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22 Aug, 2024 by Dewayne
I found Yolanda Riley from reading The Weekly Traveler. She helped me navigate 2 separate legal issues. She is very professional, responds almost immediately, and most of all, honest. She was able to move both cases seamlessly and with great integrity. I plan to use her services again in the future.
Dewayne
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14 Aug, 2024 by Braniya
I recently had the pleasure of working with Yolanda, and I couldn't be more satisfied with the experience. From the very beginning, she demonstrated a high level of professionalism, expertise, and dedication to my case. Her ability to explain complex legal concepts in a way that was easy to understand was incredibly reassuring. Throughout the process, Yolanda was always available to answer my questions and provide updates, making me feel supported and informed every step of the way. She handled my case with the utmost care and attention to detail, ensuring that all aspects were throughly addressed.
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25 Jun, 2024 by Kuku
I was looking for an attorney who is honest, straightforward and efficient. I hired big firm first and they were not responsive in a timely manner. I am so fortunate that I found her. She was absolutely fantastic. She is very efficient, effective, responsive and professional. She gets things done. I highly recommend her.
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23 Nov, 2021 by Michelle
Long story short. I am divorced in my state and was served papers from ex . I contacted Angela about a divorce. She was very empathetic and listened to my situation. I will definitely recommend her!! She went above an beyond an advised me on how to proceed.
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26 Jan, 2021 by Pamela
I walked into Angelas office for a consultation and walked out feeling blessed . She took on my case from a previous divorce and had to learn my case from the previous records from day one . She did that exceptionally quick and found results i didnt even know existed . She gave me confidence when i was ready to give in . She is Intelligent , Impressive , Professional and Dedicated . She worked day and night on my case and that made me feel as tho I was important . She made a believer out of me when I was giving up on the court system. Angela Baker Evans , is a Intelligent , Outgoing , Professional , Honest Dedicated Attorney . Im Blessed to have Hired her . Her paralegal , Cori is awesome also . Cori was always there for any information or questions i had . They are a wonderful team . If you ever need an attorney in Angela Baker Evans expertise , I Highly Recommend her and her team .
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30 Oct, 2020 by Chris
Angela is everything you want and need in a lawyer if you want the best lawyer possible to win your case. I say that because Angela has helped tremendously and everything anyone would hope to have in a lawyer: super intelligent; highly experienced; successful; truly cares about your case; extremely committed to you and your case success by working day and night and everything else Angela can possibly do to win your case; always extremely impressive in court with presentation, knowledge, quick analytical / legal thinking that screws up opposing councels whole case.
Angela will not only impress you but also the judge and opposing lawyers that she is an expert lawyer, extremely passionate, knows her clients case better then anyone else in the room, fights like no other lawyer you could possibly get to win your case.
If that is not a description for the best lawyer what is.
I love it when Angela makes opposing lawyers look like amateurs struggling to figure out what to do next due to Angela's legal intelligence and unique ability to completely destroy opposing lawyers strategy to the point where they don't know what to do or what to ask and clearly struggling.
Do yourself a favor and call Angela. Angela is simply the best.
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24 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
I had the absolute BEST experience with this law firm for my divorce! They were kind, considerate, and very very helpful. They got back to me as quickly as possible and made everything exactly how I wanted it.
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10 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
My first appointment to the law office set the tone of professionalism. From the front receptionist, Paralegal, and Ed. Ed listened and reassured us that he would handle the case successfully. I worked with Lori, Paralegal, most of the time. She was efficient, pleasant, and exceptionally easy to work with. At the end, I would highly recommend G. Edward Murphy and his firm to take care of any legal matters that may arise. I was more than happy with the outcome of my case.
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12 Aug, 2018 by Anonymous
Ed and his team have demonstrated that they are the dominate legal council in the Peoria area. Ed can be trusted to deliver and defend you for the most difficult cases. My ex wife filed a HIPPA case against my wife to gain access to medical records to ecploit my wife and restrict parenting time and Ed worked closely with us to settle outside of court. Friday before the hearing my ex wife declined any settlement and the hearing was set for Monday. Eds team worked through the weekend and developed a solid case with legal precedence and solidly one the case protecting my wife's legal rights to protect her personal medical records. I fully trust Ed and his team and recommend his team even for the the most difficult cases.
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21 May, 2022 by Molly
I am not quite sure where to begin...I had originally hired a previous lawyer to represent me for my divorce (which started in 2019). The previous lawyer did not seem to be doing much work on my case nor did did I feel heard when I explained my case to them. I ended up asking them to withdraw as my lawyer after about 8 months because I knew they weren't going to fight for me.
I then started the process of finding a new lawyer and quite a few lawyers were not even willing to take my case because litigation had already started.
I felt very lost, but then I got referred to Linda Watson from 3 different people. I had my phone consult with her (at this point covid was in full swing) and I knew this woman was going to fight for me.
Let me make this clear, you're money will not go to waste at Watson Law! You will see the work for what you pay for! Linda and her team will go above and beyond for you! Make sure you communicate with them and tell them everything!
Linda is such a good hearted person. She doesn't sugarcoat things and is very real and upfront with you!
Never in a million years did I think after hiring Linda I would grow so close to her and her staff!! As crappy as having to go through the divorce process was, Linda and her team made it somewhat enjoyable! I felt heard, supported and validated from Linda and her team!
Oh and in the end, Watson Law won my case!!! It took 5+ trials/days in court. It is very important for YOU the client to make sure you educate yourself with your story/side of things and come prepared as well. Linda is so incredible in court. She FIGHTS for you. I could go on and on but I will end with this...choosing any other lawyer for your case would be a HUGE mistake and loss!!!!
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10 Feb, 2020 by Sara
She was very helpful with anything I needed and very knowledgeable. Her staff was also very friendly.
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12 Feb, 2019 by Anonymous
Linda recently represented me with my divorce/custody case. She was quick to answer each and every question thoroughly. She also has very well educated staff and paralegals who help beyond words. They are professional, and quick to help when needed. She is a fighter and understanding as well as a family woman too. She gave me her personal cell number so I could contact her anytime via calling or texting with questions, concerns, or updates in regards to my case. I will forever use attorney Linda Watson for any other legal matters. She is amazing and I am so glad I hired such an attentive lawyer who knows how to get things done promptly.
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01 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
I worked with Kevin on my immigration case and because of him, everything went very smoothly. He was great to work with and I would highly recommend him.
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27 Jun, 2021 by Anonymous
Mr. Kuykendall was very eloquent and precise in my case. He explained to me my choices and what would probably happen. My case went very smooth.
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30 Apr, 2018 by Anonymous
Gave good service and advice, did not have to hire him but would use him in the future if it was ever needed. Would recommend him if you need a lawyer
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25 Jul, 2020 by Selina
I had free consultation with Jerry, he is very smart and knowledgeable, helped me towards a course of action.
Highly recommended!
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09 Jun, 2020 by Blake
When you are in financial distress and physical pain it is difficult to think clearly and make good decisions. That, in addition to not understanding a legal process complicates matters even more. Jerry explained the law, outlined in clear language the steps in the process that where needed to be done. He was reassuring, articulate, knowable and effective. Jerry made the process so much easier and gave me peace of mind in a stressful but so far successful outcome. Jerry was selected on recommendation from a trusted friend and was some of the "Best" advice I have ever received.
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28 Apr, 2019 by Jeff
Always willing to talk and found the best solution between my ex-wife and I regarding the custody/visitation schedule for our daughter. Honest, professional, and hardworking.
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19 Jul, 2021 by Dawn
My experience with Mary Beth and Mr. Dunn was a positive one. I appreciate all they did to represent me during my divorce. They made a very difficult time in my life a little easier. I was treated with respect and kindness. I also appreciate that they waived the remainder of the bill. I would not hesitate to recommend then to anyone in need.
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19 Apr, 2014 by Anonymous
Mr Dunn is a GREAT attorney. He is patient and very straight forward. I went in and had an unachievable goal for my custody case and he stopped me and told me exactly what I should be asking for and explained WHY. He didn't treat me like I was dumb or ridiculous, just that my idea was not rational. He got me exactly what he told me he would. The minute you meet him you respect him. His paralegal Dina is also extremely helpful. She doesn't have the same way with words as Mr Dunn but she does her job and does it right. (Sorry Dina if you read this) There are several other people who answer the phone and greet you at the office who are also pleasant and sweet. I know my case was by far not their biggest financially, but they treated me like it was. I hope I never have to see Mr Dunn again, but if I do I hope he is still available.
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27 Mar, 2014 by Clyde
I finally got to entering my review of my experience with Mr. Dunn. Divorce is never fun, so I have taken time to separate myself from the experience before writing my thoughts. In summary, if you are going to hire a lawyer, then you won't go wrong by hiring Mr. Dunn and, i will guess, you wont find a better one.
My first experience with Mr. Dunn was when he represented my now wife in her divorce. She faced alot of intimidation and bullying as she started her divorce from her ex and his cult-like family. Jeff helped to steady her and, through his knowledge and expertise and personality, helped her to gain confidence and strength in this process. It was enjoyable to observe him work against the other party and she reports that his courtroom demeanor is steady and confident.
My second experience was in my postdecree case against my ex-wife for cohabitation. His approach of confidence and knowledge helped me to have my maintenance payments stopped. She and her party wanted to settle instead of court, so I missed out on watching him in action.
Im not sure that the above words do justice to his abilities.
Its not likely you will find a more knowledgable attorney.
If he doesnt know it, he will tell you and seeek the answer.
He is a straight shooter; if you dont want that approach then you should seek another attorney, or better yet, change your own approach
His personality is friendly and welcoming - we all want that.
He is confident - also a must - and dont confuse it with cockiness, thats not him
I have since sent a best friend to Jeff and he, who is better prepared and knowledgable than myself, is very satisfied at this time with the service Jeff is providing him in his postdecree issues.
Bottom line, both myself and my wife will continue to have Mr. Dunn represent us as we, for certain, deal with postdecree issues and our ex-spouses.
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17 Mar, 2024 by Sbuchanan1221
Rob was quick with responses, mindful of fees, and realistic with outcomes. He researched, went the extra mile and consistently kept my best interest in mind.
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17 Nov, 2017 by Anonymous
Very knowledgeable and eager to.give me all the information he could! This lawyer was so willing to help and never even mentioned anything about hiring just wanted to help he even said I could email him details about my case without hire and would give his professional opinion.
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22 Feb, 2015 by Melissa
I met Rob as he was just beginning his professional tenure. He "looked" very young, like a younger brother. What I soon learned was that his motivation and tenacity for helping people with their legal issues was leaps and bounds beyond others. Rob is kind and compassionate but more importantly, he educates to ensure that you understand the law. Rob spent hours researching the "fine print", so-to-speak, finding numerous loopholes in a contract that I had signed. He continued to work with me and the company involved ensuring that I was fully represented. I was kept informed on the movement of my case. My inquiries were responded to promptly. I was not spoken down to. I highly recommend speaking to Rob about your legal questions. Asking Rob Parker to represent you will be the BEST legal decision you will make!
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13 Feb, 2024 by Tom
I was referred to JKLF by Legalshield. I hired them to handle my divorce. Boyd Roberts along with his assistant Trudy went above and beyond my expectations.
Trudy worked a lot of late hours drawing up paperwork and making sure everything was documented correctly. If she had a question she'd call me direct to verify. She's very respectful and a hard worker.
Boyd is a no BS attorney but absolutely professional at the same time. He knows the law and uses it rather than getting angry and talking smack. We imposed sanctions 2 or 3 different times because my ex wife and her attorney were doing nothing to move it along. They weren't getting paperwork and documents to us that the judge ordered. We ended up settling outside of court, she agreed to a cash settlement and I kept my whole retirement account. Boyd and/or Trudy drew up the settlement agreement and still always promptly answered any questions i had. Boyd was always 2 steps ahead of her attorney thro the whole process even tho she filed the divorce. He was reasonable and fair, always knew what to expect and how to handle each situation. Thank you!
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16 May, 2013 by Anonymous
Mr. Kelly's ability to think outside the box is what sets him apart from the other attorneys I have met with.
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17 Apr, 2013 by Lori
I am thoroughly impressed with Mr. Kelly's professionalism and willingness to fight for our interests. He is not your run-of-the-mill attorney. I highly recommend him to anyone who is looking for a competent, honest lawyer.
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30 Dec, 2020 by Hillary nichols
Mr. Rogers is very easy to work with. He gets back to you in a timely manor and the staff is always available if he is busy.
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29 Dec, 2020 by Karen stone
I have never experienced such a nice, relaxing and professional environment. Super impressed. Mr. Rogers was so respectful and honest. He works fast and is very neat. I recommend this firm 100%.
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19 Sep, 2019 by Steven hoeft
Great firm to work with! Mr. Rogers is a very knowledgeable and competent attorney. I would highly recommend their firm for any and all legal needs!
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30 Dec, 2020 by Hillary nichols
Mr. Rogers is very easy to work with. He gets back to you in a timely manor and the staff is always available if he is busy.
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29 Dec, 2020 by Karen stone
I have never experienced such a nice, relaxing and professional environment. Super impressed. Mr. Rogers was so respectful and honest. He works fast and is very neat. I recommend this firm 100%.
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19 Sep, 2019 by Steven hoeft
Great firm to work with! Mr. Rogers is a very knowledgeable and competent attorney. I would highly recommend their firm for any and all legal needs!
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30 Dec, 2020 by Hillary nichols
Mr. Rogers is very easy to work with. He gets back to you in a timely manor and the staff is always available if he is busy.
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29 Dec, 2020 by Karen stone
I have never experienced such a nice, relaxing and professional environment. Super impressed. Mr. Rogers was so respectful and honest. He works fast and is very neat. I recommend this firm 100%.
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19 Sep, 2019 by Steven hoeft
Great firm to work with! Mr. Rogers is a very knowledgeable and competent attorney. I would highly recommend their firm for any and all legal needs!
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16 Aug, 2011 by Anonymous
Very talented gentleman who carries himself with confidence. Kept me in the loop at all times and did not over promise. Knows his way around a court room.
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22 Jun, 2011 by Anonymous
Mr. Boyd Roberts was the most professional and savy of all attorneys involved in this case of my friend's separation. My involvement in this case seemed to drag on for far too long, years infact. However, I trust that Roberts did the best he could with the opposing attorney's continued entring of judgements even after the judge warned against it. After Boyd threaten to file sanctions and asked for court costs, I was finally dropped from the case. Two years and over 20 Thousand later, it is over! I have yet to receive the court costs.
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03 Dec, 2021 by Sean
Great Service! Communication was great and never had to wait for an answer. I recommend him to anyone that needs legal help.
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22 Nov, 2021 by Robert d. bowen, ed.d.
Mr. Frericks provided top flight legal services for me during my felony charge by the Bureau County States Attorney. His efficiency was great for me. The States Attorney took too long to respond to our many overtures, but Chris was finally able to work out a negotiated agreement that was approved by the judge. I am very pleased with what Chris was able to help me accomplish. His honesty with me was refreshing and appreciated..
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26 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
I have worked with Mike a couple times. He has always been professional and very reasonable with his fees. Mike saved me thousands of dollars in child support due to the other attorneys error. I would recommend him to anyone that needs assistance
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16 Dec, 2015 by Anonymous
Cannot say enough positive things about Michael Fleming and his staff. From the very first meeting to the very end, in a very long and difficult situation, I always received the same kind of exceptional service. Being an out of state client, continuous and clear communication was very important to me. Mr. Fleming answered my emails/phone calls very timely, and always provided a complete and clear response. I was updated regularly on the status of the case.
I would highly recommend Mr. Fleming to anyone needing help with a divorce case.
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20 Oct, 2016 by Debbie
We were in the middle of a brutal and contentious lawsuit when our attorney suddenly became ill and could not represent us at the Court hearing. He referred us to Mr. Fuller, who got us in for a consultation right away. Mr. Fuller had a less than a week in which to prepare for the hearing, however, he came through for us with flying colors. We were very impressed and happy with his trial skills and knowledge. He was very thorough with researching legal references that bolstered our case.
Mr. Fuller is a gem of an attorney. I would recommend him to any of my friends or family.
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26 Feb, 2016 by Anonymous
Candice is a very talented attorney; having answers to all my questions and concerns. She provides much knowledge to the case and provided comfort to me as things did not always go as originally planned, that is to be expected, although the final outcome was positive. There were occasions that Candice tempered the emotions and allowed for a clear mind to be prepared for anything. I would trust Candice and her resources if anyone is seeking a recommendation.
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27 May, 2021 by Jennifer
Spoke with Dailey on a phone consultation and he was able to break down for me in more simpler terms what I was trying to understand in court.
He is knowledgeable and honest.
He answered promptly and I was provided free consult over the phone and he answered all of my questions.
Floyd Daily is highly recommended by myself.
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21 Dec, 2017 by Bradley
The boss excellent great guy respectful and mindful of his clients wouldn't look any other direction if he is in your area
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29 Aug, 2024 by Abby lynn
I had a phone conversation with an employee named Lea, and she was extremely informative and helpful! Every business needs to have a Lea!
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29 Aug, 2024 by Maddy desjardins
Very professional and knowledgeable team to work with!
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28 Aug, 2024 by Lydia summer
20 Sep, 2024 by Jason soule
David was very professional and did a fantastic job for me. Always had my best interests in mind. Would use again in a heartbeat. Highly recommend!
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19 Sep, 2024 by Anne chatterton-abbott
David was a great workman comp attorney. He was thorough and was very knowledgeable in my case. I received a settlement that was very agreeable and am very pleased with David Hunt and his team. I would recommend him highly for you if you need any help with a work injury. He will help you! Thanks David!
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06 Sep, 2024 by Ryan britton
I had to find a different lawyer due to my other one not responding to me. I reached out to David Hunt and he took my case right away. Any time I had a question he answered me and did everything he could to help me out. He is very honest and respectful. I will recommend David Hunt to whom ever needs a lawyer for workman's Comp case. Thank you David Hunt for everything you have done!
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29 Aug, 2024 by Abby lynn
I had a phone conversation with an employee named Lea, and she was extremely informative and helpful! Every business needs to have a Lea!
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29 Aug, 2024 by Maddy desjardins
Very professional and knowledgeable team to work with!
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28 Aug, 2024 by Lydia summer
27 Jun, 2024 by No name
Stay clear of her! Will take your money and run! We gave her 6000.00 up front (which she demanded) and she done absolutely nothing in 3 mos time. We had to fire her and end up paying another $10,000 to another attorney to get something done. She claimed she would refund part of it back to us; never did see it of course! Another lie!!! Her staff are puppets and lie for her as well. She shouldn’t be allowed to practice!!
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22 May, 2024 by Janice ellison
Never have I ever been treated better by a law firm. The office assistant Greg greeted me with empathy and professional precision. The lawyer Maureen Williams called back first thing the next morning and gave pertinent insight and a lot of hope.
Hands down the BEST representation I have EVER experienced.
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18 May, 2024 by Tim overturf
Ms. Williams is the best! She literally saved my career.Many thanks Maureen:) Definitely my go to if ever needed.
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4.6
9 Reviews
4.7
166 Reviews
01 Jul, 2024 by Anonymous
This lady has done everything she can to drag out a simple family case. Her goal is to screw good people out of seeing their kids. She is shady definitely stay clear.
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27 Jun, 2024 by No name
Stay clear of her! Will take your money and run! We gave her 6000.00 up front (which she demanded) and she done absolutely nothing in 3 mos time. We had to fire her and end up paying another $10,000 to another attorney to get something done. She claimed she would refund part of it back to us; never did see it of course! Another lie!!! Her staff are puppets and lie for her as well. She shouldn’t be allowed to practice!!
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22 May, 2024 by Janice ellison
Never have I ever been treated better by a law firm. The office assistant Greg greeted me with empathy and professional precision. The lawyer Maureen Williams called back first thing the next morning and gave pertinent insight and a lot of hope.
Hands down the BEST representation I have EVER experienced.
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10 Aug, 2024 by Eric judd ii
Amazing person and great lawyer
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09 May, 2024 by David-michael wallace
My insurance helped me resolve a business issue that aroused by hiring Blake Dunlap. Sir Dunlap was very vigilant, intelligent, and an excellent communicator throughout the whole process. I would recommend anyone in the greater Peoria area to utilize his great swath of experience and expertise.
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06 Apr, 2024 by Casey barger
It's ok
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27 Jun, 2024 by No name
Stay clear of her! Will take your money and run! We gave her 6000.00 up front (which she demanded) and she done absolutely nothing in 3 mos time. We had to fire her and end up paying another $10,000 to another attorney to get something done. She claimed she would refund part of it back to us; never did see it of course! Another lie!!! Her staff are puppets and lie for her as well. She shouldn’t be allowed to practice!!
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22 May, 2024 by Janice ellison
Never have I ever been treated better by a law firm. The office assistant Greg greeted me with empathy and professional precision. The lawyer Maureen Williams called back first thing the next morning and gave pertinent insight and a lot of hope.
Hands down the BEST representation I have EVER experienced.
Read more
18 May, 2024 by Tim overturf
Ms. Williams is the best! She literally saved my career.Many thanks Maureen:) Definitely my go to if ever needed.
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27 Jun, 2024 by No name
Stay clear of her! Will take your money and run! We gave her 6000.00 up front (which she demanded) and she done absolutely nothing in 3 mos time. We had to fire her and end up paying another $10,000 to another attorney to get something done. She claimed she would refund part of it back to us; never did see it of course! Another lie!!! Her staff are puppets and lie for her as well. She shouldn’t be allowed to practice!!
Read more
22 May, 2024 by Janice ellison
Never have I ever been treated better by a law firm. The office assistant Greg greeted me with empathy and professional precision. The lawyer Maureen Williams called back first thing the next morning and gave pertinent insight and a lot of hope.
Hands down the BEST representation I have EVER experienced.
Read more
18 May, 2024 by Tim overturf
Ms. Williams is the best! She literally saved my career.Many thanks Maureen:) Definitely my go to if ever needed.
Read more
10 Aug, 2024 by Eric judd ii
Amazing person and great lawyer
Read more
09 May, 2024 by David-michael wallace
My insurance helped me resolve a business issue that aroused by hiring Blake Dunlap. Sir Dunlap was very vigilant, intelligent, and an excellent communicator throughout the whole process. I would recommend anyone in the greater Peoria area to utilize his great swath of experience and expertise.
Read more
06 Apr, 2024 by Casey barger
It's ok
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10 Aug, 2024 by Eric judd ii
Amazing person and great lawyer
Read more
09 May, 2024 by David-michael wallace
My insurance helped me resolve a business issue that aroused by hiring Blake Dunlap. Sir Dunlap was very vigilant, intelligent, and an excellent communicator throughout the whole process. I would recommend anyone in the greater Peoria area to utilize his great swath of experience and expertise.
Read more
06 Apr, 2024 by Casey barger
It's ok
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23 Aug, 2024 by Josh havens
I found myself in deep trouble, and as I was looking for a attorney patiently waiting to talk to one, I sat patiently in his waiting room way past appointment time I started reading magazines and just outta the blue Rob shows up on the page I flipped to super lawyer it said, And he is fairly local, I text him and before I got to my appointment he responded I went to my Appointment and wasn’t sold on what I heard and Rob calls and man this guy is high energy took the fear from everything going on responds immediately when you have a question tells you the facts I just simply felt divine intervention took place in this and low and behold I love this guy I’m super thankful I found him and he kept me outta trouble and I’m free able to work provide for my family and I can’t say enough about Rob his staff is so polite and helpful you want the best this is your guy!! And I sincerely mean it!
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24 Jul, 2024 by Robert tumminaro
I have known attorneys Rob Hanauer and Dan Hanuska for many years. Rob is tenacious and determined to accomplish any goal set in front of him. Dan is a meticulous researcher and leaves no stone unturned. Excellent firm for results!
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02 Jul, 2024 by Charles smith
The positive impact that Rob Hanauer and his team have had on my life cannot be overstated. My family and I will forever be grateful for his legal services.
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Family Law Lawyer Can Do for You
A family law lawyer provides legal services related to family relationships, including marriage, divorce, child custody, and adoption. Family lawyers help clients navigate emotionally charged legal issues, providing guidance and representation in disputes that affect spouses, children, and parents. Whether you're going through a divorce, seeking custody of your children, or drafting a prenuptial agreement, a family law lawyer ensures your rights are protected and your interests are represented.
Family law attorneys often handle sensitive matters and offer objective legal advice, helping clients reach fair outcomes either through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.
When Should I Hire a Family Law Lawyer?
Hiring a family law lawyer is beneficial in several situations, especially when legal matters involve close personal relationships. Common reasons to hire a family law lawyer include:
- Divorce or separation: When ending a marriage, a lawyer can help you navigate issues such as division of assets, spousal support, and child custody arrangements.
- Child custody and visitation disputes: If you and your co-parent can't agree on custody or visitation, a lawyer can represent your interests and work toward a solution that benefits your children.
- Child support: Whether you’re seeking child support or defending against a claim, a lawyer can help ensure the appropriate amount is calculated and enforced.
- Prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: A lawyer can help draft or review agreements that protect your assets in case of divorce.
- Adoption: Family law lawyers guide you through the legal process of adoption, ensuring that all requirements are met.
- Domestic violence or restraining orders: If you're a victim of domestic violence or being falsely accused, a lawyer can help you obtain or challenge protective orders.
- Paternity cases: If there are questions about the paternity of a child, a lawyer can help establish or dispute legal fatherhood.
Hiring a lawyer early can prevent issues from escalating, and they can offer you the best chance of achieving a favorable outcome in emotionally charged situations.
What Does a Family Law Lawyer Do?
A family law lawyer provides a wide range of services depending on your specific legal needs. Their responsibilities may include:
- Advising on legal rights and options: Helping you understand your legal rights regarding divorce, child custody, support, and other family law issues.
- Filing legal documents: Drafting and filing petitions, motions, and agreements with the court, such as divorce papers, custody agreements, or support orders.
- Representing clients in court: Arguing your case in front of a judge if a settlement can’t be reached through negotiation or mediation.
- Mediation and negotiation: Assisting with alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, to reach agreements on issues like custody, property division, and support without going to trial.
- Enforcing court orders: Helping you enforce court orders related to child support, alimony, or custody if the other party fails to comply.
- Drafting prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: Creating agreements that protect your assets in the event of a divorce.
- Handling adoption proceedings: Ensuring that the legal process of adoption is followed, from filing paperwork to finalizing the adoption in court.
How Are Family Law Lawyers Paid?
Family law lawyers typically charge clients in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Common payment arrangements include:
- Hourly rates: Most family lawyers charge by the hour, with rates varying based on experience and location. Clients are billed for the time spent working on their case, including consultations, court appearances, and document preparation.
- Flat fees: For more straightforward legal services, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, some lawyers offer flat-fee arrangements.
- Retainer fees: In cases that are expected to require significant time and attention, such as contentious custody battles, a lawyer may charge a retainer, which is an upfront payment that covers the initial costs of legal services. The lawyer then bills against the retainer as they work on your case.
The exact cost will depend on the complexity of your case and the lawyer’s fee structure, which should be discussed upfront.
How Much Does a Family Law Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a family law lawyer varies based on factors such as the lawyer's experience, the location, and the complexity of your case. Here are some general cost guidelines:
- Hourly rates: Family law lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour, depending on their experience and the complexity of the case.
- Flat fees: For simpler cases, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, fees may range from $1,000 to $5,000.
- Retainers: For more complex matters, such as contested divorces or custody battles, lawyers may charge a retainer ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 or more. The lawyer will bill against the retainer for the work they do on your case.
- Additional costs: You may also be responsible for additional costs, such as filing fees, mediation fees, or expert witness fees.
Always ask for a clear breakdown of the lawyer’s fees and any additional expenses during your consultation.
Top Questions to Ask a Family Law Lawyer
Before hiring a family law lawyer, it's important to ask questions to ensure they're the right fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:
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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.
