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29 Jun, 2012 by Jeanna
I wish we had found Steve years before we did, he has been the most helpful and informant lawyer we have had in all the years of child visitation and support needs. He is very knowledgeable and helped us numerous times keep our child support down so we did not get screwed over. Also love his honesty and is very upfront and gets straight to the point so it does not cost us even more, like all other attorneys and had meetings for hours and maybe did 15 minutes of work. Will actually will miss working with/needing his help! Highly recommend.
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12 Feb, 2012 by Anonymous
Wow, i wish i have seen this website before, i was trying to lower my child support because i lost my job, but my lawyer did a very terrible job that the judge asked me to pay extra money, I’m glad I have a good job now and I can afford the child support, but I thought I hired a good lawyer turn out the other way.
Mr. Popp is a nice person but I would not recommend him for family cases
thank you
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08 Feb, 2012 by Anonymous
Mr. Popp represented me in child visitation custody. I met him only one time in a coffee shop to talk about my needs, most of the time he text me to answer my questions.
I’m very disappointed with him for not handling my case properly and not been organized. The case still going on and seems like my x-husband is winning this case.
I was just hoping Mr. Popp just take the time to listen than talk and talk and not deliver.
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03 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
Kay will drag your case along until you’re broke. She does not have interest in resolution only personal finance gains.
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18 Mar, 2021 by J per
Called three time was put on hold and then disconnected
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10 Jan, 2018 by Tanya
I hired Kay to as my divorce attorney. She was always prompt and professional. She supported and assisted me in doing much of the legal work myself to save money, which I appreciated. I did not feel like she was stretching things out to make a buck. I'd definitely hire Kay if I have needs in the future.
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22 Sep, 2023 by Jennifer zamora
My son was a passenger in a roll over accident. The insurance company was not wanting to comply with medical bills. Mark Gunnison was recommended to us. Mark and his paralegal went above and beyond for us. Thank you!
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08 Nov, 2018 by Lynn sitzmier
I hired him for a child custody case he said no problem. He did not return calls or emails. It got postponed 3 times. We lost because some stupid law. He should of know that. It cost me $5500 for nothing. I do Not recommen!!
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08 Nov, 2022 by Anonymous
Signed documents on more than one occasion stating she is certifying she will mail them. They mysteriously got “lost in the mail” 3 times. I asked her why she doesn’t send them certified w/the post office & she told me because she doesn’t legally have to do that,
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19 Jul, 2019 by Donnie
In my time working with Jean ann, I found her to be unprofessional,
incompetent and dishonest.
Unprofessional: Other than our initial meeting (for which she charged
me, not offering any free initial consultation) she ignored the vast
majority of my follow-up questions and requests for meetings. In
fact, the only time she actually did any work on my behalf was when I
showed up at her office unannounced and refused to leave until she
talked with me and filed the paperwork. The only other time she
worked for me was in response to my written request (per the
stipulations of our contract) that she immediately cease working as my
lawyer. Ignoring this request, she then charged me for several
billable hours. Unfortunately, I believed her when she promised me
that things would be different going forward. The next time I heard
from her was about a month later, in response to my second request
that she cease working for me.
Incompetent: During our first meeting, Jean Ann told me it would only
take about two months to resolve my issue. Five months later, the
issue is still unresolved (though I have a new attorney trying to make
up for lost time). At that first meeting, she asked me to go to the
courthouse and pick up necessary paperwork so as to expedite the
process. I did so that day, bringing the paperwork directly to her
office. Jean Ann then failed to file the paperwork fo another ten
days. Whey I asked why she waited so long, I received a vague excuse.
To make matters worse, when she did actually file the paperwork, she
did so incorrectly, giving an advantage to the attorney of the adverse
party. My current attorney is trying to straighten out the mess
resulting from Jean Ann's incompetence.
Dishonest: In addition to the above examples, Jean Ann (on the rare
occasion she responded to a text or email) assured me she was about to
do what she'd said she needed to do on my behalf. Unfortunately, she
never actually did what she'd said she'd do (with the exception of the
two above examples). Her normal excuse, when she did reply to me, was
"I was out of town."
Either Jean Ann is constantly on vacation or she is dishonest. Either
way, I'm currently paying a different attorney to fix her mistakes and
to do what Jean Ann had assured me would be a simple task.
Unfortunately, I cannot get back the money I paid Jean Ann for
minimal, and legally inaccurate, work.
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04 Oct, 2018 by Felicia
I've went to Jean Ann when I was served by my husband out literally of the blue. It was a crisis situation and she had me in her office the next day. Everything was explained in detail and I felt that she really cares for her clients. She is very thorough and on top of things. I would not hesitate to use her services again. Would highly recommend!
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11 Jun, 2019 by Judy
My husband and I hired Ron when we were going through a custody issue with my step son.
As I read the other comment reviews I was so shocked that I experienced the same thing and I am in 100% agreement with them. Ron comes with a great story, however, he is arrogant and prideful which unfortunately shows through his billing. He tried to bill us 10 yrs ago $350 for a 15 minute consultation. Reading his other reviews it looks like that his arrogance and pride has gone up to $500.
Overall, he's not worth the money or the belittlement. Yes, he makes you feel stupid.
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07 Jul, 2018 by John
After paying the consult fee I hired Ron and went forward. After two months he had charged me outrageous fees for simply responding to the minimal emails of my case. I hired him for a focused, specific hearing but yet he charged me fees for being copied on emails relative to their parts of my case that were not relevant. I expressed concern multiple times to no avail, and then when I stood firm that I needed to cut him out of the irrelevant legal emails he told me he was withdrawing for "ethical" grounds. His story is good, but there's no merit or truth to it. Further, he tried to withdraw without a hearing and my approval, basically trying to skate out of appearing before the judge who eventually called him out for it. Lastly, he withdrew shortly before the hearing I hired him for and after I had spent enormous fees for him to prep for the hearing, leaving me without an attorney and starting over. He ran before the hearing because again, Ron sells an impression of knowledge but went yellow and ran before the hearing. He also directed me not to be on a call with the judge when I found out later i should have been, plus his advice was exactly the opposite of the judge's decision when I finally had the custody hearing. However, Ron walks away with $6,000 o fly money, mostly in "logistical fees", and left me with horrendously bad legal advice.
If he responds to this it will simply be more spin. However, I am a very honest and fairly intelligent person that is stating the exact truth. You have been warned.
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29 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
I hired Ronald to provide a consultation. $500 for one hour of his time. His paralegal required that I submit extensive background information in advance of our telephone consultation. My family law case involves an ex-spouse who abducted our child. When I asked Ronald about a strategic tact for handling the abduction he said that would be illegal and he said that by the tone of my question that I intended to carry forth the plan. This of course was not true.
When I tried to ask him other questions about the case he was reluctant to answer any of the questions. Essentially, he shut down our consultation interview. I was not prepared to pay $500 for 20 minutes of Ronald's time and receive so little information.
I had additional questions I wanted to ask later based on the information he provided in our brief consultation and I had at least 35 minutes of time left. When I tried to contact Ronald's law firm they ignored my requests but they certainly kept my money which they required to be paid in advance by credit card.
I review Ronald with low marks and I question whether he should have taken $500 for approximately 20 minutes worth of questions. Ronald comes across as a judgemental, elitist, arrogant and unresponsive attorney based on my consultation with him. Ronald may, or may not, be a skilled attorney but by no means is he easy to work with and I found he is indulgent in how he assesses his fees based on my experience with him.
In sum, I would not hire him to work for me.
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23 Oct, 2019 by Anonymous
I saw the other review on Shawn and his firm Cordell and Cordell and it is spot on to my terrible experience. I kept hearing the ads on radio and TV about how Cordell and Cordell fought for the rights of the fathers---so thought I was "stepping up" from my previous attorney to hire this "credible" firm and was given Shawn as my attorney. He is NOT a trial lawyer---I needed someone to fight for me---not try to make friends with the court. He was worried about how things would be perceived and to not upset the Judge in my case and didn't advise me properly. He let my ex wife's attorney who was a basic Ambulance Chaser complete make a mockery of me and my situation. For prior attorney had it easy---I gave them all of the ammunition and knew what my ex would want and try to do ahead of time! We were always ready contemplating the next move. We didn't win---nobody wins in a divorce, but at least I came out with a judgment of Joint Physical custody. After hiring Shawn---I slowly lost everything including being able to see my kids based on a phony bunch or circumstances my ex dreamed up. Instead of taking it to them and bringing up some criminal past of the other person---he failed to submit the evidence saying that the judge would dismiss it and then we would be silently punished. I hope he can't sleep at night for what he failed to do. I couldn't stomach knowing that I failed to keep a custody situation with a good father in check with what the courts really want----joint custody. Instead now many years later we still have family issues because of how he didn't handle business. Cordell and Cordell should also be ashamed of themselves for how they milk people for all of their hard earned money and in return reduce what they once had with their family. It makes me sick as I type this out thinking back upon the darkest days of my family life. I plead with anyone reading this to make sure that neither Cordell and Cordell or specifically Shawn Riley are never entrusted with anything important in anyones life to defend ever again!
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01 Feb, 2012 by Anonymous
Only use this man and Cordell and Cordell if you want to lose your money . I lost $70,000 to them and they told me I won because I did not lose the right to see my child. Simple fact I had 50/50 before and still had it when they where done. I am not a grug addict or abusive, they love to drag it out and get nothing decided . They did not defend me but told me we can not make the mother look bad all the while the ex's lawyers drug me through the mud and made me look like a monster and Mr Riley just kept it from looking like I was a murderer
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18 Mar, 2021 by J per
Called three time was put on hold and then disconnected
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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.
