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12 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
I've always been very satisfied with the services I've received from him. Very informative, open to listen, and trustworthy to give be honest advice. He's a great lawyer who cares about his clients cases and gets things done in a very time sufficient manner. Overall, great choice!!
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28 Jan, 2014 by Anonymous
Kevin was extremely diligent and knowledgeable, and kept me well informed of my options. His advice was with no doubt the most thorough of all my experiences with other attorneys.
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05 May, 2022 by Alex
John Slowiaczek, Tom Horgan and the firm were an absolute pleasure to work with. They were strategic, prompt and insightful every step of the way. Tom and John added incredible value while working through complex issues. I am very grateful I had Tom Horgan and the Slowiaczek Albers team on my side.
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20 Jul, 2020 by Anonymous
Katelyn did an amazing job on helping me with my case. She was a wonderful communicator & was really knowledgeable. My case was not one to be taken lightly and she was with me every step of the way. She also never gave me false hope or advice that I felt I would be disappointed in. I would recommend her to anyone. She is a great listener and very personable as well.
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03 Jun, 2024 by Shaun vetick
Brad Marsicek did an excellent job for me with my custody case. He provided excellent advice and represented me very well.
I highly recommend him.
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19 Mar, 2024 by Erik myers
Brad Marsicek is as solid as they come. If you’re looking for a straight up and honest, hardworking, thorough and professional Family/Divorce/Custody attorney, then look no farther. Brad at Goosman Law is your guy!
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08 Feb, 2024 by Jessica moses
I've worked with several custody attorneys over the years and have never found one who was on top of things and responsive like Brad is! He will be honest with you and negotiates fiercely on your behalf. I absolutely recommend him for custody issues!
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15 Nov, 2024 by Rick saint john
I had been injured in an accident, and contacted several attorney's who all refused my case, stating that I had waited to long to contact an attorney. I contacted Adam, and after a brief discussion, he told me he could help, and he did. Adam is one of the nicest guys you could hope to meet, caring, understanding and honest. I am very happy that I found Adam Tabor to represent me.
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07 Oct, 2024 by Ching alden
07 Oct, 2024 by Devin sasser
10/10, worked very hard on two seperate cases, wouldn’t trust any other lawyer. He got me an amazing outcome twice, he goes the extra mile and digs deep. Highly recommend. Nothing lackadaisical with this guy
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10 Dec, 2024 by Mariah jacob
Great team ! Highly recommend
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11 Nov, 2024 by Sharon tex
31 Oct, 2024 by Jason tadlock
Such a great team! They went beyond what was expected. Through a challenging situation, they relieved a lot of stress and helped me get the help I needed. I was injured in a car accident and didn't know exactly what to do. Craig and Pat payed great attention to my case and communication was spot on. The whole team is amazing and I highly recommend using them if you are in a situation where you need help. Thank you all for everything you have done for me!
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29 Jan, 2025 by Cade moore
Remarkable service! Not to mention was a tremendous help to me while the staff was very helpful all around as well.
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28 Jan, 2025 by Jim b
Outstanding service and extreme expertise. They truly truly and sincerely care about their client.
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28 Jan, 2025 by Manuel campos
Tom was very helpful & easy to work with , got me the best result! Highly recommend
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14 Jan, 2025 by Melissa chase
Nick Faletti is an awesome attorney!!!!! He listens to my problems and helps me in any way he can possible!!!!!
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10 Jan, 2025 by Andrea acevedo
They wanted $250 for a 1-hour consultation before they would EVEN SCHEDULE. I had already filed the divorce complaint pro se (on my own), received an answer, written my own parenting plan, and taken the parenting class before I ever contacted them. I tomdthem clearly in my consultation request I just needed limited scope representation. THAT IS INSANE, PEOPLE! Find a different lawyer/law group. This one is clearly just out to take your money.
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24 Dec, 2024 by John white
I lost my dog, my kids, all my personal belongings, half of my military pension, half of my VA disability pay (which is actually against federal law), lost all of my GI Bill, and never got to see or talk my kids again, even while paying child support. I am happy to take a polygraph for anyone that doubts or disputes this statement. Thank you for your service!
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29 Jan, 2025 by Cade moore
Remarkable service! Not to mention was a tremendous help to me while the staff was very helpful all around as well.
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28 Jan, 2025 by Jim b
Outstanding service and extreme expertise. They truly truly and sincerely care about their client.
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28 Jan, 2025 by Manuel campos
Tom was very helpful & easy to work with , got me the best result! Highly recommend
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05 Dec, 2024 by Damion sayers
Tim was very thorough, encouraging and never misleading with my case. He was honest with me the entire time, in which I value, and I truly respect the work he put into exposing the truth. I will use DLT in future, and encourage anyone looking, seek out Tim Anderson.. He’s invited to the cookout for sure! 👍🏾
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04 Dec, 2024 by Paula mccall-thiede
Timothy Anderson was my lawyer and he was definitely a big help in my case and with my situation changing.
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03 Dec, 2024 by Steven williams
I am writing to express my extreme gratitude for the amazing services provided by Dornan Law Office during my legal proceedings. The expertise and dedication exhibited by my lawyer, Tim Anderson, resulted in the best possible outcome for me, and I am supremely pleased with results. Tim Anderson is a remarkable representative. His professionalism and sincerity shone through every step of the way. He was not only knowledgeable and thorough but compassionate and attentive to my needs Tim's commitment to my case provided me with confidence and reassurance during a challenging time I wholeheartedly recommend Dornan Law Office, and I extend my heartfelt thanks to Tim Anderson for his outstanding work.
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01 Dec, 2024 by Kristen b
I am incredibly grateful for the legal expertise and compassionate support I received from David Pontier at Koenig Dunne during my divorce proceedings. David provided clear guidance and explained the process step-by-step. David’s professionalism, attention to detail, and dedication made a difficult situation much more manageable.
Everyone at Koenig Dunne always took the time to answer my questions thoroughly and were quick to respond whenever I needed assistance. I felt fully supported and confident in their ability to represent my best interests. If you are in need of a divorce attorney who combines legal expertise with genuine care for their clients, I highly recommend David Pontier and the team at Koenig Dunne. I couldn't have asked for better advocates during this difficult process.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Dr. michael beverly, jr.
Truly exceptional and knowledgeable team at Koenig|Dunne. Family law is always a challenging situation for all parties involved. Still, Angela Lennon and her team ensured I understood my options and rights throughout every step and reassured me that my case was a top priority. Thank you again to the team at Koenig|Dunne so very much; you made this process less stressful and manageable.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Staci roehr
I needed a last minute Attorney to get my QDRO after my divorce. Josh Livingston and his team jumped in. They made the process painless after a long divorce. Great communication and everything went seamless. I could not have been more pleased.
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01 Dec, 2024 by Kristen b
I am incredibly grateful for the legal expertise and compassionate support I received from David Pontier at Koenig Dunne during my divorce proceedings. David provided clear guidance and explained the process step-by-step. David’s professionalism, attention to detail, and dedication made a difficult situation much more manageable.
Everyone at Koenig Dunne always took the time to answer my questions thoroughly and were quick to respond whenever I needed assistance. I felt fully supported and confident in their ability to represent my best interests. If you are in need of a divorce attorney who combines legal expertise with genuine care for their clients, I highly recommend David Pontier and the team at Koenig Dunne. I couldn't have asked for better advocates during this difficult process.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Dr. michael beverly, jr.
Truly exceptional and knowledgeable team at Koenig|Dunne. Family law is always a challenging situation for all parties involved. Still, Angela Lennon and her team ensured I understood my options and rights throughout every step and reassured me that my case was a top priority. Thank you again to the team at Koenig|Dunne so very much; you made this process less stressful and manageable.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Staci roehr
I needed a last minute Attorney to get my QDRO after my divorce. Josh Livingston and his team jumped in. They made the process painless after a long divorce. Great communication and everything went seamless. I could not have been more pleased.
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01 Dec, 2024 by Kristen b
I am incredibly grateful for the legal expertise and compassionate support I received from David Pontier at Koenig Dunne during my divorce proceedings. David provided clear guidance and explained the process step-by-step. David’s professionalism, attention to detail, and dedication made a difficult situation much more manageable.
Everyone at Koenig Dunne always took the time to answer my questions thoroughly and were quick to respond whenever I needed assistance. I felt fully supported and confident in their ability to represent my best interests. If you are in need of a divorce attorney who combines legal expertise with genuine care for their clients, I highly recommend David Pontier and the team at Koenig Dunne. I couldn't have asked for better advocates during this difficult process.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Dr. michael beverly, jr.
Truly exceptional and knowledgeable team at Koenig|Dunne. Family law is always a challenging situation for all parties involved. Still, Angela Lennon and her team ensured I understood my options and rights throughout every step and reassured me that my case was a top priority. Thank you again to the team at Koenig|Dunne so very much; you made this process less stressful and manageable.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Staci roehr
I needed a last minute Attorney to get my QDRO after my divorce. Josh Livingston and his team jumped in. They made the process painless after a long divorce. Great communication and everything went seamless. I could not have been more pleased.
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01 Dec, 2024 by Kristen b
I am incredibly grateful for the legal expertise and compassionate support I received from David Pontier at Koenig Dunne during my divorce proceedings. David provided clear guidance and explained the process step-by-step. David’s professionalism, attention to detail, and dedication made a difficult situation much more manageable.
Everyone at Koenig Dunne always took the time to answer my questions thoroughly and were quick to respond whenever I needed assistance. I felt fully supported and confident in their ability to represent my best interests. If you are in need of a divorce attorney who combines legal expertise with genuine care for their clients, I highly recommend David Pontier and the team at Koenig Dunne. I couldn't have asked for better advocates during this difficult process.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Dr. michael beverly, jr.
Truly exceptional and knowledgeable team at Koenig|Dunne. Family law is always a challenging situation for all parties involved. Still, Angela Lennon and her team ensured I understood my options and rights throughout every step and reassured me that my case was a top priority. Thank you again to the team at Koenig|Dunne so very much; you made this process less stressful and manageable.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Staci roehr
I needed a last minute Attorney to get my QDRO after my divorce. Josh Livingston and his team jumped in. They made the process painless after a long divorce. Great communication and everything went seamless. I could not have been more pleased.
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01 Dec, 2024 by Kristen b
I am incredibly grateful for the legal expertise and compassionate support I received from David Pontier at Koenig Dunne during my divorce proceedings. David provided clear guidance and explained the process step-by-step. David’s professionalism, attention to detail, and dedication made a difficult situation much more manageable.
Everyone at Koenig Dunne always took the time to answer my questions thoroughly and were quick to respond whenever I needed assistance. I felt fully supported and confident in their ability to represent my best interests. If you are in need of a divorce attorney who combines legal expertise with genuine care for their clients, I highly recommend David Pontier and the team at Koenig Dunne. I couldn't have asked for better advocates during this difficult process.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Dr. michael beverly, jr.
Truly exceptional and knowledgeable team at Koenig|Dunne. Family law is always a challenging situation for all parties involved. Still, Angela Lennon and her team ensured I understood my options and rights throughout every step and reassured me that my case was a top priority. Thank you again to the team at Koenig|Dunne so very much; you made this process less stressful and manageable.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Staci roehr
I needed a last minute Attorney to get my QDRO after my divorce. Josh Livingston and his team jumped in. They made the process painless after a long divorce. Great communication and everything went seamless. I could not have been more pleased.
Read more
01 Dec, 2024 by Kristen b
I am incredibly grateful for the legal expertise and compassionate support I received from David Pontier at Koenig Dunne during my divorce proceedings. David provided clear guidance and explained the process step-by-step. David’s professionalism, attention to detail, and dedication made a difficult situation much more manageable.
Everyone at Koenig Dunne always took the time to answer my questions thoroughly and were quick to respond whenever I needed assistance. I felt fully supported and confident in their ability to represent my best interests. If you are in need of a divorce attorney who combines legal expertise with genuine care for their clients, I highly recommend David Pontier and the team at Koenig Dunne. I couldn't have asked for better advocates during this difficult process.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Dr. michael beverly, jr.
Truly exceptional and knowledgeable team at Koenig|Dunne. Family law is always a challenging situation for all parties involved. Still, Angela Lennon and her team ensured I understood my options and rights throughout every step and reassured me that my case was a top priority. Thank you again to the team at Koenig|Dunne so very much; you made this process less stressful and manageable.
Read more
26 Aug, 2024 by Staci roehr
I needed a last minute Attorney to get my QDRO after my divorce. Josh Livingston and his team jumped in. They made the process painless after a long divorce. Great communication and everything went seamless. I could not have been more pleased.
Read more
01 Dec, 2024 by Kristen b
I am incredibly grateful for the legal expertise and compassionate support I received from David Pontier at Koenig Dunne during my divorce proceedings. David provided clear guidance and explained the process step-by-step. David’s professionalism, attention to detail, and dedication made a difficult situation much more manageable.
Everyone at Koenig Dunne always took the time to answer my questions thoroughly and were quick to respond whenever I needed assistance. I felt fully supported and confident in their ability to represent my best interests. If you are in need of a divorce attorney who combines legal expertise with genuine care for their clients, I highly recommend David Pontier and the team at Koenig Dunne. I couldn't have asked for better advocates during this difficult process.
Read more
03 Sep, 2024 by Dr. michael beverly, jr.
Truly exceptional and knowledgeable team at Koenig|Dunne. Family law is always a challenging situation for all parties involved. Still, Angela Lennon and her team ensured I understood my options and rights throughout every step and reassured me that my case was a top priority. Thank you again to the team at Koenig|Dunne so very much; you made this process less stressful and manageable.
Read more
26 Aug, 2024 by Staci roehr
I needed a last minute Attorney to get my QDRO after my divorce. Josh Livingston and his team jumped in. They made the process painless after a long divorce. Great communication and everything went seamless. I could not have been more pleased.
Read more
01 Dec, 2024 by Kristen b
I am incredibly grateful for the legal expertise and compassionate support I received from David Pontier at Koenig Dunne during my divorce proceedings. David provided clear guidance and explained the process step-by-step. David’s professionalism, attention to detail, and dedication made a difficult situation much more manageable.
Everyone at Koenig Dunne always took the time to answer my questions thoroughly and were quick to respond whenever I needed assistance. I felt fully supported and confident in their ability to represent my best interests. If you are in need of a divorce attorney who combines legal expertise with genuine care for their clients, I highly recommend David Pontier and the team at Koenig Dunne. I couldn't have asked for better advocates during this difficult process.
Read more
03 Sep, 2024 by Dr. michael beverly, jr.
Truly exceptional and knowledgeable team at Koenig|Dunne. Family law is always a challenging situation for all parties involved. Still, Angela Lennon and her team ensured I understood my options and rights throughout every step and reassured me that my case was a top priority. Thank you again to the team at Koenig|Dunne so very much; you made this process less stressful and manageable.
Read more
26 Aug, 2024 by Staci roehr
I needed a last minute Attorney to get my QDRO after my divorce. Josh Livingston and his team jumped in. They made the process painless after a long divorce. Great communication and everything went seamless. I could not have been more pleased.
Read more
31 Jan, 2025 by Nathan kennedy
Case was a slam dunk, would've won the trial hands down. Charged 1,900$ upfront, was told it would cover everything but the trial. Pre trial plea bargain was basically no jail time and all the charges go away a year later, he told me i wouldn't be charged for the set aside that's written into the court order. Today, after the year has passed, i am being told it's another 750$ to do the set aside?? Scummy.. very scummy. Possibly a mistake due to a high work load, but this is not a new case and the services were already paid for upfront. It's like they forgot about their own word entirely, and now they are not interested in upholding the court order from the judge (set aside was written into the court order by the judge)
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05 Dec, 2024 by Dalton dillow
Mark helped me with a family law case and he did not fall short. He was reliable, cordial, set proper expectations, and gave it to me straight, the entire time. I truly appreciated working alongside someone whom was humble, immersive and truly team-inclusive.
For those who think it's a losing and biased battle for the kiddos; Mark and Krista will set you straight.
Thank you again Mark for everything, and the success achieved.
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25 Aug, 2024 by Aaron hughes
He helped me in case and after that case I had some issues and he did not bother to respond. I felt disappointed that I thought the attorney and I built a relationship that he could be reliable to my concerns in the future. How would you feel about that as a client?
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29 Jan, 2025 by Cade moore
Remarkable service! Not to mention was a tremendous help to me while the staff was very helpful all around as well.
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28 Jan, 2025 by Jim b
Outstanding service and extreme expertise. They truly truly and sincerely care about their client.
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28 Jan, 2025 by Manuel campos
Tom was very helpful & easy to work with , got me the best result! Highly recommend
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29 Jan, 2025 by Cade moore
Remarkable service! Not to mention was a tremendous help to me while the staff was very helpful all around as well.
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28 Jan, 2025 by Jim b
Outstanding service and extreme expertise. They truly truly and sincerely care about their client.
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28 Jan, 2025 by Manuel campos
Tom was very helpful & easy to work with , got me the best result! Highly recommend
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21 Jan, 2025 by Jeff u
Exceptional Legal Representation.
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03 Jan, 2025 by Abner torres
The best lawyer you can find in the state of nebraska i recommend him 100%
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25 Nov, 2024 by Ken wilson
Megan Halbur was my attorney. She was always very professional and very kind and understanding. She would take the time to listen. She was very empathetic and understanding. Never felt rushed around her. She always returned my phone calls and emails. I would definitely recommend her to anyone. She’s a kind of attorney you want on your side. Cause she fought for me. Thanks Megan .Sincerely. Ken Wilson
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10 Jan, 2025 by Peggy kuta
The girls, Jessica and Cheryl were great at answering my questions and were always quick to respond. Katie was great too. Then Jeremiah was by my side the whole way. Thank you all for handling my bankruptsy case. Would highly recommend this business to anyone. Thank you all.
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10 Jan, 2025 by Mishka
After facing a daunting lawsuit and mounting debt, I felt overwhelmed until I discovered Steffens Law Offices. Their team, highly rated and recommended, guided me through the bankruptcy process with exceptional expertise and genuine care. The filing was successful, lifting a massive burden off my shoulders. I'm now able to enjoy life without the constant stress of debt. The staff was not only professional but also incredibly supportive and understanding. Choosing Steffens Law was one of the best decisions I've made during this tough time.
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10 Jan, 2025 by Andrea romero
I was struggling with making payments and felt swamped by debt. After seeing how wonderfully Steffens Law Offices helped my boyfriend, I decided to seek their help too. Their team was incredibly supportive and guided me through the process of getting out of debt efficiently. Thanks to their expertise and kindness, I now see a bright future ahead, free from the overwhelming burden of debt. Their impact on my life has been profoundly positive, and I'm truly grateful for their assistance!
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05 Dec, 2024 by Damion sayers
Tim was very thorough, encouraging and never misleading with my case. He was honest with me the entire time, in which I value, and I truly respect the work he put into exposing the truth. I will use DLT in future, and encourage anyone looking, seek out Tim Anderson.. He’s invited to the cookout for sure! 👍🏾
Read more
04 Dec, 2024 by Paula mccall-thiede
Timothy Anderson was my lawyer and he was definitely a big help in my case and with my situation changing.
Read more
03 Dec, 2024 by Steven williams
I am writing to express my extreme gratitude for the amazing services provided by Dornan Law Office during my legal proceedings. The expertise and dedication exhibited by my lawyer, Tim Anderson, resulted in the best possible outcome for me, and I am supremely pleased with results. Tim Anderson is a remarkable representative. His professionalism and sincerity shone through every step of the way. He was not only knowledgeable and thorough but compassionate and attentive to my needs Tim's commitment to my case provided me with confidence and reassurance during a challenging time I wholeheartedly recommend Dornan Law Office, and I extend my heartfelt thanks to Tim Anderson for his outstanding work.
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24 Jan, 2025 by Maura marcos
Mr. Williams is the most efficient and honest lawyer. 💯 recommended
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13 Dec, 2024 by Chalandria james
Patrick was very helpful and gave me a number of options. I highly recommend him!!
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22 Nov, 2024 by Dustin teeter
Excellent communication.
Excellent time management.
Excellent law office.
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24 Jan, 2025 by Maura marcos
Mr. Williams is the most efficient and honest lawyer. 💯 recommended
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13 Dec, 2024 by Chalandria james
Patrick was very helpful and gave me a number of options. I highly recommend him!!
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22 Nov, 2024 by Dustin teeter
Excellent communication.
Excellent time management.
Excellent law office.
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22 Aug, 2023 by John
From the beginning, Mr. Hoffman inspired confidence. I know professional pride when I see it. That confidence turned out to be justified. Frankly, I did not expect a good outcome when my case started. In dealing with a contentious divorce that I did not want, and having never been to court in my life, Ryan kept me focused on the things that mattered. He was methodical and persistent, and I ended up with a very satisfactory judgement. Rates were reasonable.
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31 Aug, 2021 by Bryan
Ryan Hoffman has worked on several cases of mine from divorce to a couple of criminal cases he pulled off incredible results. Best attorney in Omaha at a great value.
Bryan Berger
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26 Jan, 2021 by Eric penn
Ryan Hoffman was very professional and committed to resolving my custody matter. He exceeded my expectations about hiring a lawyer, custody and the unknown. Great service and excellent results. Recommended highly for men and women.
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02 Nov, 2024 by Santi gurung
My husband and I recently had free consultation with attorney Conner Orr. He took his time to listen to us that speak volumes about his professionalism. Not only he helped us solve our problems within week he also gave us great advice that will stay with us forever.we highly recommend Orr law Group to our friends and families or anyone who needs legal assistance!
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25 Oct, 2024 by Angela cook
When I first spoke with Connor, I could tell he was really interested in helping me. He was willing to go that extra mile to make sure I understood every thing to make the best decision for my circumstances. I felt so comfortable and he really cared and went far beyond my expectations to assist me. His kindness will take him far...
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25 Oct, 2024 by Joey swafford
Highly recommend Orr Law Group. Received prompt turnaround and sound advice. Will continue to utilize their services.
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02 Nov, 2024 by Santi gurung
My husband and I recently had free consultation with attorney Conner Orr. He took his time to listen to us that speak volumes about his professionalism. Not only he helped us solve our problems within week he also gave us great advice that will stay with us forever.we highly recommend Orr law Group to our friends and families or anyone who needs legal assistance!
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25 Oct, 2024 by Angela cook
When I first spoke with Connor, I could tell he was really interested in helping me. He was willing to go that extra mile to make sure I understood every thing to make the best decision for my circumstances. I felt so comfortable and he really cared and went far beyond my expectations to assist me. His kindness will take him far...
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25 Oct, 2024 by Joey swafford
Highly recommend Orr Law Group. Received prompt turnaround and sound advice. Will continue to utilize their services.
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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.
