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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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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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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.
Read more
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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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)
Read more
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.
Read more
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?
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)
Read more
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.
Read more
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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21 Sep, 2024 by Man dove
Good
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01 Jul, 2024 by Miriam grimaldo
This attorney restored my faith in attorneys. A car rammed into me and the driver told his insurance company that I was at fault the next day. Without a police report due to them no longer coming out to accidents, luckily I had a witness and mister Ekeh agreed to take my case. He went above and beyond for me every step of the way at the office and in conferences on the phone. Not to mention his kind, understanding and patient assistant Carrie. Overall Amazing, hardworking, honest and trustworthy team.
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08 Feb, 2024 by Nelson sermeno
John the best lawyer of accident cars is very nice person 10 of the 10
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30 Sep, 2024 by George petkov
We had nothing but a great experience with Larry and Nataliya. Respectful, professional, courteous, prompt and readily available. Thank you.
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17 Aug, 2023 by Me you
28 Aug, 2020 by Enerson surdi
Larry Demerath saved me from abandoning my case, after other law offices told me I could not file a Claim. From the moment I first spoke to them on the phone all the way to the case settled, the professionalism and quick responses to the well explained detail throughout the entire process way OUTSTANDING. Really, I never felt like being a case#, but truly like a Human Been. Larry and Nataliya were amazing!!!
VERY FRIENDLY AND INCREDIBLY COMPETENT PROFESSIONALS.
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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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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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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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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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13 Dec, 2024 by Susie papst
09 Dec, 2024 by Lakesha christian
When I filed for bankruptcy in 2019, I felt as if my world was crumbling. Times were tight, money was tight, and I was trying to hold things together financially with my husband for our family. I had anxiety about what was going to happen and the future, but Tom McGuire laid my worries to rest. Not only did he break the process down for me and explained the legal procedures of everything to me in a way I could understand, but he was attentive to every bump along the way as my five years carried through. I could not have achieved the financial freedom I have today without Mr. McGuire helping to guide me through one of the more difficult challenges in my life. I’m so thankful for his business and recommend him to anyone thinking about bankruptcy.
LaKesha C. Bankruptcy Client
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27 Nov, 2024 by Alex swanson
If you're thinking about filing bankruptcy, be sure to see Mr. Lentz! I did a lot of research before filing, read a lot of reviews. Jon was straightforward and very helpful with all my issues and questions. You will not be disappointed when choosing him. Thank you Jon, I hope to never have to use your services ever again. I will definitely recommend you if I ever hear anyone looking for a great bankruptcy lawyer.
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13 Feb, 2024 by Noe campos
14 Dec, 2023 by Shahid cade
If you are looking for a good family law attorney Anita and her team should be your go to!!! I originally contacted Anita due to an urgent custody battle. She quickly came up with a game-plan on how we can get what I was fighting for. We won our case, me and my family cant thank Anita enough for the outcome.
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26 Jun, 2023 by Lori lovison
I had been told that would need to get a Nebraska guardianship for my son that is residing in Omaha. I contacted Anita, after researching several family/guardianship lawyers, and came across great reviews for Anita. Five stars isn't a high enough mark to give her! I would give her ten if they had a ten star review! After the initial consultation, Anita contacted me telling me she had conferred with her collegues, and, informed me that I didn't need to get a Nebraska guardianship and the existing guardianship should stand. She said she wanted to save me undue stress in getting a Nebraska guardianship. She was honest, and straight with me, and could have just taken my money and initiated the Nebraska guardianship, but she didn't. I would highly recommend her and you could rest assured that she will be absolutely honest with you. She has the utmost integrity!
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28 Jan, 2025 by Jau'vier perkins
Highly recommend!
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21 Jan, 2022 by Shawn dabney
Barry is very detailed oriented very empathetic and very professional he took care of our needs I would highly recommend him. He gets the job done in a very very timely manner.
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13 Jan, 2022 by Karla steele
Just want to say that Barry was so helpful and such kindness in handling a guardianship issue I had for my grandson. He handled every thing with the court so I only had to appear only once. It was a very difficult time for me and very stressful. Barry made me feel relaxed and gave me confidence. He has such understanding, pleasant and has such compassion. In the future if I would need legal help again, Barry will be the one. Anyone can be assured, he is a wonderful attorney.
Karla Steele
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19 Feb, 2024 by Mateo romero
13 Feb, 2024 by Ashley rafols
Mr. Nelson represented my brother; on a lengthly numerically case related to his previous history. From intial interview to sentencing day. Greg was more than patient and kept clear communication along the way. I have no doubt that we did not get the best deal under the uncasual circumstances.
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24 Oct, 2023 by Isaac romero
19 Feb, 2024 by Mateo romero
13 Feb, 2024 by Ashley rafols
Mr. Nelson represented my brother; on a lengthly numerically case related to his previous history. From intial interview to sentencing day. Greg was more than patient and kept clear communication along the way. I have no doubt that we did not get the best deal under the uncasual circumstances.
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24 Oct, 2023 by Isaac romero
17 Sep, 2024 by Aaron kroeger
Hugh helped me through my custody case for my 2 year old son and did an amazing job. He took a huge amount of stress off my shoulders. Not only was he very professional but also very affordable and extremely responsive! Would recommend to any friend or family member
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09 Mar, 2023 by Chad shaw
I have called a couple times and talk to him on the phone about some legal advice.and he was always honest with me he the best in Nebraska
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02 Mar, 2023 by Roberto romero
Los mejores
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11 Sep, 2024 by Sherry jenson
I would not recommend using Nancy Shannon. She represented my ex husband in our divorce case, and she did not win the case for him as he was judged to pay me a 32k settlement. I am a disabled veteran due to PTSD and Nancy Shannon openly mocked my disability to my lawyer, in writing, and denied my basic ADA accomodations so that we had to get the judge involved unnecessarily, causing everyone more legal fees. She was so disrespectful in court, there was no reason to be that way. She was very unprofessional all around, rolling her eyes and throwing her hands up in the air, even at her own client. My lawyer told me she's known for being impossible to work with and making things more difficult for all.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Cindy tomcak
We had the pleasure of working with Jill Mason and her team to updated an existing Trust. They were prompt, professional, knowledgeable and very easy to work with. We would highly recommend their services to anyone look for a true Trust Attorney who cares. Thank you for all you did for us.
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30 Aug, 2024 by John szalewski
I needed a will, trust, and POA's created. Jill Mason was incredible to work with. Friendly, competent, efficient, knowledgeable, and the price was reasonable. She was patient with me, answered all of my questions, and I learned a ton from her. I couldn't be happier with the process as well as the results. Thanks so much Jill!!!
John
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13 Nov, 2024 by Vicki klein
13 Nov, 2024 by Haciel molinar
I just wanted to take a moment to express my gratitude for all the support and guidance Allie provided throughout my lawsuit. Her assistance has been invaluable, and I truly appreciate everything she and her team have done to help me navigate this hard process and very stressful situation my daughter and I were put through.
I feel confident that with Allies help, we have achieved a positive outcome that will make things easier in the long run. Thank you once again for all your hard work and dedication Allie
I will definitely contact them again if I need further assistance with my case.
Thank you again for everything.
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13 Nov, 2024 by Sarah karas
I was so afraid that I would never have my children. Tara was so patient, and understanding with everything in my situation. There were times that I think her fight was stronger then mine. I am so grateful and will always refer anyone to Hightower Reff Law
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11 Nov, 2022 by David sweeney
13 Aug, 2022 by Earl starkey
02 Feb, 2022 by Becky d
Great team that covers most legal issues! Very knowledgeable, experienced, and kind!
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06 Nov, 2020 by Brandon
I was EXTREMELY disappointed in the representation I received from this attorney. Like most of you I looked at the reviews and tried to make an educated decision based on previous clients and initial gut feeling being that I've never done this before. When trying to hire an attorney you would hope that they would fight for you in ways that you cant fight for yourself, Ive paid this attorney over $7k for him to not only be outdone by the opposing counsel but also for him to tell me "we don't have a strategy, its black and white and for the judge to decide". Everything he "tried" to do was always counteracted by the clearly superior opposing counsel with no real response other than him charging me for an email with minimal/ basic advice that I could have figured out without having to pay him for. To put it simply I have paid this man thousands of dollars in this 7 month process to only be at the same place I started... just with less money. Please do your homework and set clear expectations of what you want otherwise you will end up like me having to fire this attorney and finding another one. I don't need anyone to care about my circumstance just do what you're being paid for and do it effectively. I would not recommend hiring this person unless you have unlimited funds and don't care about wasting it.
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04 May, 2020 by Elizabeth
My ex-husband and I used Chris Pomerleau for Mediation and it was such a simple and easy process. Chris and his paralegal, Lisa, are so easy to work with and they were on top of everything. They guided us through the process with great, open communication. Both Lisa and Chris are so organized and told us exactly what was needed, what the process was and kept us up to date on how things were going. My ex-husband and I have two children together and they are, of course, our main priority in this. It was comforting to know that Chris and Lisa had the same priorities in such a big, life changing event. The divorce process was actually one of the easiest things in regards to our separation. I highly recommend Nebraska Legal Group and Chris Pomerleau.
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01 May, 2020 by Emily
I hired Chris to help me get sole custody of my son and with his hard work and preparation, we succeeded! Chris is very honest and to the point but is also willing to explain things and do things your way. I couldn’t be happier that I hired him and would 100% recommend him to a friend.
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29 Dec, 2024 by Tyler keup
Woody Bradford and his Son are both very professional and knowledgeable- would definitely recommend this firm to anyone for their reputation speaks for itself!
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19 Aug, 2024 by Marsullous jones
The atmosphere, the encouragement from the environment you'll see
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29 Feb, 2024 by Julie jones
Mr. Whitted was so kind and helpful as we negotiated a difficult situation after my uncle passed.
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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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22 Nov, 2024 by Melvin ayala
Worst law firm they don’t care about u they just care about the money worst experience ever
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26 Oct, 2024 by Andres pablo
25 Oct, 2024 by Claudia romero
100% recomendado, estoy muy agradecido de haber puesto mi caso en sus manos. He logrado conseguir mi Residencia. Muy profesional muchas gracias por ayudarme Chandra law
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11 Jan, 2025 by Adam carter
Helped me with some questions I had
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09 Oct, 2024 by Charles isom
The advice and counseling I received were top notch. I can’t say I enjoyed the experience, obviously, but working with Dennis was reassuring and professional.
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20 Jun, 2024 by Amberone
Chris was wonderful, I greatly appreciate the time and effort he put into my case. He fought for me and did an excellent job. I recommend him to anyone having to deal with insurance agencies trying to belittle your injury no matter how big or small. Thank you so much!
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11 Jan, 2025 by Adam carter
Helped me with some questions I had
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09 Oct, 2024 by Charles isom
The advice and counseling I received were top notch. I can’t say I enjoyed the experience, obviously, but working with Dennis was reassuring and professional.
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20 Jun, 2024 by Amberone
Chris was wonderful, I greatly appreciate the time and effort he put into my case. He fought for me and did an excellent job. I recommend him to anyone having to deal with insurance agencies trying to belittle your injury no matter how big or small. Thank you so much!
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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.
