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Jonathan Andrew Leachman, experienced Family Law, Personal Injury attorney in New Albany, IN with 2 reviews
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39,56
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4.5/5
Avvo
4.5
2 Reviews
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19 Sep, 2013 by Lynn
He listened to what I wanted to do, explained what the law would allow but did his best to comply with my wishes to the best of his ability.
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07 Jan, 2010 by Desiree
Jonathan is a great lawyer. Very up-front and honest. He works very hard for his clients. He worked on a child support issue for me and, since these cases don't ever go away, I will probably use him again.:-) I would recommend him to anyone in need of a family law attorney.
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Ryan D Bower, experienced Child Custody, Criminal Defense attorney in New Albany, IN with 3 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,09
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
3 Reviews
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17 Feb, 2022 by Aaron
Ryan was really professional and honest and reasonable on price I high recommend everyone to him thanks Ryan you are the man
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12 Aug, 2013 by Adrian
Ryan has helped me with a will and some minor criminal work. He did a great job with both.
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05 Aug, 2013 by Elizabeth
Ryan handled my divorce case and was really great to work with. Of course I was nervous and emotional, but he explained everything to me and did a great job. He is very knowledgeable and very patient with me. I was very happy with his service. I recommend him.
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Derrick Hearl Wilson, experienced Child Custody, Estate Planning attorney in New Albany, IN with 3 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,09
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
3 Reviews
star star star star star
30 Nov, 2021 by Jen
I can’t adequately express how thankful I am for Derrick Wilson. Having him in my corner has literally changed my life! Before hiring Mr. Wilson, I spent 5 years feeling like a victim and being scared of my ex-husband. Co-parenting was a nightmare. When I finally couldn’t take anymore I decided I needed an attorney. When I walked into my first consultation meeting with Mr. Wilson I was a jumbled mess who felt powerless. Derrick listened to my concerns and provided excellent guidance on my parental rights and possible next steps. By the time our meeting was over I felt confident and ready for the road ahead. It’s been a year since that first meeting and Derrick has been by my side every step of the way! I can confidently say that hiring him was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made! I no longer feel scared or powerless thanks to Derrick’s help! He exceeded all of my expectations and has provided a sense of peace that I didn’t think was possible. If you are considering hiring an attorney, Derrick Wilson is the one you need!!
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29 Aug, 2018 by Stephen
Derrick & Rebekah have helped me many times thru the last 20 year. They are fast, accurate and professional. There has never been a legal issue that I did not receive accurate and excellent advise. I would recommend their services to anyone requiring family law issues.
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26 Dec, 2017 by Hollie
Derrick Wilson has been AMAZING at advising and representing me in my complicated and long divorce. He is always on top of the situation, and it is obvious his peers/competitors greatly respect him as well. He is a very compassionate person who always remains level-headed and always has my best interest in mind. He explains the process very well, in clear and concise steps. He communicates in a very efficient way to reduce costs while never making me feel bad for needing extra time when the situation requires it. He is fair and practical yet very intelligent and knows the law. Bottom line, you want this attorney on your side, not the other way around! If you need expert representation, Derrick Wilson is the best choice!
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George William Gesenhues Jr., experienced Family Law attorney in New Albany, IN with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,03
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
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12 May, 2013 by Anonymous
George was a pleasure to deal with and was sensitive to the needs of his client. I recommend him without condition.
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Charles Richard Rush, experienced Adoption, Bankruptcy attorney in New Albany, IN with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,03
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
18 Jul, 2015 by Jenny
He is great. Easy to contact. He gives his clients his cell phone number. If you have a question you can call or text him at anytime. If you go to jail you can call him. He's a really good human being who just happens to be a lawyer.
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Michelle Renee Marquand, experienced Family Law attorney in New Albany, IN with 59 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
37,58
star star star star star
4.5/5
Google Maps
4.5
59 Reviews
star star star star star
26 Sep, 2024 by Andrew homan
This is the guy you want on your side.
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16 Jul, 2024 by Doug geiger
I would stay away. I wanted to go to trial right away as I know I didn’t do what I was accused of. Instead of getting surveillance footage and witness statements he starts to plea with the prosecutor. Then when I tell him no he acts all surprised as the offer removes all charges for a fine and some other things. Now the prosecutor has throw tripled the charges and we have none of the surveillance footage all because, he felt it was his job to ignore the client to save a week of his time going to trial. And I am getting another attorney once I get more money to go after this crook
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06 May, 2024 by Matt sacra
Great service ! Very informative and for my case dismissed. Highly recommended
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Bryan Matthew Abell, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in New Albany, IN with 59 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
33,78
star star star star star
4.5/5
Google Maps
4.5
59 Reviews
star star star star star
26 Sep, 2024 by Andrew homan
This is the guy you want on your side.
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16 Jul, 2024 by Doug geiger
I would stay away. I wanted to go to trial right away as I know I didn’t do what I was accused of. Instead of getting surveillance footage and witness statements he starts to plea with the prosecutor. Then when I tell him no he acts all surprised as the offer removes all charges for a fine and some other things. Now the prosecutor has throw tripled the charges and we have none of the surveillance footage all because, he felt it was his job to ignore the client to save a week of his time going to trial. And I am getting another attorney once I get more money to go after this crook
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06 May, 2024 by Matt sacra
Great service ! Very informative and for my case dismissed. Highly recommended
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George August Streib Jr., experienced Criminal Defense, Domestic Violence attorney in New Albany, IN with 65 reviews
Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
33,45
star star star star star
4.4/5
Avvo
4.3
6 Reviews
Google Maps
4.4
59 Reviews
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31 Oct, 2024 by Shugwithave
Great guy! Very patient, helps out all the time!
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26 Sep, 2024 by Tiffany jones
This attorney is very horrible. Doesn’t communicate, won’t be there when needed, takes your money but doesn’t render services. He’s VERY UNPROFESSIONAL!!! Don’t ask for an itemized list of services because that’ll never happen and he’ll drop you. The only thing he is good for is helping you lose what you’ve worked so hard for. He’s not a good attorney!!! CAUTION ⚠️ BEWARE!!!! He’ll take your money and that’s about all!!!
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25 Sep, 2024 by Leslie rodewig
CAUTION Keep looking!!! . This man will take your money , loose your documents, act like you never paid him. He dropped me the day before my final hearing, demanded more money , then push my final hearing back several more months , then try to charge me another thousand dollars He is VERY UNPROFESSIONAL in my opinion. He talks fast but moves very slow… I paid him $4000. He tried to double charge me for final hearing that he refused to represent me. He cost me my home and all the things I worked for for the past 15 years of my life .He refused to turn in my paperwork to the courts. The the day of the final hearing he ripped my proposal in half and told me he would not defend me. It’s my case I will speak for myself. After all that after him letting me down, turning his back on me, then he found motion to withdraw again claiming I owed him money. The only thing I supposedly owed him was $50 that he refused to give me an itemized bill for any of the services he rendered to me because he never did anything for me please take caution….disappointed client🤨
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Ralph Christopher Melbourne, experienced Appeals, Family Law attorney in New Albany, IN with 156 reviews
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info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
32,32
star star star star star
4.4/5
Avvo
3.0
2 Reviews
Google Maps
4.4
154 Reviews
star star star star star
24 Jan, 2025 by Stephen bush
Very attentive to details and looking out for our best interests. Mr. Langdon showed a carry attitude towards our needs and situation. Would recommend their services to watch over someone’s estate.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Vermeer
Wonderful practice!
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17 Jan, 2025 by Mary ann williams
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Amy Rebecca Stein, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in New Albany, IN with 94 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
31,35
star star star star star
4.7/5
Google Maps
4.7
94 Reviews
star star star star star
28 Oct, 2024 by Consaundra darden
Very warm welcome! I’ve used this office several times and will definitely use it again . I recommend if you’re not sure about a situation you have just give them a call and I Promise you will get a response . My go to office without a doubt . Thank you Nick Stein office . I Greatly appreciate you all .
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28 Mar, 2024 by Angelika bondareva
Very informative, helpful, and kept me in the loop throughout my entire case! Also really appreciated them working with me in getting my settlement where i wanted it!
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12 Feb, 2024 by Austin taylor
I found Amy to be highly unprofessional, and highly ineffective with my case. I was rear-ended badly while I was stopped at a light and injured. I could never get in touch with Amy, nor her minions she assigned to help. There was little to no communication for weeks at a time. They never made me feel like I was important enough for their time. I missed a few PT appointments due to Covid and a snowstorm. She blamed that for my laughable settlement. She must have had friends and family write all these reviews, unless she just decided she hated me for reasons unknown, and decided to treat me unfairly. I can't imagine there would be a much worse option out there. Do yourself a favor and look elsewhere for an attorney. to Covid
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April Michelle Geltmaker, experienced Family Law attorney in New Albany, IN with 154 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
29,72
star star star star star
4.4/5
Google Maps
4.4
154 Reviews
star star star star star
24 Jan, 2025 by Stephen bush
Very attentive to details and looking out for our best interests. Mr. Langdon showed a carry attitude towards our needs and situation. Would recommend their services to watch over someone’s estate.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Vermeer
Wonderful practice!
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17 Jan, 2025 by Mary ann williams
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Steven Scott Lohmeyer, experienced Family Law attorney in New Albany, IN with 28 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
26,20
star star star star star
4.4/5
Google Maps
4.4
28 Reviews
star star star star star
14 Nov, 2023 by Pamela troutman
Greg Neely is very thorough. I needed to update my POA and he completed that as well as updating my living will and durable medical POA.
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04 Nov, 2023 by Patty spencer
Mr. Murphy has consistently earned the position of being our Attorney of choice. Not only is he extremely crafted in his trade, his sense of urgency, professionalism and kindness is the reason he will always be our first choice when needing legal counsel.
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20 Oct, 2023 by Mitchell crowe
Great attorneys straight to the point Doesn't b s anybody. Nice friendly staff always on the spot.
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Derwin Lamont Webb, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in New Albany, IN with 4 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
16,33
star star star star star
3.0/5
Avvo
3.0
4 Reviews
star star star star star
13 Dec, 2016 by Aaron b.
Consulted with he and his assistant, Ms Carroll about a custody case. They took over 40 days to get back with me after the initial meeting, only to confirm information through what they called a p.i. that they sent out. I left custody paperwork that they asked to look over and if they could hold on to but then when i requested my paperwork back due to lack of communication that has been a totally unprofessional situation. Ms. Carroll emailed on Nov 2nd that she was mailing them back, now today after nearly 40 days, 2 more emails and several attempted phone calls................she informs me that it can be sent out COD with me having to pay the 10-15 dollar fee. Absolutely pathetic communication, lack of effort and the most unprofessional office i have dealt with in years. Don't know if it him or his staff but either way, it was a very disappointing situation.
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19 Jul, 2016 by Stephanie
Derwin Webb has taken care of several legal matters for me in the past and I am currently using him in a child custody matter. Mr. Webb is very professional and has always delivered on everything we have discussed and planned for with my case(s). He is also very easy to talk to and he takes great pride in his work and in helping people. It is not hard to get in touch with Mr. Webb and he takes the time to explain things thoroughly and in detail. In my opinion, he is a GREAT ATTORNEY!!!
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05 Apr, 2016 by Dm, louisville
Had legal matters in both Kentucky and Indiana. Mr. Webb was able to handle both matters, which saved me money. He also coordinated my court dates, so I could attend. I'm thankful that all worked out for the best. He fought for me and gave his all.
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Matthew Richard Lemme, experienced Civil Rights, Family Law attorney in New Albany, IN with 4 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
16,25
star star star star star
3.0/5
Google Maps
3.0
4 Reviews
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29 Sep, 2022 by Michelle booker
Lee is a great lawyer! He has been my mom and dads lawyer and treats them like family. He gives his all to every court date and keeps them happy when times get tough! Thank you Lee!
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13 Sep, 2022 by Debra carver
It was such a let down today. The Judge, Carrie Stiller, allowed her motherly emotions to control her judgement. She just decided/ordered a father to pay for college to a daughter that will have nothing to do with him. We had evidence of reputation that had a time span of over 10 years to current The judge said if anything that happened when she was younger than 18 couldn't be heard.... that she would only accept evidence from the age of 18 on....but then turned around and used an old text from the same time frame of 16 as the bases for her decision. Then had the audacity to scold him as a father over the 1 text. Not even acknowledging all the mounds of evidence. It makes me feel she didn't even research the previous hearings. I'm not speaking on her overall performance throughout being in her position. I'm solely speaking on her judgement with this case. Very disappointed. Justice was not served.
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03 Nov, 2021 by Lani h
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Marianne Jeanette Conrad, experienced Family Law attorney in New Albany, IN with 35 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
15,95
star star star star star
3.5/5
Google Maps
3.5
35 Reviews
star star star star star
16 May, 2024 by Josh allen
Google Maps
star star star star star
03 Feb, 2024 by Scoop
Don't call you back
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07 Dec, 2023 by Earl times
Was told couldn't help me unless I had a discrimination case. With proof. Not sure why so much info collected to be of no assistance
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Stanley O. Faith, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in New Albany, IN with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
6,00
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0.0/5
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John L. Smith, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in New Albany, IN with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
6,00
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0.0/5
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Aaron Michael Johnson, experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in New Albany, IN with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,57
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
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18 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Was very arrogant and demeaning towards me as a woman. He didn't take the abuse I suffered seriously and kept calling me "girl / girly." Do not recommend.
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Leslie Dale Merkley, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in New Albany, IN with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Lisa Garcia Reger, experienced Adoption, Family Law attorney in New Albany, IN with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Linda Bryan Lorch, experienced Family Law attorney in New Albany, IN with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Diane Haag, experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in New Albany, IN with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Leah James Loy, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in New Albany, IN with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Claire Lorch Hagedorn, experienced Estate Planning, Family Law attorney in New Albany, IN with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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John Christopher Sturgeon, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in New Albany, IN with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Thomas Jackson Bird, experienced Criminal Defense, Domestic Violence attorney in New Albany, IN with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Julia Ann Fifer, experienced Family Law attorney in New Albany, IN with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Amy Rebecca Wheatley, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in New Albany, IN with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Dana Michelle Eberle-Peay, experienced Estate Planning, Family Law attorney in New Albany, IN with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Carrie Kristin Stiller, experienced Family Law attorney in New Albany, IN with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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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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