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04 Nov, 2023 by Meggie riegel
I was referred to this firm through my mediator, who was a pleasure to work with. I knew anyone she recommended would also be a pleasure to work with and that was certainly the case with this firm. From the very beginning, Jennifer was so warm and easy to work with. She was transparent about expectations, processes, and just an overall pleasure to work with. I appreciated her attention to detail especially when it comes to legal paperwork and filing of documents during an emotional transition. I am very grateful for the team here at Innovative Law Services and would highly recommend them.
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23 Jan, 2023 by Lyana hattar
08 Oct, 2021 by Darlene ritz
Jen Dziekan always kept me informed, always answered my e-mails to her very quickly. I never felt as if she was doing only the minimum of what she was paid to do but actually cared that her job was completed while working with a very difficult company to get anything completed. I would recommend without any hesitation.
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25 Jun, 2024 by Martinezj1120
I couldn't ask for better representation. Mr. Bain represented me during a traffic case in 36th District Court and did everything he said he was going to do. From the first moment I contacted him, he was honest, sincere, and put me and my family's minds at ease. He was always in contact and very accessible throughout my case. I know that he truly cared about me as a client and that can not be said about every lawyer. Without hesitation, I strongly recommend you contact Dan Bain for an honest assessment of your situation.
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05 Dec, 2021 by Rashelle jaquand
John and Lauren are great!!
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31 Aug, 2021 by Frank time
Professional
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09 Mar, 2023 by Gao stanley
Hayley has been a god send throughout my divorce, straight to the point, and very communicative. The whole process went smoothly and she kept me updated the whole time. Definitely would use her again if needed.
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14 Nov, 2022 by Lori miller
I had an interesting situation from a divorce that happened 15 years ago and Hayley was amazing at solving the problem. She was competent, professional, and responsive. She did research and did the work to correct the issue. I would highly recommend her!
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08 Nov, 2021 by Robert darmanin
Divorce is incredibly stressful, but Hayley made the legal process as seamless and smooth as possible. She is professional, responsive and a terrific communicator. Hayley is a first-class attorney who understands all of the pitfalls of the divorce process and knows how to navigate the legal challenges. By going the collaborative divorce route, we saved money and got through the process relatively quickly. I cannot recommend Custom Divorce Solutions enough.
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23 Jun, 2023 by Mike
I can’t Thank Dave Kramer enough for defending me on my case! My ex falsely accused me of domestic violence and my Kids were my witnesses. Police didn’t want to listen to me, Plus they wouldn’t interview my kids. Worse part My ex attacked me! Police will never really listen to us men! Even though my kids said to the officers my mom was lying! It didn’t matter at all.
Dave Kramer fought for me and told me We will win this and you will get at least 50/50 custody, plus we will get these bogus charges dropped!
I Prayed that I would be Free of these bogus charges and have my boys. At the end of the day, Dave kept his word I have my Boys 50/50 and proved my innocence. Charges Dropped! Thank you Dave!
My Kids Thank you too!
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08 Aug, 2022 by Birann
I'd like to thank Mr. Kramer for all that he's done for me. His guidance and persistence compares to no other. When other lawyers gave up on me, he fought for my case and with a positive outcome I can honestly say I'm grateful to have retained him.
Without a doubt I'd recommend Mr. Kramer to anyone facing legal problems.
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17 May, 2021 by Saravanan
I was charged DUI and was very much worried as a family man. After seeing Kramer’s experience and initial meet with him, I gained confidence but was very nervous until the case disposed. Kramer explained the process well and and given the clear options at every stage. Patience is the only key we should keep throughout the time. He changed my case to Reckless and made sure i am not receiving any other sentencing, he really made it. I would highly recommend him for any criminal charges and he would do wonders.
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04 Nov, 2023 by Meggie riegel
I was referred to this firm through my mediator, who was a pleasure to work with. I knew anyone she recommended would also be a pleasure to work with and that was certainly the case with this firm. From the very beginning, Jennifer was so warm and easy to work with. She was transparent about expectations, processes, and just an overall pleasure to work with. I appreciated her attention to detail especially when it comes to legal paperwork and filing of documents during an emotional transition. I am very grateful for the team here at Innovative Law Services and would highly recommend them.
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23 Jan, 2023 by Lyana hattar
08 Oct, 2021 by Darlene ritz
Jen Dziekan always kept me informed, always answered my e-mails to her very quickly. I never felt as if she was doing only the minimum of what she was paid to do but actually cared that her job was completed while working with a very difficult company to get anything completed. I would recommend without any hesitation.
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02 Feb, 2022 by Jennifer
Ms. Heath was extremely professional and exceeded my expectations. She fought for all of my rights and I could be more pleased.
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15 Jun, 2021 by Max
Determined pretty quickly was not who I needed after a reasonable review, gave referral, gave some sound advice, let me know areas she might be helpful in the future. At least a good consult.
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14 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
I was recommended by a colleague who use Symantha in the past. I asked him if he knew a good divorce lawyer and the first and only person he mentioned was Symantha Heath in Novi. After speaking with her I knew immediately she was the one I needed fighting this divorce battle. She super exceeded my expectations. The other side used pit-bull tactics and Symantha had there tails curled up immediately. Any issues I ever have her office will be the one and only office I ever call.
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04 Jun, 2018 by Michael
I had a OWI case in Novi, which was the first time Ive ever been in trouble with the law. I found Arghavan off a website and decided to hire her as my attorney. I didn't know much about law or how these cases are supposed to go or what would happen to me and she was my saving grace. She was nice, but straight forward and honest, which is what a good attorney should be. She was available to talk to at almost anytime with any questions I had and made the whole process way easier for me. She not only helped me out in court, but gave me lots of advice outside of court on how to improve my case and make the process even easier. I would highly recommend this attorney especially if you were me going through something like this alone. She will help you out the best she is able to while keeping you informed about everything going on with the case. No one wants to be in trouble with the law, but having an attorney like her will make the process easy and hopefully get you out of the system and back into normal society.
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21 May, 2018 by Kathy
After contacting multiple attorneys and meeting with a different attorney, I talked to Arghavan and realized she’s exactly the person I needed to handle my case. Her compassionate yet straight forward approach put my mind at ease. She continues to be a cheerleader and great support to me. I hope at the end of this I could continue to touch base with her and thank her for all she did for me.
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18 May, 2018 by Joseph
Great attorney very knowledgeable understanding responds back to you right away. She is handling my DUI.
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03 Dec, 2013 by Anonymous
Strait talk, with results to back it up! Excellent court knowledge, and was confident he could get the job done right - and he did! John Bain will give you the strength that you need to get through a compromising situation and have the outcome be the best it can be!
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12 Apr, 2013 by Rich
I 've used this family owned firm for many different reasons and have always surpassed my expectation every time.Would feel very confidant in using them anytime when needed.
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13 Feb, 2019 by Jay
He was one of the most genuine people ive met in a long time heart of gold knowledgeable honest did exactly what i paid him to do very easy to talk with i normally do not leave reviews but he deserves it
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09 Mar, 2023 by Gao stanley
Hayley has been a god send throughout my divorce, straight to the point, and very communicative. The whole process went smoothly and she kept me updated the whole time. Definitely would use her again if needed.
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14 Nov, 2022 by Lori miller
I had an interesting situation from a divorce that happened 15 years ago and Hayley was amazing at solving the problem. She was competent, professional, and responsive. She did research and did the work to correct the issue. I would highly recommend her!
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08 Nov, 2021 by Robert darmanin
Divorce is incredibly stressful, but Hayley made the legal process as seamless and smooth as possible. She is professional, responsive and a terrific communicator. Hayley is a first-class attorney who understands all of the pitfalls of the divorce process and knows how to navigate the legal challenges. By going the collaborative divorce route, we saved money and got through the process relatively quickly. I cannot recommend Custom Divorce Solutions enough.
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09 Mar, 2023 by Gao stanley
Hayley has been a god send throughout my divorce, straight to the point, and very communicative. The whole process went smoothly and she kept me updated the whole time. Definitely would use her again if needed.
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14 Nov, 2022 by Lori miller
I had an interesting situation from a divorce that happened 15 years ago and Hayley was amazing at solving the problem. She was competent, professional, and responsive. She did research and did the work to correct the issue. I would highly recommend her!
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08 Nov, 2021 by Robert darmanin
Divorce is incredibly stressful, but Hayley made the legal process as seamless and smooth as possible. She is professional, responsive and a terrific communicator. Hayley is a first-class attorney who understands all of the pitfalls of the divorce process and knows how to navigate the legal challenges. By going the collaborative divorce route, we saved money and got through the process relatively quickly. I cannot recommend Custom Divorce Solutions enough.
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15 Sep, 2017 by Steve frankiewicz
Ted is great. Treats you like family.
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26 Mar, 2022 by Glenn trevisan
I first worked with Karen Stewart in 2010 to update my mother-in-law's trust. She expertly and kindly walked mom (then 80) and the family through the process then and on a couple subsequent occasions when mom wanted to make updates. Of course, creating a trust is one thing but carrying it out when the person dies is quite another. When mom died in 2021, we turned again to Karen to guide us through the many steps involved in executing the trust. From very beginning, Karen was with us every step of the way - interpreting the trust, delineation of duties, quantifying assets, posting, securing an "EIN,", setting up a bank account, accounting, house sale, filing taxes, and on and on. Our family all agree that Karen was instrumental in everything going so smoothly. I have enthusiastically recommended Karen L. Stewart to people I know who want to create or amend their trust. Also, after having worked with mom's trust after her passing, I would recommend creating a trust vs. not doing so. Its existence certainly helped us avoid various issues that could be problematic. Furthermore, as I was Trustee, Karen guided me with great legal oversight and execution to minimize any future liability that could arise related to my role as Trustee. I highly recommend and endorse Karen L. Stewart for estate planning, trust creation and probate related matters.
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17 Sep, 2024 by Jamil aktar
Anthony and Hady are really great attornys to work with. They are very professional and knowledgeable. This has been a great experience to work with Ray Law International. I highly highly recommend Ray Law International as the experience of the service I have received is unmatched. I was given great professional advice which made me always stay extra prepared documentation wise and information wise. They helped me beyond what a Law firm usually does. I am super grateful and happy to have used Ray Law International. I am glad I virtually met Anthony Ray and he immediately began to help me. Hady is an example of how the best attorney takes over you case and leads it to success. I can not appreciate more of their curtesy, professinalsm and service.
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07 Apr, 2024 by Eleazar hernandez
He sido cliente de Ray Law International,por mas de 10 años y nunca he tenido problemas en mis renovaciones.
100% RECOMENDADO BUEN ABOGADO DE CASOS DE INMIGRACION
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25 Mar, 2024 by Luna noblett
17 Sep, 2024 by Jamil aktar
Anthony and Hady are really great attornys to work with. They are very professional and knowledgeable. This has been a great experience to work with Ray Law International. I highly highly recommend Ray Law International as the experience of the service I have received is unmatched. I was given great professional advice which made me always stay extra prepared documentation wise and information wise. They helped me beyond what a Law firm usually does. I am super grateful and happy to have used Ray Law International. I am glad I virtually met Anthony Ray and he immediately began to help me. Hady is an example of how the best attorney takes over you case and leads it to success. I can not appreciate more of their curtesy, professinalsm and service.
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07 Apr, 2024 by Eleazar hernandez
He sido cliente de Ray Law International,por mas de 10 años y nunca he tenido problemas en mis renovaciones.
100% RECOMENDADO BUEN ABOGADO DE CASOS DE INMIGRACION
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25 Mar, 2024 by Luna noblett
17 Sep, 2024 by Jamil aktar
Anthony and Hady are really great attornys to work with. They are very professional and knowledgeable. This has been a great experience to work with Ray Law International. I highly highly recommend Ray Law International as the experience of the service I have received is unmatched. I was given great professional advice which made me always stay extra prepared documentation wise and information wise. They helped me beyond what a Law firm usually does. I am super grateful and happy to have used Ray Law International. I am glad I virtually met Anthony Ray and he immediately began to help me. Hady is an example of how the best attorney takes over you case and leads it to success. I can not appreciate more of their curtesy, professinalsm and service.
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07 Apr, 2024 by Eleazar hernandez
He sido cliente de Ray Law International,por mas de 10 años y nunca he tenido problemas en mis renovaciones.
100% RECOMENDADO BUEN ABOGADO DE CASOS DE INMIGRACION
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25 Mar, 2024 by Luna noblett
26 Jan, 2023 by Nicholas
I have been working with Elaine Stypula since 2015. She has helped me navigate through multiple parenting time motions. Elaine is excellent at keeping everyone focused on the things that matter and helping separate emotions when needed. She has also been aggressive when needed.
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20 Jan, 2023 by Meghann
Elaine is very reliable and efficient. Her no-nonsense approach won’t waste your time or money. She is honest, caring and knowledgeable. When going through difficult times it is nice to not be taken advantage of. I Highly recommend Elaine.
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17 Jan, 2023 by Cb
she was very informative accessible reliable and patient. I truly appreciated her availability, direction and advice even after she was released as my lawyer.
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06 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
NOT RECOMMENDED. DOES NOT NEED TO BE IN PRACTICE ANYMORE.
Never on time for court, shows up an hour + late every time. Is never prepared. Charges thousands of dollars and does nothing. Never answers calls or texts until the morning of court. Has excuse after excuse for his lack of action on the case. I’ve done everything for myself and even prepared all my own paperwork and documents because Mr. Barker acts like he’s some big shot lawyer who has such a high dismissal rate and is worth $5000+ for a misdemeanor case then charges the same for a felony case? Makes no sense.
Embarrassing. He obviously doesn’t realize his brain has gone to the state of early dementia or drug/alcohol abuse. Who knows.
I’ve never been so disappointed in a paid lawyer. I’d have been better off with a court appointed attorney at this point, at least I expect them to not do their jobs.
DONT HIRE HIM!
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22 Mar, 2024 by Valerie
I always hire a different lawyer at first and then end up with steve. He listens and cares about you .He is not lazy and will make sure you get the best outcome !
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20 Apr, 2021 by Nidal
Very considering and positive and loyal , smart and strait forward answers your request , returns your call
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09 Oct, 2024 by D d
We were just glad to be done dealing with this firm. Didn't take us or our situation seriously. They dragged their feet on things, talked to us like we were children. When we inquired about something, they'd send a generic letter of assurance but then no work happened. All in all it was very frustrating dealing with Melissa and her team. They have given us no reason to recommend them to anyone.
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08 Sep, 2024 by Ashlin stover
I worked for Melissa this past summer as a legal intern while I was home from college, and I am so happy to say that it was a great experience! I want to thank Melissa for the opportunity to have worked at her firm this summer. It has truly been an amazing experience, and I am incredibly grateful. I am extremely excited to bring the new knowledge, experience, and skillsets that I have gained from this internship along with me on my journey to pursue a career in this field. Melissa's passion and leadership are very admirable and I appreciate the positive work environment that she created for the team. I feel so lucky to have gained a role model like Melissa in this field!
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08 Sep, 2024 by Ka xiong
At the beginning, everything seemed to go smoothly then when it got closer to mediation, everything was disorganized and all I got was excuses about the new staff. I was sent the court order to review the night before we went to court. That gave me very little time to review it and ask for changes to be made and it was rushed to sign minutes before appearing before the judge. Everything took days and weeks for a response and sometimes I didn't get a response until I specifically called them to let them know I needed to speak with the lawyer. I have spent thousands and as a single mother it was a hardship on me even with their "discount". Not only that, I felt like I was not listened to. We settled in mediation but I felt like everything was rushed and she just wanted to give them what they wanted instead of what was actually in the best interest of the children and what I do vs what the other party does. I am not satisfied with the outcome and what was on the final order but I was told I can go back to court to modify it. So now I have to spend thousands again to go back to court to modify the order in the future instead of getting it right the first time. As much as I enjoy having Melissa as my lawyer because she was a kind person, she did not have my best interest and just wanted to settle and get it over with, I will not be using her again unfortunately.
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09 Oct, 2024 by D d
We were just glad to be done dealing with this firm. Didn't take us or our situation seriously. They dragged their feet on things, talked to us like we were children. When we inquired about something, they'd send a generic letter of assurance but then no work happened. All in all it was very frustrating dealing with Melissa and her team. They have given us no reason to recommend them to anyone.
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08 Sep, 2024 by Ashlin stover
I worked for Melissa this past summer as a legal intern while I was home from college, and I am so happy to say that it was a great experience! I want to thank Melissa for the opportunity to have worked at her firm this summer. It has truly been an amazing experience, and I am incredibly grateful. I am extremely excited to bring the new knowledge, experience, and skillsets that I have gained from this internship along with me on my journey to pursue a career in this field. Melissa's passion and leadership are very admirable and I appreciate the positive work environment that she created for the team. I feel so lucky to have gained a role model like Melissa in this field!
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08 Sep, 2024 by Ka xiong
At the beginning, everything seemed to go smoothly then when it got closer to mediation, everything was disorganized and all I got was excuses about the new staff. I was sent the court order to review the night before we went to court. That gave me very little time to review it and ask for changes to be made and it was rushed to sign minutes before appearing before the judge. Everything took days and weeks for a response and sometimes I didn't get a response until I specifically called them to let them know I needed to speak with the lawyer. I have spent thousands and as a single mother it was a hardship on me even with their "discount". Not only that, I felt like I was not listened to. We settled in mediation but I felt like everything was rushed and she just wanted to give them what they wanted instead of what was actually in the best interest of the children and what I do vs what the other party does. I am not satisfied with the outcome and what was on the final order but I was told I can go back to court to modify it. So now I have to spend thousands again to go back to court to modify the order in the future instead of getting it right the first time. As much as I enjoy having Melissa as my lawyer because she was a kind person, she did not have my best interest and just wanted to settle and get it over with, I will not be using her again unfortunately.
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5.0
3 Reviews
4.2
15 Reviews
26 Apr, 2024 by Travis bue
Great experience soo far. Can't wait to move forward.
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18 Oct, 2023 by Nargiz n
As a colleague, I have seen Ms. Terrasi provide exceptional service to her clients. She’s professional, talented, tenacious and highly efficient. She works hard for her clients, and always has their best interest in mind.
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18 Oct, 2023 by Tashawna rushin
If you want to win your case DO NOT USE THIS FRIM....she will not fight for you..and may even work against you...
I have filed a Complaint/ Grievance
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24 Aug, 2021 by Jennifer f
Much gratitude to Susan for guiding me through a very sensitive and complex child custody situation. She consistently provided guidance that promoted what was best for my child, while putting me at ease during the process. Susan saved me money, time, and heartache. I appreciate her hard work and dedication to my unique case. Thank you Susan!
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23 Aug, 2021 by Patricia
Excellent and knowledgeable lawyer that will get things done. Very timely on requests. I would highly recommend and use her services again as needed. Thank you Susan and your team for all your help and support.
Sincerely,
Patricia S
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23 Aug, 2021 by Reuben
Susan is the best and efficient lawyer I could have ever asked for. I live out of state but I am from Michigan, and it was so easy to communicate with her through phone, email and zoom. She helped me get out of a divorce easily even though Covid made some setbacks. Being in the Military sometimes can make things difficult when trying to get divorced but Susan helped and came up with a game plan right away that fit my work schedule as well. Her legal assistant Brittany also is a great part of her team that helped answer questions along the way.
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23 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
He plays dirty games. Whatever you tell him to file he’ll do without proof and put a spin on it to make it believable. I can’t wait until he’s caught because he’s a very dirty lawyer.
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08 Feb, 2021 by James
Greg is an awesome lawyer! As a kid, I got in some trouble with the law. Greg defending me well and got me a great deal. His knowledge, experience and expertise is tried and true by myself more than once. Doesn’t waste your money or nickel and dime you. I’ve used other lawyers and nobody has provided services like Greg Rohls!
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05 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
Google him. He tried to block Michigan votes. He said he had no idea what he was submitting for Sidney Powell. Really? Bad lie. Can’t/doesn’t he read what he submits? Why was he suspended by other Attorneys in 2016?
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06 Aug, 2024 by Ashlauren
NOT RECOMMENDED. DOES NOT NEED TO BE IN PRACTICE ANYMORE.
Never on time for court, shows up an hour + late every time. Is never prepared. Charges thousands of dollars and does nothing. Never answers calls or texts until the morning of court. Has excuse after excuse for his lack of action on the case. I've done everything for myself and even prepared all my own paperwork and documents because Mr. Barker acts like he's some big shot lawyer who has such a high dismissal rate and is worth $5000+ for a misdemeanor case then charges the same for a felony case? Makes no sense.
Embarrassing. He obviously doesn't realize his brain has gone to the state of early dementia or drug/alcohol abuse. Who knows.
I've never been so disappointed in a paid lawyer. I'd have been better off with a court appointed attorney at this point, at least I expect them to not do their jobs.
DONT HIRE HIM!
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28 Jun, 2024 by Jason trew
Horrible. 6 months after paying him $3k he has DONE NOTHING in my case despite claims of filing appearances and other motions. I GOT SCAMMED
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22 May, 2024 by Jessica quigley
Unethical. Abusive. Unresponsive. Should be disbarred. The way he speaks to people is disgusting. If there is one thing he could learn, it’s to say no if he doesn’t want to represent someone.
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09 May, 2024 by Gina
Not happy at all.
On 02/07/24 Met with Julia Perkins for a "consultation". We were asked to send in current custody/post divorce summary paperwork for review prior to this consultation. The consultation was not free, they charge a WHOPPING $510 per hour! We met with Julie for 90 minutes, and then she proceeded to say she needed to be paid for the ~30 minutes that their office took to review our paperwork. This was never disclosed and awkwardly put us on the spot. The consultation did not lead to us hiring her as she said the GAL on our case she was actually at ODDS with, and just tried to *unsuccessfully* remove her from a different case she had. It was a pure waste of $1,000+ and a real strong arm tactic to have us pay 2 hours instead of 1.5 hours.
As if that wasn't bad enough, her parent company VARNUM, ran two charges on our credit card. One for the $1,020 that we reluctantly agreed to, AND they popped us with a 2nd charge of 3% credit card processing fee, that we never agreed to nor we were ever made aware of.
We received their receipts on 03/15/24 and contacted her office on 03/22/24 and asked for this erroneous charge to be removed. On 03/23/24 we received a direct response from Julia with her assistant cc'd stating that they would send us a check back as a refund.
As of 04/12/24 we had not received the promised refund and sent an email back to Julia as well as a cc to her assistant. Both chose to not respond.
As of 05/09/24, we have now had to take the time to proceed with a credit card dispute, because they can't be bothered to refund they extra charge they did.
In general, the meeting was par at best. It seemed like Julia wanted to make arguments on behalf of the Ex, and we didn't clique well with her. With other competent attorneys that we've dealt with that at the high end are ranged from $275-400 per hour, I have no idea how she or Varnum keeps clients. There was no sort of wow factor that showed us we'd be getting any bang for our buck. Sadly, I would not recommend.
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13 Feb, 2019 by Jay
Spent a few years roughly in my custody case she was supportive but forward with me she faced a ton of pressure from outside sources but still did what was right i could not be anymore grateful for her i now consider her and Salvatore vitale friends thanks to them im able to be a father money well spent!
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24 Mar, 2014 by Anonymous
I was very fortunate to be referred to Julia at the worst time in my life. My divorce was unexpected and very painful. Julia and her staff eased my pain immediately. My ex and her attorney had falsely accused me and attacked me legally from every angle which completely overwhelmed my previous lawyer ( I had hired that one based on a radio advertisement thinking they would represent my rights as a father. Boy was I wrong!) Julia was open and honest from the start and was clear in what needed to be done. My ex and opposing counsel had struck first putting me in a hole, but once I hired Julia, she stepped in and countered aggressively without missing a step. I knew immediately I had made the right choice. My case was difficult because my ex had more resources and no scruples, but Julia knew how to handle cases like this correctly. She guided me perfectly, both legally and personally, so I would not accidentally do anything that would jeopardize my case. She always listened to me, responded very quickly, and provided sound advice for handling anything from simple disagreements between my ex to dealing with custody and financial issues. And if you're one of the unfortunate 1% that has to actually go to trial like I had too, then you are going to want Julia on her side. She's was simply amazing at every hearing and trial date. She's very gifted in the courtroom. She was so much better than my ex's attorney, that my ex literally fired hers a day after one of our hearings. Julia was more prepared on the facts and strategy of my case, more versed in the law, and more prepared regarding what opposing counsel would do. The result of having Julia as my attorney was that I got the custody and settlement I wanted. I don't even want to think of how things would have ended up if it wasn't for her, her team, and her firm. I wholeheartedly recommend Julia and her staff to anyone going through a divorce or custody case.
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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.
