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05 Oct, 2024 by Eboni brooks
I found my lawyer Tosha Heavican through a recommendation from another firm whom didn’t offer the specialized conservatorship law practice service that I was seeking. Once I started working with Tosha she took me under her wing and provided me with not only excellent service, but education to my level of understanding to how the conservatorship laws work within Nebraska. I have worked with her now for the last three years and have already developed a great client relationship with her that I intend to keep for the years to come. Everyone at the firm is very kind and has been available to help me in different areas in law as I face new issues. I’m grateful for them all and would recommend their superior service to anyone!
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03 Oct, 2024 by Jilly whaley
Tasha has been a lifesaver!!!
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03 Oct, 2024 by Senait fisseha
05 Oct, 2024 by Eboni brooks
I found my lawyer Tosha Heavican through a recommendation from another firm whom didn’t offer the specialized conservatorship law practice service that I was seeking. Once I started working with Tosha she took me under her wing and provided me with not only excellent service, but education to my level of understanding to how the conservatorship laws work within Nebraska. I have worked with her now for the last three years and have already developed a great client relationship with her that I intend to keep for the years to come. Everyone at the firm is very kind and has been available to help me in different areas in law as I face new issues. I’m grateful for them all and would recommend their superior service to anyone!
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03 Oct, 2024 by Jilly whaley
Tasha has been a lifesaver!!!
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03 Oct, 2024 by Senait fisseha
05 Oct, 2024 by Eboni brooks
I found my lawyer Tosha Heavican through a recommendation from another firm whom didn’t offer the specialized conservatorship law practice service that I was seeking. Once I started working with Tosha she took me under her wing and provided me with not only excellent service, but education to my level of understanding to how the conservatorship laws work within Nebraska. I have worked with her now for the last three years and have already developed a great client relationship with her that I intend to keep for the years to come. Everyone at the firm is very kind and has been available to help me in different areas in law as I face new issues. I’m grateful for them all and would recommend their superior service to anyone!
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03 Oct, 2024 by Jilly whaley
Tasha has been a lifesaver!!!
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03 Oct, 2024 by Senait fisseha
05 Oct, 2024 by Eboni brooks
I found my lawyer Tosha Heavican through a recommendation from another firm whom didn’t offer the specialized conservatorship law practice service that I was seeking. Once I started working with Tosha she took me under her wing and provided me with not only excellent service, but education to my level of understanding to how the conservatorship laws work within Nebraska. I have worked with her now for the last three years and have already developed a great client relationship with her that I intend to keep for the years to come. Everyone at the firm is very kind and has been available to help me in different areas in law as I face new issues. I’m grateful for them all and would recommend their superior service to anyone!
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03 Oct, 2024 by Jilly whaley
Tasha has been a lifesaver!!!
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03 Oct, 2024 by Senait fisseha
25 Aug, 2024 by Martin johnson
a real dirt bag. never returns calls instead of just saying he does or doesn't want to take a case.
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23 Jul, 2024 by Procarecleaning
We didn’t know what to expect when dealing with an attorney for our needs. John definitely made the experience as pain free as possible. He was honest, professional, and courteous. He excels at communication every step of the way. We would not hesitate to call John again for any legal matter. This guy is top notch! Thank you John!!!
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23 Jul, 2024 by Vernetta kosalka
John and his team helped me greatly. I thank you for your guidance. Thank you John.
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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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04 Jun, 2021 by Trisha miller
Barry definitely made a trying time so much easier . He always answered my calls and emails he always took the time to explain in detail the process He's a kind man and great at what he does I most definitely recommend Barry!!!!!!!!
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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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22 Mar, 2024 by Randhir randhirkumar1234
Furnishika Tech parvat limited
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15 Aug, 2022 by Matt
03 Jun, 2022 by Jim gawrych
They do not value people's time. Very unprofessional.
There are other firms and you should investigate other options before you schedule an appointment.
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05 Jan, 2023 by Shelby hardesty
Don Roberts is an amazing lawyer. He helped me with custody of my son and I couldn’t be more pleased with the outcome. I didn’t feel like just a client. He truly cared about the well being of my son and his safety. I would recommend him to anyone I know. His work is incredible!
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01 Jan, 2023 by Vickie tiffin
Highly recommend
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14 Feb, 2022 by Jason thorson
Came highly recommended. Hasn't disappointed.
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14 Jul, 2024 by Yy dorsey
Would not recommend, AT ALL! Go somewhere else who is going to put you first and not put you in a worse position.
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26 Jun, 2024 by Michelle ponce
Great place for anyone looking for a knowledgeable team. I never left a meeting doubting what my next steps were. The expectation was always met or notified of any changes in a timely manner. I highly recommend this team to anyone!
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26 Jun, 2024 by Mike wazzer
26 Aug, 2024 by Erica carrillo
Hola bendiciones si used esta necesitando un abogado yo recomiendo al abogada chandra es super bueno excelente persona estoy agradecida con dios y con el porque el agarro mi caso y me ayudo mucho le pido a dios que bendiga su trabajo le de salud y vida fuerzas para seguir trabajando y que dios siga bendiciendo más a el y su famillia yo les recomiendo este abogado hay tienen el teléfono y la dirección gracias chándra
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24 Aug, 2024 by Rocio pacheco
We highly recommend Chandra law Office, My husband had problems to be able to have his citizenship and the Attorney Chandra Law Office helped us obtain his citizenship and me, my green card. Thank you!!
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23 Aug, 2024 by Sifredo guzman
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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19 Jul, 2024 by Nicholas monaco
Nancy was amazing!!! She is on top of the case and just a delight to work with. Thank you for everything!
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03 Sep, 2024 by Lindsey rai
Jodie McGill is exactly the partner you need if your priorities include navigating complicated personalities, extreme safety issues, and are in need of complex legal understanding. Jodie got me and my two young kids through a two-year collaborative divorce and was always there for me when I needed her advice while maintaining forward progress. She knew exactly who to put on the team to have all pressing issues resolved including my coach and child safety specialist. I trust her, and highly recommend her to any woman who appreciates being heard and desires top quality guidance.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Shawna
After completing initial consultations with five other attorneys, I decided to retain Jodie McGill as my attorney. I chose Jodie due to her expertise in Collaborative Divorce and her female-focused law firm. Jodie was knowledgeable, friendly, and helpful. I particularly liked having access to Jodie’s team of professionals, such as the Financial Neutral, who helped tremendously during our divorce during the difficult asset allocation discussions. Jodie helped me determine the goals for my divorce, and she guided me through the process while staying true to these goals. Jodie was responsive when I had questions, and flexible with scheduling appointments. Divorce is a difficult and emotional process, and I was grateful to have Jodie as my advocate. Jodie McGill represents her clients with integrity and transparency, and I recommend her highly.
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07 May, 2024 by Brent rasmussen
I have worked with both Jodie and Theresa at McGill Law through many years. They truly represent their clients to the fullest legally and ethically. I would highly recommend working with McGill law for any of your legal needs
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27 Sep, 2024 by Robyn
Theresa was very committed to making the collaborative process work during my divorce. She’s extremely knowledgeable about the process and laws, and does a great job of keeping expectations realistic and then delivering results. I’ve worked with Theresa multiple times and would certainly hire her again.
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07 May, 2024 by Brent rasmussen
I have worked with both Jodie and Theresa at McGill Law through many years. They truly represent their clients to the fullest legally and ethically. I would highly recommend working with McGill law for any of your legal needs
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24 Jan, 2024 by R b
NOT IMPREESED. WANTED TO REFER ME OUT!
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07 May, 2024 by Brent rasmussen
I have worked with both Jodie and Theresa at McGill Law through many years. They truly represent their clients to the fullest legally and ethically. I would highly recommend working with McGill law for any of your legal needs
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24 Jan, 2024 by R b
NOT IMPREESED. WANTED TO REFER ME OUT!
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07 Nov, 2023 by Kimberly swassing
McGill Law was recommended to me when I suddenly found myself in need of an attorney to help with a matter in jeuvenile court.
Deziree Medina (and her team) was extremely knowledgeable and helpful. She helped me navigate the minimum of what I needed to do legally, and helped keep me informed of everything that was happening in regard to the case at hand. She was always readily available for any questions I may have had. I am very grateful for all Deziree's assistance and professionalism.
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07 May, 2024 by Brent rasmussen
I have worked with both Jodie and Theresa at McGill Law through many years. They truly represent their clients to the fullest legally and ethically. I would highly recommend working with McGill law for any of your legal needs
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24 Jan, 2024 by R b
NOT IMPREESED. WANTED TO REFER ME OUT!
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07 Nov, 2023 by Kimberly swassing
McGill Law was recommended to me when I suddenly found myself in need of an attorney to help with a matter in jeuvenile court.
Deziree Medina (and her team) was extremely knowledgeable and helpful. She helped me navigate the minimum of what I needed to do legally, and helped keep me informed of everything that was happening in regard to the case at hand. She was always readily available for any questions I may have had. I am very grateful for all Deziree's assistance and professionalism.
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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
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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05 Jan, 2023 by Shelby hardesty
Don Roberts is an amazing lawyer. He helped me with custody of my son and I couldn’t be more pleased with the outcome. I didn’t feel like just a client. He truly cared about the well being of my son and his safety. I would recommend him to anyone I know. His work is incredible!
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01 Jan, 2023 by Vickie tiffin
Highly recommend
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14 Feb, 2022 by Jason thorson
Came highly recommended. Hasn't disappointed.
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20 May, 2024 by Emily pearl
Wolf gives great advice and will put an understanding to ease your mind on the situation you're in
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16 May, 2024 by Brian sandvig
***AMAZING Law Office. I'm from out of state and needed a lawyer in Nebraska to handle a Guardianship/Conservatorship for a family member who resides in Omaha and suffered a medical emergency that disabled him.
I cannot give Rod, and his Paralegal Michelle, enough praise for their professionalism, knowledge and genuine caring concern for what my wife and I were going through. Their prompt responses and time they provide to answer emails and return phone calls is above and beyond. Thank You Gnuse Law Office.
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10 May, 2024 by Jonathan harm
Fantastic group of attorneys, highly recommended!
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03 May, 2024 by Dezeray dishmon
Heather is very nice and helpful. She was able to give advice and help me with my current dispute with my landlord. I recommend this office to any and everyone. They are very accommodating and extremely polite, you will not be disappointed.
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14 Apr, 2024 by Morganna koester
05 Oct, 2023 by Shelly timm
Amazing results.
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12 Dec, 2023 by Kathy manley
Attention to detail, warm and friendly atmosphere. Patient and kind when I am going thru a major life change.
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14 Aug, 2023 by Theresa tucker
09 Jul, 2023 by Wendi renteria
09 Mar, 2024 by Victor mora
He's a great man.
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24 Feb, 2024 by Primo scorso
Mike is an amazing attorney and people who know defense consider him legendary in Nebraska legal circles. Everybody knows him and he knows everybody. If you need help, THIS IS THE GUY. If you can get him to take your case, then you’re in the best hands possible. I’ve worked with A LOT of attorneys, but Mike is easily the best I’ve seen. He’s been a tremendous help to me and many of my friends and relatives. I trust him and I’m happy to post this as a way thanking him for all he’s done.
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13 Jan, 2024 by Karin fletcher
Mike has been my lawyer for 34 years! Nothing less than exceptional! He takes the time to thoroughly explain situations for me and all the clients I've referred to him, and as soon as additional pertinent information becomes available, clients are informed. He is kind, personable, smart..... I can heap on more accolades but I'd be typing for a while! I would definitely recommend him to everyone!
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31 Dec, 2023 by Achan ring
BEST LAWYER hands down! So professional, knowledgeable and goes above and beyond. Pat does not like to lose and so you’ll definitely be in good hands. The price is worth it for the representation that he provides.
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17 Oct, 2023 by Mike brownfield
My experience with Pat Campagna was fantastic. There are some posts on here that are negative, but I'd look at his services as an investment versus an expense. The VALUE I received from his guidance and representation could not have been better. I highly recommend his services.
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11 May, 2023 by Nicole murchison
Awesome attorney very knowledgeable. He’s definitely one I would recommend and will use in future if ever needed. Thanks again Patrick for all your assistance.
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02 Dec, 2022 by Dirk
Hello. My name is Dirk and I was unexpectedly served divorce papers by my wife a few months ago. As I never saw this coming, & since young kids were involved, you can imagine how frantic and emotionally distraught I was. Additionally, I was informed that there was to be an emergency custody hearing on Tuesday…note: it was Friday afternoon when I was served. Therefore, I had to research and retain a Family Law attorney by Monday (only one day before the hearing). Thus, I sped through Google looking for any family lawyer with a decent Google Review Score (4+ Stars). I didn’t know what I was looking for, but I really needed help. Now.
I called a few firms Monday morning. The fee to retain their services varied (with one stating they needed $4,500!). I politely rejected that offer. Now, however, looking back…maybe I should have gone with the bigger firm requesting the larger retainer. The firm that I landed on was Wes Dodge Law. To Wes’s benefit, he did agree to meet me with no prior notice on that Monday. His initial willingness to jump through hoops, so I thought, was an action that I greatly respected at the time. We met in person, and after talking for about 10 minutes, I noticed that Wes was somewhat of a stoic individual. Not unprofessional, but the way he interacted was cold. Seeing how I was still an emotional wreck due to the divorce revelation, I would have presumed his “bedside manner”, as I would of any Family Law Attorney, would have been a bit better. It wasn’t.
The retainer initially charged for my case was only around half of the $4,500 retainer cited by the previous firm & sounded like a huge break for me. I agreed and then between Monday/Tuesday was able to coordinate with Wes to compose an affidavit to rebut the statements made by my wife.
Flash forward, it has now been two months since I retained Wes, and am dropping his legal services, TODAY, after a frustrating phone call where he, once again, could not offer any solid guidance for legal questions that I had and actually mocked my financial status… Remember that emergency custody hearing I mentioned, where Wes was compensated to defend me as his client against the false statements made in an affidavit by my wife? Yeah, not so much.
I literally could have chosen to defend myself, not attend, and the results would have pretty much been the exact same. What did I pay you for Wes?!? From that hearing, and written into a Temporary Custody Court Order, my wife was granted 100 Physical & Legal Custody of our children until a future trial date could be scheduled; based on nothing more than an affidavit of false statements.
Apparently former clients of Wes Dodge have also aired their grievances online through reviews saying, “Our case has been going on almost a year and a half and ABSOLUTELY NOTHING has gotten accomplished”, “In two years he did very little. He wouldn’t return my calls for weeks then he would bill me for it.”, or even “…he will take your money and try to make you feel stupid”.
In Summary, after working with Wes for two months, I hold deep-seeded client concerns due to:
1) his inaction (how do you go to a custody hearing and win literally NOTHING for your client),
2) his frequent random side-of-the-mouth comments like “…well it seems that you’re having financial problems regardless” (you’re a lawyer Wes…not a poorly trained life-coach. Please keep your unhelpful opinions to yourself), and
3) his professional apathy and/or inability to take charge and guide you through the legal battlefield during one of the worst possible times in any person’s life (“I honestly can’t say when you’re going to have a (Divorce) trial scheduled” What?!?).
I would strongly recommend seeking family law representation elsewhere. I say that as a father, MBA, & Navy Veteran.
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03 Nov, 2021 by James
Wes is extremely knowledgeable in regards to divorce and family law. My divorce had a few interesting twists and turns along the way. Wes did a great job of compiling the information, giving scenarios that court would normally go by, advising me accordingly. He is very professional and puts the mind at ease.
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12 Jun, 2021 by Tarek
I really very lucky to deal with you Mr. Wesley s Dodge, you handle my case by very professional way,
I can't find words to thank you for taken care of my case like it's your won case. you was working very close with me till you close the case and given me the freedom and finished my divorce case, thank you again and again
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04 Dec, 2023 by Jared tripp
Awesome building, well maintained. Love the old architecture
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03 Dec, 2023 by Edward boone
14 Nov, 2023 by Jakub sobieraj
I have been writing e-mails to your employee Erica Goven every day for the past two weeks. He is handling my case. However, he is deliberately not responding to my emails. I feel very neglected and ignored by your company. Because of this behavior, I am unable to complete a matter that is important to me. You do not take your customers seriously.
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04 Dec, 2023 by Jared tripp
Awesome building, well maintained. Love the old architecture
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03 Dec, 2023 by Edward boone
14 Nov, 2023 by Jakub sobieraj
I have been writing e-mails to your employee Erica Goven every day for the past two weeks. He is handling my case. However, he is deliberately not responding to my emails. I feel very neglected and ignored by your company. Because of this behavior, I am unable to complete a matter that is important to me. You do not take your customers seriously.
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04 May, 2024 by Reagan trinidad
Atty. Lake is a lawyer with integrity who is fighting for the truth, justice and for the best interest of children.
From Reagan Trinidad
England, United Kingdom
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28 Apr, 2024 by David walton
“Divorces are incredibly stressful, from start to finish. Well-meaning family and friends are constantly giving you conflicting advice that can honestly make decision-making very difficult. However, from the start, I felt that my lawyer, Mike Sands, and his legal team at Husker Law listened to my concerns and gave me unbiased counsel when I needed it the most. They took the time to educate me on legal matters that I was unfamiliar with and were upfront about the potential challenges and risks involved in my case, ensuring that I had realistic expectations from start to finish. I found Mike and his team, especially his paralegal Brenda Ronspies, to be incredibly knowledgeable and professional. I’m extremely thankful for their help in achieving such a positive outcome. I would highly recommend their services to anyone in need of legal assistance.”
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20 Apr, 2024 by F t
As a farther, I was desperate to have my daughter back back with me in NE.
Greg Lake was my attorney. Right after meeting with him I knew that he will fight for me. I saw that he loves what he's doing and wants to help me.
Greg was mindful of the cost, and helped me kept it down.
I will definitely recommend you to work with Greg Lake.
I end up having my daughter back with me.
Thank you Greg Lake.
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04 May, 2024 by Reagan trinidad
Atty. Lake is a lawyer with integrity who is fighting for the truth, justice and for the best interest of children.
From Reagan Trinidad
England, United Kingdom
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28 Apr, 2024 by David walton
“Divorces are incredibly stressful, from start to finish. Well-meaning family and friends are constantly giving you conflicting advice that can honestly make decision-making very difficult. However, from the start, I felt that my lawyer, Mike Sands, and his legal team at Husker Law listened to my concerns and gave me unbiased counsel when I needed it the most. They took the time to educate me on legal matters that I was unfamiliar with and were upfront about the potential challenges and risks involved in my case, ensuring that I had realistic expectations from start to finish. I found Mike and his team, especially his paralegal Brenda Ronspies, to be incredibly knowledgeable and professional. I’m extremely thankful for their help in achieving such a positive outcome. I would highly recommend their services to anyone in need of legal assistance.”
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20 Apr, 2024 by F t
As a farther, I was desperate to have my daughter back back with me in NE.
Greg Lake was my attorney. Right after meeting with him I knew that he will fight for me. I saw that he loves what he's doing and wants to help me.
Greg was mindful of the cost, and helped me kept it down.
I will definitely recommend you to work with Greg Lake.
I end up having my daughter back with me.
Thank you Greg Lake.
Read more
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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.
