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04 Feb, 2025 by Tacaris payne
From the Briscoe Family. Hired Mr Campbell for my case, he told me what he was gonna do and he did everything he said he was gonna do. Excellent attorney . Will be using him again and I strongly recommend him. And all of the staff was nice, friendly and helpful. If you need a attorney that's gonna fight for you and succeed, call Campbell law firm.
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31 Jan, 2025 by Mary brinkey
I would like to Thank Leslie and his staff I rate you all 100 percent real 🙏 you do what you say you gone do Thank you from The Clark Brinkley family we really love your work From grandmother Mary I know you all got tired of me 😔 Thank you
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29 Jan, 2025 by Tammy mcgowan
Ms. Tanya helped to keep the flow of our case on point. From appointment reminders, taking time to explain things from court…whatever she could do to assist was done. Your hard work for Us did not go unnoticed 🥰🥰
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04 Sep, 2023 by Jeanne arthur
07 Jun, 2021 by Shawn shane wilson
Great Firm 👍
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28 Apr, 2021 by Ethan bearman
05 Dec, 2024 by Amy hernandez
25 Mar, 2023 by Tish mccaney
Love Laurie! She is very thorough and knows her stuff! She goes above and beyond for me, and the paralegals who work with her are so helpful, too!!!
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24 Feb, 2023 by Tuyen kalapu
Laurie helped my husband and I through a custody case with my step children. She was very proficient and always put the well being of the children first. Till this day I can still text or call her for any questions or concerns I have!
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19 Dec, 2024 by Tony “badson” avant
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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16 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
Nick acted like he cared about my case. As the victim of long standing DV, ending with my ex being arrested and a SWAT team being involved, I thought I would finally see justice. Nope. Nick didn’t return phone calls/emails. I had proof my ex was violating multiple conditions of his bond order. Nick simply didn’t care. Transferred the case to Shelby County. There will be no consequences. So now my ex gets to do this to someone else. Nick is a coward. Lazy. Incompetent. Unprofessional.
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29 Nov, 2018 by Cynthia mason-hutchinson
My father was incarcerated for an incident against my brother and after I met with Nick for a consultation and within 3 minutes of talking with him, I hired him immediately. Nick was very detailed on all of the pros and cons of my dads case, very informative and through from day one. My dad was looking at a lengthy sentence, “Possibly Life,” but Nick pushed on and my Dad ended up not passing away behind bars, but instead at home with his family. Thanks to Nicks persistence, dedication, commitment, and unselfish loyalty to my Dad & Our Family. For all of that, I am and will always be forever grateful to Nick! I can never Thank You Enough.
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29 Mar, 2017 by Fotini sandoval
Thanks to Nicholas! Every step of my divorce was explained in detail with no unexpected surprises!
Highly Recommended!
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28 Oct, 2019 by Anne
Coble is a smart, capable attorney. We have sought his advice on various matters over the years and have always benefited from his counsel. He is also a pleasure to deal with.
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28 Oct, 2019 by Randy
As a small business owner many curveballs come your way. I know I can depend on Coble Caperton to help me navigate through issues large and small. He is smart, professional and a nice person. He shows genuine concern for the issues confronting his clients and wholeheartedly uses his professional experience to achieve the best for them. I have hired him numerous times over the past 35 years and would not hesitate to do so again if the need arose.
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24 Oct, 2019 by Mike hamby
Coble has proven to me that he is a man of character and integrity. He just didn’t take my divorce case but tried as a friend to make sure I had exhausted all means before finally giving up. Coble thank you for your advise and representation your the best. I would highly recommend Coble and I hope if you are reading this review you at least interview him.
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09 Mar, 2024 by Margaret wilson
25 Feb, 2023 by Billy davis
Typical lawyers. Mercenary for their own interests, clients are simply vehicles for revenue generation.
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02 Jul, 2022 by Lori turns
Perfect direction's. Start to my destination.
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09 Mar, 2024 by Margaret wilson
25 Feb, 2023 by Billy davis
Typical lawyers. Mercenary for their own interests, clients are simply vehicles for revenue generation.
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02 Jul, 2022 by Lori turns
Perfect direction's. Start to my destination.
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30 Nov, 2024 by Angel fleming
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
03 Dec, 2023 by Ashley lurry
I love David
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14 Sep, 2023 by Rita wells
Ericka Baker is the Attorney I was recommended to, She’s a young, professional woman who knows what she’s doing, Great attorney and fight for what is right!!!! She’s listens to you and understands you..I highly recommended Ms.Baker… Mr.Jonathan Cooling doesn’t work there anymore, I don’t think but Jonathan Collins has been the worst Lawyer ever…
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07 Aug, 2023 by Eboni anderson
Although I had a rough time when I first filed for my divorce with another attorney. My case was given to Attorney Erica Baker with no explanation of what was wrong with the paper work. But She stepped in and quickly corrected issues that were wrong ; she worked hard to get everything finished. Even though the process took longer , she was committed so I commend her for that. I highly recommend her.
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21 Dec, 2024 by Cassidy smith
Definitely don't recommend expecting to receive any sort of good outcome when hiring Macaw, still trying to undo the damage that was done.
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31 Jan, 2024 by Rich c.
Can’t trust a law firm whose main goal is to disrupt a mothers life and try to take her kids away or to jail due to a lying husband. Don’t trust this law firm for anything. All crooks
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16 Jan, 2023 by Kelli abee
This law firm is top notch in every way!
Amy Cannon has helped me many times over the years, and is an absolutely wonderful attorney and person!
Her and her team are extremely professional, return calls and e-mails in a timely manner, and are always helpful and kind.
I would highly recommend her to anyone needing help with child custody or support issues. She is simply the best!
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21 Dec, 2024 by Cassidy smith
Definitely don't recommend expecting to receive any sort of good outcome when hiring Macaw, still trying to undo the damage that was done.
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31 Jan, 2024 by Rich c.
Can’t trust a law firm whose main goal is to disrupt a mothers life and try to take her kids away or to jail due to a lying husband. Don’t trust this law firm for anything. All crooks
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16 Jan, 2023 by Kelli abee
This law firm is top notch in every way!
Amy Cannon has helped me many times over the years, and is an absolutely wonderful attorney and person!
Her and her team are extremely professional, return calls and e-mails in a timely manner, and are always helpful and kind.
I would highly recommend her to anyone needing help with child custody or support issues. She is simply the best!
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21 Dec, 2024 by Cassidy smith
Definitely don't recommend expecting to receive any sort of good outcome when hiring Macaw, still trying to undo the damage that was done.
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31 Jan, 2024 by Rich c.
Can’t trust a law firm whose main goal is to disrupt a mothers life and try to take her kids away or to jail due to a lying husband. Don’t trust this law firm for anything. All crooks
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16 Jan, 2023 by Kelli abee
This law firm is top notch in every way!
Amy Cannon has helped me many times over the years, and is an absolutely wonderful attorney and person!
Her and her team are extremely professional, return calls and e-mails in a timely manner, and are always helpful and kind.
I would highly recommend her to anyone needing help with child custody or support issues. She is simply the best!
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07 Jun, 2024 by W johnsen
Jason was very professional and provided great service. I highly recommend him.
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26 Aug, 2021 by John littles
17 Aug, 2021 by Walter butler
21 Dec, 2024 by Cassidy smith
Definitely don't recommend expecting to receive any sort of good outcome when hiring Macaw, still trying to undo the damage that was done.
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31 Jan, 2024 by Rich c.
Can’t trust a law firm whose main goal is to disrupt a mothers life and try to take her kids away or to jail due to a lying husband. Don’t trust this law firm for anything. All crooks
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18 Aug, 2023 by Kenneth
Had a friend recommend her. She trashed the other law firm I was using to get my retainer. I could tell there were problems from the start. She sent another junior attorney to cover for her while she went on vacation. Then whenever you asked questions or needed some advice she was always very busy on other cases or mediation and don't dare call her during a mediation as you won't her from her for DAYS. I certainly believe she has to much on her plate personally and professionally. She works on her time not yours even though you are the one paying the bill and let me say a very expensive bill. You are not allowed to question an invoice and was never given an explanation for some of the exorbitant fees they charged. She might be handling 3 cases in court on any given day but you will be charged fees in full including drive time to and from courthouse. On 1 instance I met her outside of courthouse and was told she had to run inside to take care of a few cases and would speak to me before we went in to court. Much to my dismay she showed up 5 minutes late and stated that she and the other attorney had worked out something I was totally against. I had it and I went off on her told her she was fired she then cozied up to the opposing attorneys in front of me and said she was representing me whether or not I liked it. Insane right? Trust me this happened. Instead of referring to my ex as a Mrs. or Ms. she then began calling her by her first name when discussing her. Perplexed to say the least. I could go on for another hour describing the poor job she did for me. When I disagreed with the final invoice they sent they would not discuss it with me, sued me and put a lien on my home. Who does this? I understand she was mad I fired her but not discussing the invoice I had concerns over?? Don't use this firm and especially Amy or Ashley Martin. The apple doesn't fall far. Should you need to contact me for more info please do so through email I've supplied below. Let me finish with this, her attire was atrocious for an attorney, she was dazed and confused on most occasions we met. If, and I mean if she gave me more than 5 minutes of her time to discuss something that was a miracle. Shaken, stunned, astonished at the level of incompetence I dealt with. I ended up going back to my old attorney who has done a fantastic job and would recommend highly. Please let me know if you need any additional information.
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09 Jul, 2013 by Cathy
I'm not exactly sure what to write here. My pastor recommended that I talk with Jami and I hired him to help me with my divorce after I had a chance to meet and "interview" him. He may be the best listener I've ever met! I just thought my girlfriends were good listeners until I met him, but I was sooo surprised at the time he spent listening to me before he ever even started giving me advice. I can't say how much I appreciated that.
But besides the listening he also turned out to be pretty badass as a lawyer too:) I'm very happy that I was guided to him and hired him.
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19 Oct, 2012 by Em
I spent several months deliberating over who to hire for my divorce. I didn't know who to use so I asked some of my friends and one of them who had recently gone through a divorce told me about her experience and actually recommended that I talk to her husband's attorney, Jami Ferrell. She said that she wished she had hired him instead of the attorney that she had used. I really couldn't believe that she recommended the attorney her husband used.
I ended up hiring him for my divorce and he did a great job in getting me alimony and child support. I told him that I didn't want to go through an drawn out and ugly divorce and he was really understanding about this. He was great in working to get my divorce without really completely screwing up the relationship between me and my now ex-husband. And that was really important to me since we see each other a lot because of our kids.
The things I liked about him were that he had a no BS approach and told me the good and bad stuff and what to expect (and not to expect), he didn't do a lot of extra stuff just to bump up my fees, and he was very honest and sincere. He also was really smart when it came to dealing with all our finances, he was pretty impressive when it came to working out all of our financial junk (it was crazy).
I strongly recommend him if you have to hire a divorce lawyer.
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11 Sep, 2012 by Kellyy
I hired another lawyer to represent me in my divorce first before I hired Jami and had a terrible experience. The first lawyer I used was impossible to communicate with and didn't seem to really care about my case. Then I called Jami after seeing a billboard and I'm glad I did.
He handled my divorce very professionally and I was really happy with how prepared he was. When we went to court the judge actually said they were impressed how well he he had everything in order. He told me what to expect to win on and what things I probably wouldn't win even if he did the best lawyering job ever and I appreciated that. Overall he was super smart, considerate and a hard-worker. I definitely endorse him.
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04 Sep, 2018 by Anonymous
I hired this attorney for a contested divorce.She was paid and I didnt hear from her for two in ahalf months divorce was filed three months after she was paid. Months would go by I didnt hear from her i called and left a voicemail she replied few days later. She didnt do what i paid her for. She didnt take any notes she constantly asked throughout the whole process if I still wanted a divorce. This divorce was a hardship to pay. She withdrew my case after i requested a detailed ledger which i was charged over 10grand for emails and repeated copies and she kept my money and i am still married.
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22 Jul, 2016 by Arthur
Attorney Pamela W. Kelly is very Professional. She provided me with excellent representation. All my legal matters was expeditiously taken care of. She has my highly recommendation for legal representation for any future clients.
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26 May, 2015 by Summer
Although it has a been a long journey, Pamela Kelly has been diligent and determined in registering the trademark for my organization, S.O What!. She has kept me posted and informed throughout the entire process and kept my case a priority throught the entire process. In addition, she also gave me additional information and ideas to support my business and my efforts. Beyond that, she has supported me and my business and has become a true friend.
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14 Nov, 2024 by Travis caldwell
Please reconsider if you’re planning on using this law firm. They are HORRIBLE and they do not communicate with the client. They only answer the phone when they’re trying to get you as a client and after that you won’t hear from them. YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED!!!!
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29 Oct, 2024 by Amy kollias
28 Oct, 2024 by Veronica james
Great experience! Sequita was very communicative and helpful. We definitely recommend this law office.
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06 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
Ms. Stephens was the first of my 4 Attorney’s that took my case to heart and realize that there are some good dads out there. She helped me gain back more time with my boys. So appreciative!
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07 Jul, 2018 by Anonymous
My son got in a little trouble being at the wrong place at the wrong time which could have had major consequences. She represented us without fail and we are so grateful for the results! Would highly recommend!
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06 May, 2016 by Anonymous
Worked all day long on my criminal case until it was done and finished. So happy with the results.
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13 Jul, 2019 by April
She was a great attorney, she helped me get my daughter back. My original attorney was kicked off my case and she was court appointed. the judge ordered the paid attorney to give me $2500 of my $4500 back. I went to the court house and the lady at the court house gave me a copy of the paper work saying the old attorney already paid my attorney (Autumn Chastain) my money back and I had to take that to her office to request my money. She said she never recieved my money from William Winchester. I went back to the Court house and they said it showed right there in the paperwork that he indeed paid my money back and autumn has it! I went back to her office several times and the desk lady said she wasn't there every time. No returned phone calls. The last time i went up there I left a copy with the secretary that she said she would give to autumn. I never heard anything back. I was never paid my court ordered money. I still have my copy and it still makes me angry every time I think about it! Im grateful for her helping me get my daughter back. She even gave her stuff for Christmas the first year I had her back, but it seems like I paid for it really. I tried many times at 2 different offices she moved to, nothing!
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15 Jul, 2017 by Danny
Autumn represented me in the wrongful death of my daughter. It was a difficult case but Autumn was there for me through every stage of the case. Our case dealt with an inept but combative opposing attorney, Autumn fought aggressively on my behalf and won practically every battle that had to be fought. I am a law student nearing graduation and I clinic with juvenile offenders. Working in the children's defense field, I again worked with Autumn and can tell you she was a fierce advocate and strong defender for these children. I am legally educated, I understand the nuances that come with representation of various different cases and my observations from my own case, from others I observed, and my expectations of what an attorney should be; Autumn Chastain is a Superior Attorney. If I had to face any legal battle, to be in a courtroom foxhole, there is no one else that I would want fight by my side.
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15 Mar, 2017 by Smith
She is one of the best children lawyer. She works hard and keep you on point about what's going on.
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17 Jan, 2025 by Santana trenell
Just been waiting and waiting and waiting… poor service .. no effort
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08 Dec, 2024 by Justin marise
So since early September I was trying to get my VA case appealed, I left a dozen messages over the course of a few months with the assistant but they would never return my call, I literally spoke to him once and he said if I could get a doctor to send a letter that they would appeal my case for me, but they would never return my calls so we could move forward. Definitely wish I hadn't wasted my time.
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17 Oct, 2024 by Janae declouet
Very unprofessional. She blocked me from contacting her by email and claimed she never received the voice mail or messages from her secretary. She made a deal with my Ex. without my input.
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10 Sep, 2024 by Kimberly kelsey
Worked for this firm, and they were extremely polite and paid on time
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02 Jul, 2024 by Bettie ferguson
24 May, 2024 by Tyrone scott
Been trying to get Pam to call me back for about 3 weeks I have left messages emails and she refuse to contact me about a case she forgot to close. Guess I will have to sue her.
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21 Jan, 2025 by Dante rosales
I hired a lawyer from this office that took $10,000 from me and then quit practicing family law 6 months later.
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15 Jan, 2025 by Jake steffenhagen
Joshua Corman handled my case with precise expertise. I cannot thank him enough for his care and genuine manner. Very accommodating and professional, great communication. Highly recommended.
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06 Jan, 2025 by April fletcher
Mr. Angelakis is the real MVP. From the beginning to the end!! Very informative, patient and friendly. Even the receptionist was a sweetheart. If you are looking for a lawyer that goes above and beyond for their clients.He’s most definitely the guy to get the job done. I promise you want be disappointed!!!
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23 Oct, 2024 by Pat hubbard
Attorney Howard never stop fighting for me. Every time we had court she meant business. She got my support lowered and I got more days with my kid. Not to mention she got my rear taken off. I will refer her to anyone.
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18 Oct, 2024 by Mary copeland
Attorney Howard was very professional and was very responsive to all of my emails and phone calls. The fees were also reasonable. I am very satisfied with the outcome of my child support hearing.
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18 Oct, 2024 by Jarterrius brown
21 Jan, 2025 by Dante rosales
I hired a lawyer from this office that took $10,000 from me and then quit practicing family law 6 months later.
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15 Jan, 2025 by Jake steffenhagen
Joshua Corman handled my case with precise expertise. I cannot thank him enough for his care and genuine manner. Very accommodating and professional, great communication. Highly recommended.
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06 Jan, 2025 by April fletcher
Mr. Angelakis is the real MVP. From the beginning to the end!! Very informative, patient and friendly. Even the receptionist was a sweetheart. If you are looking for a lawyer that goes above and beyond for their clients.He’s most definitely the guy to get the job done. I promise you want be disappointed!!!
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21 Jan, 2025 by Dante rosales
I hired a lawyer from this office that took $10,000 from me and then quit practicing family law 6 months later.
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15 Jan, 2025 by Jake steffenhagen
Joshua Corman handled my case with precise expertise. I cannot thank him enough for his care and genuine manner. Very accommodating and professional, great communication. Highly recommended.
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22 Dec, 2024 by Brod scott
If you are looking for a good lawyer Mr.Joshua is the one to take great care of you. I want to say thank you Mr.Joshua taken care of me with my situation
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07 Jun, 2024 by W johnsen
Jason was very professional and provided great service. I highly recommend him.
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26 Aug, 2021 by John littles
17 Aug, 2021 by Walter butler
07 Jun, 2024 by W johnsen
Jason was very professional and provided great service. I highly recommend him.
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26 Aug, 2021 by John littles
17 Aug, 2021 by Walter butler
31 Oct, 2014 by Edmond
I have used Ms. Malone for various issues over the past few years and each time she has exceeded my expectations! She is very friendly and I would not hesitate to go to her on future matters!
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17 Apr, 2013 by Casey
My divorce was handled quickly and much less expensive than I anticipated. I am very pleased with my attorney and her office staff.
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17 Jul, 2012 by Lisa
Ms. Malone was highly recommended to me. The only negative comments I had heard about her as an attorney were from people who were on the other side of her divorce cases, and because of her aggressiveness as an attorney, they did not prevaill they way they expected. My divorce was quick, smooth and painless. I was well informed at all times, and she advised me appropriately for my situation. I would recommend her to any of my friends.
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14 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
If you want a lawyer that’s going to fight for, Michael would not be a great choice. Went back and forth to court over a year to not gain any traction on my case, only to be left paying 1600 a month in child support, owing 50k in back child support, even after providing proof I had my child 4 years out of 6. Michael didn’t represent me he only ridiculed me for my actions of having a child out of wedlock. I only selected 1 star because I had too.
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16 Jan, 2023 by Anonymous
Attorney Michael Mitchell is a very caring lawyer. I messed up with the address and got half an hour late for my appointment. Attorney Mitchell was still very patient, answered my questions, and gave the honest information. He cares about the client's situation, very polite and knowledgeable.
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21 Sep, 2021 by Vivian
Attorney Michael Mitchell is a great lawyer. He truly cares about his clients and will not tell you a lie. He will give you honest information even if the truth hurts. He is reasonable and very nice and considerate. You will not be sorry if you chose him to represent you!
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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.
