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29 Jan, 2024 by Michael
Mr.Peterson is the best choice in the desert area. Concerned and dedicated. His expertise and knowledge helped shine light in the right direction. I have the custody agreement that works to still raise my kids throughout the termoil.
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08 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
I have a pending case in O.C. and wanted a second-opinion. While I was questioning my choice to meet with Mike on the 2 hour drive out, I was thankful that I made the choice after spending some valuable time with him. He was prepared, thorough, and answered all of my challenging questions. Most importantly, I never felt that I was "on the clock." I have met with many lawyer's over the years, and it is rare that you meet one with Mike's personal approach. If you are questioning your representation, put in the effort to meet w/Mike!
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14 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
I am active duty in the military, based in California, and Mike Peterson and all of Thurman Arnold have done a phenomenal job representing me in my divorce. Mike is a certified family law specialist and his knowledge and professionalism are evident in his work ethic and the results he wins at trial (my case was in the Joshua Tree Courthouse). Mike has worked tirelessly on my case and obtained custody and financial verdicts far beyond my expectations. I highly recommend Thurman Arnold and Mike Peterson for any family law matters. He is a scratch golfer too, so if you also want expert tips on the course, Mike is your man!
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10 Feb, 2021 by Seth
When I first called this law office and set up my initial consultation with Michael Peterson for my pending divorce, I was impressed with how professional and straight-to-the-point he was. He asked all of the necessary questions and summarized my situation very quickly. His assistant, Jordyn, was also very efficient with scheduling and ensuring they got me in quickly whenever it was needed. I then hired Michael to help me draft a divorce agreement (i.e. settlement offer). We worked together, in person, to think through all of the angles and ensure that my interests were protected. Michael was very realistic, reasonable, articulate, and easy to work with. As much as I thought working with a lawyer might be a miserable experience, I actually enjoyed hanging out in Michael's office and working with him. In the end, I felt that I received solid guidance from Michael throughout the entire process of the divorce and felt confident, despite all of the uncertainties and "what ifs", that he had helped me get through the divorce as quickly and smoothly as possible. He also made phone calls to other experts / consultants / lawyers for advice related to real estate law, since my divorce involved some complicated issues regarding a home my ex wife and I owned together. Compared with other local attorneys - some of whom wanted over $7,000 right at the start - this law office was extremely reasonable with their rates, billing by the hour with full transparency and printed breakdowns along the way. Even after the divorce paperwork has been all signed off and completed, Michael has continued to help answer my questions as they arise. I am extremely grateful to have found Michael and Jordyn, since they saved me a lot of money and made my divorce as painless as possible. I would highly recommend them!
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04 Mar, 2019 by E veritas
I’m pro per and needed a second opinion on my complex court filing. Mr Arnold gave me exceptional advice, highlighting the weaknesses and strengths in my arguments ( immediately targeting and prioritizing the critical aspects, and then backing up his review with an impressive knowledge of the law) I was genuinely impressed, not only with his expertise, but his compassion and kindness in dealing with my difficult circumstances. He took time to make sure I understood, gave exemplary advice and saw the case from all angles. Don’t hesitate to contact him for a second opinion, you won’t regret it.
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04 Jan, 2019 by Dennis
Thank You
The advice I received 01/04/19 form Mr. Arnold on my legal endeavors, as one quoted is "as good as it gets."
Mr. Arnold gratuitously assisted me with the next direction to re-file my request to reduce or terminate a prior award of spousal support with great optimism. Patient to listen.
Second Opinion Client.
Northern, Ca.
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05 Mar, 2018 by G
I found Linda Klatchko on Martindale Hubbell Peer Rating Service after a former legal secretary confirmed this as the site that attorneys use. Linda was very highly rated on that sight, and in our first conversation gave me the impression that she was meticulous (which turned out to be true). I am grateful that I had her to represent me. She coached me well in covering my paperwork and interpersonal bases. She was understanding and helped me correct common misconceptions I had. She caught and followed up with details missed by other parties, and enlisted her husband Phil in making sure an important real-estate issue was correctly executed. She coached me how to protect some of my more vulnerable supporting records. She discussed options with me and helped me be realistic. Her staff was both friendly and responsive to my calls, as was Ms. Klatchko in her call-backs. Emails and mailings from her office were timely. Based on my experience I recommend her.
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04 Feb, 2016 by Anonymous
Utilizing her legal expertise, business acumen, and effective communication skills, Linda Klatchko is one of the best attorneys in the Coachella Valley. I was fortunate to have her professional representation, and highly recommend her and her husband, Phil.
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16 Apr, 2012 by Anonymous
Linda was recommended by a friend of mine. I was going through a divorce and wanted a female attorney. The fact that Linda's husband Phil is also a Family Law attorney was a big plus for me since I also had a business to deal with. They were fair and represented me well in all aspects. My case involved being referred out for forensic accounting and marriage and family therapy. Those were good choices as well. Definite win win as far as I was concerned.
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30 Oct, 2011 by Dana and terri
My wife and I were the victims of a vexacious litigant and her highly unethical contingency fee attorney. After our young "pitbull" attorney blew through $35,000.00 and then asked for another $35,000.00 we parted ways. We sought the help of two expert witnesses. These two people deal with attorneys on a daily basis. The exact words from them were "99 out of 100 attorneys we would not recommend to you, but we have a high regard for Daniel Martorella. We retained Mr. Martorella and within 3 weeks of him being involved in our case the contingency fee attorney left his client high and dry. It was not long after this that we were cleared of all charges.
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28 Oct, 2011 by Anonymous
He is knowledgable, insightful, understanding and intelligent; well-informed; discerning; perceptive and efficeint and helped me with my civil matter avoiding court and saving me money.
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28 Oct, 2011 by Anonymous
Thanks to Dan I still have a drivers license to drive my car!!!
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5.0
18 Reviews
4.9
181 Reviews
15 May, 2024 by D b
Attorney Rhea is a straight shooter, knows his profession well and is very friendly to deal with. If you have any issues in life that require legal support, I would not hesitate to call Joseph Rhea.
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13 May, 2024 by Alex chavira
06 May, 2024 by Adam morales
Definitely recommend Attorney Joseph Rhea. He is very knowledgeable, professional, and downright great at his career. I am a client and will always use him if needed (hopefully not)
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15 May, 2024 by D b
Attorney Rhea is a straight shooter, knows his profession well and is very friendly to deal with. If you have any issues in life that require legal support, I would not hesitate to call Joseph Rhea.
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13 May, 2024 by Alex chavira
06 May, 2024 by Adam morales
Definitely recommend Attorney Joseph Rhea. He is very knowledgeable, professional, and downright great at his career. I am a client and will always use him if needed (hopefully not)
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15 May, 2024 by D b
Attorney Rhea is a straight shooter, knows his profession well and is very friendly to deal with. If you have any issues in life that require legal support, I would not hesitate to call Joseph Rhea.
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13 May, 2024 by Alex chavira
06 May, 2024 by Adam morales
Definitely recommend Attorney Joseph Rhea. He is very knowledgeable, professional, and downright great at his career. I am a client and will always use him if needed (hopefully not)
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15 May, 2024 by D b
Attorney Rhea is a straight shooter, knows his profession well and is very friendly to deal with. If you have any issues in life that require legal support, I would not hesitate to call Joseph Rhea.
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13 May, 2024 by Alex chavira
06 May, 2024 by Adam morales
Definitely recommend Attorney Joseph Rhea. He is very knowledgeable, professional, and downright great at his career. I am a client and will always use him if needed (hopefully not)
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07 May, 2024 by Joel robbins
Working with Josh Arthur at the J Arthur Law Firm was an absolute game-changer for us. Having relocated to California almost five years ago, we found ourselves in need of updating our estate planning, wills, and other directives. From the moment we engaged with Josh, his grace and depth of knowledge left a lasting impression. What truly set him apart was his calm demeanor, which instantly fostered a strong connection.
Josh's honesty and integrity were evident throughout our interactions, making him exceptionally trustworthy. Unlike our previous experiences with other attorneys, where we felt like mere transactions, Josh genuinely cared about our needs. He wasn't just focused on collecting fees; instead, he prioritized our peace of mind and the integrity of our legal documents.
In contrast to our prior disappointments, Josh made the entire process seamless and stress-free. He took the time to thoroughly review and discuss all necessary items, patiently addressing any questions or concerns we had along the way. The paperwork was completed promptly and efficiently, ensuring that everything was filed correctly and in compliance with all requirements.
Overall, working with Josh Arthur was a breath of fresh air. His professionalism, expertise, and genuine concern for his clients' well-being truly set him apart. We couldn't recommend him and the J Arthur Law Firm highly enough for anyone seeking top-notch legal services in estate planning and beyond.
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03 May, 2024 by Rocky wood
Even as the process with immigration was a long and arduous process; We were happy to have Bolour/ Carl group guiding us along the way. Especially for all the help from Scott Emerick who always was quick to respond to all our questions and concerns.
I would like to thank him again.
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22 Apr, 2024 by Corey mckeown
Fairly rude over the phone. Treated like they couldn't be bothered. Or that they had much better things to do since it wasn't their particular area of expertise . Very short and very curt.
The response to my review that is given here is all the more reason to stay away.
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19 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous
Got an email from her saying I owe money for what I have no clue nor do I know her. Fraud scam!!!!!!
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31 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
I have to say thanks shiela. You did me justice! Thanks for giving me the chance to feel so warm and fuzzy inside. Even though my ankle gets swollen from my ball and chain called Devil that you supported even though i paid you to represent me. I am sure i'll remember that 10/90, oh i meant that 50/50 community property law, untill i die!
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24 Mar, 2017 by Anthony herrera
Sheila handled our divorce in a caring and fair manner, quickly. I hope she is available for the referral I'm sending her way.
There are few with her qualities but only one
Sheila Williams.
Thank you Sheila.
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21 Dec, 2021 by Margaret
The only family law attorney you will need! Divorce can be extremely stressful but with the help and guidance of Mr. Prieto the process was as smooth as possible. He was honest, timely, knowledgeable and compassionate. He assisted us with completing a joint agreement and avoiding lengthy and expensive proceedings.
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05 Dec, 2021 by Michael
I was recently looking for an attorney and contacted Mr. Prieto. He was very honest and was realistic with me about my case. Anytime I sent him an email he replied in a timely manner. I think many people have unrealistic expectations of attorneys and what they are capable of doing. He was upfront and realistic with me about my case from the moment I met him. I was very thankful for his effort and time which he gave my case. He isn’t like one of those big firms which you feel like your case gets lost in the shuffle! He deals with you directly. Thanks again Mr. Prieto!
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02 Dec, 2021 by Thomas
I hired Mr Prieto after his “boss” Sheila Williams recommended him very, very highly. That was my first mistake
Between not informing me of a summons that was sent to his office, not telling me about the hearing he was attending in my behalf, I learned quickly communication is not this guys strong point.
But after we received the initial offer on the settlement, which was piss poor, I learned that Mr Prieto sat on his hands and ignored my file for 4 months.
Don’t even think about hiring this man.
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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.
