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27 Jan, 2025 by Lawrence
She was able to get my criminal case dismissed entirely! After reviewing evidence, two options were thoroughly explained to me and we chose to go for complete dismissal. Having it dismissed was a huge weight lifted from my whole family. She is extremely intelligent and I strongly recommend her!
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07 Aug, 2024 by Tanya
I hired Chelsea after my first law firm abruptly closed their family law part of the practice. Chelsea was on top of everything from start to finish. She communicated with me every step of the way. She was able to do in a short time what took my other firm months (and they didn't get it done). When my final court date came, I got everything we were asking for!! I can't recommend her enough, she truly is a Rockstar attorney and I would refer her to anyone I know without question or pause. If I could give her over 5 stars, I would. PWR is very lucky to have her!!
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16 Feb, 2023 by Anonymous
My wife hired Chelsea for a relocation that eventually went to trial. She was completely unprepared for trial, showed up for trial with a small folder and a dead iPad. Didn't fight for our case, didn't do the homework. Would not hire her even as a last resort.
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22 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
I repeatedly asked for receipts for their time and did not receive it. The court told me to take it up with the Bar. Seriously, thurston county family court told me to complain to the bar about this establishment. I was directed by the judge. I only got 1/2 a day to review paperwork yet they defended giving opposing council 42 days. Who does that? They said it was standard for morris -sockle to only give 1/2 a day for review. Steer Clear! Even thurston county court said morris-sickleis wasting the courts time.
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18 Feb, 2011 by Doug
After surgery at a local hospital, my mother was left with the loss of feeling and mobility in her legs. Our family met with Mr Morris for a consultation and he put many of our fears to rest. He educated us as to the process and after a reasonable period of time got us a settlement that was fair and moreover one that compensated my mother and family for the damages that had been done. I am forever thankful to Mr. Morris and would recommend him to anyone who has the same type of problem with hospital of health care provider.
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17 Feb, 2011 by Russ
I hired Frank to work on a medial malpractice case for my mother. He was truly helpful and kind during the whole process. He really knew what he was doing and worked to the fullest to fight for my family. Frank is a very nice guy and a great lawyer.
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02 Oct, 2024 by Angela carlson
Great experience with Jeanne. Highly recommend to anyone needing her services.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Daniel wermuth
I cannot express enough gratitude to Ben and Jeanne at Morris-Sockle Law Firm for their outstanding support and expertise during my settlement. From the very beginning, they were incredibly compassionate and attentive, taking the time to understand my situation and needs fully. Their legal acumen and empathetic approach made me feel supported every step of the way. They were always available to answer my questions, providing clear and honest guidance that made a challenging process much more manageable.
Their professionalism, dedication, and commitment to achieving the best outcome for me were evident throughout the entire process. Thanks to their hard work, I received a fair and favorable settlement. I highly recommend Ben and Jeanne and the entire team at Morris-Sockle Law Firm to anyone in need of exceptional legal representation. They truly go above and beyond for their clients!
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10 Apr, 2024 by Cindy mckinney
09 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Mr. Lucenko helped my family through a rough and emotional case. He was always kind and understanding when out stress and anxiety peaked. When in front of the judge he was nothing less than impressive. He balanced law, common sense, and emotional arguments incredibly well. He talks fast so all parts of his client's claims, stances, and evidence can be heard in a short 10 minute speech. I would recommend Mr. Lucenko to anyone, but especially those who want a genuine lawyer who will see them as a person rather than a case.
Aside from his skills as a lawyer, Lenny is a good guy and fun to banter with before and after court.
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20 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
not having an attorney during a divorce should not be met with bullying and threats from his loud clueless attorney. My Ex just paid him to take his place, hide his fraud, hide the truth, he allowed his client to commit perjury multiple times and keep me without a penny. He allowed his client to play retaliation despite his attorney knowing it was all lies and would continue to defame and disrespect me. He had multiple conflicts of interest and should not have accepted my ex husband as a client, money talks ethics and morals walk.
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05 Jun, 2023 by Kathi
Representing me in my divorce, it became obvious Mr. Lucenko accepted my former husband's false allegations as truth. My spouse had not worked 24 of our 29 year marriage and strove to fulfill years of threats that I would walk away in a divorce “without a dime". It was a scorch earth strategy full of personal attacks and untruths.
Mr. Lucenko refused to forward my questions onto my former spouse's attorney until too late and pressured me to enter into mediation ill prepared and without my questions being addressed. Mr. Lucenko’s paralegal told me my diamond earrings, a gift, were only half mine. I felt defenseless.
An emotional time to be sure, only worsening with Mr. Lucenko at the helm after which I detailed my experience in a complaint to the Bar.
I encourage every woman seeking representation in a complicated divorce to go elsewhere.
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03 Dec, 2024 by Tammy vega-allen
12 Jul, 2024 by Triston bartlett
10k down the drain. Won’t say who but I’ll say they forgot key evidence to my case that I was bringing my ex wife to court for and it bounced back at me and now I’m dealing with the repercussions of it. Also, when asked for reimbursement, they informed me they thought it was going to go that way, so it didn’t matter anyway. But the whole reason I took my ex-wife to court was because of this evidence that was never submitted.
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15 Aug, 2023 by Roe roe loves doges
18 Oct, 2024 by Michelle scott
I called to ask a question. I did not get to finish the short background info and ask my question when she jumped in and started saying things I already knew. When I said, "Yes, that's what they said", she said, "I know, I'm an attorney." She didn't need to answer in that rude way. I let her speak. I then asked a question, "Do I serve him in the facility he's in" and she got very rude...somehow she thought my question was rude. Why she was on the defensive and rude for innocent questions or statements, I have no idea.
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13 Aug, 2023 by Jimormichelle anderson
I was recently watching YouTube regarding lawyers in California who are drumming up business in ADA lawsuits to extract money from businesses in that State.
It's nice to know that Washington has this kind of attorney who can extract money from businesses that try to help guardianship clients, and get a lot of money to do so.
Money first!
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09 Jun, 2023 by Ernesto silva
I had called looking for counseling on some family matters and wanted to inquire of her rate and availability but from the get-go experienced a rude demeanor.
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18 Oct, 2024 by Michelle scott
I called to ask a question. I did not get to finish the short background info and ask my question when she jumped in and started saying things I already knew. When I said, "Yes, that's what they said", she said, "I know, I'm an attorney." She didn't need to answer in that rude way. I let her speak. I then asked a question, "Do I serve him in the facility he's in" and she got very rude...somehow she thought my question was rude. Why she was on the defensive and rude for innocent questions or statements, I have no idea.
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13 Aug, 2023 by Jimormichelle anderson
I was recently watching YouTube regarding lawyers in California who are drumming up business in ADA lawsuits to extract money from businesses in that State.
It's nice to know that Washington has this kind of attorney who can extract money from businesses that try to help guardianship clients, and get a lot of money to do so.
Money first!
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09 Jun, 2023 by Ernesto silva
I had called looking for counseling on some family matters and wanted to inquire of her rate and availability but from the get-go experienced a rude demeanor.
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15 Feb, 2025 by Damia bjurling
Right now, they are helping A person that is filing things that Have absolutely nothing to do with me. They keep turning against me and helping people harass me. They did this in Lewis in Thurston now. I don’t know what I did to have this harassment from Northwest Justice Project. I’ve only told nothing but the truth. A judge, a newly elected judge had deemed that there was no substantial change in the person in Lewis County And the fact that Northwest Justice Project decided to help this person who has violated a restraining order and continues to go on and help people harass and target me. I don’t know what to do about this office, but the attorneys and the people that work here are just going after me for no reason and helping people that do not have cases against me and do not Fall under unlawful, harassment, or stalking. I really do not know what to do about this, but I just asked very kindly for them to reach out to me and give me an explanation of why they are helping somebody that I have a video of harassing me. I am just trying to figure out why in the world all the sudden I am an enemy of these attorneys when I’ve done absolutely nothing to them. If you guys want, you guys can reach back out to me, but I am just letting you guys know that I do not know why in the world you guys are helping people harass me and allowing them to file against me with your guys’s help when it’s not even true
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29 May, 2024 by Bryan bynog
12 May, 2024 by Michael broadnax
I hate to work with the nw project again. They failed me the first time i was proven the vulnerability sheet sidewalk was using is corrupt. The totally overlook that my doctor was given sidewalk updates to the investigation that I had going on. That info came in requested documents and the investigator denied seeing a connection. My doctor talking to sidewalk is no medical connection. But my doctor violated the hypocrites act they sworn too. Still even after I met with my doctor supervisor which whom said he did this independently no permission was given to do this. Now they still denied that fact and I was homeless for four years after that. Now I'm facing a eviction that complicated to do by myself, court In my experience are not ruling in my favor never. My rights are denied me from the gov offices that are to enforce them meaning in a act of self defense I can physically stop any or everyone from entering my dwelling with my life. Since they wish to see me rot on the street. Someone will add to the value of loss. Since no justices will be on my side in anything I do. So don't file with them they are just there for themselves looking pretty.
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15 Feb, 2025 by Damia bjurling
Right now, they are helping A person that is filing things that Have absolutely nothing to do with me. They keep turning against me and helping people harass me. They did this in Lewis in Thurston now. I don’t know what I did to have this harassment from Northwest Justice Project. I’ve only told nothing but the truth. A judge, a newly elected judge had deemed that there was no substantial change in the person in Lewis County And the fact that Northwest Justice Project decided to help this person who has violated a restraining order and continues to go on and help people harass and target me. I don’t know what to do about this office, but the attorneys and the people that work here are just going after me for no reason and helping people that do not have cases against me and do not Fall under unlawful, harassment, or stalking. I really do not know what to do about this, but I just asked very kindly for them to reach out to me and give me an explanation of why they are helping somebody that I have a video of harassing me. I am just trying to figure out why in the world all the sudden I am an enemy of these attorneys when I’ve done absolutely nothing to them. If you guys want, you guys can reach back out to me, but I am just letting you guys know that I do not know why in the world you guys are helping people harass me and allowing them to file against me with your guys’s help when it’s not even true
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29 May, 2024 by Bryan bynog
12 May, 2024 by Michael broadnax
I hate to work with the nw project again. They failed me the first time i was proven the vulnerability sheet sidewalk was using is corrupt. The totally overlook that my doctor was given sidewalk updates to the investigation that I had going on. That info came in requested documents and the investigator denied seeing a connection. My doctor talking to sidewalk is no medical connection. But my doctor violated the hypocrites act they sworn too. Still even after I met with my doctor supervisor which whom said he did this independently no permission was given to do this. Now they still denied that fact and I was homeless for four years after that. Now I'm facing a eviction that complicated to do by myself, court In my experience are not ruling in my favor never. My rights are denied me from the gov offices that are to enforce them meaning in a act of self defense I can physically stop any or everyone from entering my dwelling with my life. Since they wish to see me rot on the street. Someone will add to the value of loss. Since no justices will be on my side in anything I do. So don't file with them they are just there for themselves looking pretty.
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15 Feb, 2025 by Damia bjurling
Right now, they are helping A person that is filing things that Have absolutely nothing to do with me. They keep turning against me and helping people harass me. They did this in Lewis in Thurston now. I don’t know what I did to have this harassment from Northwest Justice Project. I’ve only told nothing but the truth. A judge, a newly elected judge had deemed that there was no substantial change in the person in Lewis County And the fact that Northwest Justice Project decided to help this person who has violated a restraining order and continues to go on and help people harass and target me. I don’t know what to do about this office, but the attorneys and the people that work here are just going after me for no reason and helping people that do not have cases against me and do not Fall under unlawful, harassment, or stalking. I really do not know what to do about this, but I just asked very kindly for them to reach out to me and give me an explanation of why they are helping somebody that I have a video of harassing me. I am just trying to figure out why in the world all the sudden I am an enemy of these attorneys when I’ve done absolutely nothing to them. If you guys want, you guys can reach back out to me, but I am just letting you guys know that I do not know why in the world you guys are helping people harass me and allowing them to file against me with your guys’s help when it’s not even true
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29 May, 2024 by Bryan bynog
12 May, 2024 by Michael broadnax
I hate to work with the nw project again. They failed me the first time i was proven the vulnerability sheet sidewalk was using is corrupt. The totally overlook that my doctor was given sidewalk updates to the investigation that I had going on. That info came in requested documents and the investigator denied seeing a connection. My doctor talking to sidewalk is no medical connection. But my doctor violated the hypocrites act they sworn too. Still even after I met with my doctor supervisor which whom said he did this independently no permission was given to do this. Now they still denied that fact and I was homeless for four years after that. Now I'm facing a eviction that complicated to do by myself, court In my experience are not ruling in my favor never. My rights are denied me from the gov offices that are to enforce them meaning in a act of self defense I can physically stop any or everyone from entering my dwelling with my life. Since they wish to see me rot on the street. Someone will add to the value of loss. Since no justices will be on my side in anything I do. So don't file with them they are just there for themselves looking pretty.
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29 May, 2024 by Caitlin
I spent over $6000 for a temporary parenting plan that she never finalized and now I basically have to start from scratch. She didn’t fight for my or my child’s needs and instead prioritized cooperating with what the other attorney was asking for because she worked with him in the past. On top of that I never even met her face to face. She charges for every single interaction. She also used a card they had on file I previously used for payment to charge a large lump sum of the balance although we had agreed on a payment plan prior and she did not tell me she was going to do this. Luckily I had the funds, but if this is a common practice at her firm I could see that putting a lot of people in a bad position. I withdrew her as counsel and now basically haven’t got anything I wanted from our parenting plan which has since expired.
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05 Jan, 2022 by Jamie
I've worked alongside attorneys for over 10 years. It's HARD to find a good attorney. I heard Megan representing a client in court one day and knew right away she was a GREAT attorney. She understands the legal system and pleads her cases exceptionally well. Megan is very easy to communicate with, she works fast, keeps her billing hours low and is incredibly smart. She knows her clients cases to a T and gave me strength to fight for what's right when hope was lost. Every time she's in court, I am proud to call her my attorney. She continually impresses me and exceeds my expectations. I'm forever grateful to her and her amazing team. You will not be disappointed. She truly is the best of the best!
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08 Oct, 2021 by Anonymous
She took my case. All she cares is about charging. That probably pays for her expensive outfit. She did not fight for me at all both in and outside of the court. We lost at almost every court hearing. Don't waste your money on her!!!
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27 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
I wrote the review on October of 2020. I just received a bill for over $1700 after I paid off my bill almost 2 years ago! These people are obtuse. Stay away, stay far away. They advertise as Divorce Lawyers for Men, yet they automatically gave the $1200 residential credit to my ex while she makes over $12k/month and it is 50/50. I said in the previous review to stay away and she is trying to charge me $1700 after 2 years and no billing information on time charged. She is obtuse.
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22 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
Morris -sockle would not give me receipts of their work done. After repeatedly asking for it they did not give it to me. I was not able to show it for court and thus the court did not consider having the other party pay for my attorney. They also filed paperwork with the court and directed me to file within 3 days. It said so in the file with court. I sent it in 4 days within court and they did not accept. The court directed me to take it up with the Bar. Steer clear! They also tried to settle out of court. I said no and I got 4 times the amount they told me I should take.
Big mistake and they are known to only give you half a day to review your paperwork. They defended giving opposing counsel 42 days. Stay away! She is with the devil. Should not be associated with lawyers for men. That is a con. They will take retainer and ask for more...
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03 Apr, 2017 by Dan
Compassionate, thorough and professional
Though she wasn't able to take my case, she did try, and was honest and said my case was out of the scope of her expertise.
Unlike so many Attorneys who want to get paid for a consult up front before they tell you that your issues are outside their field.
But they charge you 200-400 and claim its research. augh!
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29 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
Rob advocates for abusers and charges outrageous amounts for filing pretty paperwork courtesy of his staff. He has no idea what is really going on. He manipulates situations to support abusers and potentially puts children in harms way. Money grabber to support his lifestyle.
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27 Sep, 2020 by Anonymous
This attorney is not for women and is vindictive in his approach. You think he is for you when he is about getting more men custody of children rather than doing what is right
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27 Sep, 2020 by Anonymous
This lawyer tells stories just like he said. He takes things and twists words to provide a story that the judge likes. He has helped multiple abusers further abuse and does not understand how the abuse cycle works or he would see through it. He takes on clients that have track records of abuse, addiction, and poor behavior and helps them get custody of children. I will never hire him again
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01 Mar, 2023 by Anthony
We secured Gary's service to protect our rights and our family from CPS, an agency who I found shows no respect for the law or our rights as citizens.
Normally you would think you wouldn't have to get a lawyer if you were not in the wrong. Unfortunately that is not the case and this agency threatened us and tried to manipulate us several times throughout their "investigation".
We were told they wanted access to our home to search for weapons and that we would need to answer all of their questions or risked having our four children taken from the home. This all was over my 15 year old son getting in a fight with another kid from school resulting in a black eye.
Long story short Gary shut them down with his knowledge of the law and experience dealing with their corrupt tactics. I truly feel sorry for the low income families that this CPS agency clearly takes advantage of.
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14 Nov, 2022 by Anonymous
Mr. Preble listened to my case and seemed to know instinctively that the allegations against me were ridiculous and unfounded. There can be nothing worse than a CPS allegation. Mr. Preble seemed to intuitively understand the failures of such a system (CPS) and demonstrated consistent and an unwavering support of our rights as parents and as a nuclear family.
Mr. Preble was accessible and explained each step of the process in terms that we could understand, avoiding too much legalese. He was respectful of cost. He demonstrated professionalism. He infused humor to ease the anxiety. He provided reassurance to help us navigate one of the most torturous experiences we have ever had to endure.
Mr. Preble's staff were knowledgeable. They always provided answers to our questions and always made us feel welcome.
We prevailed against CPS. We are so grateful to Mr. Preble for taking our case and seeing us through the process with grace, faith and dignity.
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26 Jul, 2022 by Brian
Mr. preble, is the lawyer I hired to defend my case against the state in a CPS allegation and subsequent appeal,he was kind courteous and understanding with all of the various details and strings of evidence related to the matter. He was willing to work with my unusual work schedule being in the military. He was clear concise and upfront in all of our dealings. I would with out hesitation recommend him for any legal matter that you may be facing. Without his work I would be struggling too have time with my children. He has been a great asset to me and my family and is willing to work and fight for my rights as a father he has my strongest possible recommendation.
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01 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
We hired him and put down a retainer of $3000. We told him it was all we had. He not only dropped us before the case was finished, he then sent us a bill for $2,000. We lost because of him and we have never lost before. We were going up against my fiancé ex wife, she had 2 child protection order placed against her, he didn't even motion to get them! He never added my declaration at all which I did all myself anyways! He did no work at all! My fiancé has never missed a child support payment, he is a good father. Now his child support payments have been raised as high as they can get and we're not sure when we will get to see the kids again. We no longer can afford to have a lawyer so we gave up til we can afford to go after her again! We will never go through him again and we warn everyone else before you hire this heartless con man person. He will loose and take all your money.
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04 Oct, 2015 by James
Mr. Quinn is the most honest, persistent and patient man I know. He went above and beyond to protect my daughter and make sure that all court actions were in her best interest. He skillfully handled revision of parenting plan and many other actions that came with this as it was a high conflict case. He tried to negotiate and settle when necessary. He is fair, honest, reasonable and dedicated to his clients. I highly recommend him. He acted ethically and was always well prepared. He will always look out for your best interest and your children's too! He is well respected at the courthouse and by other attorney's.
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16 Mar, 2009 by Anonymous
Patrick Quinn put his own fees above the cleints needs
He fumbles through oral testomony. He fails to keep his cleints informed and files motions that have not been approved by the cleint.
The final straw was when he failed to notice an serious error in the orders from court. This cleint tried to tell him that he failed him and he quit.
Some $4000 waste of money on this lawyer with no gain and in fact he put me in a worse place that when I started.
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22 Oct, 2024 by Jason
Had a ex attempt to file a restraining order against me in Thurston County. “Commisioner Pro Tem” Brandt fell hook, line and sinker for her obviously scripted wording, and approved the order. After consulting two lawyers who said “no way” with one saying “Brandt always sides with women in these” the RO was later overturned by the judge as not even close to meeting the threshold of an RO, and the case was closed. But not before this went on my record. Thanks, Shelley, for allowing yourself to NOT be impartial.
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14 Nov, 2022 by Anonymous
When I explained I was divorcing an abusive narcissist who had a lot of money to burn and loved playing games with the family court, dragging everything out to deplete my resources she used it as an opportunity for her instead of a chance to protect her vulnerable client. She did not follow through to settle anything after my ex withheld spousal support, put all the debt in my name cashed out my retirement and lied on financial disclosures. Her advice and actions made me feel like she was protecting the ex and dragging it on instead! It was crazy! She did not get aggressive or push for a settlement on so many opportunities when they were available to end the nightmare for me. In the end I walked away with nothing but debt I mean nothing! but a broke down car that had to go to the crusher months later, 70k in attorney fees (45k were hers ) and 50k in community debt. The worst is my kids- Mid way through I had to move out of state for my physical safety and without my kids (because of the parenting plan) to become gainfully employed during Covid pandemic to try to make a life for them and to be able to keep paying her. When i couldn’t pay her and survive -even though our agreement was she’d be paid upon settlement which she wasn’t getting anywhere close to after 1 year- -she dumped me and put a lien on my home- so i lost that too. In the end I had no one to fight for custody after being the only parent at home for 16 years! supporting an ex who now earns 4x as much as me. Now I see only them 5 times a year. I pay all the support to him and get support to cover my kids airplane fare. ( otherwise id never see them)
I went on to represent myself for another full year I hired someone to end it and they did in one month. But there was nothing left for me at that point and I couldn’t afford a trial to move my kids back to me.
I often wonder if I had never met her where would i be ?
In my house with my kids and even less than reasonable support until i could get them graduated after a 20 year marriage?.
I still haven’t met another divorced mom whose outcome was this bad.
BTW l later learned her firm was in serious financial trouble because of payroll theft by a by a former employee/ relative during my divorce proceedings so I cant help but believe the other reviews that peoples bills were run up with no results are factual we were all being used to recoup that loss
Nothing will ever be nice about divorce most people so t love their divorce attorney that’s understandable but this one had catastrophic. results. Do your research well or it can really go this poorly for you!
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23 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous
Ever talk to someone who didn't care to listen to what you had to say. Welcome to a consultation with Shelley. She acted completely distant in our conversation, only spoke when prompted to, and provided very little feedback in the end. It was apparent from the beginning she was only there to collect her consultation check and had no attention in providing professional assistance.
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23 Nov, 2018 by Jessica corbaley
I was billed for a 10 minute conversation I was not aware I would be billed for and which I did not initiate. I was not under any type of contract or retainer with this firm. When disputing the invoice I received an email directly from Mr. Lynch which essentially said “prove it”. I paid the $97.50 because for me it wasn’t worth the argument. It is however important for me to make others aware that they need to be clear about charges when speaking with this firm (especially if not under retainer). I would also be concerned about the qualifications and values of this firm.
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19 May, 2018 by Dena
Mr. Lynch has represented our loved ones guardianship for year and has really gone above and beyond helping us through the guardianship. We are very happy with all he and his staff do for us. Thank you Mr. Lynch for all you do.
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05 Sep, 2014 by Anonymous
I hired him to represent me. He talks a good game but when the time came for him to help me and advise me he rolled over for the other side. Very disappointing. Not aggressive enough to get the job done.
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13 Nov, 2024 by Anonymous
Redford hall has a chip on her shoulder against men. She is ruthless and has zero consideration for any children or their future with their parents. She makes agreements and then manupilates them in court into something that was not agreed. She was the opposing attorney in my case. I approached two attorneys who refused to take the case just because she was the opposing attorney and that she plays dirty with no regard for children. They wanted no part of having to deal with her and the way she operates. If you value your children's mental health, stay far away.
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What a Family Law Lawyer Can Do for You
A family law lawyer provides legal services related to family relationships, including marriage, divorce, child custody, and adoption. Family lawyers help clients navigate emotionally charged legal issues, providing guidance and representation in disputes that affect spouses, children, and parents. Whether you're going through a divorce, seeking custody of your children, or drafting a prenuptial agreement, a family law lawyer ensures your rights are protected and your interests are represented.
Family law attorneys often handle sensitive matters and offer objective legal advice, helping clients reach fair outcomes either through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.
When Should I Hire a Family Law Lawyer?
Hiring a family law lawyer is beneficial in several situations, especially when legal matters involve close personal relationships. Common reasons to hire a family law lawyer include:
- Divorce or separation: When ending a marriage, a lawyer can help you navigate issues such as division of assets, spousal support, and child custody arrangements.
- Child custody and visitation disputes: If you and your co-parent can't agree on custody or visitation, a lawyer can represent your interests and work toward a solution that benefits your children.
- Child support: Whether you’re seeking child support or defending against a claim, a lawyer can help ensure the appropriate amount is calculated and enforced.
- Prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: A lawyer can help draft or review agreements that protect your assets in case of divorce.
- Adoption: Family law lawyers guide you through the legal process of adoption, ensuring that all requirements are met.
- Domestic violence or restraining orders: If you're a victim of domestic violence or being falsely accused, a lawyer can help you obtain or challenge protective orders.
- Paternity cases: If there are questions about the paternity of a child, a lawyer can help establish or dispute legal fatherhood.
Hiring a lawyer early can prevent issues from escalating, and they can offer you the best chance of achieving a favorable outcome in emotionally charged situations.
What Does a Family Law Lawyer Do?
A family law lawyer provides a wide range of services depending on your specific legal needs. Their responsibilities may include:
- Advising on legal rights and options: Helping you understand your legal rights regarding divorce, child custody, support, and other family law issues.
- Filing legal documents: Drafting and filing petitions, motions, and agreements with the court, such as divorce papers, custody agreements, or support orders.
- Representing clients in court: Arguing your case in front of a judge if a settlement can’t be reached through negotiation or mediation.
- Mediation and negotiation: Assisting with alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, to reach agreements on issues like custody, property division, and support without going to trial.
- Enforcing court orders: Helping you enforce court orders related to child support, alimony, or custody if the other party fails to comply.
- Drafting prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: Creating agreements that protect your assets in the event of a divorce.
- Handling adoption proceedings: Ensuring that the legal process of adoption is followed, from filing paperwork to finalizing the adoption in court.
How Are Family Law Lawyers Paid?
Family law lawyers typically charge clients in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Common payment arrangements include:
- Hourly rates: Most family lawyers charge by the hour, with rates varying based on experience and location. Clients are billed for the time spent working on their case, including consultations, court appearances, and document preparation.
- Flat fees: For more straightforward legal services, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, some lawyers offer flat-fee arrangements.
- Retainer fees: In cases that are expected to require significant time and attention, such as contentious custody battles, a lawyer may charge a retainer, which is an upfront payment that covers the initial costs of legal services. The lawyer then bills against the retainer as they work on your case.
The exact cost will depend on the complexity of your case and the lawyer’s fee structure, which should be discussed upfront.
How Much Does a Family Law Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a family law lawyer varies based on factors such as the lawyer's experience, the location, and the complexity of your case. Here are some general cost guidelines:
- Hourly rates: Family law lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour, depending on their experience and the complexity of the case.
- Flat fees: For simpler cases, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, fees may range from $1,000 to $5,000.
- Retainers: For more complex matters, such as contested divorces or custody battles, lawyers may charge a retainer ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 or more. The lawyer will bill against the retainer for the work they do on your case.
- Additional costs: You may also be responsible for additional costs, such as filing fees, mediation fees, or expert witness fees.
Always ask for a clear breakdown of the lawyer’s fees and any additional expenses during your consultation.
Top Questions to Ask a Family Law Lawyer
Before hiring a family law lawyer, it's important to ask questions to ensure they're the right fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:
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What experience do you have with family law cases like mine?
Make sure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it's a contested divorce, child custody dispute, or adoption. -
How will you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, a flat fee, or requires a retainer. Ask for an estimate of the total costs involved. -
What are the possible outcomes of my case?
An experienced lawyer should be able to give you a general idea of what to expect based on the facts of your case. -
What is your approach to resolving disputes?
Ask whether the lawyer tends to favor negotiation and mediation or whether they prefer to take cases to court. This can help you determine if their style matches your goals. -
How long do you expect my case to take?
While it’s difficult to predict, the lawyer should give you an estimate based on similar cases. -
Who will be handling my case?
In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may do much of the work, so make sure you understand who will be your main point of contact.
How to Check the Credibility of a Family Law Lawyer
To ensure you're hiring a reputable family law lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and reputation:
- Check state bar association records: Verify that the lawyer is licensed to practice in your state and is in good standing with no disciplinary actions.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on websites like Avvo, Google, or Martindale-Hubbell. Previous clients can give you insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and success in family law cases.
- Request references: Ask the lawyer for references from past clients who can speak to their experience with the lawyer.
- Review their website or professional profile: Look at the lawyer’s background, case history, and areas of focus to ensure they have substantial experience in family law.
- Look for professional memberships: Membership in reputable organizations, such as the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), can indicate a lawyer's expertise and dedication to family law.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a family law lawyer, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what you should bring:
- Relevant documents: Bring any documents related to your case, such as marriage certificates, prenuptial agreements, financial records, custody agreements, or court orders.
- List of assets and debts: For divorce cases, prepare a detailed list of all assets (e.g., homes, bank accounts, retirement funds) and debts (e.g., mortgages, loans, credit card balances).
- Details of the family issue: Provide a written summary of the situation, including key dates and facts related to your divorce, custody dispute, or support issue.
- Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions you have about the legal process, costs, and potential outcomes.
- Your goals: Be prepared to discuss your objectives, such as custody arrangements, property division, or spousal support, so the lawyer understands your priorities.
Being organized and clear about your situation will help the lawyer evaluate your case more effectively and offer the best advice for moving forward.
