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05 Sep, 2024 by Abe henderson
Unethical scam artists that regularly get disbarred and only care about billable hour$. If you’re not racking up hour$, even after telling them about your budget, they’ll drop you right before trial and leave you unrepresented. Need your files? Too bad, pay your ransom.
They schedule appointments against your will and charge you anyways, even after telling them you didn’t agree to it. They’ll backpay themselves when you weren’t represented by them and chit chat about the weather to bloat the hour$.
They’ll also whisper into their recording device “No client-attorney privilege”, before asking questions around other unknown people, outside of their office. Don’t like that? Go unrepresented or write a blank check.
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21 Aug, 2024 by Valentyna sprinkle
Obsolutly irrelevant Law firm, not helping to client outgoing custody issues, most worries getting upfront retainer money good amount most priority and hourly pay by credit cards trust accounts
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20 Aug, 2024 by Jay dumas
05 Sep, 2024 by Abe henderson
Unethical scam artists that regularly get disbarred and only care about billable hour$. If you’re not racking up hour$, even after telling them about your budget, they’ll drop you right before trial and leave you unrepresented. Need your files? Too bad, pay your ransom.
They schedule appointments against your will and charge you anyways, even after telling them you didn’t agree to it. They’ll backpay themselves when you weren’t represented by them and chit chat about the weather to bloat the hour$.
They’ll also whisper into their recording device “No client-attorney privilege”, before asking questions around other unknown people, outside of their office. Don’t like that? Go unrepresented or write a blank check.
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21 Aug, 2024 by Valentyna sprinkle
Obsolutly irrelevant Law firm, not helping to client outgoing custody issues, most worries getting upfront retainer money good amount most priority and hourly pay by credit cards trust accounts
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20 Aug, 2024 by Jay dumas
21 Jan, 2025 by Chad ciezki
Thought things were great, than later on Sam Pittman bails with no notice with all my money… couldn’t contact him… so please avoid this guy like the plague. Has multiple complaints against him with the bar association…
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21 Jan, 2025 by Thomas mason
10 Dec, 2024 by Efrain borquez
Great Attorney, makes you feel seen!
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03 Aug, 2024 by Wren grow
Jeremy S. Geigle and his previous legal assistant, Luis Sisniega, are excellent and they helped me every step of the way!
(However, I had to Change lawyers early-on, because my first lawyer here, with the initials of A.A. was absolutely abhorrent.)
— Wren Grow
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03 Aug, 2024 by Fernando dorantes
"Excellent service and amazing work ,treated like family and never put aside"
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02 Aug, 2024 by Ambermarie mccann
07 Feb, 2025 by Frankie rivera
Not A good experience. My accident was in June, I didn't hear anything from them till December when I completed Physical Therapy. They said they would request my records from the doctor and didn't. I've been calling at least every 2 weeks since. The paralegal working on my case was let go and now they are saying they need to request medical records again and basically everything the paralegal said he did they need to do it again. I have no idea how much longer it's going to take to hear back from them again but im ready to get a second opinion since my case is low priority to them . People are right about the no communication part
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09 Jan, 2025 by Az moving
One of the worst crash incidents lawyers ever I’m telling you with full honesty these people suck and they are full of greed like they took forever with my case and then after they took months it took even longer cause they didn’t write the check right even after everything the made me go through they still thought it was right to take 7000 dollars as a fee out of a small check like I would totally understand if they were doing a labor job but sitting my ass on a desk and picking up calls to take that much money away from someone that was in the crash incident is crazy and upsetting if I could give half a star I would
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16 Dec, 2024 by Rebeka esparza
These people are horrible. Over a year of suffering and they ran up all the medical so my husband can’t even get surgery. We got a 25k settlement out of that we got 4300!
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11 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
Mr. Everts represented me in a very difficult divorce about 10 years ago. It involved AZ law, International law, and another State's law for a prenup. He was able to maneuver through all of it succinctly and accurately. Highly qualified and I was in very good hands in my representation. I do not believe my divorce would have handled as well if I hired another lawyer, as he truly researched and figured out all the aspects of this complicated case.
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12 Apr, 2018 by Anonymous
Extremely thorough and offered complimentary consult when most seasoned attorneys with his tenure would charge a minimum of $150 - $200 /hr. I was impressed he requested additional material to review/ consider to provide a more thoughtful analysis of my case. No denying Steven is an expert and sincerely appreciated his time.
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25 Apr, 2017 by Veronica
I hired Mr everts to be my attorney for a divorce modification child support, & custody. long story short he didn't catch something and something they told me all along they would do could no longer be done because I had not done my paperwork incorrectly. He was hired as my attorney and even had me correct the child support worrsheet but blamed me for his error in not catching it. I did file a complaint with the AZ STATE Bar and because this was a mistake I was advised to look for a legalmalpractice lawyer because he cost my son close to $35,000 in back child support that we could not get because he made a mistake not me. I will be building a webpage to post my story, in the end at my child support pre hearing with my x attorney in the room, and the end my x first words out of his mouth where him thanking my attorney. Justice was not served and this momma is on fire with what he put us though. My son is special needs and he did not advocate for me for him like he was hired to do so. DO not hire them!
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09 Jun, 2020 by Landon
Sheri is an excellent attorney. She has helped us and continues to help us with our family court related issues. She is a no nonsense type. She sets realistic expectations and is clear in her communication. She presents her points clearly and concisely. We have really appreciated working with her and would highly recommend her to anyone in need of family related matters.
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01 Feb, 2020 by Brenda mangan
Sheri, Randa & Karen are amazing, great team constantly updated us through the entire process answered every question and went above and beyond when we needed them to make sure I was being treated fairly by the circumstances. She represented me in a child custody case where the other parent filed for sole custody. She fought for what was in the best interest of our son and made sure that I understood every step we where taking. I recommend her every chance I get and I will continue to recommend her, They are the best!
Sheri patiently explained and helped understand the process. She also helped me how to communicate strongly and effectively since English is my second language. I’ve learned a lot and I want to say Thank you Sheri, Randa & Karen!
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28 Dec, 2016 by James black
Sheri is amazing both in and out of court. She explained the process clearly for me to understand in the beginning and there were no surprises. She communicates well and is extremely professional. Sheri was able to get my monthly child support obligation lowered and my daughter born out of wedlock on the same custody agreement which I have with my son's born during my marriage. Sheri will give it to you straight and fight for you in court.
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22 Mar, 2019 by Lindsay
I found Udall Shumway through my employer and was more than impressed by the level of professionalism and expertise I received. Divorce is a very stressful event and Barry and his team (Debbie and Donna) were always there to assure me of progress and next steps. I felt taken care of and trusted this team immensely. I highly recommend this law firm and this legal team, five stars!!
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07 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. Dickerson about five years ago to represent me with several and very complex post decree legal matters. I felt well represented and extremely pleased with the outcomes. Mr. Dickerson is well respected within the industry and has consistently delivered solid advice and guidance. I would recommend him to anyone that finds themselves in need of an outstanding family / divorce attorney.
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14 Jan, 2015 by Sheryl
I have never retained an attorney before and I was so glad that I chose Barry Dickerson to represent me. He went above and beyond my expectations. The research he did on my case was endless and always thinking of what he could do next to support me. I highly recommend Mr. Dickerson and appreciate all he did for me.
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21 Jan, 2025 by Chad ciezki
Thought things were great, than later on Sam Pittman bails with no notice with all my money… couldn’t contact him… so please avoid this guy like the plague. Has multiple complaints against him with the bar association…
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21 Jan, 2025 by Thomas mason
10 Dec, 2024 by Efrain borquez
Great Attorney, makes you feel seen!
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21 Jan, 2025 by Chad ciezki
Thought things were great, than later on Sam Pittman bails with no notice with all my money… couldn’t contact him… so please avoid this guy like the plague. Has multiple complaints against him with the bar association…
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21 Jan, 2025 by Thomas mason
10 Dec, 2024 by Efrain borquez
Great Attorney, makes you feel seen!
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05 Sep, 2024 by Abe henderson
Unethical scam artists that regularly get disbarred and only care about billable hour$. If you’re not racking up hour$, even after telling them about your budget, they’ll drop you right before trial and leave you unrepresented. Need your files? Too bad, pay your ransom.
They schedule appointments against your will and charge you anyways, even after telling them you didn’t agree to it. They’ll backpay themselves when you weren’t represented by them and chit chat about the weather to bloat the hour$.
They’ll also whisper into their recording device “No client-attorney privilege”, before asking questions around other unknown people, outside of their office. Don’t like that? Go unrepresented or write a blank check.
Read more
21 Aug, 2024 by Valentyna sprinkle
Obsolutly irrelevant Law firm, not helping to client outgoing custody issues, most worries getting upfront retainer money good amount most priority and hourly pay by credit cards trust accounts
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20 Aug, 2024 by Jay dumas
14 Jan, 2020 by Jeff towns
Deborah Varney is very experienced when it comes to family law and I'm very pleased she represented me during the process of my dissolution of marriage. Deb worked diligently and was very thorough during a difficult time in my life. Deborah doesn't "sugar coat" anything and is a straight shooter. With experience comes a price, and she was priceless when I received everything I had asked for, especially the parenting time with my two young daughters. Do not hesitate to hire Deborah Varney as your lawyer, you will not regret it!
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12 Aug, 2019 by Bonifacio
Deborah Varney was a great choice to help me through a divorce. Deborah was always prepared and gave me excellent advice from the start. I was referred to Deborah for my legal case and I have referred several people to her law firm.
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18 Jun, 2018 by Anonymous
Deborah Varney was one of the best choices I've made in my life! I'm so thankful my friend recommended her.
Deb has been practicing family law for so many years, I knew immediately within the first 5 minutes that she knew what she was talking about. Deb is brutally honest and direct! No beating around the bush with her! She knows her sh/+!! She blew my ex husband out of the water on the stand! She caught him in so many lies.
I wasn't asking my ex for the world, just what was fair. Deb explained things to me, I would have never thought to ask for.
My children and I can now move forward and begin our lives!
Thank you Deborah Varney!! We are so grateful for you! You ROCK!!
This woman knows her stuff and you'd be crazy not to hire her.
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14 Jan, 2025 by Robert schoonover
Fast friendly efficient service. Michaela was great. She helped me along each step of the way simplifying the process.
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03 Jan, 2025 by Terri smith
I am so thankful I found this firm. They really care about the client. They made me feel so comfortable and confidant. Helping me over and above with my case. Awesome attorney and I can't say enough about the Para legals. Always there to listen and help. If you need an Attorney....these are your people
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24 Dec, 2024 by Jenny mendoza
I highly recommend Atlas Law Firm. They made me feel safe and I felt they had the best interest in me for my situation. I left the office with a huge weight off my shoulders. Thanks for all the advice!
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03 Aug, 2024 by Wren grow
Jeremy S. Geigle and his previous legal assistant, Luis Sisniega, are excellent and they helped me every step of the way!
(However, I had to Change lawyers early-on, because my first lawyer here, with the initials of A.A. was absolutely abhorrent.)
— Wren Grow
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03 Aug, 2024 by Fernando dorantes
"Excellent service and amazing work ,treated like family and never put aside"
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02 Aug, 2024 by Ambermarie mccann
03 Aug, 2024 by Wren grow
Jeremy S. Geigle and his previous legal assistant, Luis Sisniega, are excellent and they helped me every step of the way!
(However, I had to Change lawyers early-on, because my first lawyer here, with the initials of A.A. was absolutely abhorrent.)
— Wren Grow
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03 Aug, 2024 by Fernando dorantes
"Excellent service and amazing work ,treated like family and never put aside"
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02 Aug, 2024 by Ambermarie mccann
19 Dec, 2019 by Anonymous
He could care less about the case or do I g what is right. He accepted a payment from me and then withdrew as my attorney weeks prior to court, do to my inability to give him an additional $5,000 retainer. He had already charged me $8000+ and had accomplished nothing.
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26 Feb, 2019 by Don
Glenn worked with me to help get custody of my children. He discussed all aspects of the case and made sure I knew everything that could and couldn’t happen. Was his rate higher than some other lawyers? Sure-but he fought for me twice as hard as my other lawyers had in the past. I promise, his value far exceeds his rate. Hire him. You won’t regret it. And I am saying that after my case did not go the way I wish it had.
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31 Aug, 2017 by Chris
I have used Glenn for a few years ... yes, years.
I am a single father to an only child and my ex and I have equal custody; but as these things go, as she has aged and life has become more about power and control (and gasp, money), I found myself increasingly defending myself against frivolous claims ... not wanting to lawyer-up for simple paperwork, I'd prepare all of my own documents and then use the one-hour consulting offer from Glenn to make sure I wasn't going to make a bad mistake.
After a couple of years, and dealing with an onslaught of legal filings, I bit the bullet and decided to go the "retainer" route with Glenn and his practice ... figured it was worth the cost to make all of the aggravation and emotions someone else's problem.
It was well worth it as I was able to relax knowing I had someone very professional, experienced and competent taking care of everything for me ... I can't say I "won" but I certainly didn't lose and my life (and my child's) are so much better with all of this behind us ... and all of this is because I trusted Glenn and his firm.
We have two more years until my child turns 18, and while I hope I never have to see Glenn again, I won't hesitate retaining him again if ever I find the need!
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21 Jan, 2025 by Chad ciezki
Thought things were great, than later on Sam Pittman bails with no notice with all my money… couldn’t contact him… so please avoid this guy like the plague. Has multiple complaints against him with the bar association…
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21 Jan, 2025 by Thomas mason
10 Dec, 2024 by Efrain borquez
Great Attorney, makes you feel seen!
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24 Oct, 2023 by Maria cruz
Best lawyer I ever had!
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28 May, 2022 by Anonymous
The worst guy On the planet earth calling themselves an attorney.
Be aware of the lies, doing things without your consent,not returning calls,not following thru on promise's,and yes taking more money then he should.
Just a scammer, does absolutely nothing!!!
He's in the business to take advantage of people.not going to fight for you!
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12 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
Lawton represents the opposing party. He has consistently missed scheduled meetings, is not prompt on his responses, and has blamed his assistant for not being able to contact me to schedule meetings. He has brought up personal issues not related to the matters being discussed and has allowed his client to knowingly make false claims to the court.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Abe henderson
Unethical scam artists that regularly get disbarred and only care about billable hour$. If you’re not racking up hour$, even after telling them about your budget, they’ll drop you right before trial and leave you unrepresented. Need your files? Too bad, pay your ransom.
They schedule appointments against your will and charge you anyways, even after telling them you didn’t agree to it. They’ll backpay themselves when you weren’t represented by them and chit chat about the weather to bloat the hour$.
They’ll also whisper into their recording device “No client-attorney privilege”, before asking questions around other unknown people, outside of their office. Don’t like that? Go unrepresented or write a blank check.
Read more
21 Aug, 2024 by Valentyna sprinkle
Obsolutly irrelevant Law firm, not helping to client outgoing custody issues, most worries getting upfront retainer money good amount most priority and hourly pay by credit cards trust accounts
Read more
20 Aug, 2024 by Jay dumas
21 Aug, 2019 by Anonymous
I hired Michael as a an attorney for my divorce and he did a very poor job. I would not recommend him.
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03 Nov, 2017 by Gloria
Michael Delgado was my attorney for a child support modification case. I am more than happy with him, his professionalism and his skills. He got me a result better than what I had hoped for. Michael communicated throughout the entire process so I always knew what was going on with my case. He would respond quickly through text or email and I never felt alone or worried that my case wouldn’t go well. His staff was kind and sensitive to my situation. They were easy to get ahold of and would return all my calls in a timely manner. His rates were very reasonable and well worth the money spent.
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30 Oct, 2017 by Gilbert
Gilbert Ruiz
I hired Michael Delgado to represent me in my divorce. I was very pleased with the results. Going through a divorce is very hard and I was happy that I had an attorney that put my best interests first. My case was extremely complicated, but Michael’s knowledge and experience helped to get me the best possible result I could have ever hoped for. We tried and tried to settle out of Court, but in the end we had to go to trial. I am very happy to say we won! I feel Michael was God sent and was like a surgeon in court, I would highly recommend him. I will also state for the record, being a former Recon Marine Sergeant, Michael to me is like a Lean, Mean, Fighting Machine, I could have not had anyone better representing me. Oorah!!!!
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14 Mar, 2020 by Jamie robertson
I have known Stephen for many years. He is extremely ethical and knowledgeable. More than that he cares! I have seen him help so many of my clients. When I needed him, he was there for me... I would highly recommend Stephen as he will be there for you. More than that he is highly skilled in Estate, Trust and Probate.
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25 Apr, 2019 by Daniela titus
Emily made it super easy to set up our living trust and wills. Thank you!
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22 Mar, 2019 by Terrence luebbert
They do not know basic math, and do not do what they are asked.
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08 Apr, 2022 by Anonymous
If you are hoping that your attorney will be in the same room with you for your court dates and trials, think again. They video call in, usually late. Then they do NOT put on their video and it makes it pretty awkward especially for me as his client. The last time the judge was yelling at me to get my attorney on the line....
If you want to win, first get a second opinion besides these guys.
If you want to save money and go with a discount firm, they get you in with a low retainer but they charge you more then the big firms do by all their little tactics to get you to spend crazy amounts of money.
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08 Nov, 2020 by Sean
After a car failed to yield to the right of way and my fiancé (now wife) and I had the misfortune of attempting to occupy the same space as the misguided driver it was at that point we were in need of representation. Ben and his assistant, Kaci, were incredibly helpful in informing us of how to proceed with the best care with a detailed road map of what needed to happen from the legal side of things. Once the initial detailed forms were completed we were given the opportunity to heal in relative peace. The updates and constant professionalism alleviated additional stress that would have otherwise been our burden to carry against the vehicles owner’s insurance company.
I don’t think there can ever be a full recovery from such incidents as there are so many intangible aspects of the accident that get glossed over. What was nice is that those aspects of the case were listened to and were incorporated as best as legally possible.
I felt heard, I felt cared about, and I felt supported throughout the process. The amount of detailed information and direction from the beginning gave a tremendous amount of confidence moving forward. This made an unfortunate situation into the best possible scenario possible and for that I am extremely grateful to Ben and his team.
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01 Nov, 2020 by Jaime
Ben and his team took on my bike accident case and their perform was excellent. The process was very user friendly. Communication was great, they kept me informed at all times with any changes and updated regarding the case. Ben and his team delivered well above expectations results.
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11 Dec, 2024 by Anonymous
Kyle made quick assumptions about my case without fully understanding the details, which I felt was unfair given the strength of my position. He did not offer any substantive solutions or strategies, and seemed unreceptive when I tried to provide more context. Following his advice would have jeopardized my position. I ultimately hired someone else and resolved the matter successfully.
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21 Nov, 2014 by David
I first started with a document preperation company but talks broke down and the delays started. Kyle got me on track with a direction to get the divorce finished. I felt comfortable and always felt he and Lyndsey had my best interest in mind. He was always availible for me and Lyndsey was on top of all the document preperation and communication with me. I will use Kyle for any family law issues from here on.
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12 Oct, 2014 by Paul
I want to thank Kyle and his staff for a great job helping me obtain a successful settlement in my divorce case. His persistence and skill allowed me to receive the best possible result. Kyle provided me with excellent representation!
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03 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
Sarah was such a strong support when it came to not only having my voice heard in court and legal justice but mostly my child's voice. She is hands down the best!!
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11 Dec, 2013 by Anonymous
Rude, standoffish, doesn't seem to know much of the ins and outs of court. I found more resourceful information in one afternoon and she managed too in 4 months
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18 Jan, 2012 by Patricia
Sarah Youngblood is a very professional no nonsense attorney who is very experienced and will aggressively work on your case until the last motion is filed with the court and continue to fight like a pittbull (wont let go) until the case is closed. Even after my case was closed she continued to answer and return my phones calls and questions. If I ever need the services of an attorney again I will most definitely call on Sarah Youngblood again because I am very confident I will have all of my rights protected in the court room.
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03 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
I was hit with an erroneous protective order from my soon to be ex wife after I filed for divorce.
I was devastated as I always maintained a spotless record.
After hiring another attorney, I was hoping to get this Order of Protection quashed. 3 days before my hearing, this other attorney suddenly withdrew from counsel as there was a conflict of interest that they overlooked.
I was terrified and by pure chance, I was given Eve's number from someone who works in the same building my office is in.
Even took my case on such a short notice and her team worked tirelessly for the next day and a half to help build my defense for the pending hearing.
At the hearing, Eve was the reason the hearing went in my favor. Her knowledge of the law and her plan of action worked so well that my wife actually ending up admitting in court that no harm was ever done to her!
As painful as the divorce has been, I owe so much thanks to Eve for the peace of mind I feel today.
Thank you so much Eve. I will gladly recommend you to everyone I know. You are truly an amazing attorney!!
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14 Sep, 2011 by John
She was very helpful attorney. I went through 3 attorney's before her, and she was the only one who actually cared and didnt charge me up the ass. Highly recommendable..
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12 Sep, 2011 by Sun devil
This attorney is not dependable. She is not competent when it comes to legal paper work. Paper work that was inteneded to protect me, ended up hurting me terribly. She is very scattered and unoraganized with poor attention to detail. She tends to lose her temper and yell. Has poor follow through.
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22 Jan, 2014 by Anonymous
This guy defines the word "dirty". He will take you very last dollar, getting nothing accomplished. He should not be practicing law. We hired him to assist with probate issues and he had no idea what the laws were. Took our words and twisted them to make our issues sound worse, he blew our case by claiming to have knowledge where he clearly didn't. This guy is the bottom of the barrel of attorneys, stay far away or plan on filing bankruptcy when you done dealing with him.
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08 Dec, 2010 by Anonymous
Great lawyer, truly understands his clients needs. Was able to resolve issues quick and painlessly and followed up to ensure financial obligations by ex were taken seriously,after the initial establishment. When payments became delinquent he ensured my ex was jailed and put on work release to make up support. I would definetly use again!!
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15 Dec, 2009 by Anonymous
I used and never again I filed a complaint with the Bar. He wasted my time money and I had to do the leg work to make my filing dates. He forgot about my case and unless I gave him a call nothing got done. He filed a extension on my case when I hired him it was 90% done he just needed to take me to court and after repeded extensions we got there a year later.
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24 Nov, 2023 by Michele
Alison made my estate planning with a prenuptial agreement and will seamless just before my marriage. She is also very knowledgeable when I’ve consulted her on other legal matters.
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26 Apr, 2023 by Anonymous
Disappointing, I was blamed for "changing your mind" and when I confronted Alison about the nearly 2 years it took when we accomplished nothing she offered to write up a judicial complaint for me to file against the judge. Emails went ignored, then I get a bill for $60/per email since I terminated the firm.
Never met anyone from the firm, despite multiple attempts to come conference in person, meet in person, never once did I step food in their office. My kids situation was never taken serious and finally after nearly 2 years I realized this is not what is best for my kids. Already in 3 days my new attorney resolved the matter.
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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.
