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21 May, 2024 by Ravnoor singh
Mr harry n his staff is a professionals . Me n my brdr we both go to harry Dhillon office n we don’t have to worry bout anything all the paper work n stress work is taken care by them , also the results are 100% positive. Mr harry n his staff member miss puneet helped me whenever i had any problems or any questions for my case .all mine n my Brdr experience was stress free n smooth .
Thanks to Mr harry Dhillon and his staff 🙏🏻🙏🏻
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03 Oct, 2023 by Dev patel
I can't thank Mr. Harry Dhillon and all the staff at Law Office of Harry Dhillon enough for their incredible help with my Form I-539 and F1 status reinstatement. Their expertise and support were a game-changer.
Mr. Dhillon made the entire process smooth and stress-free. They explained each step clearly, addressed all my concerns, and ensured I was well-informed throughout. There was complete transparency throughout the entire step. And all of this at a very affordable price. Could not have have asked for anyone better.
I highly recommend Mr.Harry Dhillon and Law Office of Harry Dhillon for all immigration matters. They're not just lawyers; they genuinely care about their clients' well-being.
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22 Mar, 2023 by Abby barajas
The law student there communicates well. I don’t see myself going to any other office for my legal needs.
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13 Jan, 2016 by Lori
Betty was my attorney during a painful divorce. She advocated for me and always listened to my concerns. Her advice and assistance helped to speed a most difficult process. Thank you Betty. -L.D.
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08 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
Over the years I have been by my husband's side as he has fought a horrific custody battle using countless of Modesto's "best" lawyers with very small results until we hired Betty Julian. She was truly amazing! She worked tirelessly along with her staff on our case, helping to organize years of information and putting all of our anxiety and fears at ease, while being direct and honest with us about our case ever step of the way. She even went out of her way to make phone calls and trips to the school on our behalf for my husband's custody case. The amount of dedication and professionalism on our case was unparalleled by any other lawyer around I assure you. If you are on the fence about hiring a lawyer, I would not hesitate to hire Betty a million times over. We have used her the last three times we have gone to court and come out on top every time since. We have tripled our custody time and halved our child support payments! She has been amazing for us! Most importantly she has kept my husband and his daughter together and us close as a family, ensuring that the courts do what is best for his daughter.
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08 Jan, 2016 by Jordan
I have hired a few lawyers over the years for my divorce and custody proceedings with lackluster results until I hired Betty Julian. I appreciated her straight forward, honest, hard-working domeanor, and utmost professionalism. Every time I go back to court with Betty by my side, I feel not only fully prepared, but I leave with more results than expected. My custodial time has increased instead of decreased and I was able to keep my daughter in her school and county of residence. As a father fighting for my rights I would suggest no one other than Betty. She is amazing and worth every dollar spent. Don't waste your time or money on other lawyers as I did before and just hire her from the start.
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01 Jun, 2022 by Lee ramirez
29 Aug, 2020 by Tara saldivar
01 Jun, 2022 by Lee ramirez
29 Aug, 2020 by Tara saldivar
05 Aug, 2015 by Felix
It was hard me to find a trustworthy lawyer to help me with my accident case but Aaron was straightforward and honest. The insurance company was pretty much laughing at me before I hired Aaron. He was able to get me a very very good settlement. Really happy with his office.
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05 Aug, 2015 by Ron
Mr. Anguiano is a great lawyer. He is very blunt and let me know when there was good and bad news right away. He had to fight hard to make sure I kept the stuff that was rightfully mine after the divorce. Im glad I found him to represent me!
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21 Jun, 2018 by Victoria
I highly recommend Mr. Mendez for all of your legal matters. He represented me in my family law case and I recommend him to everyone! I have 100% confidence in him and he's affordable.
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24 Jan, 2018 by Brandon
Doug assisted on my custody case while with Scott Mitchell Law. Doug has made many of my hearings and was the attorney who represented me in my custody trial. He did an excellent job. Attentive, hard working and very informative. He works tirelessly for you. If I had questions I could ask him....anytime. Great attorney.
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26 Jun, 2012 by Steve
she treated me with respect, while taking care of an old issue that she really did not have to deal with at all, Laura was patient while following up with me over a year of effort
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04 Jan, 2014 by Gino
I am currently still in the process of getting a divorce for little over a year now. This divorce is not something I wanted, but it's something that is happening. Ms . Torres has been honest and up front with me since day 1 about my case. Her office has been helpful and understanding of my situation. Before I hired Ms. Torres, I felt like I was beening bullied by my wife because I did not understand my rights. Another reason I hired Ms. Torres is because I know she would never compromise her integrity and always give good sound advise and do what is right. Which is something rare these days! If your looking for a shady lawyer who just wants your money that we always make joke about, then this is not the lawyer you want to hire. If you want honest represention then please seek console from Ms.Torres.
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07 Oct, 2024 by Scarlett chaves
just CALL HER !!! you won’t regret it !!! i can’t even find the words but CALL JUST CALL!!!!
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23 Sep, 2024 by Claudiaramirez03
Excellent and prompt customer attention and service. Very pleasant to work with as well knowledgeable in providing feedback.
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11 Aug, 2024 by Maria hernandez
Highly recommend! Angelica was always available to answer my questions and concerns. She put my family and I at ease throughout the entire process. Angelica helped us a great deal during the difficult time and we appreciated her support and knowledge.
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25 Oct, 2024 by Jorge alejandro vargas jimenez
La verdad tuve muy mala experiencia con la abogada se anuncia en la flea market de Mexicanos y a mí me hizo esperar mucho tiempo no quería agarrar mi caso mejor me lo hubiera dicho y las secretarias de ella se estaban burlando de mi por qué estaba sentado esperando y la verdad la abogada se portó muy racista me discrimino muy feo mejor no debería de anunciarse en lugares sonde asisten la mayoría Mexicanos
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06 Sep, 2024 by Giselle t
04 Sep, 2024 by A g
24 Oct, 2023 by Andres navarrete
I hired Mr. McAllister 10 years ago to help my with my case. His defense has had a positive impact throughout my life. I highly recommend his office. He was always very professional and knowledgable of the law.
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21 Aug, 2023 by Kristinlynn “kris” kjos-tanner
22 Jul, 2023 by Lindsey stailing
04 Oct, 2024 by Maria caballero
Recomiendo altamente LA OFICINA LEGAL DE SETH L. HANSON Y SU PERSONAL
Estoy muy agradecida conmigo misma por haberlos escogido. Spencer brindó un servicio perfecto profesional .Paciente, servicial y amigable. Ademas de responder rápido cuando era necesario. Gracias Spencer. Si pudiera dar mas estrellas lo haría
Maria C
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01 Oct, 2024 by Sandi
Attorney Seth Hanson and Andria Giguiere were extremely professional and sympathetic during a very difficult time. Everything went very smoothly. I truly appreciate, and highly recommend their services. Many thanks to them and all their team.
Sandi
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28 Sep, 2024 by Noelle westfall
We didn't even shop around for attorneys, we jumped in with who we called first and it was a great choice! Seth's team is solid and ready to help you through this process. From my first call with Crystal to our consult with Seth, our case manager Cole, and Marlon at our meeting - everyone was professional, kind, and easy to talk to. While I feel our case was very straight forward, I think this team is ready to take on anyone's situation and help them start over fresh. Our case is done, we have our fresh start, and we couldn't be happier with our decision. In fact, my husband and I keep wishing we had done this sooner.
Thank you, Seth and team! Especially Cole, who answered all my questions and helped ease my anxiety!
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16 Jun, 2024 by Kristinlynn “kris” kjos-tanner
Just ran across Terry's page and would have to say I worked for another attorney in town and loved it. But, in her line of practice, she is ultimately the best. She reviewed my case 11 years ago and went to the appeals judge with me.I was approved for SSA within a few weeks and had applied 157 days before I was recommended to try her. Needless to say, anyone who I come across that needs an attorney in her line of practice, she is the only one I would ever recommend to all
Thanks again Terri....
I really appreciate your help and advice with my difficult case. You really did a smooth and firm approach.
Kristin Carr (2013)
MY NAME AT THAT TIME...
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22 Dec, 2023 by A day in my life
24 Oct, 2023 by Papa travels (bazenga)
Wonderful team of attorneys. I have worked with Allyson. She is so amazing. 100% recommended.
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04 Oct, 2024 by Briana jimenez
Tom is a great attorney. Very helpful, understanding and takes his time with his clients. Highly recommend.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Narrissa godwin
Mr. Hogan is an angel sent by god to defend my daughter and I in court. Her father was willing to put our daughter through trauma and physical pain because of greed. Mr. Hogan fought hard and is the most down to earth attorney I’ve ever met in my lifetime. I appreciate the compassion he had for our situation. If you need an attorney that is well educated, experienced and has heart; he is the man to hire. My ex- husband has been absent in our daughter’s life for years however has money for his expensive but ignorant attorney. He wanted joint conservatorship of our daughter. Not to be apart of her life but to try and get out of support for her. Mr. Hogan represented my daughter and did everything he could to keep her in her safe, loving and secure environment; with me, her mama. I love her more than anything in this world and would do whatever it took to keep her physically, mentally, emotionally healthy and happy. Mr. Hogan witnessed that unconditional love I have for her and expressed that clearly to the judge. I’m pleased to report she will be staying with me and her father is unable to rip her from her safe and loving home. Thank you Mr. Hogan for the support and how you represented us in court. God bless you and yours. My peers when you have an attorney that speaks from his heart and will fight for you with every word he speaks; Mr. Hogan is that man and the right attorney to hire.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Alicia aguirre
Mr. Hogan and his team are wonderful, they helped me with my case, held my hand all the way through and gave me the peace of mind I needed in my difficult case. I recommend them to anyone who is dealing with difficult divorce and custody matters.
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4.7
14 Reviews
4.4
29 Reviews
15 Jun, 2024 by Carol warren
Ms.Jensen and her staff are amazing….you want a lawyer that puts boots on and gets it done… this is the place…she saved my inheritance…. I will always be grateful! Thank you all for your hard work. ❤️
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22 Apr, 2024 by Dj san fran
Leslie and her staff were absolutely wonderful to work with. Leslie is direct and fierce. She was definitely the right lawyer for my situation. She may not be everyone's cup of tea, but she was mine without a doubt.
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18 Apr, 2024 by Jennifer hayner
18 Aug, 2024 by Ortensia peralta
Tai helped my husband get out of a ridiculous criminal charge. He took his time and fought hard to prove his innocence.
I would recommend Tai Bogan to represent anyone I care about.
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04 Apr, 2024 by Brian bockert
24 Mar, 2024 by Johnnyvasquez25
Tia is an awsome attorney. He has great communication and fought for my wife's alleged criminal defense case in an agressive manner, he worked thoroughly through the cases evidence to prove her innocence. Thanks to his hard work and effort he made sure my wife case was dismissed. I strongly recommend him to anyone who needs defense.
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17 Dec, 2011 by Robert
It was a roller coaster of emotions in 3 months working together, at last I’ve got what was hoped for, thanks Lauren.
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16 Dec, 2011 by Michelle
Definitely trust Lauren’s advice in terms of my family case issues.
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10 Dec, 2011 by Paul
Feel confident under her representation.
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15 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
Robin was always detailed in her explanations of the dissolution process and provided me with all of the options that were available to me. She was responsive to my questions and always returned phone calls and emails promptly. I always felt like I knew what was happening with my case, and what was coming next. I feel confident in referring her to anyone who is in need of an attorney.
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05 Nov, 2016 by Cindy
After a 30 year marriage an extended separation I found it necessary to file for divorce. Ms. Reno was there for me every step of the way. She was very thorough in her explanation of the whole process and made the tasks much more comfortable than I anticipated. I have great gratitude for her patience and kindness. I'm very happy with the results of my case. I have and I would again recommend Ms. Reno to anyone looking for an honest, knowledgeable and professional attorney.
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21 Jan, 2016 by Ronald
I went through a very horrible divorce, and an extremely difficult child custody battle. Robin would always listen to all of my concerns, and addressed them as best as she could. She was very sympathetic to the pain the difficulties put me through. She would always make sure that I had answers to all of my questions in a timely manner. She never lied to me or try to sugar coat anything. She would just let me know the plain, and sometimes very hard, truths. She very patiently walked me through the whole long process. She always made sure that I knew all the good and bad possibilities, and prepared me for every possible outcome. She would always reassure me through the discouraging phases, and rejoice with me in the victories. After informing me of all the possible options we could take, she wouldn’t push me to go one direction or the other but, she would wait patiently for my decision on which path to take. After I was fully informed and had made my decision then, she would pursue that path wholeheartedly, with all her knowledge and skills. Thankfully in the end we were wonderfully victorious in our case. I say “we” because, with Robin you won’t feel you’re going through it alone. I truly believe the reason why we were so successful is because of Robin’s guidance, patience, knowledge and skill. She is a fantastic attorney, and I recommend her to everyone who wants only the highest quality attorney in their corner. Thank you Robin for all that you have done for me and my children.
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02 May, 2024 by Jessica blount
Be careful the billing is corrupt and the case will drag on with no attempt to resolve.
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27 Feb, 2024 by Vicky “mixed creationz” hernandez
If you need someone who is going to hear you
Not sell you a dream
But be fair and work diligently and respond with a quickness I highly recommend
I hadn't felt heard before on my own and she totally stood up for me and encouraged me in the process .
Thank you to Vernisse and Lindsey you guys have truly made a difference in not only my life but my child's life and I'm forever grateful.
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19 Jan, 2024 by Sarah yanagi
Lindsey was- from start to finish- such a relief and support to my during custody mediation last year. From the very first consultation, she was honest with me about the likely steps in the process and even provided me an accurate timeline for how long it would take to resolve my custody issue.
She has a direct, calm, measured demeanor and seems unflappable. This is exactly what you want from a lawyer during one of the most stressful things you can go through. She level-set my expectations while also providing me with an ear to listen as needed, via email, zoom, or phone call (these are scheduled as part of the process but when mediation did not go as planned, she debriefed with me and helped me understand what was to come.
My case was a long-distance custody situation: my son and I have lived outside of stanislaus county for years and that makes filing paperwork, paying fees etc, more difficult. Her office handled this for me.
Thank you Lindsey and staff for all you do!
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02 May, 2024 by Jessica blount
Be careful the billing is corrupt and the case will drag on with no attempt to resolve.
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27 Feb, 2024 by Vicky “mixed creationz” hernandez
If you need someone who is going to hear you
Not sell you a dream
But be fair and work diligently and respond with a quickness I highly recommend
I hadn't felt heard before on my own and she totally stood up for me and encouraged me in the process .
Thank you to Vernisse and Lindsey you guys have truly made a difference in not only my life but my child's life and I'm forever grateful.
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19 Jan, 2024 by Sarah yanagi
Lindsey was- from start to finish- such a relief and support to my during custody mediation last year. From the very first consultation, she was honest with me about the likely steps in the process and even provided me an accurate timeline for how long it would take to resolve my custody issue.
She has a direct, calm, measured demeanor and seems unflappable. This is exactly what you want from a lawyer during one of the most stressful things you can go through. She level-set my expectations while also providing me with an ear to listen as needed, via email, zoom, or phone call (these are scheduled as part of the process but when mediation did not go as planned, she debriefed with me and helped me understand what was to come.
My case was a long-distance custody situation: my son and I have lived outside of stanislaus county for years and that makes filing paperwork, paying fees etc, more difficult. Her office handled this for me.
Thank you Lindsey and staff for all you do!
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24 Aug, 2024 by Jane johnson
After 2 years of battling for a divorce, I finally agreed to a settlement based on erroneous information I received from my lawyer Tamie Cummins. I lost thousands due to her mistake. And there are no attorneys that will take malpractice suits against other attorneys. Attention to detail is lacking. I gave 2 stars because I think the divorce process in CA is broken—which isn’t her fault.
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05 Aug, 2024 by Mary robison
A complete disappoint in an easy divorce matter. Poor communication. Do you research don't waste your time or money.
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01 Apr, 2024 by Priscilla
This is my attorney office. I really recommend Lauren Franzella
There
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24 Aug, 2024 by Jane johnson
After 2 years of battling for a divorce, I finally agreed to a settlement based on erroneous information I received from my lawyer Tamie Cummins. I lost thousands due to her mistake. And there are no attorneys that will take malpractice suits against other attorneys. Attention to detail is lacking. I gave 2 stars because I think the divorce process in CA is broken—which isn’t her fault.
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05 Aug, 2024 by Mary robison
A complete disappoint in an easy divorce matter. Poor communication. Do you research don't waste your time or money.
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01 Apr, 2024 by Priscilla
This is my attorney office. I really recommend Lauren Franzella
There
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24 Aug, 2024 by Jane johnson
After 2 years of battling for a divorce, I finally agreed to a settlement based on erroneous information I received from my lawyer Tamie Cummins. I lost thousands due to her mistake. And there are no attorneys that will take malpractice suits against other attorneys. Attention to detail is lacking. I gave 2 stars because I think the divorce process in CA is broken—which isn’t her fault.
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05 Aug, 2024 by Mary robison
A complete disappoint in an easy divorce matter. Poor communication. Do you research don't waste your time or money.
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01 Apr, 2024 by Priscilla
This is my attorney office. I really recommend Lauren Franzella
There
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16 Apr, 2024 by Nathan cervantes
Great service. Communication could be better between attorney and client but i’ll give them the benefit of the doubt since I’m sure the firm is busy with lots of clients. Otherwise good people and they made my time with them easier than I expected.
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18 Oct, 2023 by Deanna baker
I had the best experience with Mr. Rai. He has helped me half and on for over 3 years and has always offered great advice! He cares about the case as if it was his own. He explains all the legal lingo in a way that can be understood. His greatest strength in my opinion is how well he words all the legal documents. He doesn't leave anything out! He's the best there is in Modesto, anyone would be lucky to work with him and his amazing assistant, Roxana!
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02 Aug, 2023 by Asher stern
Great service and price. They took care of everything I needed and made the process extremely easy. Thank you.
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29 Aug, 2024 by James amato
This law firm is the best! They have transformed my business and been instrumental in great guidance and rebuilding. Highly recommend them. Amanda is one of the best professionals I’ve had the privilege of interacting with. Shouts out to Colleen & Michelle as well!
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14 Nov, 2023 by Lablvrz
Thanks for cancelling tomorrow's appointment today at 3 PM. I've waited 2 months for this appointment. I can't wait until February to see you. Is it because I have legal insurance? Funny, I don't see your name on the court calendar for tomorrow....hmmmm... I'm kinda aware of how that works. DO NOT USE THIS ATTORNEY UNLESS YOU'RE PUTTING DOWN A RETAINER.
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25 Aug, 2021 by Laura estrella
11 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
Although she is nice and great interpersonal skills, she needs more experience in the court room. The judge was stopping Ms. Cullum and telling her how she was suppose to ask a question when she has witnesses in a trial. This happened many times during my restraining order. I felt I was in law school and it was a mocked trial. It was absolutely terrible. If she doesn't know how to address witnesses or know how to ask questions in a court room I don't know how she represents clients.
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30 Nov, 2016 by Anonymous
I was served with ex-parte paperwork for a modification in custody. Dawn listened to me attentively and I felt as though she empathized with me and really cared for my needs.
She focused on what I was saying and made sure to address my concerns in the declaration response.
The day in court was one I have never felt before. I walked in confident and relaxed. This was not my first rodeo in court and always dreaded the courtroom as I always felt emotional and alone.
But not with Dawn, she really fought for me.
That same day in court they denied the ex-parte.
I feel it's also important that I mention that I previously had a lawyer who was helping me but felt it was time for a change since it had been since 2011 when I last had court. I am so happy to have found Dawn and have no regrets
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07 Oct, 2016 by Robin
We've all heard that a picture is worth a thousand words, so let me paint one for you:
Imagine for a moment, in the midst of everything in life that stresses you out, the major things, the minor things, the things you know shouldn't matter, you can't help but feel as though your life has become a bit of a runaway train, no longer featuring you at the helm, in control, but charging ahead relentlessly, threatening to derail at a moment's notice.
Then the unthinkable happens...you get sued, or you find yourself having to sue another, dealing with divorce, child custody/support, legal separation, etc. That runaway train hasn't just derailed, it's fallen off a cliff!
I found myself in such a predicament, thinking I could handle it by myself, but finally resolving to trust a professional. I'm thankful I did. The endless hours spent trying to navigate family law could have been saved if I'd called sooner.
Working with Dawn Cullum was truly a blessing. I quickly found confident answers to questions that proved difficult, not only for myself, but also for other counsel I had already sought.
Personal interactions were just that, very personal and comfortable. She was incredibly patient and understanding, giving me her full attention at all times, never rushed or just waiting for her turn to speak. She really made me feel like my best interests were at heart. What a spectacular experience, and a relief to feel a lot more confident about my case.
Thank you Dawn! Should I ever find myself stuck on another set of train tracks, I know who to call!
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04 Sep, 2024 by Sunila prasad
Hiring Gradford Law Firm was the best decision I could have made. He followed through on his word and made sure I got the best possible outcome. He is confident and knows how to make any situation less stressful. I would highly recommend him to anyone. Could not be more thankful to Gradford Law Firm.
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06 Aug, 2024 by Jose madrigal
My name is Jose, Rancañ & Rancaño with the hand of Monica they do excellent work. Thank you!!
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21 Jun, 2024 by Lorena brito
Muy buen servicio 100% recomendado
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04 Oct, 2023 by Alice piovesan
Ms Evans is just the best. She has helped me since 2017 with my immigration case and I couldn't have asked for a better lawyer. She is incredibly knowledgeable, kind, and understanding. 10/10 would recommend Anna Evans!
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29 Aug, 2023 by Lorena garcia
I can honestly say this woman will fight for you! She’s very professional, on top of her game. I truly recommended her! She was my divorce attorney and did an amazing job representing me.
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25 May, 2023 by Anthony medeiros
Anna is unbelievablely awesome at what she does. Having her on my case has been the best thing to have happened since it started. She is very diligent and thorough. HIGHLY recommend her and wish I hired her as my original attorney!
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19 Nov, 2022 by Crystal schultz markee
24 Jan, 2022 by P b
Gerald Brunn is a very good Attorney. The best in the area when it comes to business law and personal injury. He is very up front about your and walks you through the whole process. Very reasnable when it comes to charging.
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04 Jun, 2021 by Julio duran
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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.
