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18 Dec, 2018 by Carol
Mr. Hamrick handled my divorce case as well as a case with a tenant from a renter. He handled my cases with the utmost professionalism and care. I would hire Mr. Hamrick again, should the need arise. In addition, his assistant Sharon has always offered her assistance in Mr. Hamrick's absence and is extremely capable.
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10 Sep, 2016 by Anonymous
I really am happy with this lawyer he has done what he needs to do to make matters good for me he has helped me on my way to try and get visitation with my boys every other weekend
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07 May, 2021 by Stanley
Miss. Thomas was contacted by me hours before my court date and she got the work done as if she was working on it for weeks. It doesn’t seem like any job is too big or too small For her. Thank you Miss. Thomas.
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23 Jun, 2016 by Marshall
Miss. Thomas was very professional and fast. My company needed legal service for demand of payment for services rendered. Miss. Thomas was able to get eveything we asked and in a very timely manner. I recommend her to all my friends and family.
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06 Apr, 2022 by Ranneil
Hired attorney and he did an amazing job representing me . I’m from New York , so going to North Carolina to handle this ticket would been a lot . But it was taken care by R. Dennis Lorance . Above good service …
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31 Jul, 2018 by Mark
Living out state now. I received a ticket many yrs ago in N. Carolina I would informed I had to go back to the state where I received the ticket to face a judge. Contacted this firm. My communication with them was through email. This was taken care of within 2 weeks and I did not have to go back. I was able to renew my license in the state I currently live in.
Thanks again for your speedy work.
Mark L.
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16 Dec, 2020 by Shana
I hired Mr. Clark to take care of my child custody agreement. He so easy to work with. I could definitely tell he was an attorney that was going to get the job done without putting things off over and over. We came up with a plan and Mr Clark put it in place. He spoke to my ex on my behalf so that I didnt have to argue that back and forth. I also like that he's reasonable and tries to get things done without having to go to court. But, can also play hardball. Him and his staff are so friendly and are always available when I need them.
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24 Jul, 2020 by Mike
Holden Clark has been my attorney for about 1 year. I retained Mr Clark to handle a lawsuit against my business that I thought was relatively simple, but has proven more complicated than I thought. My company is located out of state & Mr Clark has put 1000% into my case. He has been outstanding in listening to my concerns & explaining everything to me.
I could not be more pleased with his representation & recommend him without reservation.
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10 May, 2018 by Anonymous
I have to back up another review that said they do not sugar coat things. Mrs. Benton will give it to you straight, and not lead you to expect unrealistic conclusions. She and her staff are professionals and will treat you right.
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06 May, 2013 by Michelle
We are very satisfied with Mrs. Benton and her staff no matter what the outcome . They explained everything very well and did not sugarcoat things.
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02 Oct, 2018 by Anonymous
Was very helpful . Helped out in stressful time real professional! We had many changes and times and office handled wonderfully, speak real language were you don’t need a interpreter. Excellent Character!!!
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17 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
I went to Scott Dunn on a few occasions for consultations and the advice he gave really helped me feel relieved, at ease and in preparation to be prepared for anything. I did hire this attorney. Scott Dunn made me feel more at ease in the courtroom based on what my case dealt with. Any near future child custody issues or whatever the case may be he's honest and helpful as it prepared me to what different types of cases may bring; Long process and long courtroom hours! He's thorough and I was very pleased with the representation I received from this lawyer. Best one hands down. Would I go back to this lawyer? Absolutely!
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25 Jun, 2018 by Marissa
Gabe did a great job getting my ticket dismissed. He was very professional and helpful through this process. I appreciated that he communicated what my options were and walked me through it so I would understand it clearly. I would definitely recommend him.
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22 Jun, 2018 by Christopher
Gabe did a great job handling my ticket. He was on top of it and very communicative. I would highly recommend this Campbell law graduate for Personal injury, Criminal, or family Law!
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14 May, 2020 by Debbie
Fantastic Attorney showed compassion and caring stayed on top of things as we went thru the adoption procedure of our granddaughter very prompt in keeping in touch and getting the case done would highly recommend Attorney Hollowell for any family matter that requires legal help
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04 Jun, 2009 by Anonymous
We had a problem where a reidsville car dealer went out of business without paying his floor plan company for the vehicles. We did not have our title and I didn't know how we could at that point. The dealer was bonded... but not enough to cover all the customers he left with a vehicle that they had paid for but no title, Many had no tags. Not knowing where to turn, Wayne's firm was recommended to us by a friend, and Wayne met with the DMV and the NC District Attorney's office. The DA called to inform me that they instructed the dmv to release my title and I received that. Wayne believed I needed an advocate and did not even charge me for his time. I can't say how much we appreciate him and his efforts!!!
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11 Jul, 2014 by Drew
Excellent knowledge of legal matters in my case. Great Job Mrs. Barnes! Hopefully I will not need a lawyer much in the future...but will use you if I need one. Thank you.
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19 Nov, 2009 by Anonymous
Mrs. Barnes has always been professional, courteous, and compassionate. She has always helped me, answered my questions and found the time to make sure all information is correct and very quick to get the job done right and get it done right the first time.
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27 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
I am savvy financially, but had no clue about the divorce process when I embarked on this journey several years ago. Through it all, Ms. Kennedy and her staff have been there for me and my kids. Unfortunately, I am going to have to go back to court for a child support issue. Although it is the last thing on earth I want to do, I know I am in good hands.
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26 Jul, 2016 by Kelly
The shock of a possible divorce is difficult enough, not to mention knowing who to go to for legal advice. I was lucky enough to have found Kennedy Law; Marsha Kennedy. My case has been very difficult with many different avenues of the law including child custody, post marital support, legal issues with marital debt and sales of businesses, tax questions and the list goes on. Marsha Kennedy and her team has expertly handled each situation and guided me through the process. They have been like family to me and have given me and my children a great deal of support through a very challenging time. I would highly recommend Kennedy Law Firm. You will receive the professional help you need and the care and understanding you deserve.
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31 Oct, 2014 by Anonymous
Nick Cushing is an amazing Attorney! He handled my Custody and Child Support case and did an amazing job for both. He is very trustworthy, was always on time, made sure to keep me informed of everything about my case, and extremely knowledeable about Family Law. Given the kind of things that my ex did, if it was not for Nick my life and my son's life would have been very difficult. I could not thank him enough for his time and effort in my case.
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24 Jun, 2013 by Anonymous
Nick is an amazing attorney! He helped me fight for my son and I am very thankful for what Nick has helped me achieve. Nick is very good at communicating with his clients and being very understanding of the tough situations that people are presented with when going through custody litigation. Nick is highly knowledgeable with family law and will guide you every step of the way. He is also an amazing trial lawyer. Calm, composed, thorough, and above all, he is honest and will always tell you the reality of the situation without sugar coating it. He will never lead you astray and will fight for his clients. If you have Nick as your attorney you can feel very confident that no other attorney could get you a better outcome.
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20 Aug, 2020 by Anonymous
From the onset of the consultation with Sydney, I knew she was the right lawyer for my case. During the consultation she directly addressed all of the questions I had and thoroughly went through the details of the case with me. Once I retained her as my attorney, she crafted the best possible legal strategy for my case. While preparing for court, Sydney made sure all of my concerns were properly addressed and her years of experience were evident with the plethora of knowledge she has under her belt. She is someone you can trust to advocate for you and to work hard to get you the best possible outcome. I received the outcome I was hoping for in court and I am pleased that I chose the perfect lawyer for my case!
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26 Feb, 2018 by Anonymous
Sydney is a very knowledgeable attorney in her field. She provided great advice during my separation and child custody agreements. Her knowledge and guidance helped avoid litigation and provided a positive resolution. She is an attorney you can trust and someone that will focus on your best interest. She was great to work with.
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18 May, 2022 by Debby
I cannot express how pleased I was with Molly Brazil and the entire staff. Molly was extremely responsive and very knowledgeable about the details of my separation and possible divorce. She made me feel safe and confident every step of the way. I am impressed how well the staff worked as a team and how caring, compassionate and genuine they are. Molly is wonderful, caring, very easy to talk to and knows her stuff. So glad that I chose her and the firm to represent me. Although my husband and I chose to reconcile I would highly recommend Molly to anyone looking for the best!
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11 Feb, 2022 by Anonymous
She knows the law and is very easy to talk with. She listens and explains in a way that makes since. Highly recommend her.
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04 Sep, 2014 by Pete
Judy was very informative, upfront, and honest. She did everything she could to educate me on the laws, prior to negotiations on my divorce case. My case was probably one of the most difficult of her career! I would highly recommend her to take on your case.
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12 Aug, 2014 by Anonymous
Judy did extensive research to discover a precedent to assist in my getting an equitable settlement. She was pleasant to work with, making a stressful personal situation more manageable.
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08 Dec, 2015 by Rob
I contacted Ms. Meeks for some follow-on litigation resulting from a previously settled divorces. She was extremely responsive, efficient, and focused. During the consultation she isolated key issues and provided me a few courses of action with well defined advantages and disadvantages. In the end, I chose her to represent me and she worked to get the settlement I needed. I'd highly recommend her because of her professionalism, legal knowledge, and effectiveness in getting matters closed.
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04 Dec, 2015 by Darice defoggi
It was a pleasure dealing with Erin Meeks and her staff. All of her staff from the minute you walk in for help until the services were provided was done in the upmost professional, kind, and diligent manner by herself and her entire staff. I would and will use her in the future if any other legal matters arise. I would further recommend her to others. Thank you Ms. Meeks( and Candice Corbett) as well as your entire staff.
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30 Aug, 2024 by Rachel
Richard helped from the very beginning of my seperation papers being drawn up to the divorce being finalized. There were moments where this was a challenge due to other person and their lawyer in my case. However, Richard never backed down and continued to stand for what was fair and equal. Richard was very polite, extremely understanding, as well as patient through our six month time on this case.
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01 Nov, 2019 by Anonymous
Mr. Williams assisted me with my personal injury case. Throughout the process, he always listened to my concerns, was extremely prompt in communicating information to me, and kept me informed every single step of the way. Not only am I very thrilled with the outcome of my case, but I am also very appreciative of how Mr. Williams treated me as a client. I would definitely recommend him!
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16 Oct, 2022 by Anonymous
She did a wonderful job. In defending my case I will get if something would to happen in the near future. So I suggest everyone to think about Courtney for there lawyer.
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04 Nov, 2020 by Jackie
Courtney was my lawyer and she was extremely professional, very attentive, treated my like I was family, and took care of my case with excellent results. Courtney was on top of everything, kept in contact with me and checked on me throughout my entire case. Courtney had my best interest at heart, which was very comforting (as nobody likes to deal with legal issues.) I would DEFINTELY recommend Courtney Neal to any and all of my family and friends. Top notch service!!! Thanks again Ms. Neal for all your help.
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02 Sep, 2024 by Melissa
After firing my last attorney Mr. Weinshenker was next up on the court appointed list. I couldn't have been more lucky. Right away I could tell the difference between the two lawyers. He emailed me a couple times a day. He also was very blunt and let me know the reality of the situation. He's my new go-to lawyer. My case isn't over with but I just want everyone know who is looking for a lawyer, this guy is awesome!
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02 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
Seth is the best attorney I have had through the course of my divorce and custody cases. From the first time I met him, he was professional, took detailed notes, asked pertinent questions and was highly available. He got my custody case into court quickly and was always more than blunt about the reality of the possible outcomes. He is down to earth, personable, and down to business. And he has a LOT of experience in his field. In one case he actually spent enough time researching law to figure out that the opposing attorney had filed completely improper paperwork against me and the suit against me was dismissed. He is very thorough. I can't say enough nice things about his professionalism. I would recommend him in a heartbeat. He was able to accomplish for me what two prior attorneys in Cabarrus county failed at miserably.
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26 May, 2023 by Anonymous
Ann is very knowledgeable; she went above and beyond while representing me. She was easily reachable and responsive. Ann stepped in to represent me during a contentious divorce and child custody case. I will recommend her 100%!
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06 Aug, 2014 by Mary e.
Ann is not flashy, she will not stand up and scream, but she knows the law and handled my case and got me what was best. She listens, returns my calls (yes, I know a weird thing for lawyers to do) and she got the best deal for me she could.
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20 Sep, 2017 by Brandi
It's been a huge weight lifted off my shoulders after making the decision to hire attorney, Shauna Guyton at Arroyo Law Practice. Ms. Guyton was positive from the first moment we consulted and very professional throughout a very difficult time. Ms. Guyton handled my case with compassion, always responding quickly, and effectively with any questions or issues as they arose. I highly recommend Shauna Guyton at Arroyo Law Practice. Words really can't express my gratitude! Thank you!!
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27 May, 2015 by Contractor
Members of my crew were cited for not having proper fall protection. In photos, taken by the OSHA rep, it showed that they were tied off correctly. The rep then cited them for improperly using a cooking device with an extension cord on the site. I felt that the fine was wrong and decided to hire an attorney to review the situation. Atty Guyton communicated with OSHA in a timely manner and was able to get the fine drastically reduced.
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04 Jun, 2018 by Anonymous
I was impressed by the preparation, professionalism and success I was able to enjoy with David at the helm of my case. His realistic evaluations of the risks and rewards along the way, his approach to challenges and his effective execution of the plan was superb. I enthusiastically endorse him.
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23 May, 2017 by Joseph
REVIEW / TESTIMONIAL
Mr. Osborn was assigned by the Federal District Court in the Western District of North Carolina to represent me in a thorny case I was involved in under the Court’s pro se settlement program, which was instituted to mediate and settle cases like mine before they go through a full-blown court proceedings. I was very pleased with the program and comforted by the mettle of a sound lawyer and avid negotiator in my corner. I developed a strong sense of trust with Mr. Osborn after our initial phone conversation and a couple of follow up meetings. I was impressed by two things: 1. Mr. Osborn did what he said he will do - from negotiating with my opponents to the mediation and settlement of my case 2. He did it with ease and great rapport that I have never experienced before. If you can get him to say “yes” to negotiate or mediate your case, then you can count on it being done - the right way.
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28 Jun, 2024 by Brittany
Michelle is highly recommended. She is an incredibly compassionate and understanding attorney. I reached out to Michelle in a panic, and she was extremely prompt with responding to me and got me in that day for a consult with her. Michelle was validating, and I needed that most in a hopeless place.
Even though she was not able to help me with one of my issues due to it being outside of her practice, she connected me with the right help and now I’m represented. I will be keeping Michelle’s contact in my back pocket for her to help me in the future, because I had the best experience I’ve ever had with an attorney. Thank you Michelle!
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13 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
Incredibly experienced, honest, tough when needed, understanding, and what I needed most a good listener. Her paralegal LJ is a perfect fit and highly recommend them as a team.
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01 Aug, 2023 by Sue
Absolutely the best, He is more than an attorney , he’s a true human being looking out for the people who’ve been treated wrong!!
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21 Sep, 2011 by Bud
excellent attorney, i was always informed with what was going on with my case always responded to my calls with any questions i might of had. i feels as he worked extremely hard for me, and i feel as if he is totally passionate about doing what was right for me as his client. also i would like to say that as for an attorney he always seemed to keep my spirits up even on my worse days. i can't thank him enough for the job he has done representing me
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27 Mar, 2018 by Anonymous
Jonathan and his firm handled our divorce and other legal matters for us and I could not be more happy with his work and the outcome.
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24 Jun, 2009 by Anonymous
Jonathan handled our closings for our purchase when we moved to NC, then drafted a will for my husband and I! He was so caring and helpful and worked very hard to make sure all of our questions were answered and we felt comfortable with the entire process of each transaction. I would highly recommend his office. Not only is he wonderful, but his staff is exceptional and very caring. Everyone there really puts the clients first and makes an effort to make the process easy for the client.
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29 Sep, 2015 by Anonymous
Peggy was my attorney for my 13 year separation/custody/divorce. She is a very knowledgeable attorney and was a wealth of information. Peggy provided me with solid advice, while always maintaining integrity. She was extremely dedicated to my case and it was evident that she was determined to obtain the best possible outcome for me. Peggy was a firm negotiator with opposing counsel, and always kept me informed. I have seen Peggy litigate in the courtroom and have no doubt that should my case need litigation in the future, Peggy will surpass my expectations. It is evident that Peggy is truly committed to her clients and I would highly recommend her to anyone looking for a family law attorney.
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18 Sep, 2015 by Sheila
When dealing with the dissolution of my 26 years of marriage, I was grateful for the guidance, support, and generosity of Peggy in helping me get through my separation/divorce. I contacted Peggy because, although my divorce was uncontested and no-fault, I still needed help figuring out all the paperwork and procedures to make sure that I would get through the divorce quickly and smoothly. From the very beginning she was generous by calling with sound advice and keeping me informed by email. Peggy was very understanding, helpful, and efficient, and with the help of her and her efficient staff, I was able to complete all the documents in a timely manner. I will always be grateful to Peggy for getting me through this difficult time as smoothly and in the most dignified manner possible.
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13 Jul, 2017 by Sackeena
Ms. Burhke-Hayer provided services that were professional and empathetic. These two characteristics do not normally go hand in hand with legal services, so it was quite refreshing. This is an attorney that I would gladly recommend.
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06 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
I consulted with Shante on a divorce matter. I was looking for someone to help me get started and advise me on the steps to take. She not only answered all my questions, but she thoroughly explained every step and reviewed my documents. Thank you!
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21 Mar, 2021 by Laura
Scott Johnson and the team at Mast Law firm are true professionals. Mr. Johnson handled my case with integrity and sensitivity. Dealing with his staff was pleasurable throughout the experience and the office was timely in providing desired results.
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31 Jul, 2012 by Cara
After spending $75,000 for an attorney who did nothing for me, I hired Scott. It was the best decision I have ever made. I had been battling my ex-husband for two years when I hired Scott and that has made all the difference in my case in just a few months. Scott is kind and compassionate and knows how to get the job done. If you need an advocate, Scott is the one!
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10 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
Mr. Conrad helped my son with some traffic tickets. He was professional, direct, helpful and efficient. He is very friendly, down to earth and approachable. I would highly recommend his services to anyone.
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29 Oct, 2014 by Anonymous
Scott is a great lawyer,attentive,helpful and was on my side .He has been respectful ,caring ,honest, and represented me for my concerns. He is glad to utilize information that you provide. Scott was appointed to me in a Civil matter to help me obtain a necessary DVO. I'm thankful for his dedication and representation. Thank You,S.O.
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24 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
Very detailed oriented and knew the laws just as we wanted her to. She is a great listener and was on time with all documents. Would def use again!
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24 Mar, 2017 by Mark
This was all about end of life paperwork; wills, powers of attorney, medical directives, etc. My wife and I stopped by to get everything squared away. She got it all done with brevity and efficiency. We required no more and no less.
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09 Nov, 2022 by Dan
I am a family law attorney, practicing in North Carolina. I refer appeals to Jonathan regularly. He is the most intelligent and informed lawyer, about the law in the family law area that I know. If I personally had to appeal my own case, I would hire Jonathan.
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26 Jul, 2017 by Kylie hansard
I hired Jonathan to handle appellate and advisory work on a highly complicated case. Jonathan gave me the knowledge I needed when I needed it and balanced his blunt advice with kindness and an incredible degree of advocacy. He made himself available constantly and had an amazing understanding of the law and its application. A wonderful and ethical attorney and human being.
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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:
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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.
