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18 Aug, 2024 by Artsheba yule
The law firm, especially the attorney Nathan Rex did excellent work on my car accident case! In a very timely manner, always were in touch with me, discussed with me the progress of my case. So, in short, excellent experience. Thank you, Nathan Rex, and thank you Eme, case manager! ❤️
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16 Aug, 2024 by Alyssa housley
I want to give a big thank you to Greg & Jackson for everything they have done for me! This is my first time using an injury lawyer and they have made the process as easy as possible. They definitely have your best interest in mind. I am hoping to never need their services again, but I will definitely be back if I do!
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14 Aug, 2024 by Mike mcentire
Great service from Greg and Karman on the auto side.
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06 Aug, 2024 by Melissa moin-smith
Roe Simmons is a top notch attorney. He will go the extra mile for his clients. He has been a huge help to my family. He is honest and fair. He has never let us down. I am truly grateful for him.
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27 Sep, 2023 by Blair whitworth
At the beginning I did my research on Roe Simmons, before hiring him as my attorney and he seemed like he was very top notch. When I came to him as a client I was so nervous and scared I had no idea what I was up against. He was doing good job and got me to where I could see my daughter supervised up until I didn’t feel like he was treating me as client anymore, he didn’t really give me a chance to speak my side of things, he listened to everyone else over me, and he didn’t really keep me updated at all. Also made me feel like it was all my fault which it’s not true. I wouldn’t recommend him. He is rude, not communicative, and doesn’t give the chance to explain your side of things. I don’t feel like I was treated fairly and I wasn’t being heard as well.
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13 Sep, 2023 by Jeffrey raye burris
Was trying to get details on adult guardianship or power of attorney from this guy totally rude, not even on the phone for four minutes and skimming through what to do and how to get the documents done and it's like no Help at all
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06 Jun, 2024 by John hendrix
True professional with a solid reputation throughout the legal community. We had been through lengthy divorce proceedings, delay after delay, we dismissed the attorney we initially hired aka fired for no positive results, we had appeared in Court no less than 25-30 times. We made the change and retained Mr. McCraken. At our very first court appearance with Mr. McCraken, the case was resolved in total. If you are in a similar situation I would not hesitate.
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13 Feb, 2024 by Richard jenkins
02 Nov, 2023 by Alexis clark
Greg McCracken is top notch! My family is whole again, thanks to him! Every step of the way he was very thorough. If you are needing a bulldog lawyer that will fight for you and what is right, he's the guy. I can't thank him enough for the work he has done for me and my family.
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03 Apr, 2024 by Christina talbott
I HIGHLY recommend Reagan Barham for anyone seeking representation in their custody cases!
She is compassionate, VERY thorough, professional, knowledgeable, and pays great attention to detail. I will be recommending her to anyone who needs help with a family law case in the OKC Metro area! She also has special training for cases that deal with domestic violence, and she handles high conflict cases EXTREMELY well! 10/10!!!
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16 Aug, 2023 by Todd van ahn
Reagan is a fantastic person and an exemplary lawyer. I had struggled and gone through the wringer with regards to over paying child support for years and years. In that time I dealt with several less than stellar attorneys. It was not until I talked to Reagan that I finally had hope. She actually listens, understands family law, can cut through the emotion and do THE MATH!!!, and wants to make a positive difference…. I am grateful to her for her standing up for me, and her help in finally making my child support fair. Thank you again Reagan, I appreciate you.
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18 Nov, 2021 by Christopher morris
25 Sep, 2017 by Charles
Michelle has been my lawyer now for 2 years with an ongoing family issue and has been fantastic. She is one of the best locally and is honest and fair with her clients. I will use her again, when the time comes. If you need a family lawyer I would highly suggest Michelle. She will tell you straight up what is required and what your odds are.
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15 Sep, 2017 by Amber
You have found the perfect attorney! I was grateful to have Michelle in my life during my recent court cases. She went above and beyond, gave me her personal cell phone number, was ALWAYS available, quick to respond, compassionate- non judgemental. When you are looking for an attorney it can be the most stressful, emotional, and fearful time of your life. Michelle is wonderful at easing your worries and tension- communicating with the other party to lesson drama, and work towards winning your case with professionalism and honesty. Excellent choice my friends :)
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06 Sep, 2017 by Paul gossett
Ms. Roller contacted us by phone and spent well over an hour going over our situation. She was kind, compassionate and very interested in us as people. I would recommend her to anyone who is struggling with a legal problem
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25 Mar, 2024 by Jj prachyl
Danny is communicates very well and makes expectations clear. These are extremely important qualities when helping normal people navigate our justice system. Thank you!
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02 Jan, 2024 by Meggan eisenlohr
Roger Reneau and Courtney Koster were huge helps with my divorce. I knew from the beginning that it wouldn’t be an easy process but they made me feel confident the whole time. I was kept thoroughly informed during the waiting periods and I always received quick responses to any questions/concerns I had. I never doubted their work and I’m super thankful I was recommended to the Reneau Law Group.
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05 Dec, 2023 by James lawrence
I was their client about a decade ago. I was left destitute and homeless after a deployment when Reneau Law Group lost and my ex got the house I paid for. Roger Reneau handled the case. A decade later I've almost recovered financially but honestly I'm still angry about the way it all went. If it wasn't for friends taking me in I never would have recovered. Reneau Law Group isn't all sunshine and happy conclusions. Everything Roger Reneau told me was the opposite of how things went.
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28 Jan, 2024 by Momma1031 lindsey
Felony free
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03 Aug, 2023 by Andrew pfeifer
If you like someone who doesn't mind being wrong, go with McBride.
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31 Jan, 2023 by Michael drayton
Chase is a good family man, bringing integrity to his industry. He is also smart and makes clear, intelligent arguments. A great combo for representation when needed.
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07 Nov, 2023 by T taylor
Matt fought for my family during an emergency custody hearing like we were his own family. He made time for us, even as an incredibly busy attorney. His firm is small—just him and his wife—but he packs a big punch.
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07 Jul, 2022 by Glen wolfe
I'm grateful for Matt
He went above and beyond
Thanks again
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02 Apr, 2022 by Elizabeth firth
01 Feb, 2024 by Brann lewis
17 Nov, 2023 by Three legged beaner
29 Jun, 2023 by Raejent
I just called to get advice or consultation and this guys said don't take advice from court clerks and hung up. No information on how to handle the situation or how to find out what is going on. Terrible
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30 Sep, 2024 by Maria perez
I'm so glad I choose Carel as my lawyer , I'm not from Oklahoma, but He make all the processes so smooth and fast, he really care about his clients to fulfill there needs he has a great knowledge on what he is doing , I can see he is so dedicated to his job he not only make sure to fix your matter but hi is there mentality for you too ,
He definitely will fight for your rights, he will stand up next to you to fight for until solve matter.
Great price , great service,
Definitely 10/10 so satisfied
Thank you Mr.Doug for everything
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31 Jul, 2024 by Kay dill
He took $2000.00 from an elderly woman and didn’t finish the case. He ghosted us for 6 months before he even went to court, then never finished the case.
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30 Jul, 2024 by Rachel howard
30 Sep, 2024 by Maria perez
I'm so glad I choose Carel as my lawyer , I'm not from Oklahoma, but He make all the processes so smooth and fast, he really care about his clients to fulfill there needs he has a great knowledge on what he is doing , I can see he is so dedicated to his job he not only make sure to fix your matter but hi is there mentality for you too ,
He definitely will fight for your rights, he will stand up next to you to fight for until solve matter.
Great price , great service,
Definitely 10/10 so satisfied
Thank you Mr.Doug for everything
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31 Jul, 2024 by Kay dill
He took $2000.00 from an elderly woman and didn’t finish the case. He ghosted us for 6 months before he even went to court, then never finished the case.
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30 Jul, 2024 by Rachel howard
09 Sep, 2024 by Leah smith
Beau is shrewd, kind and tough! Has a heart of gold and listens to what you want her to. Thank you Beau for walking me through this difficult journey, I couldn’t have done it without you.
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24 Apr, 2024 by Marie smith
She's good at her work, is pleasant to work with, and I'm glad we found her.
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25 Dec, 2023 by Kathryn ray
04 Sep, 2024 by Rick casey
I resigned from Oklahoma Natural Gas earlier this year due to 8 years of blatant discrimination for being openingly gay. After filing a complaint with the EEOC and then given a right to sue they also gave me a list of referrals for potential lawyers. The Battle Law Firm was on the list so I contacted Mr. Battle through email. After filling out an intake form Mr. Battle said he was "Very interested" in my case but was currently busy and had some vacation time coming and to circle back to contact him in 3-4 weeks which I did. I explained I had reached out to another firm and one day before the consult after letting Mr. Battle know the previous firm had declined I received an email now stating he was to busy to even meet for 30 min to evaluate my case or not after waiting almost a month.
I would highly recommend that Mr. Battle remove himself from the EEOC ref list as it would be a complete waste of time dealing with him and waiting almost a month just hoping to be heard with no commitment. Complete lack of ethics in my view. Ultimately I think what I have realized is this state just does not want gays in the state at all whatsoever even in 2024. So the low cost of living isn't worth the mental stress of living here any longer. So Oklahoma can continue to be the bottom of the barrel in education and diversity I unfortunately am now going to be forced out of the state so I can truly be competitive in the workplace and survive financially. I was cordial understanding his time was important and even said so in my correspondence with him. Yet lead along by the nose for over a month just hoping to be heard not at all expecting a commitment. I give up this state will continue to discriminate therefore embolding these monopolies like OG&E and ONG to continue to keep the Gays out as long as possible. I would think The Battle group would just have the morals to right up front say no and not waste someone's valuable time. My time is also valuable just as his is. I would def pass on ever using this firm. Hopefully by the end of the year I can move and just forget Oklahoma altogether. This review is exactly what happened not anything more I have the emails to prove it.
RESPONSE TO REPLY FROM FIRM: Your comment about my 8 years im not understanding. I spent those 8 years thinking if I worked hard I would advance. Secondly I paid no other consult fee's and no one would even look at my evidence cause no one wants to take on these large monopolies. I still have about 30 days left in my right to sue so you could have just rescheduled. And as I stated in the original review I will leave because its not going to get better here. Your just upset I called you out for blatantly blowing me off period.
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24 Aug, 2024 by Mechele berry
23 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous socialworker
11 Sep, 2023 by Auggie lamb
30 Jan, 2023 by Brandon paxton
Super happy with this law firm. They have done many things for me and have never disappointed.
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10 Nov, 2020 by Mark nolan
They are the very,very best.
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30 Jan, 2024 by Katy fasching
Lateesha is wonderful. She is very to the point, and she was a great neutral party in a recent custody disagreement of mine. We highly appreciate her contribution to our case.
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18 Jan, 2024 by Get bak'd university
Very professional and more importantly honest. Highly recommend for council.
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30 Aug, 2023 by Patrice gates
Lateesha has been the most patient and honest attorney I've ever met. She plays by the book and will be honest with you, she will do the work on your behalf. I've had a difficult case but she's been by my side the entire time. Thank you
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28 Jun, 2022 by Andrea michele
He responded quickly to fb messenger from his fb page. Friendly, knowledgeable.
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08 Nov, 2021 by Dania pearson
24 Aug, 2013 by Jeff
Emilie is the best. She amazed me with how knowledgeable she is. She has more experience then all the lawyers I ever had put together! I had multiple cases and she got 2 dropped completely and one from a felony to a misdemeanor. There's no one else who coulda done all that. And all the time she kept me posted. I could even reach her at 10pm on a Saturday night. She works 24/7 and busts her butt for you. She's smart and damn good. Born to be a lawyer. Any negative reviews must be from someone who didn't pay her or something. She even helped my mom with a legal issue for free! I recommend her to anyone anytime.
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16 Aug, 2024 by Alem amro
What a joke for a attorney, for a battle of custody case, i paid for a retainer fee of 5,000.00.after i provided all the info and documents,they screwed me with 1,200.00. I believed it should be a fee for them doing some calls but it's ridiculous I'll never will do bissness with this attorney or even recommend it to anyone.also they'll charge you for every calls a customer makes. Also not recommended for a strong case battle.
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24 Apr, 2024 by Joseph
Lily have been helping me with a custody battle for a while know. I am glad to say she does fight in your behalf. I wish i retained her before it was in a bad deal. Thank you lily for standing up for me and beside me in time I needed.
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09 Apr, 2024 by Travarius moody
I can’t say thank you enough to Lily Cruickshank, Brianna Mehltretter, and Gracelyn Porrars. They were all respectful and understanding, they advised and help me through my whole process. I recommend this law firm to anyone that needs this type of legal service.
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16 Sep, 2024 by Molly tipton
Mazaheri Law Firm works like a well-oiled machine. From the staff to the legal assistants to they attorneys, their whole team works hard to represent their clients and they do it well. If you're looking for fierce advocates, Mazaheri is the place.
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07 Sep, 2024 by Tracy carrithers
I truly appreciate Abby Alford! The services she’s provided us and the craziness shes dealt with…anyone else would’ve dropped out but she’s a stuck by us and we’re so grateful!
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05 Sep, 2024 by R holmes
I hired Mazaheri after dealing with an incompetent lawyer for 2yrs. Within 3 months of hiring them, my divorce case was signed and done! Wish I would have hired MIss Abby from there 2yrs ago! Will always recommend and use them from now on.
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03 May, 2024 by Valarie
Richard Anderson has always answered my calls and helped me. The best attorney I have ever worked with he genuinely cares about each case he works. Very professional and on top of everything he does.
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27 Jan, 2024 by V
Richard is TOP NOTCH. Extremely professional, efficient, and Effective at successfully helping you remedy whatever situation you are facing! 300% WOULD RECOMMEND!
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13 Dec, 2023 by Tom derrick
The attorney in the game!
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03 May, 2024 by Valarie
Richard Anderson has always answered my calls and helped me. The best attorney I have ever worked with he genuinely cares about each case he works. Very professional and on top of everything he does.
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27 Jan, 2024 by V
Richard is TOP NOTCH. Extremely professional, efficient, and Effective at successfully helping you remedy whatever situation you are facing! 300% WOULD RECOMMEND!
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13 Dec, 2023 by Tom derrick
The attorney in the game!
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30 Sep, 2024 by Anna mf'n banana
28 Sep, 2024 by Timothy morgan
Would not recommend him for a lawyer anybody took him over 2 years to get me legally divorced happened to remind him where we were on the case wasn't following up on everything I wasn't getting call back from his legal Assistant went up for an appointment that I was scheduled for to sign some paperwork his assistant was supposed to be there was not I was early would not refund my time or money for fuel use anybody else looking for him as a lawyer look elsewhere I finally got legally divorced but it took a long time if there was a way to put -1 I would or even zero
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22 Feb, 2024 by Sierra simpson
It’s very difficult to get Chris to communicate with you. He is very busy. He is in very close with the judges in Oklahoma County and given too many cases. If your lawyer knows him personally then you will be fine. His hourly rate is $250 per hour.
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01 May, 2024 by J m
$350 just for a consultation. Was rude and abrupt on the phone when I was talking to her. She was asking me questions I did not know and then when I didn't answer how she liked got even ruder.
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13 Feb, 2024 by Katrina lewis
Lindsey and her team are absolutely amazing! I had Lindsey represent me in 2018-2019 during my divorce. She communicated with me every step of the way and made sure to go over any questions I had. Her portal made it so easy to go over any documents (or upload if needed) and message her whenever I needed to. Recently I had issues getting my divorce decree because the ex decided he was going to claim all of the children (he's not supposed to) and Lindsey got them to me right away. I was able to just message her thru the portal and she responded to me right away, even though I hadn't spoken to her in years! Hopefully I won't ever need a divorce/family lawyer again. If I do, I am definitely sticking with Lindsay Andrews!
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09 Feb, 2024 by Angela shelby
Over a year of getting the run around came upon Lindsey's name on Google made one phone call and it was the best decision we ever made. We ask for advise on what to do and the advice she gave us was exactly what ended this year of getting the run around from others. We are forever grateful that you helped us without wanting anything in return you are a God send and we highly recommend you. YOU ARE THE BEST THANK YOU SOOOOO MUCH.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Donna miles
07 Aug, 2024 by Emily hale
If I could put no stars, I sure would! I want to find a more professional word, but the only one I can think of is GHETTO. I can’t believe they let such unprofessional trash walk into ANY United States courtroom. The way she speaks and carries herself is an absolute shame & disgrace to this country. Anyone looking for a lawyer in Oklahoma: Christi Chesley is not your gal!
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04 Jan, 2024 by Whitney self
Horrible, unprofessional and lacks common sense. Do not use her as a GAL or attorney. She is racist and very biased!
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13 Dec, 2021 by Veena
Says this place is Closed. And he is not working any more.
Worst attorney and bad rip of money and time. He took my case with out reviewing talked to me only first time and no response since then.
He took side of opponent counsel.
He never gave any of my records back to me or my counsel.
And he lost. Now I have to pay for opposite attorney fees too.
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25 Sep, 2020 by Kassi
Jeramy is always quick to respond and his staff is very nice and professional. They are all great and have helped me so much.
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25 Mar, 2020 by Tia
My lawyer was able to keep me calm and advise me as much as possible on what to do in situations I was not sure of. He’s honest and blunt and I really enjoyed that and hearing the truth.
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06 Sep, 2024 by Darren brown
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Exceptional Divorce Attorney – Hayley Potts is Simply the Best!
Going through a divorce can be one of the most challenging experiences in life, but having Hayley Potts by my side made the entire process far more manageable. From the very beginning, Hayley demonstrated an incredible level of professionalism, knowledge, and dedication that put me at ease. It was immediately clear that she genuinely cared about my case and was committed to achieving the best possible outcome for me.
What really stood out to me was Hayley’s deep understanding of family law. She is not only highly knowledgeable but also incredibly strategic. Every step of the way, she provided me with a clear roadmap, explaining the legal intricacies in a way that was easy to understand. This was crucial in helping me make informed decisions during what could have been an overwhelming time.
Her communication skills are also top-notch. Hayley was always available to answer my questions and concerns, often responding quickly, even outside of normal business hours. I never felt like just another case on her desk – she made me feel like a priority, and that personal touch made all the difference. Her attention to detail and thorough preparation for every court appearance and negotiation left me confident that I was in the best possible hands.
Hayley’s compassionate approach also made a significant impact. Divorce is an emotional rollercoaster, but Hayley was not just my attorney – she became a trusted advisor who provided emotional support when I needed it most. Her ability to combine empathy with a no-nonsense, results-driven approach is truly impressive. She fought fiercely for my rights and never wavered in her commitment to ensuring the best outcome for me and my family.
If you are looking for a divorce attorney who is smart, tough, compassionate, and an absolute expert in her field, Hayley Potts is the one. She navigated my case with precision and care, achieving an outcome that exceeded my expectations. I cannot recommend her enough – she truly deserves 10 stars and more!
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11 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
Awful attitude, I was not able to reach her. Her assistant was the rudest. They treated me like they were doing pro bono.
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04 Feb, 2017 by Alex
Hayley is indeed a great person to have in your corner during trying times. I have had a horrible situation become much better with her help. She is willing to listen to you and fight for you. I highly recommend giving her a call.
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01 Jul, 2024 by Colton lyles
Lady that answers the phone needs a different job or an attitude adjustment immeditantly. So rude!
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04 Apr, 2024 by Jacen bacon
Rude and unprofessional once they find out you're a tenant and not a landlord.
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14 Feb, 2023 by Victoria cardenas
Sara was amazing! Listened to my concerns and did what was right by me and my daughter. I will forever be grateful. I recommend you use her shes great!
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01 Jul, 2024 by Colton lyles
Lady that answers the phone needs a different job or an attitude adjustment immeditantly. So rude!
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04 Apr, 2024 by Jacen bacon
Rude and unprofessional once they find out you're a tenant and not a landlord.
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14 Feb, 2023 by Victoria cardenas
Sara was amazing! Listened to my concerns and did what was right by me and my daughter. I will forever be grateful. I recommend you use her shes great!
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08 Oct, 2024 by Courtney davenport
There is no finer family law attorney than Kevin Taylor. He fights for me EVERY TIME. He fights for me when I want to give up. Rarely does he ever not answer my calls, and his team are so responsive. If you have lost hope, call Kevin. He's smart and funny as hell, more than that he will NEVER blow smoke. He's as real as they come. You're not done yet, call this man. Let him fight for you.
We love you Kevin, see you soon!
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09 Sep, 2024 by Lori drummer
Kevin is good at his job! He is definitely someone you want on your side. Has great family law knowledge. I highly recommend him.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Heidi barlow
Wish I could say something good about this attorney or the experience I had with him, but unfortunately I can't. I won't go into everything on here, but this attorney will promise you the moon and stars and not deliver. He will lie to your face, has no accountability, a very grandiose opinion of himself. My ex was in contempt for almost 2 yrs and thank goodness for his attorney that made my ex do what he was supposed to do out of the divorce decree and made things right. Pretty sad when the other person's attorney indirectly did the right thing for me and mine did nothing of what he promised to do. I'm so thankful my friend and I recorded everything, kept texts and emails. So, we had proof for the Bar Association to investigate this attorney.
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08 Oct, 2024 by Courtney davenport
There is no finer family law attorney than Kevin Taylor. He fights for me EVERY TIME. He fights for me when I want to give up. Rarely does he ever not answer my calls, and his team are so responsive. If you have lost hope, call Kevin. He's smart and funny as hell, more than that he will NEVER blow smoke. He's as real as they come. You're not done yet, call this man. Let him fight for you.
We love you Kevin, see you soon!
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09 Sep, 2024 by Lori drummer
Kevin is good at his job! He is definitely someone you want on your side. Has great family law knowledge. I highly recommend him.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Heidi barlow
Wish I could say something good about this attorney or the experience I had with him, but unfortunately I can't. I won't go into everything on here, but this attorney will promise you the moon and stars and not deliver. He will lie to your face, has no accountability, a very grandiose opinion of himself. My ex was in contempt for almost 2 yrs and thank goodness for his attorney that made my ex do what he was supposed to do out of the divorce decree and made things right. Pretty sad when the other person's attorney indirectly did the right thing for me and mine did nothing of what he promised to do. I'm so thankful my friend and I recorded everything, kept texts and emails. So, we had proof for the Bar Association to investigate this attorney.
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08 Oct, 2024 by Courtney davenport
There is no finer family law attorney than Kevin Taylor. He fights for me EVERY TIME. He fights for me when I want to give up. Rarely does he ever not answer my calls, and his team are so responsive. If you have lost hope, call Kevin. He's smart and funny as hell, more than that he will NEVER blow smoke. He's as real as they come. You're not done yet, call this man. Let him fight for you.
We love you Kevin, see you soon!
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09 Sep, 2024 by Lori drummer
Kevin is good at his job! He is definitely someone you want on your side. Has great family law knowledge. I highly recommend him.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Heidi barlow
Wish I could say something good about this attorney or the experience I had with him, but unfortunately I can't. I won't go into everything on here, but this attorney will promise you the moon and stars and not deliver. He will lie to your face, has no accountability, a very grandiose opinion of himself. My ex was in contempt for almost 2 yrs and thank goodness for his attorney that made my ex do what he was supposed to do out of the divorce decree and made things right. Pretty sad when the other person's attorney indirectly did the right thing for me and mine did nothing of what he promised to do. I'm so thankful my friend and I recorded everything, kept texts and emails. So, we had proof for the Bar Association to investigate this 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:
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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.
