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16 Dec, 2024 by Stephen waddle
Recommend to anyone looking for attorney. Great people capable of helping in every way possible.
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13 Dec, 2024 by Daniel bingham
10 Dec, 2024 by Bethany ledel
A family member was dealing with a rough legal issue and everyone here was kind, understanding, and helped us stay calm. Thank you so much.
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4.8
4 Reviews
4.9
255 Reviews
11 Jan, 2025 by Ashley nicholson
Tommy is honest and fair with his clients. He makes you feel at ease throughout the entire process. He is not afraid to fight for his clients and puts effort and care into his work. I would highly recommend him as a family law attorney!
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23 Nov, 2024 by Tanner linn
Tommy, was a great attorney during my divorce. Was easily available when needed and worked with me every step of the way through a very stressful time. In the end helping me get what was necessary for me. If anything in the future legally comes up I would definitely be going back to Tommy and his team.
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08 Nov, 2024 by Benji lee
Great experience with Madison. I highly recommend her for any representation you would need.
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18 Nov, 2024 by Joshua esquer-davis
This is a great law firm. They keep you up to date with everything that is going on with your case. Tony Gould was very responsive getting back to me as soon as possible. The paralegals were very knowledgeable with all case details. All paperwork was send over and explained thoroughly. All documents were housed in a very easy to access way.
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18 Nov, 2024 by Michael payne
He is a very good attorney, the whole group is friendly and respectful, he is straight forward and really works for you.
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13 Nov, 2024 by Macom diveley
Very professional and easy to work with.
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06 Feb, 2025 by Amy pierce
Absolutely the best attorney that I’ve ever had the privilege of working with.
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06 Feb, 2025 by William sanders
I cannot say enough good things about Kim Rennie but would like to say this, I have been involved in complex litigation for over 22 years. I know a lot of attorneys and have watched a lot of attorneys work in court, but I have never met an attorney quite like Kim. Kim represented two of my sons in two separate cases and to watch her work was an honor. Kim treated our family like family members rather than just a client. She was thoroughly prepared for the cases she took on and was 100% successful, a true Champion for our family. I highly recommend Kim to every person in need of legal assistance.
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26 Nov, 2024 by Terry stros
My legal team kept me up to date on everything and all procedures.
Great working with this group.
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02 Sep, 2024 by Leslie allison
I cannot say enough positive things about my experience with this law firm. Courtney and her staff are very well-versed and professional. Divorce is rarely easy and these women are so understanding, fight hard for their clients, are honest and transparent about the process, and are with you every step of the way. They know the law and genuinely care for their clients. You are in great hands with this firm and I would recommend them to anyone!
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26 Jun, 2024 by Tina reeves
This firm was wonderful to me. I had to hire an attorney while I lived in South Dakota to fight a claim made by my ex husband. They were always available to answer questions. Gave helpful advice. And represented me in my contempt trial. Everyone from Courtney to Taylor and Alex and Lindsey . Thank you from the bottom of my heart!
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01 Aug, 2023 by Keila martinez
Courtney is an awesome Attorney and her team will fight for you! I refer her to all my friends and family.
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11 Nov, 2021 by James richardson
Matt Fleischer did a stellar job for all my legal needs. He is very knowledgeable in his field and is extremely efficient in everything he did for me. I trust him completely. I highly recommend him for any of your legal affairs in his field.
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14 Mar, 2021 by Rebecca hill
Matt made handling my parent's estate a smooth process. I highly reccomend him for assistance in estate issues and other matters.
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12 Mar, 2021 by Randy best
I have nothing but good comments to report on my experience working with Matt Fleischer.
My sister and I were the executors of our mother's trust after she passed away. Her mineral rights assets had not been entered into the trust, so we hired Matt to probate them over to a new trust for us. We did not live in Oklahoma but Matt took care of everything and was very easy to work with. He let us know up front what the total cost would be and each step of the process, including court dates, documents we would need to provide and/or get notarized, etc. Everything was handled via phone and email, with certain documents eventually being mailed. Fees were right in line compared to other firms in OK. Finally, I don't think I ever called Matt where he himself didn't answer the phone - that is what I call responsive and helpful.
I would recommend Matt's firm to anyone needing legal help in Oklahoma!
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27 Aug, 2023 by Terri mcnutt
Very patient & helpful.
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30 Nov, 2018 by Teresa
She helped me figure out my issues on a down to earth manner that I could easily understand.
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11 Jan, 2025 by Ashley nicholson
Tommy is honest and fair with his clients. He makes you feel at ease throughout the entire process. He is not afraid to fight for his clients and puts effort and care into his work. I would highly recommend him as a family law attorney!
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23 Nov, 2024 by Tanner linn
Tommy, was a great attorney during my divorce. Was easily available when needed and worked with me every step of the way through a very stressful time. In the end helping me get what was necessary for me. If anything in the future legally comes up I would definitely be going back to Tommy and his team.
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08 Nov, 2024 by Benji lee
Great experience with Madison. I highly recommend her for any representation you would need.
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19 Oct, 2024 by Cynthia
Where do I begin?! Divorce can be brutal, even when you’re not wanting to/or interested in splitting knives, forks, and spoons. Attorney Adam Holcomb was clutch for me and my case. While he was my 2nd hire, Adam wasted no time jumping right into the fire with me and went straight to work on my case. He loves a challenge, easy to communicate with, trustworthy (that’s big for me) and responsive. He and his team worked with me through my financial struggles so that I could remain a client, while providing optimal service. Trust me when I say, faith without works is dead. I had all the faith that Adam would work this out, and he did just that!!! WE WON!!!! HIRE THIS MAN
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23 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
He one of the best lawyer you could ask for he is there to hear the whole story he really try get you through this whatever you going through he is a great listener I finally got to see my kids after 5 year
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25 Jan, 2019 by Nikina jones
Kevin helped my divorce to move along was able to explain the whole process and answer every question. He was understanding and supportive throughout the entire process.
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11 Jan, 2016 by James pearson
Excellent bankruptcy attorney. He is always looking out for the client. I recommend him.
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4.8
21 Reviews
4.2
10 Reviews
26 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Carla was amazing! I was unfamiliar with the process of getting a divorce and Carla walked me through everything. She's a go-getter and extremely knowledgeable in the field! She's highly respected and will tell you like it is. My ex didn't want to give me a dime after being married for 10 years. Carla was able to get me what was rightfully mine. The process of divorce is mentally draining, but Carlas strength and passion also helped me personally through the process. I came out of my divorce feeling strength I'd never felt before and a huge portion of that was due to Carla! GO WITH CARLA!
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24 May, 2024 by Steven bentley
24 Sep, 2023 by Cheila evey
Professional and very curtious, I only needed an address change.
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22 Jan, 2025 by Terrie blackaby
The staff members at Burr Law offices are always great to work with. My questions or appointment requests are handled quickly, the information is thorough, I feel valued and their fees are more than reasonable. I highly recommend Burr Law Offices.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Jeff truax
The team at Burr Law Offices have a complete knowledge and wealth of experience in family law. Brady and Cristi addressed every question, or concern, I had with promptness, patience, and clarity. I could not have asked for a better team to support me and keep my mind at ease through the legal process.
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02 Aug, 2024 by Jesse debock
The Burr Law office in its entirety operates in a very professional way. Brady Burr is an exceptional lawyer, very educated and knowledgeable, especially regarding divorce cases.
His office and administrators were very responsive, helpful, and appreciated the sensitivity of my case with the upmost respect.
If you are in the Oklahoma area, I would definitely seek out this office for legal advice, representation, and help.
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5.0
8 Reviews
4.5
147 Reviews
17 Dec, 2024 by Vincent burke
Excellent council!!! Highly recommend!!!
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11 Dec, 2024 by Brittany king
If you neee any assistance with disability these guys are pretty awesome!
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10 Dec, 2024 by Cora dixon
They have been my attorneys from the beginning and waiting for a reply on my 6th review and went as far as sending my review to the US district courts which sent it back for review of my entire reviews. Gone thru my 6 denial and waiting for the reviews decision. They have been a really great group and delightful to talk to as well.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Beau stephens
Michelle Smith Did an excellent job with my case I couldn’t be happier with the results. Looking forward to her representation going forward.
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03 Dec, 2024 by Daniel kraeer
Michelle Smith is an exceptional divorce attorney. Her expertise, professionalism, and dedication made a challenging process much more manageable. She was always responsive, compassionate, and strategic. Highly recommend!
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21 Nov, 2024 by D'andra wiley
Ms. Michelle Smith is by far the best attorney i have ever ran into . I mean i couldnt be more grateful for her . She starting helping me in such a tragic time when i thought i didnt have nobody i was sitting in that courtroom with ALL OF ME fighting for my kids against someone that still doesnt make effort . I absolutely love the effort that she put in to actually understand the whole situation and not just one side . She has been the BEST . I could say more but i swear ill write a whole book . Thank you SOOO MUCH ms Smith . If you choose her you are choosing the BEST .
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25 Jul, 2024 by Haley salinas
Dan and his staff were very kind and professional! I really appreciated the extra steps Dan took to make sure I was taken care off. This was the first time I had a personal injury case, and they were so helpful with every question I had. I would definitely recommend Gibbons Law to anyone looking for a personal injury attorney!
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05 Apr, 2024 by Patricia pelletier
My visit to the Gibbons Law Office was excellent! I was greeted upon arrival and made comfortable while waiting for my appointment. The appointment itself was as if visiting with friends. Pictures of family were shared and an easy conversation was constant throughout my appointment. My documents were discussed so that they were completely understood by me and all my final wishes were correctly stated.
All in all, the professionalism and friendliness of everyone I came into contact with was a great experience. I highly recommend the services of Mr. Daniel Gibbons and his excellent staff.
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21 Feb, 2024 by Jessica gavette
Great job! Explained legal process and options. We'll definitely use again. WE highly recommend.
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23 Jan, 2025 by John diggs
22 Jan, 2025 by Jalyn kincey
21 Jan, 2025 by Jonathon goins
30 Sep, 2024 by David
I am very grateful to have Adam Banner as my attorney. He was very professional. He always kept in contact with me and always responded to my emails and phone calls in a timely manner. I am extremely grateful for his hardwork and satisfied with the outcome.I definitely recommend him if you need any legal assistance.
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26 Sep, 2024 by Josh
I can’t say enough good things about Adam Banner. He helped our family at an incredible time of need. He always answered my calls/emails. He was a listening ear when I needed one, gave good council when I asked for it, and was with me every step of the way. He knew my case in and out and got a dismissal for me and my family. He will work harder than any attorney out there. I’m sure there are a lot of good ones, but Adam has separated himself from them, in my opinion. He was upfront about the costs involved and delivered the best result we could have asked for. If you find yourself in need of an attorney, you came to the right place. Adam Banner can be trusted.
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18 Mar, 2024 by Jason
NOT GUILTY were the words I heard after jury deliberation! Adam is seasoned, sharp, quick, witty, and extremely knowledgeable! He strategically sliced and diced both the state investigating agency and the state prosecution team, while simultaneously dismantling the whole narrative that resulted in the charge against me. His words resonated with the jury! My family and I will be forever grateful for the hard work and dedication he put into my case. He wasn’t just a typical defense attorney, Adam truly cares about the jury seeing the truth and I am a free man today because of it. Thank you Adam!
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23 Jan, 2020 by Julio
Great lawyer brain Putnam he listen to me when no other lawyer did when I thought I was going to be accused for things I didn't do he help me and know I don't have to worry because he came through I highly recommend him thank you brain Putnam
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29 Aug, 2019 by Megan
I cannot begin to explain how pleased I am with Brian! He was very readily available and sufficient whenever my situation was laid out on the table almost 7 months ago. At a time where I didn't know what direction to look or turn Brian took initiative in leading me the correct way. I highly HIGHLY reccomend him to everyone and anyone who is in the need of lawful guidance. To this day, even after my case has been closed for several months now he still has open arms for and questions or concerns I may have.
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27 Jan, 2019 by Jack
I found ONE!! I found an honest Lawyer. He not only returns phone calls but he is also available to update his client on the status of the case. Brian handled a personal injury for me and my five. I was extremely satisfied with the way Brian worked.
The lawyer is Brian Putnam with his office on N.W. 63 St, in OKC. He doesn’t rob you when the time comes to settle up at the conclusion of the case. I have used a lot of lawyers over the years and Attorney Brian Putnam is the best.
Need a lawyer? Call Brian Putnam!
Jack and Enmer Henry
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26 Jun, 2021 by Anonymous
First of all, let me start with Ali is the very best lawyer and person I have ever met. I was in OKC on business and was arrested and thrown in jail. I am 70 years old and have never been arrested in my life. I witnessed a different side of society than i had ever witnessed. Needless to say, I had no idea what to do, both in jail and out. I was bailed out by Colt Bail Bonds, another great firm, and Colt introduced me to Ali. Right away, I knew he was an efficient and caring person. I was very scared. Ali calmed me down and told me he would take care of everything. He always communicated to me as the case developed. By the end of the week, Ali convinced the DA to not file charges. Ali gave me my life back. I cannot stress how much I would recommend him and I so appreciate him so much for what he did.
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17 Nov, 2020 by Anonymous
Ali helped me when I got in trouble a few years ago. He was able to help me through the entire process from my case being dismissed, to being recharged, having to put off resolving the case until a time that worked better for my family (due to a family illness) to having a deal in place before turning myself in, meeting me at the bondman's office, doing a walk through and getting me into court and sentenced in one day, so I can fly home and continue on with my life. I can't express my appreciation enough for him and his team. Not to mention that he was with another firm when I first met him, and he honored the payment that I had previously made.
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21 Jan, 2018 by Jennifer shuey
Ali was amazing. He got a motion to accelerate dismissed. He did so for a great price and in a very timely manner. He comes to court on time, well dressed, with his act together. He doesn't fumble, he knows the drill and is well versed. He knows the system and how to work it. If your in question of who you should use. This is the man for sure.
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29 Mar, 2021 by Lawrence
Paula is a skilled lawyer and advocate for client. She is knowledgeable and works hard for her clients.
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28 Mar, 2021 by Theresa
My husband and I need a will drawn up but my husband had some leg problems and was going to and from doctors a lot. Paula was very accommodating and willing to work with our schedule she listen to our needs took our request and drew it up to our specifications. She was pleasant to work with and very knowledgeable.
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27 Jan, 2020 by Hiba
I received legal service from Miss Wood and very satisfied with her service. She is very thorough: explained in detail what I need to do and asked very relevant legal questions. Miss Wood informed me of all my options and consequences. Her service was efficient and highly organized. I am very pleased with the results and will not hesitate to hire her again. Invoicing and expenses were explained clearly.
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02 Jul, 2021 by Singlemom
Mr. Buckley has won my very difficult case and was able to deliver outstanding results for myself. From the very beginning, Mr. Buckley was a caring, supportive counselor who genuinely committed himself to winning my case. He had met me at a moment's notice that had played the crucial importance in the positive outcome. He is an excellent, superb communicator, he has a deep and sharp understanding of psychology, and protected me from aggressiveness bordering on abuse exhibited by an opposing law company hired by my opponent. Mr. Buckley is an exceptionally kind person, and my family and I will be forever grateful for him helping me to win this case. His patience and understanding of my circumstances were outstanding, and he helped me in every way to deal with this overwhelming litigation in the midst of the pandemic and taking care of my child. He is the best lawyer that work embodies the genuine commitment to justice.
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11 Dec, 2015 by Kathleen
Mr. Buckley was able to navigate a rather complicated legal situation for me with knowledge and concern. His ability to discern my true legal needs allowed me more comfort in a difficult time. I highly recommend Andrew Buckley for your legal needs.
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04 Nov, 2015 by William
Mr. Buckley did a superb job handling my custody case. He is passionate about arriving to a fair result. Would recommend him to anyone going through a custody disagreement or divorce.
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06 Feb, 2025 by Amy pierce
Absolutely the best attorney that I’ve ever had the privilege of working with.
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06 Feb, 2025 by William sanders
I cannot say enough good things about Kim Rennie but would like to say this, I have been involved in complex litigation for over 22 years. I know a lot of attorneys and have watched a lot of attorneys work in court, but I have never met an attorney quite like Kim. Kim represented two of my sons in two separate cases and to watch her work was an honor. Kim treated our family like family members rather than just a client. She was thoroughly prepared for the cases she took on and was 100% successful, a true Champion for our family. I highly recommend Kim to every person in need of legal assistance.
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26 Nov, 2024 by Terry stros
My legal team kept me up to date on everything and all procedures.
Great working with this group.
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15 Aug, 2023 by Adam
Rhonda made the process seamless. She drafted the document after gathering some information from me. Rhonda was responsive to my questions. She provided simple explanations and examples. Rhonda made the process amazingly simple and straightforward. She also helped me get witnesses for my signatures and complete the notarizing step. I highly recommend Rhonda’s services and won't hesitate to reach out to her if I have any legal questions down the line.
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06 Mar, 2023 by Holly
Rhonda helped me in my time of need. She showed genuine interest in resolving my matter and wasn’t just in it for the money. Rhonda accomplished everything I wanted even though she told me repeatedly that she couldn’t guarantee me an outcome. She has also resolved court-related matters for my family twice in the last three years and her fee has always been reasonable.
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10 Apr, 2023 by Jonathan
I cannot say enough about the work that Ms. Hunter put into my case from start to finish. She is honest, professional, knowledgeable, level headed and well reasoned. She is excellent at communication, as well as a good listener, regarding my many concerns. And she was an outstanding advocate in all matters that pertained to my son's best interests. I would highly recommend her and her team.
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10 Jun, 2021 by Monty
Layers a and her staff were very helpful and attentive during a very difficult time for me. I appreciate them for all their hard work.
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19 Apr, 2016 by Anonymous
I hired David in 2014, a year and a half we had our trial. The long wait was just circumstances, not David.
He is not a dirty lawyer, no tricks etc. He was extremely honest with me, with the other party, the judge and other lawyers.
I'm a father, I had joint custody from 2008 forward. We had a GAL. In 2015 we had a two day trial. I received sole physical and legal custody. The mother also had to pay $8000 of my legal fees.
There was a lot of manipulation, lots of badmouthing. Patients is key in all this. David was very good at keeping me calm, giving me advice, sometimes what seemed like daily. He answered my calls way more often than most lawyers would. Very personal relationship with David was established.
David far exceeded my expectations, he earned every penny I gave him and then some. He was always on time, always called when he said he would.
This was a long painful experience but David made it pleasant from time to time. Thank you David for all you have done for me and our family!!!!
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13 Oct, 2012 by Nadine
I hired David Walk to write my Last Will & Testament, Living Will, and Power of Attorney, and I had a very positive experience. Mr. Walk explained the process and legal language in simple terms, which was important to me because English is my second language. I felt that he really listened to what I wanted and he made me feel like an important client. I am happy with the Will Package and would definitely hire Mr. Walk again.
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02 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
Mr. Wallace is very patient and very determined in what he does for his clients! I had a long and drug out divorce that lasted 2 years. He supported me and got me everything I asked for! He also allowed payment arrangements if I could not meet them at specific dates as long as everything was paid by judgement day. He's very professional, stern, trustworthy, and gets the job done! Thank you Timothy Wallace for all you've done!!
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06 Sep, 2017 by Clint
After both the father and mother died of a young Native American girl my wife had coached forever, Mr. Gifford provided me information and assistance on the steps to help ensure the child's overall positive well-being and potentially adopt the child. Without a Will in place, things can get pretty complicated.
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12 Nov, 2020 by Jacquie
I had the pleasure of having Ms. Tunder represent me through a random assignment by another party. For this reason, my expectations from a lawyer were low. She turned out to be the silver lining and beacon of light during what was for me an overwhelming 3-year ordeal in which she was the *only* person who acted with a sense of urgency and responsibility while treating me in a very dignified manner. She answers all emails and voicemails promptly and courteously. She is kind, caring and respectful, as well as no-nonsense and hardworking. She is a person and professional of utmost integrity and I cannot recommend her enough. If only there were more lawyers like her.
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04 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
Glenn has been great during a complicated guardianship case. She has taken time to get know our family's needs as well as explain the law and represent us. I highly recommend using Glenn Brown.
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03 May, 2016 by Shannon
Bryan was my attorney during a difficult time for me and my children with an abusive ex-husband. He gave me my options, listened and was willing to go the extra mile for me as his client. Great job in court and I couldn't have asked for a better attorney.
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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:
-
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.
