thankful to have been referred to Mr. Smith. He helped me with some various custodial issues. He is so smart and I was thankful he was so patient with me, as I have not had a lot of experience in court matters. I trust this man to the utmost and I would absolutely recommend him in any capacity to represent you should you need legal counsel. STELLAR.
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03 Oct, 2019 by Gemini sister
I want to begin with saying Brandi Heiden is the Best Attorney I could have come across in the most devastating time of my life. In Sept. 2017 I was in a 6 year relationship & we had a 5 1/2 yr old son. We were engaged, but in no rush to get married. My Fiancé had a long time (20yr) drug addiction, that I was aware of when we began our relationship. However, I got pregnant within 3 months of us dating. I thought maybe between myself & the baby he always wanted, he would change. That was hopeful but very naive. We had many ups & downs; arguments and breakdowns. We separated 3-4 times in 6 years. One thing we did love more than anything and always put before “US” was our son. That’s what always kept us coming back together. He made a decision to quit the street drugs (EXTREMELY EXPENSIVE) & get on Methadone. He explained to me it was legal, given to him at a clinic, where he would have to go everyday to take, also have to take drug test to assure he wasn’t taking any other drug, & they also provided counseling. Plus it was $100 a week vs $600-$700 a week. Anyway, it changed him, his moods, his patience, he was always angry & mean. The emotional, mental, & verbal abuse I had gotten used to, got worse & one day the physical began. This had never happened, but to make matters worse my 5 yr old saw the entire thing, & my son was the one who knew to call 911. We were both scared. My fiancé was arrested & after a few weeks, we went to court and I allowed him to continue coaching my sons football team and visit him with my supervision. My In-laws began pushing & pushing for us to get married asap. Saying it be better for our son & look better for my fiancé in court. Well, we did. November 2017 we got married. Not even 3 weeks after, Dec. 2nd 2017 he shoved me through a bedroom door.. my heart broke, police came again & arrested him.
On Dec 7th 2017 I took my son to school & when I went to pick him up I was told he was already picked up & I could no longer come to the school. A world wind hit me. I didn’t know who, what, where my son was. Then I got a text from my mother in law, she was granted temp. guardianship of my son for Dependency & Neglect. I immediately called around & found out about Brandi Heiden. We met the next day & basically went over several false allegations against me that my mother in law had lied about. That’s when it hit me, she needed me to marry her son so she would have rights to try to take my son away, because she couldn’t accept what her son had been doing for so long. I was Lost. Now I wasn’t “innocent until proven guilty, I had to PROVE my innocence. I will NEVER forget the words Ms. Heiden told me that day; “ Do Exactly What I Tell You To Do, Everything, even if the judge does not order it, Do It, and You Will Get Your Son Back, I Promise”. So thats what I did. I took 12 classes on Abused Women. I took 30 (3hr) Drug & Alcohol classes, when I don’t use drugs & occasionally have glass of wine. I took 2 hair follicle drug tests where I watched them chop off 8 thick pieces of my hair, & took over 2 dozen drug/alcohol urine screens. EVERY single test came back Negative! All of this took precious time away from me w/my son. Days I would pull over & call Brandi (Ms.Heiden) crying that I missed him & needed him & was hurting; a piece of me was just gone. She would talk to me, remind me how good I was doing, how hard I was fighting & I am a good mother & will get him back. With over 15 court dates, I lost my job, my car, & my house. Now it really looked bad... if I did get him back how would I support him, where would we live.? I kept praying & An elderly man from church had lost his wife & offered 2 rooms in his house for me & my son a place to stay. Brandi said the state will help w/the rest. Brandi wkd hours on end for me. Finally Nov 19 2018 (11mo/12 days) the judge awarded Me FULL Custody!
I am FOREVER GRATEFUL & THANKFUL to Ms. Heiden! My Son is home w/me where He belongs; & I made a Friend 4 Life !!
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06 Sep, 2024 by Hadji
Outstanding job! Attorney Sam Jaber and Paralegal Breuna Jones are the BEST for all your issues with the law.
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31 Jul, 2024 by Patrice
Sam Jaber- Professional, Reasonable, Effective. I will always choose Mr. Jaber for all my legal accounts along with is beautiful assistant Breuna.
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5.0
1 Reviews
4.9
57 Reviews
03 Jul, 2024 by Claiborne ferguson
07 May, 2024 by Tony crowe
Very satisfied for the work that he has done in my case
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19 Feb, 2024 by Daouda camara
Salut je suis content d avoir un représentant comme Mr Stéphane A Sauer a Downtown Memphis qui répond à toutes mes questionnements consernant le domaine judiciaire. Ainsi a chaque fois que je lui visite a son office a Downtown je suis orientée selon mes soucis. Il ma beaucoup aidé étant en prison en 2022 en proposant de bon public lawyer pour mon Case a Shelby County Jail. Vraiment impressionnant même étant a l extérieur des États Unis chez moi en Afrique de l'ouest a Abidjan Mr Sauer m aide à m informé sur ma situation judiciaire sa me rassure dans mon aventure. Merci
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08 Jul, 2024 by Nichelle foster
Divorce is or can be a very stressful and depressing process. Ms. Wood realizes this and uses a trauma informed response in a very professional manner while walking you through the process. She is fair and comparable in her fees offering a good value for her expertise in the law. Ms. Wood responds by phone, text, and email in a very timely manner. There is no question that is too much and she will make sure you understand completely. THANK YOU!
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08 Jul, 2024 by James taylor
I have had the pleasure of Charity Wood representing me in my personal injury case ! In which she guided me through the entire process and helped me get the largest settlement I was able to receive! Thank you
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08 Jul, 2024 by Sherlena fudge
Very grateful I had the opportunity to have Ms. Woods as an attorney.She’s very efficient, attentive and PROFESSIONAL.If you’re in need of an attorney to help you retrieve any losses resulting from a car accident I highly recommend her.
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08 Jul, 2024 by James taylor
I have had the pleasure of Charity Wood representing me in my personal injury case ! In which she guided me through the entire process and helped me get the largest settlement I was able to receive! Thank you
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08 Jul, 2024 by Sherlena fudge
Very grateful I had the opportunity to have Ms. Woods as an attorney.She’s very efficient, attentive and PROFESSIONAL.If you’re in need of an attorney to help you retrieve any losses resulting from a car accident I highly recommend her.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Nichelle foster
Divorce is or can be a very stressful and depressing process. Ms. Wood realizes this and uses a trauma informed response in a very professional manner while walking you through the process. She is fair and comparable in her fees offering a good value for her expertise in the law. Ms. Wood responds by phone, text, and email in a very timely manner. There is no question that is too much and she will make sure you understand completely. THANK YOU!
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06 Apr, 2022 by Clinton anderson
29 Mar, 2022 by Gregory blumenthal (greg)
27 Oct, 2021 by Zack williams (exzackly)
08 Jul, 2024 by James taylor
I have had the pleasure of Charity Wood representing me in my personal injury case ! In which she guided me through the entire process and helped me get the largest settlement I was able to receive! Thank you
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08 Jul, 2024 by Sherlena fudge
Very grateful I had the opportunity to have Ms. Woods as an attorney.She’s very efficient, attentive and PROFESSIONAL.If you’re in need of an attorney to help you retrieve any losses resulting from a car accident I highly recommend her.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Nichelle foster
Divorce is or can be a very stressful and depressing process. Ms. Wood realizes this and uses a trauma informed response in a very professional manner while walking you through the process. She is fair and comparable in her fees offering a good value for her expertise in the law. Ms. Wood responds by phone, text, and email in a very timely manner. There is no question that is too much and she will make sure you understand completely. THANK YOU!
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5.0
10 Reviews
4.7
76 Reviews
29 Aug, 2024 by Yuko brown
I was nervous about estate planning process. But Mike Parham made process easy and smooth. His knowledge and guidance were much appreciated.
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17 Aug, 2024 by Nancy stallins
They were very pleasant and knowledgeable. Very easy to work with. They explained everything and made we feel important and cared for.
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01 Aug, 2024 by Carolyn postlethwaite
I so appreciated Mike Parham and his assistant for their support in helping me make a new Will. I would definitely use them again for any legal services that I need.
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02 Oct, 2024 by Stacy bronec
I only wish I found them sooner. They were professional, hard working and diligent. I can’t thank them enough
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03 Sep, 2024 by Eric d rayford
Very satisfied with Rice Law Firm. Nick and Chelsea exceeded my expectations. I had 2 other attorneys from 2 separte firms on my case for a year in a half before I discovered Rice Law. They took care of me not even half the time wasted with the other attorneys.
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06 Aug, 2024 by Shannon stelbrink
After reading a ton of reviews on different law firms I came to the conclusion that the Rice firm would be the best. Jessica and her paralegal Tyler are simply amazing, easy to work with and she has a true passion for her career. Would definitely recommend Jessica and the Rice firm to anyone who asks. Not everything went the exact way I wanted it to, but I'm more than satisfied with the way she handled my case and the outcome she was able to get for me!
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5.0
19 Reviews
4.8
60 Reviews
02 Oct, 2024 by Stacy bronec
I only wish I found them sooner. They were professional, hard working and diligent. I can’t thank them enough
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03 Sep, 2024 by Eric d rayford
Very satisfied with Rice Law Firm. Nick and Chelsea exceeded my expectations. I had 2 other attorneys from 2 separte firms on my case for a year in a half before I discovered Rice Law. They took care of me not even half the time wasted with the other attorneys.
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06 Aug, 2024 by Shannon stelbrink
After reading a ton of reviews on different law firms I came to the conclusion that the Rice firm would be the best. Jessica and her paralegal Tyler are simply amazing, easy to work with and she has a true passion for her career. Would definitely recommend Jessica and the Rice firm to anyone who asks. Not everything went the exact way I wanted it to, but I'm more than satisfied with the way she handled my case and the outcome she was able to get for me!
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02 Oct, 2024 by Stacy bronec
I only wish I found them sooner. They were professional, hard working and diligent. I can’t thank them enough
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03 Sep, 2024 by Eric d rayford
Very satisfied with Rice Law Firm. Nick and Chelsea exceeded my expectations. I had 2 other attorneys from 2 separte firms on my case for a year in a half before I discovered Rice Law. They took care of me not even half the time wasted with the other attorneys.
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06 Aug, 2024 by Shannon stelbrink
After reading a ton of reviews on different law firms I came to the conclusion that the Rice firm would be the best. Jessica and her paralegal Tyler are simply amazing, easy to work with and she has a true passion for her career. Would definitely recommend Jessica and the Rice firm to anyone who asks. Not everything went the exact way I wanted it to, but I'm more than satisfied with the way she handled my case and the outcome she was able to get for me!
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04 Sep, 2024 by C. hodges
Darrell Castle & Associates represented me well, I would recommend this law firm in the future. Lindsey Williams was very attentive to my case and she was excellent in making sure that I was treated appropriately during the completion of my case.(ie; Workman’s Comp).
Thank you,
Ms. Candance Hodges
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22 Aug, 2024 by Connie townsend
I had a good experience with Darrell Castle & Associates.
Lindsey Williams is the best! Highly recommended.
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16 Aug, 2024 by Jeffrey robinson
I am incredibly grateful to my social security lawyers for their outstanding work in winning my case. From the very beginning, they demonstrated a deep understanding of the complexities involved in social security law and provided clear, compassionate guidance every step of the way. Their expertise and dedication were evident in how they meticulously prepared my case, leaving no stone unturned.
What truly set them apart was their unwavering support and communication. They kept me informed throughout the entire process, patiently answering all my questions and addressing all my concerns. Their professionalism and genuine care gave me the confidence and piece of mind I needed during this challenging time.
Thanks to their hard work and strategic approach, my case was successful, and I received the benefits I deserved. I cannot thank them enough for their exceptional service and would highly recommend them to anyone in need of a social security lawyer. They truly made a difference in my life. Thank you Mr. Castle and Lindsey for helping me. Thank you Darrell Castle & Associates.
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15 Jul, 2024 by Lorretta jackson
The absolute BEST in town!
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19 Jun, 2024 by Andrew95
I’m an actual claims adjuster and my experience was better than expected! I previously worked in injury auto claims like this before transitioning to property claims because it was so stressful. I decided to hire an attorney to handle my claim because I was dragging my feet to handle it myself. Working for my own insurance company’s holding company, I knew roughly what settlement to expect but David and Elissa handled my claim and got me a great settlement, about 3 times what they normally would’ve paid. They kept me informed, handled the litigation, and made it a simple and easy process. My claim had a complicated coverage issue and they got it sorted out with minimal stress in my end. If you decide to hire an injury attorney, I definitely recommend them!!
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17 May, 2024 by M. miller (tommie)
David Gordon and his team is amazing. Very kind, knowledgeable, and their patience is top tier. I've only used them and I'm satisfied each time! Thank you David Gordon and team!
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10 Sep, 2024 by Josie holland
05 Sep, 2024 by Good book
MR JIM HALE IS A VERY GOOD LAWYER. HE WILL GO THE DISTANT FOR YOU
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23 Aug, 2024 by Rokell little
While searching for legal representation, Mr.Hale was recommended to me by a family friend. They gave Mr.Hale a 10/10 ! After doing my own research I immediately notice he was a great fit for me as well.
Mr.Hale was very professional, knowledgeable and reliable. I highly recommend him to everyone. Throughout my case Mr.Hale was attentive, and made sure to communicate with me every step of the way. Explaining every detail rather big or small. Throughout the process he worked very hard to get me the best deal. Greatly appreciative. Thanks, Mr Jim Hale for everything!
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02 Oct, 2024 by Stacy bronec
I only wish I found them sooner. They were professional, hard working and diligent. I can’t thank them enough
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03 Sep, 2024 by Eric d rayford
Very satisfied with Rice Law Firm. Nick and Chelsea exceeded my expectations. I had 2 other attorneys from 2 separte firms on my case for a year in a half before I discovered Rice Law. They took care of me not even half the time wasted with the other attorneys.
Read more
06 Aug, 2024 by Shannon stelbrink
After reading a ton of reviews on different law firms I came to the conclusion that the Rice firm would be the best. Jessica and her paralegal Tyler are simply amazing, easy to work with and she has a true passion for her career. Would definitely recommend Jessica and the Rice firm to anyone who asks. Not everything went the exact way I wanted it to, but I'm more than satisfied with the way she handled my case and the outcome she was able to get for me!
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02 Oct, 2024 by Stacy bronec
I only wish I found them sooner. They were professional, hard working and diligent. I can’t thank them enough
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03 Sep, 2024 by Eric d rayford
Very satisfied with Rice Law Firm. Nick and Chelsea exceeded my expectations. I had 2 other attorneys from 2 separte firms on my case for a year in a half before I discovered Rice Law. They took care of me not even half the time wasted with the other attorneys.
Read more
06 Aug, 2024 by Shannon stelbrink
After reading a ton of reviews on different law firms I came to the conclusion that the Rice firm would be the best. Jessica and her paralegal Tyler are simply amazing, easy to work with and she has a true passion for her career. Would definitely recommend Jessica and the Rice firm to anyone who asks. Not everything went the exact way I wanted it to, but I'm more than satisfied with the way she handled my case and the outcome she was able to get for me!
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15 Jul, 2024 by Demi lin
Brad George is very good at what he does. I will recommend him to anyone who needs a bankruptcy lawyer.
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12 Oct, 2021 by Lakeva smith
Very professional and knowledgeable
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11 Mar, 2021 by Margaret jordan
Attorney Brad George is one of the best Att I know. He took my case over 8 yrs ago. He respresended me well. I will refer him to anyone that needs a good attorney. He is very professional and straight going forward with you. Thanks Again.
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14 Apr, 2023 by Georgia tarton
30 Aug, 2021 by Ronald gretz
I had the privilege of retaining Mr Feild Sr in 2007 when I needed to appeal a decision in my case. I provided him my case file and even included a first draft of the appeal motion that I wrote on my own. A week later he took my case and within 3 months, things were corrected to the way they originally should have been adjudicated. It saddened me to recently learn of his passing a number of years ago. If Mr Feild Jr is anything like his father, they will treat you right and get the job done.
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17 Mar, 2021 by Tomeko patterson
14 Apr, 2023 by Georgia tarton
30 Aug, 2021 by Ronald gretz
I had the privilege of retaining Mr Feild Sr in 2007 when I needed to appeal a decision in my case. I provided him my case file and even included a first draft of the appeal motion that I wrote on my own. A week later he took my case and within 3 months, things were corrected to the way they originally should have been adjudicated. It saddened me to recently learn of his passing a number of years ago. If Mr Feild Jr is anything like his father, they will treat you right and get the job done.
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17 Mar, 2021 by Tomeko patterson
12 Jun, 2024 by Terry1111
Thank you so much Ms. Foxy Roxy🤣🤣 you’re the best. Thank you for being a great attorney you made this difficult time less stressful I really appreciate the time you put into my case. Stay great!!!
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06 Jun, 2024 by Arabella linger
Very helpful and made my experience quick and easy. Highly recommend for help with traffic tickets and more!
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25 Jan, 2024 by Antonio sharkey
16 Apr, 2024 by Thomas hann
Spoke with Michael over the phone. He is a good guy. Very knowledgeable and patient with all of my questions. Highly recommend.
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01 Feb, 2024 by Corry west
Mr.working be working he’s an awesome lawyer!!!!
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03 Jan, 2024 by Ari johnson
I called Mr.Mike working and just laid out my problem and even mistakenly gave him the wrong date he still met with me and represented us in court the very next morning and got the CASE DISMISSED.!!! 10/10 recommend
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3.7
3 Reviews
4.8
18 Reviews
16 Apr, 2024 by Montrell hilliard
My experience with working with this law firm was amazing. Lisa, Jarred, and Shebrina are professionals and will take care of you. They also keep all lines of communication clear. From being active duty and station else where this team have gotten the job done and met my expectations. They’re no such thing of a dumb question, they will literally explain everything to you and if you don’t understand they will break everything down to ensure you have a full understanding. I will chose Gill Family Law without hesitation, especially if you are military.
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02 Apr, 2024 by Virginia alter
I received personal care and attention during a particularly difficult and emotional case. I always felt like my legal team was two steps ahead of the opposition at every turn. I know this was due to hours of research and preparation. They took time to get to know us so that they knew best how to represent us, and they did that so very well. I don’t like to think about how different our outcomes would have been without all the “extra miles” they went for us.
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28 Mar, 2024 by Cathy shoffner
I highly recommend Melinda Jewell. I think our case was her longest and hardest. She had been compassionate and very patient with all of us. If you are looking for a good attorney hire her!! She’s the best.
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01 Nov, 2024 by Shawn armstrong
I have been fighting back pain for 6 yrs now! I just want to thank kim🙏🏻 for helping me to get everything i needed. Once again it was such a blessing.
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22 Oct, 2024 by Julia chapman
Thank you Kim for answering any questions I had and for always staying in contact with me.
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18 Sep, 2024 by Eddie house
I appreciate Gene, Sandra and his teams wonderful job they did for me. I will recommend their services!
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20 Sep, 2024 by Davinci newson
Excellent service everyone that I talked to was well experienced at their job they made my job very easy and pleasant I recommend anybody looking for a good lawyer to work with this company
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16 Sep, 2024 by Jacqueline banks
10 Sep, 2024 by Lamarcus butler
29 Aug, 2024 by Yuko brown
I was nervous about estate planning process. But Mike Parham made process easy and smooth. His knowledge and guidance were much appreciated.
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17 Aug, 2024 by Nancy stallins
They were very pleasant and knowledgeable. Very easy to work with. They explained everything and made we feel important and cared for.
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01 Aug, 2024 by Carolyn postlethwaite
I so appreciated Mike Parham and his assistant for their support in helping me make a new Will. I would definitely use them again for any legal services that I need.
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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.
