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23 Oct, 2024 by Gary
I had been contacting several lawyers about getting a divorce when I couldn't locate my spouse and they were tremendously expensive for this type of divorce. I contacted Mr. Marlowe about this and he was very reasonably priced so I hired him. His staff is the best and handled every detail swiftly andprofessionally. The communication was extraordinary an d they kept me advised at every step along the way. Finally the completed the process of trying to locate my ex with no luck and were able to get me a signed decree of divorce by the judge with no issues.
I couldn't recommend anyone more highly than Russell Marlowe and his staff. You can place you issue in their hands and relax because if they tell you they can get it done they will.
I almost wish I had another issue to hire them for, they were that efficient and handled it all from start to finish.
Thank you Mr. Marlowe and all of your staff.
May God bless you and keep you all.
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11 Sep, 2024 by Frank
Russell and his staff were such a blessing during a difficult time. He handled my divorce and was always available to answer questions and provide guidance. He got results even when others tried to stall. I would highly recommend him and his paralegal Jill. What a team!
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13 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. Marlowe for a somewhat complex interstate family law matter. My issues were heard in Pasco County and Mr. Marlowe secured a favorable decision for me.
Mr. Marlowe’s staff are courteous and professional and there seems to be good continuity in communication between him and his employees. I never felt apprehensive about reaching out to him or his staff because they’d kindly receive any messages or phone calls. If they were, unavailable or needed to look into something, they would return my calls extremely fast and would have an answer for me.
In the Court Room:
Russ spoke clearly, concisely and accurately. Our Judge had no questions for my side because of how Russ prepared my documents. He clearly defined the issue and gave expert legal foundation for the arguments he presented.
Mr Marlowe’s most outstanding quality to me is his responsiveness and attitude towards me. He never seemed bothered or hurried in conversation, allowed me to speak and listened to my concerns. His fees were all reasonable and he was gracious with his time.
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07 Nov, 2023 by Carol
When a sudden death in our family threw us into the most traumatic experience of our lives, we were blessed to find Michelle to represent us in the very difficult task of establishing the guardianship of a minor child and seeing her estate through to distribution. She and her entire team walked us through this daunting journey with extreme knowledge, experience and confidence combined with compassion, caring and sensitivity for our situation. They were always available and took the time to explain each step and put our minds at ease. We felt as if they were fighting for their own family. Michelle secured an excellent outcome out of a very long struggle. We are forever grateful.
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05 Feb, 2019 by Anonymous
We hired Mischelle for adoption. Everything was smooth and fast. Her assistant was professional and helpful in making sure all documents were complete.
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02 Feb, 2019 by Shane
Always looked out for my best interest, and has a heart of gold...not to many Lawers have those from what I'm told. She is awesome!
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06 Jun, 2024 by Lois
When I called was told they didn't handled that kind.But then they called back and helped me, so grateful. Thank you.
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07 Apr, 2023 by Anonymous
Mr. Iken stuck with me for my entire case. My questions were always quickly answered and he reached out to me proactively throughout my case. Very highly recommended!!
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06 Jul, 2022 by George
I just want to say thanks to Mr. Howard Iken and his associates for making my legal matter a very professional and straight forward experience. When I first spoke with Mr. Iken, he was very friendly and offered a no-nonsense approach to my case. He was very attentive and informative regarding answers to my questions/concerns and he always addressed any reservations that I had in a very timely manner. If you are looking for a professional, down-to-earth, and to-the-point attorney who has empathy at an affordable rate, then you should definitely consider Ayo and Iken for your needs.
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25 Jul, 2023 by Jenna
From our very first conversation, Mr. Foote served as the calm amid the storm when my world was turned upside down. He's exceptionally sincere and decisive; I felt listened to and understood to the point that it felt like I was his only client each time we spoke.
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07 Jan, 2022 by Jerry
I had gotten into trouble with the law in 2000 and was sentenced to prison for eight years in 2001. My wife at the time divorced me and kept my two children from me my entire sentence and then used the fact that I was an ex-felon to continue to keep them from me. Right after my son turned 18 my ex wife tried to come after me for a lot of money. A friend of mine from church was an attorney and told me I need to speak with Mr. Ken Foote. I did and hired him right away. One of the best decisions I have made! Mr. Foote’s knowledge and experience was a huge blessing for me and even though I had to pay some money to my ex wife it was NOTHING compared to what she was trying to do to me and get from me. Mr. Foote was so good that the judge handling my case even apologized to me for my ex wife’s actions and what she was trying to do, in fact he wasn’t even happy with her attorney. I am so thankful to my Lord Jesus for placing Mr. Foote in my life and incredibly grateful to Mr. Foote for how much he cares about his clients and the awesome job he did for me. Thank you Ken Foote and may Jesus bless you and your firm as you continue to be a blessing to others!
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27 Sep, 2020 by Nichole
I have been working with Foote Law Firm recently for over 4 solid years (12 years total), and from the office staff, to just getting a phone call from Mr. Foote to talk to me when I was upset, this office is amazing. They gave me all the options, all the things that could happen and prepared me for the worst and even the best. In the end it was clearly the best as we won our case and my children are protected. I cannot thank this Kenneth Foote and his staff enough for having everything together and being extremely responsive to mine and my children's needs.
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19 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
Scott is a very intelligent attorney, he helped me out and I am extremely happy with the results he was able to get. I would hire him again in a heart beat.
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08 Aug, 2024 by Zen federal
Liz Coviello defended my daughter and me in family court intermittently for many years against a hostile counter-parent. She helped with child support, custody, stalking, injunction, and special-needs minor related issues. When dealing with the other side, who used manipulation, dishonesty, no ethics, no integrity, and did not have the best interests of a disabled minor ... Liz's ethics, integrity, and commitment to a proper practice was a breath of fresh air and a consistent sanity check. I highly recommend Liz Coviello's practice. She's formidably intelligent, she knows the laws pertaining to family court, she is reasonable, logical and trustworthy.
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26 Jul, 2024 by Shan
I can't speak highly enough about my experience with Liz. I hired her for a divorce and she reassured me from Day 1 that she would fight for me and she did not disappoint. She's smart, kind, empathetic and she will fight for you when you don't have the strength to fight for yourself. We hit a few roadblocks with opposing counsel and she handled them with ease while I was losing my mind. I put all my trust into her and I will forever be grateful for her.
Look no further...Liz is an absolute queen and one hell of a lawyer. 10/10!
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16 Jan, 2024 by Erica frankowski
Liz was very attentive and assertive. She was there with me every step of the way with my family matter. I would definitely recommend her to anyone!
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03 Oct, 2024 by Gratia smith
Howard was fantastic. He explained everything thoroughly and just made it all very easy! Hopefully I don’t need him for the same service but if I did I would definitely return. Thank you again Howard!
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13 Mar, 2024 by Ron barbuto
THE OWNER LIED LOOK AT THE PICS Used Jeremy S for a case where 2 days after the case was over he was pulled from the firm due to being sick and not being able to represent. We called to talk with the firm 8 times and no call back they have no communication will take your money and never call you back
3/13/24 edit in response to the owner saying “Jeremy was not pulled” one thing the owner doesn’t realize is we referred a client who called us 2 days after my court date to ask why Jeremy was no longer working on her case then she informed us he was pulled from the firm for being sick …. Aggressive is an understatement your attorney could not walk stairs and couldn’t breathe and barely stand in court….
EDIT attached text from the customer we referred and how we found out Jeremy was released from the firm…. I have called up multiple times all I ask is for communication on your side which I have gotten none and then you just attacked me saying that I’m unhappy with the results that’s not why I’m reaching out, so please contact me for the ninth time so I can communicate with you. My time is even more expensive than Jeremy’s time, so I’m about to start billing you for how many times that I’ve tried to reach out
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13 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
If I could rate a 0 I would. That is what he did for me; 0. This attorney quoted me a $4000 retainer in 11/22 and reeled me into an alimony modification case against my ex-wife. He was supposed to represent me, and actually after $12,000 I paid him over the $4,000 he quoted me. I still had not trial set, this money was charged tome for me to submit my financials to his paralegal. He submitted no motions to compel against my ex-wife who did not submit he proper affidavits and paperwork, but charged me for 2 motions to compel he never filed. We finally went to court a year later and $22,000 later. He misrepresented me and I was ordered to pay my ex-wife's attorney $11,000 fees on top of the $22,000 I already paid him for a total of $33,000 that has forced me into bankruptcy. Then he emails me and says I am no longer practicing law, you will have to find another attorney. Leaving me to hold all the debt he put me into and received no representation for. Stay away!
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21 Apr, 2024 by Charles kluxen
Erin was an absolute Godsend. She helped us fill out our paperwork for the adoption the we are doing and she was very thorough. I can't thank her enough for what she has done for our family. Thank you Erin. I will be definitely going through Catey and Maguire Law for anything else I may need. If I could give her more than a 5 star rating I would. She is at least a 10 star or higher.
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18 Apr, 2024 by Wesley fisher
My experience with this firm was outstanding. All associates are friendly, compassionate, & professional. Mr. Maguire is a caring attorney who defended me with integrity & expertise.
Thank you, Catey & Maguire Law.
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01 Apr, 2024 by Adam mutchler
I have had a great experience with this firm. They are professional and on point when needed. I was going through a difficult and nervous time in my life and they gave me instant relief on making the transition from a terrible situation. I truly appreciate the hard work and looking out for my best interest. Thank you Catey & Maguire!
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20 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
I went to consult Ms. Hughes many years ago when I needed to divorce my abusive husband. I was very distraught and emotional and in need of professional legal guidance and advice.
She turned me down outright and refused to take on my case with providing neither a valid reason nor an explanation as to why.
She lacks compassion and empathy. I expected better but apparently that was too much to ask of her.
Don't bother with this attorney.
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04 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
I hired Allyson to help me through my divorce. My ex wife was/is extremely high conflict and her attorney's were not much better. They used unscrupulous and dishonest tactics against me to attempt to keep my son away from me. Allyson knew what to expect before it happened and how to handle it. She was very proactive and not reactive which helped me win the 50% custody I was trying for. In fact, I believe had I decided to go to trial, that I had a great chance of getting full custody but I did not want to keep my son from his mother. Allyson did an awesome job of keeping me calm and from reacting in a bad way to the things I was being accused of. I never once doubted what Allyson suggested and the end result turned out exactly how I had planned it. I'm so glad that I used Allyson and not a discounted attorney. I'm a firm believer in you get what you pay for and it was evident in court that there was no comparison in the experience between Allyson and the opposing counsel.
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05 May, 2016 by L
Allyson and her team did an amazing job to help me get everything sorted out. My divorce was a contentious mess and after three years of nightmares, I brought this all to Allyson. Within several months Allyson was able to work with the other side to mediate out most of the concerns. We had a trial that was concise, despite the upheaval of divorce, I can say that I was pleased with the overall outcome. Allyson and her team are extremely knowledgeable, friendly and attentive to your needs. Plus, Allyson has excellent working relationships with many other outside professionals, that if needed, will work with you and can help expedite your case. If you are looking for someone to assist you in this process, I would highly recommend Allyson.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Joy h
My divorce was upposed to be easy. I hired the wrong lawyer, so a year later I was still overwhelmed with the anguish, stress, and pain that results from marrying a narcissist. My ex-husband wiped the floor with my previous attorney. I was desperate when hired Ms. Lennon. She provided me with assurance, peace of mind, and results in an unbelievable. Miss Lennon is outstanding at fighting aggressively for you and your rights but she also has a very compassionate team like Kate. If you’re looking for the best of the best representation in all of Florida contact Miss Lennon and her team will be here ready to help. Having this powerful group of individuals behind you makes all the difference. Efficiency effectiveness but most importantly Aggressive representation.
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23 Aug, 2024 by Rania saad
My case is one of the most difficult case anyone can see , I don’t exaggerated when I say that , I was in pain over 17 years, and stressing about what is going to happen to and my 4 children we are fighting a literally a monster. but two days ago when I saw the way Ms.Simone was fighting for me I kind of came down and felt safe I saw someone who feel my pain, my heart has eased. You are an amazing person Ms. Simone for the first time in 17 years I see someone feel my pain, thank god for you , I am glad you are my attorney, thanks for all the amazing work you have done for me , I thought I will never reach this point. I wish my English was good enough to describe how good you are.
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16 May, 2024 by Megan “merry meg” spencer
Filled out the form on their website to set-up a free consultation. Got an email back from her secretary, Jesse Blanco, and scheduled for an hour consultation for yesterday at 5 pm. My husband and I sat down at a table and waited. At 5:20, we tried calling the office; no one answered and we left a message with our name, number and to possibly reschedule. At 5:40, we tried emailing Mr. Blanco the same thing and received no response. Now today, no return phone call or email response. We have 20 days to get our affairs in-order and we wasted two days on this. Extremely unprofessional and just an overall ridiculous experience. Thanks for nothing, literally!
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27 Dec, 2022 by Anonymous
Quick to respond to new clients, once the contract is signed you get put on the back burner and he gets to you when he gets to you. I was ghosted for three weeks. I do not advise this lawyer for anyone needing anything that needs quick attention. He's cheap because he is a one man show. Spend a little more and get better representation. I spent over 2k and got zero results. I ended up firing him and hiring a different attorney.
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11 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
Atty. James Kannard updated and created a new Operation Agreement instead of a Partnership Agreement. He properly advised that with an LLC- you need to go that route. He did so with great skill and professionalism. He was easy to talk to. He charged precisely what he specified and completed the task on time! One of the best lawyers I have had the pleasure of working with. Will definitely use again.
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21 Dec, 2018 by Kenneth russell
Would like to say thank you very much for the awesome job James Kannard did on handling my alimony dispute. He is extremely professional and a pleasure to deal with. Reasonable rates and doesn't nickel and dime you. I recommend him highly.
Kenneth Russell
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27 Jun, 2022 by Carol ann
Bruce has handled a few cases for me. I know him personally and professionally, he is a very good person and lawyer. I have since moved away, but have contact with him at times. Always personable is how he handles himself. If you are looking for exceptional attorney, hire Bruce Przepis!
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29 May, 2020 by Tim
Bruce did a very good job communicating the process, handled my case very efficiently and successfully.
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20 Jun, 2019 by Mary beth bennett
Bruce Przepis was an outstanding exceptional, and very well experienced lawyer. His loyalty to my case was certainly met. Mr. Przepis took lots of time with me personally, to understand all the legal terms that I had trouble understanding. Mr. Przepis always kept me informed along with his staff and achieved the best out come of my circumstances. I was very blessed to work with such a humble man, and most of all treated me with respect.
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29 Dec, 2023 by Ex-client
DON'T HIRE this thing calling himself "attorney", I don't think these reviews are accurate, you'll go through one of the worst experiences in your life. He's an absolute thief. He'll over charge you badly for destroying your case. This garbage will complicate your case and make you loose it so he can get more money at the trial, very stupid, that's not how it goes, she should care about the client just like he does about money. If you are a client looking for an attorney and you get to see this review then save your money and time and consider yourself extremely lucky!
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22 Apr, 2020 by Larry
I hired Mr. Dough for a petition for paternity case. He was readily available and made sure I understood what was going on throughout the entire process. I now have custody of my child and would not if it wasn't for Mr. Dough. If you find yourself in this unfortunate situation as I did, look no further.
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26 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
I hired Graydon Dough for a criminal defense case. Had court this morning and he was great. He has been here throughout the entire process to answer all questions I had. He was recommended by a friend and I highly recommend him now, also. Overall excellent attorney!
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09 Aug, 2024 by Robert daley
Contacted them for my wife and they came out, took info and we never heard from them again. Don't waste your time. Hire a real attorney
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18 Apr, 2024 by Uspi
I highly suggest if you’re looking for a good criminal defense attorney you strongly consider Mary Catherine Campbell from this firm. She does their criminal defense work. Very professional, very knowledgeable and she keeps in close contact with her clients. Highly recommend.
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01 Nov, 2023 by Caroline h.
I found myself in an unfortunate situation and needed a lawyer. I was referred to Denmon Pearlman Law, and I can say I'm very happy with the outcome of my case. It was dismissed. Walked me through what to expect. Lee forecasted the outcome of the case; it was exactly what happened. I am thankful this case didn't drag out and was handled quickly. Having a charge over your head is stressful for the average person and Denmon Pearlman Law was great throughout the process.
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29 Feb, 2024 by Vernon
During the worst time of my life, I spoke to 10 attorneys before Audrey and they all made my stomach sick because all they cared about was playing dirty pool in trying to "win". Audrey was the only one who spoke to me and asked how my kids are (didn't know where they were at the time for weeks) and she vowed to help me. I hired her because of her integrity. She was amazing for me and my family.
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16 Jan, 2023 by Warner
I hired Miss Jefferies when she was with a different form in 2002. She kept in touch at every step and was present in court for me when I couldn't be there due to my military deployment. I appreciate her hard work and haven't forgotten all these years later. Excellent job and Thank you.
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24 May, 2019 by Lisa
If I could rate her more than 5 stars I would give her 10! I came to Audrey to handle my divorce about 10 years ago. From the moment I arrived she made me feel comfortable and calm and assured me everything would go smoothly and that she would do everything she could to make sure me and my children would be protected and she did just that. Both she and her staff were excellent, extremely knowledgeable, courteous and friendly they made what I thought was going to be a long and worrisome event into a simple and straightforward situation that went off without any issue. I recently needed assistance in getting an order from the court for permission to get passports for my children. After 10 years I walked into Audrey’s office and it seemed like it was only yesterday I had been there, she remembered me and my case and was so amazingly kind as to help me right then and there with everything I needed, I was once again expecting a long drawn out affair and she assured me this would be quick and painless and it most certainly was! The kindness and generosity that Audrey and her staff have shown me, I would never go anywhere else. I have highly recommended her to anyone who asks me if I know a good lawyer for family law. I can never find the words to thank Audrey for all shes done for me and my children that we have peace of mind and freedom to travel now! For anyone who is looking for a caring, honest and knowledgeable person to handle their legal family matters please don’t waste your time with others go to Audrey she will not disappoint!
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02 Aug, 2021 by Anonymous
I’m not going to write a long winded review. If you’re looking to retain an experienced, knowledgeable, and personable attorney…DO NOT HIRE THIS ONE!!!! Run away as fast as you can. You can thank me later.
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04 Jun, 2021 by Anonymous
Be careful when hiring this attorney. Not only did I hear her yelling at my 74 year old disabled father over him not being able to use the internet, she never took the time to understand his case. She was good at billing close to $20,000. for 1 meeting and a few motions. She never understood the case and didnt try. He was never able to call her and she didnt place a a lot of effort.
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28 Oct, 2020 by Aindrea
MS. Naylor was so wonderful to me. I can sometimes be difficult, I get busy and forget to email back. Her patience means the world to me as I'm trying to get through this in one piece. She gave me great advice and understood why I chose the decisions I did . she really kept me sane through it all.
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19 Jul, 2021 by Jugraj singh
Good lawyer I really recommend this for hiring he help me out I am dealing with almost three year ago he never give me any problem.he is solved my three case and I am really recommended him
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12 Jul, 2021 by Jugraj singh
Fake lawyer wasting time for people if you ask him anything he was mad and then his assistant call you argument with you she is pretty rude.I think he only need money but don’t worry karma will see fake fake fake fake fake attorney if anybody wants to hire him please don’t waste your time and money
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04 Aug, 2019 by Anonymous
Mr Rupani is an up professional attorney. We hired him to apply for a bond. He was paid the amount he asked. And never submitted the documents to court until i sent over 30 emails. He was provided all the documents prior to hiring for review. He hang up calls and used unprofessional language. He offered to return money and then he refused and did not refunded even when he never got the job done.
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28 Jan, 2022 by Amber
I am so happy I hired Milly Athanasons team to handle my car accident I got paid out full policy and it didnt take long at all.
I cant thank the team enough !!!!
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09 Nov, 2020 by Anonymous
These same people need to check her out too
She is the worst unprofessional, theft I have ever come across.
She has been turned into the bar and caught mismanaging funds to pay off her mother’s house.
She had to pay a fine and her account was ordered to get involved.
It’s too bad because she got away with it without going to jail.
On Friday, the Pasco County Sheriff's Office charged Hugh Charles Umsted, 65, of Gulf Drive with grand theft.
According to the Florida Bar, the Florida Supreme Court issued an emergency suspension March 21 of Umsted law license for "causing great public harm based upon his misappropriation of at least $82,647 in client funds.
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13 Apr, 2016 by Anonymous
I hired Milly and I really regret doing so. The process was literally drawn out for years with her constantly not returning calls, and mailing things to old addresses and then claiming we never got back to her. it felt like once she realized we wouldn't be a huge payout for her we lost any and all priority with her as a client. We were made to feel like a nuisance if we asked questions and even in closing the case she didn't show up to closing and I had to sign with a very rude paralegal and then when I tried to call to speak to Millie to have things explained better to me and have my questions answered since she WAS NOT THERE at the time to answer them, the paralegal was very rude and would not set me up an appointment and claimed she couldn't promise anything and maybe shed be there around this time and what exactly did I need to speak to her about. I was astonished by the boldness and rudeness when i was paying for the service and the right to ask my questions to my attorney not her secretary. She completely blew off my concerns and just told me to tell her a date to come in and pick up my check and we would be done. When i went to pick up the checks Millie was also not there, the woman was again rude and did not greet me, and I had to take her word for it that my bills and doctors would be paid and covered and request 3 times for the print out of the money distribution which she insisted she had given me and she had not. I basically just ended up giving up on pursuing my case since I was sick of it being drawn out so long and just didn't want it hovering over me anymore and I had a really disheartening experience with both Millie ( who seemed very professional and courteous in her office at first) as well as ALL of her staff. Before she moved locations and had a different woman as her help that woman stood there complaining to me about how much she wished she didn't have to work here as she was copying information for me which should have been a sign to get out I suppose. I do understand you can't always know what your staff is saying and also that these things take time and some of the time issues were on our side as well however I was left with such a bad taste in my mouth from feeling really dismissed and out of the loop the entire time that I would never recommend her to anyone else.
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22 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
No communication. Poor customer service. Not at all friendly or helpful. Would avoid at all costs.
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13 Sep, 2018 by Anonymous
I filed a complaint with the Florida Bar regarding this attorney and his staff. Not only did he reply with a letter full of provable lies, his wife/paralegal is suing me for libel even though the complaint is still pending with the system regardless of the fact that her suit is pure retaliation of my justified complaints against her and her husband. The continued lies from him and his staff should be enough for anyone to be very cautious when dealing with him and his staff. You are much better off with a real attorney that cares about you and your case. Douglas J Amidon is NOT that attorney.
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18 Feb, 2009 by Anonymous
Do not use this lawyer! She will take your money then ignore you. She will make commitments that she will not keep and will hide behind a well-crafted contracted that allows her to take your money up front and not do any work for you. She is definitely the wrong pick for anyone seeking responsive, knowledgeable, professional representation.
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27 Jan, 2009 by Anonymous
I would strongly recommend not hiring this attorney. She lacks professionalism, is unresponsive after collecting retainer, does not return phone calls, emails or other form of communication. Search for her business listing on Yahoo to see reviews by dissatisfied clients. She does have Bar Complaints filed.
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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:
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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.
