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03 Apr, 2023 by Josh glynn
Nancy and Jaquie are absolutely amazing ladies and are so wonderful to work with!
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12 Dec, 2020 by Jacob alpaugh (jake)
Probably the most unprofessional attorney I've ever met. She ((Nancy)) would talk about being high on hydrocodone pills when I would meet with her
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26 Aug, 2020 by Alycia laflin
Great lawyer!
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09 May, 2024 by Sabri tirkash
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17 Mar, 2024 by Cortney whitmore
My husband and I cannot thank this law firm enough! We worked with Nate Stratton and Sydney Story, they represented us in a child custody case for my step kids. They both worked so hard for us and got exactly what we wanted! They stand up for what is best for the kids and fight for that! We will forever be thankful to Nate and Sydney for helping us get full physical custody!
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30 Oct, 2023 by Samantha sliva
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09 May, 2024 by Sabri tirkash
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17 Mar, 2024 by Cortney whitmore
My husband and I cannot thank this law firm enough! We worked with Nate Stratton and Sydney Story, they represented us in a child custody case for my step kids. They both worked so hard for us and got exactly what we wanted! They stand up for what is best for the kids and fight for that! We will forever be thankful to Nate and Sydney for helping us get full physical custody!
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30 Oct, 2023 by Samantha sliva
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09 May, 2024 by Sabri tirkash
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17 Mar, 2024 by Cortney whitmore
My husband and I cannot thank this law firm enough! We worked with Nate Stratton and Sydney Story, they represented us in a child custody case for my step kids. They both worked so hard for us and got exactly what we wanted! They stand up for what is best for the kids and fight for that! We will forever be thankful to Nate and Sydney for helping us get full physical custody!
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30 Oct, 2023 by Samantha sliva
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09 May, 2024 by Sabri tirkash
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17 Mar, 2024 by Cortney whitmore
My husband and I cannot thank this law firm enough! We worked with Nate Stratton and Sydney Story, they represented us in a child custody case for my step kids. They both worked so hard for us and got exactly what we wanted! They stand up for what is best for the kids and fight for that! We will forever be thankful to Nate and Sydney for helping us get full physical custody!
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30 Oct, 2023 by Samantha sliva
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09 May, 2024 by Sabri tirkash
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17 Mar, 2024 by Cortney whitmore
My husband and I cannot thank this law firm enough! We worked with Nate Stratton and Sydney Story, they represented us in a child custody case for my step kids. They both worked so hard for us and got exactly what we wanted! They stand up for what is best for the kids and fight for that! We will forever be thankful to Nate and Sydney for helping us get full physical custody!
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30 Oct, 2023 by Samantha sliva
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12 Feb, 2024 by Ivan tracy
nice
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30 Jan, 2024 by Deb orlando
Always helpful and caring staff and always there to answer any questions.
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14 Dec, 2023 by Mitchell mertz
John is a great lawyer
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12 Feb, 2024 by Ivan tracy
nice
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30 Jan, 2024 by Deb orlando
Always helpful and caring staff and always there to answer any questions.
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14 Dec, 2023 by Mitchell mertz
John is a great lawyer
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05 Jul, 2024 by Matt
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20 May, 2024 by G g
Well experienced attorney's and good legal advice.
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10 Nov, 2022 by Vanessa delgado
Please be careful when hiring James Korth. 2 years and 8000.00 for a simple case. Never wave your right to a speedy trial. So because this guy is about retaliation his secretary made a phone call to us and he charges is 31 dollars for a phone call and the case is over. This guy is a snake and doesn’t stand for anything good.
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30 Oct, 2023 by Sammi c
Took two weeks to call me only to do a long phone interview (like an hour) saying if they’re interested in my case they will let me know and then sent a letter of denial a week later. No reason given other than “they are so busy” yada yada. Was referred by CSE. The whole reason for the situation in the first place. Was pretty much a waste of time
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07 May, 2023 by Lindsay roland
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18 Apr, 2023 by Patience x'3
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24 Dec, 2021 by Natalie hill
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04 Sep, 2019 by Dscott888
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28 Aug, 2024 by Marie johnson
I legit have court in the morning and I am not prepared. I asked my attorney (MARK BESTUL) to get a continuance and that I couldnt miss work for 90days and he emphatically said no! He said the judge wouldn't approve it as the initial order would be "halfway into the order." Ummm, what the hell does that even mean IF they can be granted from 1 year to 5? Nevermind my abuser (yes, it's DV) was granted a continuance to 1) LEAVE THE COUNTRY. Then, they 2) gave me the wrong address to the courthouse. Then, 3) it was reset for lack of time last week. I asked Mark this last week as getting all the necessary documents, etc would take some time AND I did not want to lose my job. I called and asked what I could do to escalate it for his boss to speak with him and was told I could file a grievance. Yes, a grievance that WOULD take weeks/months to resolve. I have court in the morning, less-than 1 weeks after the last court appearance that was reset by the judge. This is ridiculous. This is why people handle things their own way as doing it the "right/preferred" way gets you wholly ignored and minimized. I will end up dead and it'll be my fault that I didn't do what exactly? Report, file, comply??? He is a joke and this agency is a bigger joke. 😔
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13 Jul, 2024 by Antelope creek livestock
This is supposed to be an organization that helps those who cannot help themselves in a tricky, confusing legal system. They know their clients are likely to not have computers (why are their documents barely fillable on a phone??), and they know their clients likely do not have bank accounts (why TF do they ask for a debit card???), and they know their clients have likely been screwed over by the legal system time and again (why do they make it difficult to complete a process like getting a d*mn ID????). If I could leave zero stars I would. Do your job, Legal Aid of Nebraska. Do your job.
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24 May, 2024 by Samantha pierson
Great people
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28 Aug, 2024 by Marie johnson
I legit have court in the morning and I am not prepared. I asked my attorney (MARK BESTUL) to get a continuance and that I couldnt miss work for 90days and he emphatically said no! He said the judge wouldn't approve it as the initial order would be "halfway into the order." Ummm, what the hell does that even mean IF they can be granted from 1 year to 5? Nevermind my abuser (yes, it's DV) was granted a continuance to 1) LEAVE THE COUNTRY. Then, they 2) gave me the wrong address to the courthouse. Then, 3) it was reset for lack of time last week. I asked Mark this last week as getting all the necessary documents, etc would take some time AND I did not want to lose my job. I called and asked what I could do to escalate it for his boss to speak with him and was told I could file a grievance. Yes, a grievance that WOULD take weeks/months to resolve. I have court in the morning, less-than 1 weeks after the last court appearance that was reset by the judge. This is ridiculous. This is why people handle things their own way as doing it the "right/preferred" way gets you wholly ignored and minimized. I will end up dead and it'll be my fault that I didn't do what exactly? Report, file, comply??? He is a joke and this agency is a bigger joke. 😔
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13 Jul, 2024 by Antelope creek livestock
This is supposed to be an organization that helps those who cannot help themselves in a tricky, confusing legal system. They know their clients are likely to not have computers (why are their documents barely fillable on a phone??), and they know their clients likely do not have bank accounts (why TF do they ask for a debit card???), and they know their clients have likely been screwed over by the legal system time and again (why do they make it difficult to complete a process like getting a d*mn ID????). If I could leave zero stars I would. Do your job, Legal Aid of Nebraska. Do your job.
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24 May, 2024 by Samantha pierson
Great people
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28 Aug, 2024 by Marie johnson
I legit have court in the morning and I am not prepared. I asked my attorney (MARK BESTUL) to get a continuance and that I couldnt miss work for 90days and he emphatically said no! He said the judge wouldn't approve it as the initial order would be "halfway into the order." Ummm, what the hell does that even mean IF they can be granted from 1 year to 5? Nevermind my abuser (yes, it's DV) was granted a continuance to 1) LEAVE THE COUNTRY. Then, they 2) gave me the wrong address to the courthouse. Then, 3) it was reset for lack of time last week. I asked Mark this last week as getting all the necessary documents, etc would take some time AND I did not want to lose my job. I called and asked what I could do to escalate it for his boss to speak with him and was told I could file a grievance. Yes, a grievance that WOULD take weeks/months to resolve. I have court in the morning, less-than 1 weeks after the last court appearance that was reset by the judge. This is ridiculous. This is why people handle things their own way as doing it the "right/preferred" way gets you wholly ignored and minimized. I will end up dead and it'll be my fault that I didn't do what exactly? Report, file, comply??? He is a joke and this agency is a bigger joke. 😔
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star star star star star
13 Jul, 2024 by Antelope creek livestock
This is supposed to be an organization that helps those who cannot help themselves in a tricky, confusing legal system. They know their clients are likely to not have computers (why are their documents barely fillable on a phone??), and they know their clients likely do not have bank accounts (why TF do they ask for a debit card???), and they know their clients have likely been screwed over by the legal system time and again (why do they make it difficult to complete a process like getting a d*mn ID????). If I could leave zero stars I would. Do your job, Legal Aid of Nebraska. Do your job.
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star star star star star
24 May, 2024 by Samantha pierson
Great people
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28 Aug, 2024 by Marie johnson
I legit have court in the morning and I am not prepared. I asked my attorney (MARK BESTUL) to get a continuance and that I couldnt miss work for 90days and he emphatically said no! He said the judge wouldn't approve it as the initial order would be "halfway into the order." Ummm, what the hell does that even mean IF they can be granted from 1 year to 5? Nevermind my abuser (yes, it's DV) was granted a continuance to 1) LEAVE THE COUNTRY. Then, they 2) gave me the wrong address to the courthouse. Then, 3) it was reset for lack of time last week. I asked Mark this last week as getting all the necessary documents, etc would take some time AND I did not want to lose my job. I called and asked what I could do to escalate it for his boss to speak with him and was told I could file a grievance. Yes, a grievance that WOULD take weeks/months to resolve. I have court in the morning, less-than 1 weeks after the last court appearance that was reset by the judge. This is ridiculous. This is why people handle things their own way as doing it the "right/preferred" way gets you wholly ignored and minimized. I will end up dead and it'll be my fault that I didn't do what exactly? Report, file, comply??? He is a joke and this agency is a bigger joke. 😔
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star star star star star
13 Jul, 2024 by Antelope creek livestock
This is supposed to be an organization that helps those who cannot help themselves in a tricky, confusing legal system. They know their clients are likely to not have computers (why are their documents barely fillable on a phone??), and they know their clients likely do not have bank accounts (why TF do they ask for a debit card???), and they know their clients have likely been screwed over by the legal system time and again (why do they make it difficult to complete a process like getting a d*mn ID????). If I could leave zero stars I would. Do your job, Legal Aid of Nebraska. Do your job.
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star star star star star
24 May, 2024 by Samantha pierson
Great people
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28 Aug, 2024 by Marie johnson
I legit have court in the morning and I am not prepared. I asked my attorney (MARK BESTUL) to get a continuance and that I couldnt miss work for 90days and he emphatically said no! He said the judge wouldn't approve it as the initial order would be "halfway into the order." Ummm, what the hell does that even mean IF they can be granted from 1 year to 5? Nevermind my abuser (yes, it's DV) was granted a continuance to 1) LEAVE THE COUNTRY. Then, they 2) gave me the wrong address to the courthouse. Then, 3) it was reset for lack of time last week. I asked Mark this last week as getting all the necessary documents, etc would take some time AND I did not want to lose my job. I called and asked what I could do to escalate it for his boss to speak with him and was told I could file a grievance. Yes, a grievance that WOULD take weeks/months to resolve. I have court in the morning, less-than 1 weeks after the last court appearance that was reset by the judge. This is ridiculous. This is why people handle things their own way as doing it the "right/preferred" way gets you wholly ignored and minimized. I will end up dead and it'll be my fault that I didn't do what exactly? Report, file, comply??? He is a joke and this agency is a bigger joke. 😔
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
13 Jul, 2024 by Antelope creek livestock
This is supposed to be an organization that helps those who cannot help themselves in a tricky, confusing legal system. They know their clients are likely to not have computers (why are their documents barely fillable on a phone??), and they know their clients likely do not have bank accounts (why TF do they ask for a debit card???), and they know their clients have likely been screwed over by the legal system time and again (why do they make it difficult to complete a process like getting a d*mn ID????). If I could leave zero stars I would. Do your job, Legal Aid of Nebraska. Do your job.
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24 May, 2024 by Samantha pierson
Great people
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21 Aug, 2024 by Colin wattonville
If you are looking for a lawyer that takes months to respond, Zach is your guy. It sometimes seemed like the only way to get him to respond was to CC the officer manager on emails so as to somewhat hold him accountable. Also, the law firm appears to have blocked my email addresses so I am no longer able to get in contact with my lawyer or anyone else in the office whatsoever. I still need the lawyer I hired to respond to me and update the contact information for a trademark filing. Horrible service.
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20 Jul, 2024 by Whitney lemon
Google Maps
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02 Apr, 2024 by Alessandra c diem
eventhough kristina did a good job bring me to the audience, I still not able to communicate with my daugher. she still have not got back to me on when am I going to be able to communicate with and visit my daugher , as I have already gone to the audience on april 4th, 2024.
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21 Aug, 2024 by Colin wattonville
If you are looking for a lawyer that takes months to respond, Zach is your guy. It sometimes seemed like the only way to get him to respond was to CC the officer manager on emails so as to somewhat hold him accountable. Also, the law firm appears to have blocked my email addresses so I am no longer able to get in contact with my lawyer or anyone else in the office whatsoever. I still need the lawyer I hired to respond to me and update the contact information for a trademark filing. Horrible service.
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star star star star star
20 Jul, 2024 by Whitney lemon
Google Maps
star star star star star
02 Apr, 2024 by Alessandra c diem
eventhough kristina did a good job bring me to the audience, I still not able to communicate with my daugher. she still have not got back to me on when am I going to be able to communicate with and visit my daugher , as I have already gone to the audience on april 4th, 2024.
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01 May, 2024 by Barry stearns
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25 Sep, 2023 by Aaron rommers
I've known him for a long time. He's a dang good man !!!!!
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18 Jan, 2024 by Gretter rodriguez mejias
Gave up on the case, told us to get another attorney!
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19 Oct, 2023 by Leeann thomas
Google Maps
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14 Aug, 2023 by Alicia perez
Audrey came through in the clutch for me.
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12 Jan, 2023 by Anthony jones
Disability filing. Many months without communication, when attempted to contact with questions or concerns, paralegal would have to re-investigate the case in order to remember who my wife was. No requests for documentation, no meetings with Dr’s or supporting entities…. Nothing. Dragged out over a year. Very little support during court proceedings. I would not recommended.
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10 Dec, 2022 by Deron ginn
If you want a lawyer in Gregg Neuhaus that spends his time on Facebook not being able to make cogent arguments and snooping on your social media, then he's your guy.
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star star star star star
24 Oct, 2022 by Reynol guerrero
Excelente servicios para todos
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21 Aug, 2024 by Colin wattonville
If you are looking for a lawyer that takes months to respond, Zach is your guy. It sometimes seemed like the only way to get him to respond was to CC the officer manager on emails so as to somewhat hold him accountable. Also, the law firm appears to have blocked my email addresses so I am no longer able to get in contact with my lawyer or anyone else in the office whatsoever. I still need the lawyer I hired to respond to me and update the contact information for a trademark filing. Horrible service.
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star star star star star
20 Jul, 2024 by Whitney lemon
Google Maps
star star star star star
02 Apr, 2024 by Alessandra c diem
eventhough kristina did a good job bring me to the audience, I still not able to communicate with my daugher. she still have not got back to me on when am I going to be able to communicate with and visit my daugher , as I have already gone to the audience on april 4th, 2024.
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30 May, 2023 by Ndj basic
I enjoy him as my attorney as he is willing to help with what you need and gets things done
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19 May, 2022 by M c
Google Maps
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25 Apr, 2020 by Rob andera
Worst attorney I've ever had, doesn't want to hear what client has to say or concerns tries to bully people and doesn't seem to even know the laws he makes them up as he goes and lies consistently, he quit representing me just because I asked him to file an appeal, he only cares about what he looks like, and that's not very good as it is...I should've known better when he was referred to as "The Weasel "
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25 Jan, 2024 by Yati wae
Extremely rude
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15 Mar, 2022 by Trevor reeder
Google Maps
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18 Nov, 2019 by Shane johnson
Honest and fair
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13 Mar, 2024 by Jeff v
Janelle has had great communication and put in the work to get a very old judgement settled. I’d recommend her to anyone.
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30 Nov, 2020 by Preston & his mom
I used to do all my own collections for two separate businesses I manage and it was so time consuming and confusing with all the different rules and laws. I was sure there had to be an easier way. After calling around to many lawyers here in town I found Janelle's name came up repeatedly. I met with her and she was awesome! I gave her one of our largest collection accounts to test the waters and in no time her and her team had a full payment! I would recommend her to anyone and everyone!
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25 Nov, 2020 by Clhatch13
Janelle Foltz was hired by ARL Credit Services. ARL doesn't even have a front door to their business...Google maps shows it located in a Home Health Services business. ARL is NOT accredited by the Better Business Bureau. Ms. Foltz doesn't have any website and her reviews on Google indicate she's a suspicious character. In my garnishment case, ARL and Ms. Foltz both failed to show to court. They lost their case.
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25 Jan, 2024 by Yati wae
Extremely rude
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15 Mar, 2022 by Trevor reeder
Google Maps
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18 Nov, 2019 by Shane johnson
Honest and fair
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30 May, 2024 by Adríí cel
Very disappointing attorney. Do not recommend. Save yourself on your money and find someone who will genuinely care about helping you. Obviously we can’t help if we win or loose. but having a attorney with proper communication and preparation would be helpful to know he is trying.
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23 Apr, 2024 by Lanny schnell
Google Maps
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30 Mar, 2024 by Quincy randall
Sterling is a no nonsense attorney who is not afraid to give much needed legal advice that sometimes you may not WANT to hear but that you NEED to hear. And just gets things done. He is very professional and seeks to get you the best results out of whatever your situation calls for.
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16 Aug, 2024 by Loki greens
Doesn't care about his clients. The Secretary is very rude to people when they call can't be any more unprofessional law officer in Columbus
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24 Feb, 2024 by Val rathje
Google Maps
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14 Mar, 2023 by Brad doles
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27 Feb, 2024 by Logos rising
This firm was my public defender. They did a great job for me.
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08 Sep, 2022 by Gage kasat
Mike munch is a scam for the state of Nebraska. He was my public defender and he is truly a public pretender. He has no sympathy for his clients.
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07 May, 2022 by Christine martinez
If you're looking for legal representation... I would look elsewhere. Trust me If I had the option to not even select a star I would have gone that route. However you have to select at least one to leave a review. Patricia Bramhall is worthless!! She's actually supposed to be a guardian ad litem conservator or whatever you are supposed to call it for my father for the last almost 2 years I think. We go to court hopefully for our final hearing in a month to remove her. My sister is now power of attorney. Bramhall has done absolutely NOTHING and I mean NOTHING!!! I hope she's ready to show us an accounting for all of the money spent while she's been doing absolutely NOTHING for my father. So if you need a lawyer.... Call someone that will actually work for you. I don't know how she sleeps at night. My siblings and I have provided him with everything that he's needed out of our own pockets for the past couple of years, his rent has been paid for his assisted living out of his estate. I'm going to find out if my father can sue her for any monies she has paid herself from his estate since she hasn't legally earned it. An absolutely HORRENDOUS experience!! Do yourselves a favor and seek other legal representation. Your neighbors dog could do a better job.
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27 Feb, 2024 by Logos rising
This firm was my public defender. They did a great job for me.
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star star star star star
08 Sep, 2022 by Gage kasat
Mike munch is a scam for the state of Nebraska. He was my public defender and he is truly a public pretender. He has no sympathy for his clients.
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star star star star star
07 May, 2022 by Christine martinez
If you're looking for legal representation... I would look elsewhere. Trust me If I had the option to not even select a star I would have gone that route. However you have to select at least one to leave a review. Patricia Bramhall is worthless!! She's actually supposed to be a guardian ad litem conservator or whatever you are supposed to call it for my father for the last almost 2 years I think. We go to court hopefully for our final hearing in a month to remove her. My sister is now power of attorney. Bramhall has done absolutely NOTHING and I mean NOTHING!!! I hope she's ready to show us an accounting for all of the money spent while she's been doing absolutely NOTHING for my father. So if you need a lawyer.... Call someone that will actually work for you. I don't know how she sleeps at night. My siblings and I have provided him with everything that he's needed out of our own pockets for the past couple of years, his rent has been paid for his assisted living out of his estate. I'm going to find out if my father can sue her for any monies she has paid herself from his estate since she hasn't legally earned it. An absolutely HORRENDOUS experience!! Do yourselves a favor and seek other legal representation. Your neighbors dog could do a better job.
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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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

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