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09 Nov, 2024 by Naser mohammed
I had a great experience working with Khan Nayyar and his team on my citizenship application. They were professional, knowledgeable, and always available to answer my questions. They made the whole process clear and easy to understand, and helped me every step of the way. Thanks to their expertise, my application was successful and went smoothly. I highly recommend Khan Nayyar to anyone looking for help with citizenship!
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05 Nov, 2024 by Omar “okamal” kamal
Faraz Nayyar and his team are amazing, he has incredible prices and deals. Effective communication and great knowledge. I'd definitely do business with him again.
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01 Nov, 2024 by James larsen
I went with immigration attorney Omar Khan with the K1 and K2 visa process. Both Omar and his assistant Jeethna were excellent and explained the process and timeline on how everything works. Very professional and knowledgeable and recommend Omar for anyone who is in need of an immigration attorney.
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5.0
20 Reviews
4.9
407 Reviews
09 Nov, 2024 by Naser mohammed
I had a great experience working with Khan Nayyar and his team on my citizenship application. They were professional, knowledgeable, and always available to answer my questions. They made the whole process clear and easy to understand, and helped me every step of the way. Thanks to their expertise, my application was successful and went smoothly. I highly recommend Khan Nayyar to anyone looking for help with citizenship!
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05 Nov, 2024 by Omar “okamal” kamal
Faraz Nayyar and his team are amazing, he has incredible prices and deals. Effective communication and great knowledge. I'd definitely do business with him again.
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01 Nov, 2024 by James larsen
I went with immigration attorney Omar Khan with the K1 and K2 visa process. Both Omar and his assistant Jeethna were excellent and explained the process and timeline on how everything works. Very professional and knowledgeable and recommend Omar for anyone who is in need of an immigration attorney.
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5.0
8 Reviews
4.9
407 Reviews
09 Nov, 2024 by Naser mohammed
I had a great experience working with Khan Nayyar and his team on my citizenship application. They were professional, knowledgeable, and always available to answer my questions. They made the whole process clear and easy to understand, and helped me every step of the way. Thanks to their expertise, my application was successful and went smoothly. I highly recommend Khan Nayyar to anyone looking for help with citizenship!
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05 Nov, 2024 by Omar “okamal” kamal
Faraz Nayyar and his team are amazing, he has incredible prices and deals. Effective communication and great knowledge. I'd definitely do business with him again.
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01 Nov, 2024 by James larsen
I went with immigration attorney Omar Khan with the K1 and K2 visa process. Both Omar and his assistant Jeethna were excellent and explained the process and timeline on how everything works. Very professional and knowledgeable and recommend Omar for anyone who is in need of an immigration attorney.
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25 Oct, 2024 by Sheryl jerzak
I very much recommend John's services, as I've never met such a kind & caring attorney, who never treats his clients like another number:
His services are quick, seamless, and on top of which he has also provided some added assurance in all aspects, "holding my hand" throughout the entire process. His negotiation skills are also top notch! I'm very impressed by his work & would most definitely have him be my defender again if I ever experience another unforeseen predicament.
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02 Oct, 2024 by Tim lang
Working With John has been the greatest. He stuck through the toughest parts of my case with me and we overturned the odds and won! Thank you John Callahan!
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13 Apr, 2024 by Andrea holt
We were just about to give up hope on getting my boyfriend's license reinstated in IL when I contacted John Callahan this all changed. He and his associates were very helpful and understanding of our situation. They walked us through every step of the way and made it a much easier process than we had experienced trying to do it on our own.
We highly recommend John Callahan and his associates. Thank you again for all your help!!
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23 Nov, 2024 by Saquoya m
Bankruptcy went very smoothly. Attorney Jon Dowat ensured I knew what was occurring every step of the way and made the entire process painless.
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14 Apr, 2024 by Peter l.
I would definitely recommend Blacha Law Firm to anyone who needs a lawyer for family matters. My lawyer was Elizabeth Youakim. She was awesome, great service, always answered my calls and e-mails, was very knowledgeable and her paralegal Christine Lovendal was very helpful as well, they both never missed a beat with me and would always keep me in the loop and let me know what was going on. They both are very outgoing and kind people. Elizabeth always have good advice on what should be done and said, and she never let me down thank you for your help, I will always be grateful for what Elizabeth has done for me.
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12 Dec, 2023 by Adam toddy
Jon and his team are the best of the best at what they do. Guided me in relieving me of $450k in tax debt thru bankruptcy. Something no other firm offered or even knew was a possibility. Top it all with the upmost professionalism and kindness makes this firm the only choice for help with your tax, debt or combination troubles! Thank you Jon and staff!!!
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09 Nov, 2024 by Naser mohammed
I had a great experience working with Khan Nayyar and his team on my citizenship application. They were professional, knowledgeable, and always available to answer my questions. They made the whole process clear and easy to understand, and helped me every step of the way. Thanks to their expertise, my application was successful and went smoothly. I highly recommend Khan Nayyar to anyone looking for help with citizenship!
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05 Nov, 2024 by Omar “okamal” kamal
Faraz Nayyar and his team are amazing, he has incredible prices and deals. Effective communication and great knowledge. I'd definitely do business with him again.
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01 Nov, 2024 by James larsen
I went with immigration attorney Omar Khan with the K1 and K2 visa process. Both Omar and his assistant Jeethna were excellent and explained the process and timeline on how everything works. Very professional and knowledgeable and recommend Omar for anyone who is in need of an immigration attorney.
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06 Oct, 2024 by Jonathan berning
David was amazing to work with! I would have been lost without his guidance!! Cannot recommend him enough.
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24 Sep, 2024 by Tony davis
David assisted me with a traffic matter. His courteous, prompt, and professional manner made it easy. His fees were at the top of the scale I'd be willing to pay, but he gave a discount for upfront payment.
Thank you, David. I'll recommend you to anyone who needs your services.
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18 Apr, 2024 by Jenest espino
David was great in helping my boyfriend and I close on a house. He is a very patient man and very helpful in understanding that my boyfriend preferred to email/text instead of call. During the closing process, David helped us understand how everything works in layman's terms. He also made sure to check in every now and then to see if the lenders would push through earlier, but again, David was very patient even when we were not.
Overall, David Liberty is the guy to go to when you want something done. He does well in explaining everything and will make sure that you are getting what you need/want for a good reason. I thank those who introduced me to David Liberty since he is a genuine man to work with.
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23 Nov, 2024 by Saquoya m
Bankruptcy went very smoothly. Attorney Jon Dowat ensured I knew what was occurring every step of the way and made the entire process painless.
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12 Dec, 2023 by Adam toddy
Jon and his team are the best of the best at what they do. Guided me in relieving me of $450k in tax debt thru bankruptcy. Something no other firm offered or even knew was a possibility. Top it all with the upmost professionalism and kindness makes this firm the only choice for help with your tax, debt or combination troubles! Thank you Jon and staff!!!
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25 Jul, 2023 by Patricia heffern
Beautiful experience with a Christian-based practice! I will be forever grateful for all they did for me.
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09 Nov, 2024 by Naser mohammed
I had a great experience working with Khan Nayyar and his team on my citizenship application. They were professional, knowledgeable, and always available to answer my questions. They made the whole process clear and easy to understand, and helped me every step of the way. Thanks to their expertise, my application was successful and went smoothly. I highly recommend Khan Nayyar to anyone looking for help with citizenship!
Read more
05 Nov, 2024 by Omar “okamal” kamal
Faraz Nayyar and his team are amazing, he has incredible prices and deals. Effective communication and great knowledge. I'd definitely do business with him again.
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01 Nov, 2024 by James larsen
I went with immigration attorney Omar Khan with the K1 and K2 visa process. Both Omar and his assistant Jeethna were excellent and explained the process and timeline on how everything works. Very professional and knowledgeable and recommend Omar for anyone who is in need of an immigration attorney.
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23 Nov, 2024 by Cynthia
A great attorney. Highly recommended,He understood my case and was very helpful and understanding.
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09 Nov, 2024 by Naser mohammed
I had a great experience working with Khan Nayyar and his team on my citizenship application. They were professional, knowledgeable, and always available to answer my questions. They made the whole process clear and easy to understand, and helped me every step of the way. Thanks to their expertise, my application was successful and went smoothly. I highly recommend Khan Nayyar to anyone looking for help with citizenship!
Read more
05 Nov, 2024 by Omar “okamal” kamal
Faraz Nayyar and his team are amazing, he has incredible prices and deals. Effective communication and great knowledge. I'd definitely do business with him again.
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16 Dec, 2024 by --
The service was really good and i this law firm to anybody who needs injury and accidental help.
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31 Oct, 2024 by Jon youngren
Colin O'Malley and the entire firm worked tirelessly for years to help us reach an agreement in our personal injury case. It was clear from the start that they cared about us and our little girl (also a plaintiff), and fought to find the desired outcome. While we certainly hope to never need COKT services again, we are confident that we would use them again in a heartbeat, and we would recommend anyone in need of representation to seek out COKT to handle their case.
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23 Oct, 2024 by Montoria mays
16 Jan, 2025 by Suzanne riddle
Jeffrey Van Dyke is experienced, competent, and also personable. He relates stories that help understand the why behind the what. He is efficient and responsive to each detailed question. And he anticipates the questions we need to ask before we knew we needed to ask them. My husband and I highly recommend his services for estate planning.
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06 Jan, 2025 by Lauren pallini
We would highly recommend Jeff for any estate planning needs. What can be an intimidating process for first timers like us was made very easy and it was actually enjoyable to meet with Jeff and discuss these matters. The process was very smooth and communication was excellent through and through.
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09 Dec, 2024 by Sally griffen
For the past 17 years, Jeff has provided excellent advice and professional competence in preparing and updating my estate plan. I have been very thankful for Jeff’s caring expertise as I have navigated several major life changes including the death of my parents. My parents provided a well-organized estate plan for my brother and myself. I also wanted to give my family the gift of an excellent estate plan that we could discuss in advance. Jeff guided this process, raising questions and highlighting all the decisions that I needed to make. I would give Jeff my highest recommendation.
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02 Jan, 2015 by Anonymous
I was referred to don through someone with similar circumstances, met with him, and he told me the facts of where I stood. I signed on with him, and he took care of my case responsibly, and kept me well informed throughout the whole case. I would recommend to anyone in need of a good, skilled, and knowledgeable injury lawyer. I wouldn't hesitate to use him again. Thanks again don.
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23 Sep, 2013 by Anonymous
Was very helpful and extremely professional. Hopefully don't need his services again, but would not hesitate to use him if I do. Great overall Experience.
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09 Nov, 2024 by Naser mohammed
I had a great experience working with Khan Nayyar and his team on my citizenship application. They were professional, knowledgeable, and always available to answer my questions. They made the whole process clear and easy to understand, and helped me every step of the way. Thanks to their expertise, my application was successful and went smoothly. I highly recommend Khan Nayyar to anyone looking for help with citizenship!
Read more
05 Nov, 2024 by Omar “okamal” kamal
Faraz Nayyar and his team are amazing, he has incredible prices and deals. Effective communication and great knowledge. I'd definitely do business with him again.
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01 Nov, 2024 by James larsen
I went with immigration attorney Omar Khan with the K1 and K2 visa process. Both Omar and his assistant Jeethna were excellent and explained the process and timeline on how everything works. Very professional and knowledgeable and recommend Omar for anyone who is in need of an immigration attorney.
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23 Nov, 2024 by Saquoya m
Bankruptcy went very smoothly. Attorney Jon Dowat ensured I knew what was occurring every step of the way and made the entire process painless.
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12 Dec, 2023 by Adam toddy
Jon and his team are the best of the best at what they do. Guided me in relieving me of $450k in tax debt thru bankruptcy. Something no other firm offered or even knew was a possibility. Top it all with the upmost professionalism and kindness makes this firm the only choice for help with your tax, debt or combination troubles! Thank you Jon and staff!!!
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25 Jul, 2023 by Patricia heffern
Beautiful experience with a Christian-based practice! I will be forever grateful for all they did for me.
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07 Sep, 2024 by Elizabeth bos
Bill Boznos is a very knowledgeable and professional attorney. He takes the time to explain everything. Highly recommended!
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04 Sep, 2024 by Z m
Readily available! Provided prompt and professional advice! Highly recommend!
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23 Jul, 2024 by Tiffany self
Bill has a wealth of knowledge and is patient with questions for those new to navigating legal issues. Highly recommend.
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18 Feb, 2025 by Sirshendu paul
Zach is very good in explaining details
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23 Jan, 2025 by Caroline carbray
10 Dec, 2024 by W d
Zach is very, conscientious, thorough, and responsive Plus he’s especially well versed + considerate.
He has an excellent support team which also contributes to a smooth and successful engagement.
And importantly of course, the billing was very fair and reasonable.
I definitely and strongly recommend him.
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19 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
He responded to all my emails promptly . Explained everything very clearly. Nice man
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12 Jul, 2017 by Lou
Stuart did a fine job heading up to the Closing of our new home (on the lookout for our rights) and the day of the Closing as well, making sure to explain every single document my wife and I signed.
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12 Jul, 2017 by Dollie
Stuart Polizzi was very professional and polite. He responded to all of my calls, etc., in a timely manor. He was always prompt and very detailed. I was very satisfied and would highly recommend his services!
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05 Aug, 2019 by Janice
Mr, Mccumber represented our family when we were seeking Permanent Guardianship our of grandchild. Mr. Mccumber is knowledgeable. When we incurred problems with the negligent father, Mr. Mccumber knew exactly what to do.
We are so happy with his expertise. We have our grandchild because of Sean. Thank you so very much.
YOU ARE THE BEST!
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02 Aug, 2019 by Paul
Sean McCumber represented me in my nasty divorce and I could not have been happier with his representation. When I would get upset/heated he kept things calm. He always told me exactly how things were and kept emotions out of it. He is a consummate professional. I strongly recommend Sean and this firm.
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29 Mar, 2019 by David
Sean helped finalize four adoptions for us! He's an expert in this field of law and handled everything timely and professionally. I was pleased to receive quick concise answers to my questions throughout the process.
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16 Dec, 2024 by --
The service was really good and i this law firm to anybody who needs injury and accidental help.
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31 Oct, 2024 by Jon youngren
Colin O'Malley and the entire firm worked tirelessly for years to help us reach an agreement in our personal injury case. It was clear from the start that they cared about us and our little girl (also a plaintiff), and fought to find the desired outcome. While we certainly hope to never need COKT services again, we are confident that we would use them again in a heartbeat, and we would recommend anyone in need of representation to seek out COKT to handle their case.
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23 Oct, 2024 by Montoria mays
18 Feb, 2025 by Sirshendu paul
Zach is very good in explaining details
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23 Jan, 2025 by Caroline carbray
10 Dec, 2024 by W d
Zach is very, conscientious, thorough, and responsive Plus he’s especially well versed + considerate.
He has an excellent support team which also contributes to a smooth and successful engagement.
And importantly of course, the billing was very fair and reasonable.
I definitely and strongly recommend him.
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14 Dec, 2022 by Pravena
John has been very helpful and supportive. Highly professional but still was caring personality too. Having right attorney makes a big difference.
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15 Jun, 2022 by Steven
John did an amazing job in helping me with getting custody of my son. John was very helpful with any questions I had and was available when ever I needed anything. I highly recommend using John as your lawyer! Thank you John
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29 Dec, 2021 by Monica
I had consulted with several divorce attorneys, and I finally was referred by a friend to John Fay. John Fay explained everything in a way that I understood and in a way that put me at ease. His extreme wealth of knowledge was very valuable and he was a trusted advisor throughout the process. There were some twists and turns throughout the journey, and John Fay navigated through the changes in a calm matter while always pushing things forward. My case seemed like it should be very simple, but it turned out to be unique and at times complicated. John always responded in a timely fashion. It was amazing to see at the end how he and his staff moved at lightning speed to finalize the divorce before the end of the year – truly amazing! The staff is wonderful - friendly, responsive, professional and helpful. I can’t say enough good things about John Fay and the staff. If you are looking for a divorce attorney, I highly recommend John Fay.
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28 Oct, 2024 by Piper
Tracie has been and continues to be a true support through my divorce!!! When my husband of 25 years decided he didn’t want to he married to me anymore, Tracie advised me with years long knowledge, kindness, respect and guidance!!! I could not have navigated this one on my own!!! Thank you Tracie!!!!
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23 May, 2024 by Monica
I cannot speak highly enough of Tracie. The 5-star reviews are spot on and not without the well deserved merit. Tracie came on as counsel a bit over 2yrs. into my divorce and she not only quickly grasped the situation she also had a good handle of opposing councel and was able to settle the matter in just over a week. I couldn't be more pleased with her professional and stead-fast work that she did for me. She is a credit to her profession and I highly recommend her services.
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04 Jan, 2023 by Betsy
Tracie was professional and straightforward, while being caring and warm from the very start. She makes herself available and listens intently. I appreciate her honesty and willingness to present options with guidance. I can't imagine navigating this difficult situation with anyone else.
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01 May, 2018 by Michelle
Katherine is a great attorney who knows her stuff and will not waste your time. I hired Katherine for post-decree issues that were handled quickly and professionally. She is straightforward about what you can expect from her and the courts and always relayed this to me, every step of the way. I felt heard and understood by both Katherine, and her associate Kate, who were quick to respond to questions or concerns. In the end, I walked away with great settlement. I have already recommended Katherine to several people and will continue to do so.
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25 Apr, 2018 by Sarah
Katherine Becker was excellent. She kept me super informed, and was an amazing advocate for both me and my children. Every detail was covered professionally and quickly. It was also clear in the courtroom on prove up day that Katherine was well respected by both peers and judges alike. Considering that and that her rates are quite reasonable for a skilled lawyer, I can’t recommend her enough!!
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25 Apr, 2018 by Anonymous
Ms. Haskins Becker and her team put my mind at ease from our first meeting and consultation. She took the time to answer all of my questions, and there were many, and I immediately felt confident in my decision to retain her firm. A divorce is never an easy process, and I had specific requirements and requests that she always respected and honored. If I had known that I could have gotten through this process so painlessly and within 7 months, I would have probably acted sooner. I would highly recommend Katherine and her team.
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29 Nov, 2022 by Anonymous
I had a consultation with Jen and she is the best! I had a lot of questions and she was able to respond to them in ways that I understood. She made me feel so comfortable and was attentive to my wants and needs. I would definitely hire her!
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28 Nov, 2022 by Anonymous
Ms. Rice was extremely professional, possessed expert knowledge, provided intelligent and strategic consult, ultimately resulting in a successful outcome for my family. She was compassionate and empathetic to our situation,and I would highly recommend her for any and all legal consult.
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28 Nov, 2022 by Anonymous
Jennifer is a phenomenal advocate for her clients. She always made sure I was well informed, updated, and prepared for every possible outcome. She always made sure she answered all my questions and calmed all my concerns. I felt safe when she was representing me. I highly recommend her!
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02 Jan, 2025 by Tracy cooley
I found STG law listed on a flier at the Dupage County Courthouse, in the family services center, after filing an order of protection against my ex for domestic violence.
STG law charged me over $20,000 within 6 months, and I was told that "some divorce cases can last years."
I was charged $700 in travel fees for my lawyer to drive to the courthouse, despite the office being located in Naperville. I was charged over $1500 each time he was in court as well. I found an honest lawyer that was shocked to know that STG was actually charging a single mom these costs, and my new lawyer informed me that lawyers cannot charge travel costs to/from their own home. My new lawyer was upfront and honest telling me that in Illinois, a divorce case will go to trial within 18 months, not lasting for years.
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27 Dec, 2024 by Tp cre
If you are seeking amicable divorce, please run away from this firm before it is too late. They pitch you amicable divorce and tell you that the process will be over even before all your retainer fee is spent, like Abeer H. Zanayed told us. But in reality, all she did was turning a simple, straightforward divorce process into a battle and racked up thousands of dollars in the process. They charge thousands of dollars to just download documents from emails or website and put them into their "folders". She seeds doubt in your mind about the potential of hidden money and send you on a goose chase, charging thousands of dollars for sending subpoenas to every financial entity in the country. It seems like their goal is to extract as much as possible from you and they have no intention of quickly finishing the process. Status hearing court dates cost thousands of dollars in both lawyers fees for nothing and this keeps going on for years.
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27 Oct, 2024 by Tracie eggert
The entire team at STG is attentive, respectful, accomplished and professional.
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16 Dec, 2024 by --
The service was really good and i this law firm to anybody who needs injury and accidental help.
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31 Oct, 2024 by Jon youngren
Colin O'Malley and the entire firm worked tirelessly for years to help us reach an agreement in our personal injury case. It was clear from the start that they cared about us and our little girl (also a plaintiff), and fought to find the desired outcome. While we certainly hope to never need COKT services again, we are confident that we would use them again in a heartbeat, and we would recommend anyone in need of representation to seek out COKT to handle their case.
Read more
23 Oct, 2024 by Montoria mays
16 Dec, 2024 by --
The service was really good and i this law firm to anybody who needs injury and accidental help.
Read more
31 Oct, 2024 by Jon youngren
Colin O'Malley and the entire firm worked tirelessly for years to help us reach an agreement in our personal injury case. It was clear from the start that they cared about us and our little girl (also a plaintiff), and fought to find the desired outcome. While we certainly hope to never need COKT services again, we are confident that we would use them again in a heartbeat, and we would recommend anyone in need of representation to seek out COKT to handle their case.
Read more
23 Oct, 2024 by Montoria mays
04 Mar, 2011 by Anonymous
Kristina has done a wonderful job representing me in my divorce. I am very pleased and grateful for her service and I would strongly recommend her to anyone who needs legal help in domestic relations. It is extremely hard to find an attorney who is as reliable and affordable (really) as Kristina. I’ve already referred my friend to her and he is just as satisfied.
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17 Dec, 2016 by Anonymous
Met With Maureen to discuss a family law matter. I was so impressed with her!! She is very compassionate and a strong leader you can depend on! She is committed to your cause and will fight for your rights and win!!
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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.
