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21 Apr, 2023 by David korrect
Good coffee
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28 Aug, 2022 by Tonya merrell
Mr. Eddy gave me the best advise I needed to help my sister. He responded to my emails and was completely informative.
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12 Jul, 2022 by Lauren kirkland
Lindsey represented my husband and me in the adoption of our son. She guided us through the daunting process of an out-of-state adoption with great patience and understanding. She was always quick to respond to our questions and take our phone calls. When our son was being born, she waited with us! My husband and I highly recommend Lindsey for any legal matters, particularly adoptions.
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21 Apr, 2023 by David korrect
Good coffee
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28 Aug, 2022 by Tonya merrell
Mr. Eddy gave me the best advise I needed to help my sister. He responded to my emails and was completely informative.
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12 Jul, 2022 by Lauren kirkland
Lindsey represented my husband and me in the adoption of our son. She guided us through the daunting process of an out-of-state adoption with great patience and understanding. She was always quick to respond to our questions and take our phone calls. When our son was being born, she waited with us! My husband and I highly recommend Lindsey for any legal matters, particularly adoptions.
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03 Aug, 2024 by Rey carroll
Great people, and amazing service
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31 Jul, 2024 by Vince carter
J. Jackson Law Offices is a cut above the rest. Knowledgeable and professional, the counsel they provide helped me immensely.
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27 Jul, 2024 by Bryan crosby
Integrity, loyalty, intelligence that’s what you can expect from J. Jackson Law Offices. I would trust them with everything.
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24 Sep, 2024 by Alyssa weathers-murphy
Sarah has helped my husband and I navigate the estate planning and business continuity process for years now! We had a basic will created before we got married. I learned that a basic will in fact would not kick into motion the things we want to be prepared for. Thank you, Sarah, and team Legatum!
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12 Apr, 2023 by Kate prieto
Sarah is so knowledgeable and compassionate. She makes estate planning such a positive experience. She really knows her stuff and she a great conversationalist. Thank you Sarah!
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10 Feb, 2023 by Ian dauteuil
Sarah and Legatum have a vast amount of knowledge in Estate Planning. They offer the most comprehensive plan in Oklahoma to make sure you or your loved ones don’t end up in probate!
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24 Sep, 2024 by Alyssa weathers-murphy
Sarah has helped my husband and I navigate the estate planning and business continuity process for years now! We had a basic will created before we got married. I learned that a basic will in fact would not kick into motion the things we want to be prepared for. Thank you, Sarah, and team Legatum!
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12 Apr, 2023 by Kate prieto
Sarah is so knowledgeable and compassionate. She makes estate planning such a positive experience. She really knows her stuff and she a great conversationalist. Thank you Sarah!
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10 Feb, 2023 by Ian dauteuil
Sarah and Legatum have a vast amount of knowledge in Estate Planning. They offer the most comprehensive plan in Oklahoma to make sure you or your loved ones don’t end up in probate!
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24 Sep, 2024 by Alyssa weathers-murphy
Sarah has helped my husband and I navigate the estate planning and business continuity process for years now! We had a basic will created before we got married. I learned that a basic will in fact would not kick into motion the things we want to be prepared for. Thank you, Sarah, and team Legatum!
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12 Apr, 2023 by Kate prieto
Sarah is so knowledgeable and compassionate. She makes estate planning such a positive experience. She really knows her stuff and she a great conversationalist. Thank you Sarah!
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10 Feb, 2023 by Ian dauteuil
Sarah and Legatum have a vast amount of knowledge in Estate Planning. They offer the most comprehensive plan in Oklahoma to make sure you or your loved ones don’t end up in probate!
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24 Sep, 2024 by Alyssa weathers-murphy
Sarah has helped my husband and I navigate the estate planning and business continuity process for years now! We had a basic will created before we got married. I learned that a basic will in fact would not kick into motion the things we want to be prepared for. Thank you, Sarah, and team Legatum!
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12 Apr, 2023 by Kate prieto
Sarah is so knowledgeable and compassionate. She makes estate planning such a positive experience. She really knows her stuff and she a great conversationalist. Thank you Sarah!
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10 Feb, 2023 by Ian dauteuil
Sarah and Legatum have a vast amount of knowledge in Estate Planning. They offer the most comprehensive plan in Oklahoma to make sure you or your loved ones don’t end up in probate!
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24 Sep, 2024 by Alyssa weathers-murphy
Sarah has helped my husband and I navigate the estate planning and business continuity process for years now! We had a basic will created before we got married. I learned that a basic will in fact would not kick into motion the things we want to be prepared for. Thank you, Sarah, and team Legatum!
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12 Apr, 2023 by Kate prieto
Sarah is so knowledgeable and compassionate. She makes estate planning such a positive experience. She really knows her stuff and she a great conversationalist. Thank you Sarah!
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10 Feb, 2023 by Ian dauteuil
Sarah and Legatum have a vast amount of knowledge in Estate Planning. They offer the most comprehensive plan in Oklahoma to make sure you or your loved ones don’t end up in probate!
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05 Jul, 2022 by Sheryl meeks
Jeff Hatfield is the absolute best, Had it not been for him I would not have my freedom today, instead I'd be doing life without parole. I am and will forever be greatful to him. If you can afford him and you need a lawyer pay him. You won't regret it.
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28 Mar, 2022 by Amanda campbell
He is flawless, one of the best attorneys I've ever had the privilege of knowing . He will tell you like it is , not just tell you what he thinks you want to hear.
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30 Aug, 2019 by Murjani porter
He was AMAZING especially with people from out of state!
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23 Nov, 2023 by Kim pierce
My siblings and I had the pleasure of working with James Thiessen with our parents estate and subsequent probate.
Not only did he provide excellent service but he maintained regular contact and answered all of our questions throughout the process. I felt confident with his handling of our case and his legal expertise.
I would highly recommend this office for any probate and/or estate needs.
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22 Jan, 2022 by Karla archibeque
25 Jul, 2018 by Steven ha
08 Oct, 2023 by Sarah newby
They are the best. They take care of all our legal needs.
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21 Oct, 2021 by Brandon kaiser
I have been working with Melody and Brigid for over a year now and they are the best. Both are super responsive and very helpful with whatever legal question I may have when it comes to evictions. I highly recommend Kennedy Law, best attorney you will find in the OKC area.
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10 Apr, 2020 by Misha napoleon
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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19 Aug, 2024 by Parker leland
19 Aug, 2024 by Makenzie bynum
19 Aug, 2024 by Crystal sage
In a very unexpected situation, I chose Banner to guide us through and represent my child. We were disappointed to find out that the $5000 retainer we paid was completely gone before charges were ever filed. And for what ? A few emails and phone calls and 30+ hours of checking OSCN? We never asked him to check OSCN daily and the contract doesn't say he was going to check OSCN daily. And we told him that we were already checking OSCN daily. And that is clerical work. $300/hr to check OSCN? There hasn't even been an arraignment. The attorney didn't go to court even once. The contract stated that there would be an accounting and refund upon request. We never expected the attorney would fill the accounting with 8 pages of checking OSCN. We trusted this attorney to take care of our child in a time of need and feel like our naivety was taken advantage of. Interesting. As a response to your response, if I am not a party to a contract then I would like a full refund of the $5000 that I paid. My name was on that check. And the word retainer is misleading. Just take it out of your contract and call it a fee only. I read the contract and I was ok with it this whole time, because I was under the impression that the $5000 was a retainer and that unused/unearned funds would be refunded. Yes I understood an additional retainer would be due if charges were filed, but I never understood that meant the first retainer was completely used up at that point. My child and my husband were both at the initial consultation and we all believed the same. We never thought it was just a $5000 charge before ever even filing an entry of appearance as the attorney. We thought the $5000 was just to retain legal services and that fees would be deducted from the retainer as legal services were performed. We never, ever thought we were going to be billed $300/hr attorney fees for $20/hr clerical work or that it would cost $5000 for a few emails and phone calls. I guess we learned to always get an attorney to review our contract with an attorney before signing.
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4.8
4 Reviews
4.9
246 Reviews
19 Aug, 2024 by Parker leland
19 Aug, 2024 by Makenzie bynum
19 Aug, 2024 by Crystal sage
In a very unexpected situation, I chose Banner to guide us through and represent my child. We were disappointed to find out that the $5000 retainer we paid was completely gone before charges were ever filed. And for what ? A few emails and phone calls and 30+ hours of checking OSCN? We never asked him to check OSCN daily and the contract doesn't say he was going to check OSCN daily. And we told him that we were already checking OSCN daily. And that is clerical work. $300/hr to check OSCN? There hasn't even been an arraignment. The attorney didn't go to court even once. The contract stated that there would be an accounting and refund upon request. We never expected the attorney would fill the accounting with 8 pages of checking OSCN. We trusted this attorney to take care of our child in a time of need and feel like our naivety was taken advantage of. Interesting. As a response to your response, if I am not a party to a contract then I would like a full refund of the $5000 that I paid. My name was on that check. And the word retainer is misleading. Just take it out of your contract and call it a fee only. I read the contract and I was ok with it this whole time, because I was under the impression that the $5000 was a retainer and that unused/unearned funds would be refunded. Yes I understood an additional retainer would be due if charges were filed, but I never understood that meant the first retainer was completely used up at that point. My child and my husband were both at the initial consultation and we all believed the same. We never thought it was just a $5000 charge before ever even filing an entry of appearance as the attorney. We thought the $5000 was just to retain legal services and that fees would be deducted from the retainer as legal services were performed. We never, ever thought we were going to be billed $300/hr attorney fees for $20/hr clerical work or that it would cost $5000 for a few emails and phone calls. I guess we learned to always get an attorney to review our contract with an attorney before signing.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Kyle frank
Tom is always responsive when I reach out with questions and answers them very thoroughly. His paralegal and he always treat me with respect and dignity and I got the best outcome I could hope for in my case.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Scott stewart
I cannot say enough great things about Cannon & Associates and, in particular, my attorney, Ann Zachariah. Ann has been my attorney throughout my divorce, which has been a challenging process that has spanned over two years. From the very beginning, Ann's follow-up skills were nothing short of amazing. She was always prompt, thorough, and clear in her communications, ensuring that I was fully informed at every step.
What truly sets Ann apart is her ability to provide thoughtful and strategic counsel. She took the time to understand my specific situation and guided me through the best options to make the divorce process as smooth as possible. Her advice was always in my best interest, particularly when it came to the custody of my 16-year-old son. Ann's support has been invaluable, and I couldn't have asked for a better advocate during such a difficult time.
If you're looking for a dedicated, professional, and compassionate attorney, I highly recommend Ann Zachariah and the team at Cannon & Associates.
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01 Aug, 2024 by D. izer
3M Combat Arms Earplugs Settlement: Cannon & Associates did an exceptional job in handling my case. I would use them again and highly recommend them for their outstanding and stellar service. Many thanks to an excellent law firm.
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26 Sep, 2024 by Jennifer
Go with warhawk legal the are best people to work with. Very helpful through out my time with them. I was very satisfied with my outcome. Jake and Joe are amazing. Jeanette and Paige also love u guys
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28 Aug, 2024 by A t
This firm is by far the best experience I’ve hade in a very difficult situation. Joe Carson will go above and beyond the call of duty for his clients. I highly recommend Warhawk legal and will use their services again in the future if ever needed.
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20 Jul, 2024 by Stephen kelly
I had a great experience with Laura Neal and the Warhawk Legal team🙏🏼 Their knowledge and professionalism made the difference! Would recommend to anyone in need of above and beyond legal services/advisement.
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22 Sep, 2024 by Michael weaver
Pass
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10 May, 2024 by Shelia macon
Mr. Rose is an excellent attorney attorney and very knowledgeable in his field of study.
I was a single parent working two jobs and overwhelmed with debt. My mortgage company was threatening me with foreclosure. I was told there was nothing I
could do, but come up with an outrageous amount of money or move.
I had many sleepless nights until I contacted Mr. Rose. He told me I had rights and he would help me fight back to save my home. He went to battle for me against some well known attorneys in court. I'm grateful because Mike never let me down.
My home is now paid off and I will forever thank Mr. Rose for being my own personal, "David fighting Goliath".
Thanks, Mike
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09 Mar, 2024 by Ladonna mccollum
22 Sep, 2024 by Michael weaver
Pass
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10 May, 2024 by Shelia macon
Mr. Rose is an excellent attorney attorney and very knowledgeable in his field of study.
I was a single parent working two jobs and overwhelmed with debt. My mortgage company was threatening me with foreclosure. I was told there was nothing I
could do, but come up with an outrageous amount of money or move.
I had many sleepless nights until I contacted Mr. Rose. He told me I had rights and he would help me fight back to save my home. He went to battle for me against some well known attorneys in court. I'm grateful because Mike never let me down.
My home is now paid off and I will forever thank Mr. Rose for being my own personal, "David fighting Goliath".
Thanks, Mike
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09 Mar, 2024 by Ladonna mccollum
22 Sep, 2024 by Michael weaver
Pass
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10 May, 2024 by Shelia macon
Mr. Rose is an excellent attorney attorney and very knowledgeable in his field of study.
I was a single parent working two jobs and overwhelmed with debt. My mortgage company was threatening me with foreclosure. I was told there was nothing I
could do, but come up with an outrageous amount of money or move.
I had many sleepless nights until I contacted Mr. Rose. He told me I had rights and he would help me fight back to save my home. He went to battle for me against some well known attorneys in court. I'm grateful because Mike never let me down.
My home is now paid off and I will forever thank Mr. Rose for being my own personal, "David fighting Goliath".
Thanks, Mike
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09 Mar, 2024 by Ladonna mccollum
09 Oct, 2023 by Christine chapman
Excellent Attorney Gary Bachman and his assistant Karen Brady. Thank you for everything you have done for me. I highly recommend him to anyone who needs a lawyer. He phenomenal and kind person. Thank you again, Holloway Dobson & Bachman, for everything.
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08 Apr, 2023 by Craig maire ii
Gary is an excellent attorney and did a great job on my case
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25 Jun, 2022 by William cox
Took my referral case. Very Agressive and Confident.
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09 Oct, 2023 by Christine chapman
Excellent Attorney Gary Bachman and his assistant Karen Brady. Thank you for everything you have done for me. I highly recommend him to anyone who needs a lawyer. He phenomenal and kind person. Thank you again, Holloway Dobson & Bachman, for everything.
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08 Apr, 2023 by Craig maire ii
Gary is an excellent attorney and did a great job on my case
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25 Jun, 2022 by William cox
Took my referral case. Very Agressive and Confident.
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27 Aug, 2024 by Staci baumann
He is one of the best. I recommend him to everyone I know that needs a good attorney. Phillips and associates go above and beyond. I had a case out of town and was at the last minute and he still showed up and went to bat for me. No judgement towards me for making some really bad decisions. He is a very intelligent and hard working attorney. Thank you so much for representing.
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31 Jul, 2024 by Cynthia drake
Dustin is the best attorney I have ever worked with. He and his team are very very knowledgeable and responsive. He even answered my questions while on his family vacation during the Thanksgiving holiday. He answered all my family members questions in a respectful and honest manner. The defense he provided is top notch. Dustin also recommended programs that the Judge agreed with. Dustin has never lied to me no matter if the truth was hard to face. Shout out to Brittany for carrying forward the same decorum and attitude as Dustin. She answered emails within the hour. The whole team is SIMPLY THE BEST!!!! I don’t know what I would have done without them.
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26 Jun, 2024 by Seth richardson
Dustin and his team handled my case with great care and professionalism. A special thank you to Madison for going above and beyond at my court hearing. We left with the results we wanted. Highly recommended legal team. Do not hesitate to call Dustin and his team today for any of your legal needs. You are in great hands.
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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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01 Aug, 2024 by Gabriel kern
This law firm was referred to me for a name change. Brady opened my case, was meticulous in explaining the process and proactive in addressing my questions. Heather Sizemore on his team handled the court appearance, and was absolutely wonderful and provided immediate follow up. The paralegals communicated with me by text before the court date, and everyone was synchronized on a joint text chat - this firm is incredibly easy to deal with, didn’t have to chase them once and treated me like a big client at all times. Highly recommend!
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13 Sep, 2024 by Suhad aladas
Recommend by friends.
Very friendly and helpful
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06 Sep, 2024 by Rodrigo de leon
I’m extremely grateful with Tai’s services, very professional and knowledgeable helped me with my K1 as a petitioner. Would recommend anyone looking to do the same.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Jacqueline young lee
04 Oct, 2024 by Drew hammock
Josh is the best! Every time he comes by we love seeing him
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04 Oct, 2024 by Eddie nope
Amazing at his job always friendly
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04 Oct, 2024 by April dayton
Josh is an awesome guy! We had a shipment of folders get damaged and he personally brought what he had to us to get us by. Thank you so much Josh!! Appreciate you..
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04 Oct, 2024 by Drew hammock
Josh is the best! Every time he comes by we love seeing him
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04 Oct, 2024 by Eddie nope
Amazing at his job always friendly
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04 Oct, 2024 by April dayton
Josh is an awesome guy! We had a shipment of folders get damaged and he personally brought what he had to us to get us by. Thank you so much Josh!! Appreciate you..
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08 Jul, 2024 by Zac logsdon
Monica was very professional and great to work with. I've had experience with a lot of attorneys and I was very impressed with how quickly she responded to all my correspondence.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Sarah bradshaw
First, the staff and everyone at the office is so kind and friendly. They respond to calls and emails in a timely matter.
My case was handled by Paul Albert. He helped me through the entire process. Explained everything so thoroughly and walked me through what needed to be done. He never left me in the dark with information. As soon as he received anything, I immediately was notified. He was honest and took the time working my case to get me the outcome I needed. I never gone through any of this before but I’m glad I had Mr. Albert there to assist and direct me. Thank you!!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Liindaa mediinaa
We are fortunate to have received help from this excellent team, they are people who are very dedicated to their work, available 24/7, persevering and very professional.
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06 Aug, 2024 by Javier contreras
25 Jul, 2024 by Carla tavarez
Estoy profundanente agradecida con la abogada Maryann Rodriguez, y su profecional equipo Kiara y Italia por su eficiencia en resolver mi caso .
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30 Jun, 2024 by Alexa rios
4.8
21 Reviews
4.6
9 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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25 Sep, 2024 by Kayla whoolery
Gary is knowledgeable, professional, and assertive. He gave updates frequently which was much appreciated.
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11 Sep, 2024 by Harell smith
I was referred to the Hammond law firm from another attorney Gary Hammond is so professional and so nice. He did an excellent job on our case. If you need a good bankruptcy attorney, I highly recommend him. He will do you good?
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24 Jun, 2024 by Steven gerard
Amanda has been representing me since 2020 and has been insightful and professional and cares for her clients.
She deserves her flowers for having the knowledge and credentials to represent her clients well.
She is aware of what happens in situations such as custody etc…
Through the storm she will represent with expertise and insight needed to reduce clients stress and need for knowledge depending on case represented.
Approachable and reachable lawyer who will get back to you so you don’t feel ignored.Blessed to have her in my corner during these tough times of turbulence .
.
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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.
