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05 Mar, 2023 by Martha
Dedra is excellent at her job. She helped me handle a case from another state really worked with me and my busy schedule. I'd give her more than five stars if I could. Highly recommended by me.
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07 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
This is my third encounter with an attorney over two different issues in the last 4 years. Deb is what I had expected! Old School, really wants to do the right thing instead of the old 'churn-and-burn' retainer methodology. I will be sending everyone I know to Deb and will absolutely user her in the future. If you are a Marvel fan, think 'Daredevil' attorney!
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14 Aug, 2021 by Ebony
Such an amazing person and an even better attorney! Did an awesome job handling my case…very proactive and diligent! She showed up for me and made sure she secured the best judgment on my behalf!
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17 Oct, 2024 by Ray schroeder
They didn't respond to my e-mails so I caught them with a chat line. Dude told me to call them by phone, they didn't answer that either! Every illegal action in my case is documented, making it impossible to deny. Theory says itsa slam dunk ofa case!
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08 Sep, 2024 by Carolina torres
08 Sep, 2024 by Johannes reimann
Very nice people and helpful
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14 Aug, 2024 by Qualitydoodlesaz
14 Aug, 2024 by Tiffani vanderpool
The best legal team in az! The are understanding a see through the games! The best in the court room!
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14 Aug, 2024 by Shaggy chic
If you are having a difficult divorce or custody issues this is the team for you. Criag and Leslie will fight for you and your rights! I would say they are a great fathers rights team!
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21 Aug, 2024 by J p
I am in a difficult situation with an employer i have been employed by for almost 2 decades. They were awesome until l recently had more health issues and tried at every opportunity to punish me for it even in violation of the law. Chris really helped me understand my options. Knowing my rights and his understanding of the law has helped ease some of the stress from disability discrimination and a hostile work environment. Thank you Chris.
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08 May, 2024 by Karen j nechville
15 Apr, 2024 by Aj martinez
I was feeling lost in a Pro-Se case regarding Discrimination and one hour of consultation gave me great tips to continue pursuing my case.
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17 Oct, 2024 by Ray schroeder
They didn't respond to my e-mails so I caught them with a chat line. Dude told me to call them by phone, they didn't answer that either! Every illegal action in my case is documented, making it impossible to deny. Theory says itsa slam dunk ofa case!
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08 Sep, 2024 by Carolina torres
08 Sep, 2024 by Johannes reimann
Very nice people and helpful
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17 Oct, 2024 by Ray schroeder
They didn't respond to my e-mails so I caught them with a chat line. Dude told me to call them by phone, they didn't answer that either! Every illegal action in my case is documented, making it impossible to deny. Theory says itsa slam dunk ofa case!
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08 Sep, 2024 by Carolina torres
08 Sep, 2024 by Johannes reimann
Very nice people and helpful
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5.0
5 Reviews
4.3
40 Reviews
04 Oct, 2024 by Adam kleyweg
ok lawyers but bill for every second and reviews and revisions are endless billing.
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15 Jul, 2024 by Marylou munoz
Called to ask some questions, got through one question and when I went to ask another the receptionist cut me off repeatedly and just kept saying we don’t do that . Even though I hadn’t even explained what I was asking and she assumed I was still referring to the first question I had asked. So rude.
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30 May, 2024 by John.tauni koch
Andy Rahtz gave me a thorough and free first consultation regarding family law.
His team including Lisa La Bianca and associate attorney Abelardo Rodriguez took great care with my case.
I am out of state but their thorough communication and quick response times made this a non-issue.
I felt somewhat intimidated before consulting with them but they gave me the courage to move forward and handle a delicate family matter.
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16 Oct, 2023 by Derek alsip
I was in the worst kind of trouble possible. My very best friend and I are both veterans. I served in the Marines and he was an Army Ranger. My friend asked me to hand him his gun which we both believed was not loaded. After I handed it to him it went off and killed him unexpectedly. I was in shock and did my best to recount the incident with the police. The State placed undue additional burdens on me in relation to the incident based upon my military background and charged me with manslaughter. If you find yourself in legal trouble, the best decision you can make is to hire Bruce Blumberg. Bruce is a fantastic attorney and expert in trial. He handles all aspects of your case so you can relax with no need to micromanage. You will feel like family with him representing you, he truly cares about his clients. I can attest to his abilities. He utilized experts to explore every avenue for my case and he did not feel in good conscious that I could take a plea based upon the facts of the incident and evidence so we went to trial. He won an acquittal on my manslaughter case. There’s nobody I trust more in court than Bruce Blumberg. Please hire Bruce if you find yourself needing an expert attorney, you will not be disappointed.
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11 May, 2023 by Jared robberts
Bruce Is by far the most HONEST and helpful Attorney I have ever met! He is knowledgeable and treats you like family! He works timely and always gets back in no time at all! Hands down 5 star Attorney!
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22 Apr, 2023 by Gabriela costea
24 Aug, 2024 by Chuck kenney
Mr Peña - ultra professional, helped me with my BK in 2016. His law firm is ideal for individuals and small business owners. I recommend him and his firm. Totally professional, friendly and skilled at very cumbersome and unaware people in major debt and despair. Thumbs up completely!
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13 Jun, 2024 by Curtis etsitty (rezdevil)
George Pena was excellent to deal with.
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26 Feb, 2024 by Jerry munoz
George is a solid, knowledgeable and reliable representation of an attorney that I'm blessed to have. Highly Recommend!
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02 Mar, 2024 by Eagles armstrong
Tom Leavell is a very good lawyer. We were very satisfied with his work and we recommend him very highly.
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07 Jul, 2023 by Oscar rodriguez
Mr Tom Leavell, a outstanding lawyer great listener, nice professional very intelligent and would do anything in his power to represent you. His competitors were grieving in my case shows you this Lawyer is capable of many things. Some may disagree but in my eyes I've seen what he could do. Thank you Mr Tom.
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12 May, 2023 by Donald salaam
Great people
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07 Feb, 2020 by Ruth
Mr Jim Viles is an INCREDIBLE attorney & represents his clients very precisely in his dealings through the judicial system. He is as honest as they come & speaks that with and for his clients as he represents them. He lives the GOLDEN RULE and as long as you are honest with him he will go out of his way to move heaven and earth to see that justice prevails. He is a feverish protector of children and his passion shows just that. Wouldn't even think of going to someone else because we KNOW how darn good he is . His legal assistant Marilyn is just as thorough & we just couldn't say enough good about them ...hands down THE BEST !!!!
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28 Aug, 2019 by Denny
I had used Mr Viles’ services in weathering two cycles of divorce actions with a now ex-spouse. I found it easy to develop a good, open rapport with Mr Viles. He provided calm, objective perspectives for highly emotional situations, which helped me to reconsider my viewpoints, learning a few things in the process. His focus was on doing the right thing to reach reasonable and equitable accommodations, but at the same time, not to agree with unreasonable demands the from opposing parties. He is quite knowledgeable on the different aspects of going through a divorce, and if not, he finds the appropriate resource to confirm or re-assure his position and perspective. He kept me informed of where things were at all times, which I very much appreciated. You do have to listen to your attorney though. Mr Viles provided good advice in handling certain situations with my ex-spouse that I ignored and subsequently suffered the consequences. In the end, we ended up with what I wanted all along. I was quite satisfied with his services and highly recommend Mr Viles.
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20 Aug, 2019 by Seth
Jim was very helpful in my divorce. He took the time to explain all of the nuances in my case and helped me though a tough time. I would highly recommend Jim and his staff!
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06 Apr, 2021 by Bruce
I recently went through a divorce and had Michael and his team represent me. Obviously, divorces are not fun, however, Michael helped me through the entire process and thoroughly explained things to me along the way. If you think you can represent yourself...DON'T. Michael was worth every penny !!! He was thorough, knowledgeable, and truly cared about my best interests. I highly recommend Michael and his team.
Thank you Michael !
I truly appreciate you and all that you did for me.
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09 Apr, 2020 by Katrina
I just got off a 30 Minute phone consult with Michael Shew and I am so incredibly impressed. Michael was professional, he listened to me and eventually advised me not to retain him but gave me some tips and pointers. Michael is ethical and that means the world. I hope that I will be able to work things out with his guidance but if I can't, I will certainly be coming back to retain Michael.
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30 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
Mike is an amazing attorney and fights for his clients rights as well as child/children that are involved in the case. He keeps you informed as well as explains things when you don't understand legal terminology. Mike has not only represented me but my family and I have referred him MANY times to other people and all have been more than happy with him. I you are looking for an attorney that will fight for you and is fair and will lead you in the right direction he is your man. I am a single mother and he was willing to work with me on his fees. He is companionate, fair, and will not lead you wrong.
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13 Feb, 2017 by Jay
Did a great job at trial. Used him for post trial work
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02 Jun, 2015 by Theresa
Harvey Brown has been my attorney for over 25 years, his knowledge in family law is valuable, his professiolsm is his top priority, Harvey advocates for those who can't, and Harvey always puts his client's at ease when things are so confusing and overwhelming.Thank you Harvey for you doing what you do best, taking care of us :)
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18 Oct, 2014 by Melinda
Over the years I have hired Harvey several times to help me with any child support or custody issues I was having. His wisdom and experience have always yielded exceptional results. He is caring and reasonable with an exceptional office staff. I have recommended Harvey's services to several people, all of them have had favorable outcomes. Harvey is an admirable person and he has always had my back.
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08 May, 2024 by Emily wilson
Our attorney Jason, was efficient and communicative throughout our suit. He fought for the best possible outcome we could receive. Ashley was also quick to provide information and helpful throughout as well. I am glad to have Weiler Law represent us. Highly recommend.
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30 Apr, 2024 by Shanay evans
If I could give more than 5 stars, I would. I went through something very hurtful and felt unheard. Everything unfolded just in the knick of time. I want to commmed Kelsey for fighting for the 'little guy' and for empathy for something she's never been through. She showed patience, professionalism, and compassion for the maltreatment I experienced. I am grateful for her knowledge, legwork, and expertise.
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09 Apr, 2024 by One4themny
After being let go from my job and receiving a low severance offer, I decided to contact Weiler Law. I was promptly contacted and Kelsey was assigned to my case. She took the time to go over every detail on the agreement and made sure to answer any and all questions I had. After discussing my options, I decided to move forward and have her represent me against my former employer. She kept me updated as soon as developments came in and the negotiation was successful! Thank you so much for your help, I highly recommend!
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03 Jun, 2024 by Ronald schreier
I have used the services of Rich Peters and his colleagues for approximately 18 years. He has (1) secured my legal separation and 18 years later the dissolution of the marriage; (2) successfully defended my stepdaughter in a child custody dispute; and (3) set up a legal guardianship for our granddaughter. In all of these cases, he delivered the results that I expected with professionalism and care. He is a good communicator who gave sound legal advice and explanations of what to expect in the execution of these cases. I hope I do not need any future family-related legal services, but if I do, I know who to contact.
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14 Nov, 2023 by Erica luhrs
you still have yet to return my emails - i guess that means you are guilty of being awful lawyers
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07 Nov, 2023 by Erica luhrs
rich peters and his team never fought for me or my family - in fact they were supposed to register a family court order in arizona and never did but still kept collecting my money while arizona NEVER had jurisdiction- a couple of attorneys failed to keep my family safe but the last one Sophia realllllly messed up by not adequately protecting my address from my abuser and stalker - an address that was never meant to be handed over to him - she allowed the judge to mistreat me and did not represent me at all. i even told her things were not being handled properly and she assured me she could do better - she did not. Rich peters has ignored my emails for MONTHS now but still has no problem demanding payment - a payment i will never send - i believe i am owed my money back in FULL - now that you are back in the country mr peters i do expect a reply
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20 Aug, 2024 by Christian garcia
14 Aug, 2024 by Shereda velasquez
06 Aug, 2024 by Karla chacon
20 Aug, 2024 by Christian garcia
14 Aug, 2024 by Shereda velasquez
06 Aug, 2024 by Karla chacon
20 Aug, 2024 by Christian garcia
14 Aug, 2024 by Shereda velasquez
06 Aug, 2024 by Karla chacon
07 Nov, 2023 by Connor mcbride
I called today looking to schedule a consultation but the gal on the other end of the phone told me "that isn't how it works" so I asked to please tell me how the process went... to which she hung up on me. I tried to call back twice and she picked up and hung up the line without saying anything .
0/10 For class and professionalism.
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14 Dec, 2022 by Lashun 9274
08 Aug, 2022 by John abt
05 Dec, 2023 by Talinna
Mr Gallagher has been professional on all levels of interaction with him. He is personal, he gets to know you as a person. And he helps you in any way he can help you. I highly recommend him. He is currently my lawyer and I could not have gotten a better one.
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28 Sep, 2021 by Porsche
How I happened upon Mr. Gallagher, I couldn't tell you, yet I thank God I did. He made me feel as though I truly mattered and he would be right there with me the whole way, and he was! Even when he was presented with an issue, he reassured me that he would not let up and he didn't. He went above and beyond, resulting in an outcome exceeding expectations. I am truly grateful for the time and effort that he put into my case. Even taking the time to call me from his home the moment he received an anxious and worried message from me. That in itself shows his dedication. Thank you Brenden for everything!
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17 Oct, 2019 by Kelli
I justWant to take the time out to thank Brendan and his staff! If your looking for a lawyer to get the job done I would recommend calling Brendan Gallagher. He took care off everything within a timely manner andI rarely had to talk to him. Him and his staff are very professional and prompt. Never had any problems with communication or anything else.
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22 May, 2024 by Sukminutz
Word has it that Blehm, a card carrying NAMBLA member is on the verge of being suspended and disbarred, for being a lying scum bag. So much fun watching D-bags like Blehm, who has as much as said he’s above the law, fall flat on his clown nose.
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07 Apr, 2021 by Bryce
Bryan Blehm at Blehm law is awesome, professional, compassionate, considerate and is a powerhouse attorney. Bryan represented my family in a vehicle accident case and got us everything we could’ve expected and more! Thank you Bryan Blehm of Blehm Law Pllc you are a professional and I hope to see you representing the people of Phoenix for many years to come!
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21 Jul, 2020 by Kevin c
At the time of hiring Bryan in 2016 I didn't realize how important it was to have a lawyer that didn't over react and would help you reason. It was my first time in a court room and since my case was a divorce with children involved it was of course very emotional. Especially since the custody of the children was in question. Through the entire situation Bryan always made good middle ground recommendations. Informing me that it was in our best interest to shoot for middle ground even though my ex wasn't being reasonable. As the custody battle played out this was a key part of helping the Judge realize we were trying to be reasonable where as the other party wasn't. This made a huge impression on the Judge and the final decision. This wise influence was priceless. I would think all law professionals would behave in reason but seeing the other lawyers in action this was simply not the case. Bryan was very good at keeping expectations realistic and not over pursing unnecessary litigation. I am very pleased with the outcome of my case and couldn't have asked for any more.
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07 Aug, 2021 by Anonymous
He charged a fortune and did nothing more than get me 50% of the assets. However, through fancy legal jumbo jumbo, he tried to disguise it to make me think I got more than that. Save your money. Arizona is a community property state. If your case goes to court, the most any judge will award you is 50% because that’s the law. Don’t let a shyster like Sternberg charge you more to get what you would’ve got anyway. He deserves zero stars.
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17 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr. Sternberg creatively and professionally aided me in my divorce. Calls were returned promptly by his paralegal if he was otherwise occupied in court proceedings. We ultimately used an extremely adept negotiator to more quickly and economically resolve our issues, much to my satisfaction. This pre-empted long, expensive, and acrimonious court proceedings. He was kind, a good listener, and a creative problem-solver, given his extensive financial background and training. A great combination in a divorce attorney!!
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04 Feb, 2016 by Kathy
Sadly, my marriage of 28 years ended in divorce. My lawyer, Melvin Sternberg, successfully guided me through the legal process. When I was overcome with emotions, he was able to keep me on track leading to a successful settlement. His staff was exceptional and I could call at any time with a question. Mr. Sternberg is well known and respected by the judges and arbitrators which was a benefit to my case allowing for fewer court appearances. He excels in the courtroom, with a concise plan that he is not distracted from.
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23 Mar, 2019 by Quinne
I couldn't have picked a better attorney to represent me! I hadn't needed to hire an attorney before and Londa has been up front from the get go, very supportive and always makes sure I'm up to speed with what's happening. Londa is very easy to communicate with, very detailed and always makes sure I have realistic expectations every step of the way. I'm so happy I found her and would highly recommend her!!
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24 Jun, 2017 by Jean
This was my first time using legal services. Going through a divorce is emotionally wrenching. Londa was compassionate, empathetic, patient, knowledgeable and gave me excellent direction and advice. Londa responded back quickly to my emails or calls. She made me feel as if I was a very important client and yet I was really small potatoes. thank you for making a horrible situation tolerable.
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28 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
The title says it all... Londa is simply amazing. I first came to her 2 1/2 years ago and she has become more of a friend than an attorney. She answered all of my questions and told me all of my options. She didn't sugar coat anything- she was very upfront and honest with me. There was domestic violence history in my case and she did everything possible to make sure that my child was protected. She communicated with me throughout the whole process and was always available when I needed her. She is a very thorough, honest, and knowledgeable attorney. She was so good that my daughter's father had three different attorneys through the whole case. He kept firing his attorneys because none of them could compete with her. She is an absolute bulldog (in a good way). Well worth every penny! I would recommend her to anyone. I really can't say enough good things about her.
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25 Jun, 2015 by Sol
Taubman & Associates is by far the most professional law firm I've ever dealt with. From the time of the initial consultation and throughout the entire process Marc, Lon, and their staff were extremely competent. They explained everything along the way in very easy to understand terms, which gave me the utmost confidence and trust in them. Their expertise and over 40 years of experience as a family law firm are second to none in the valley. I would not hesitate to recommend them to family and friends, which I've already done so on many occasions!
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18 Mar, 2013 by Anonymous
If you need an aggressive, assertive attorney, Lon is not the one for you. If your case is not complicated and need a nice lawyer to hold your hand, he is perfectly fine.
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15 Aug, 2012 by Anonymous
I have been working with Lon for the last two years on a complicated family law case. He has extensive experience and has worked to put us at ease every step of the way. I highly recommend him if you want someone that knows the law and has diverse experience with different types of cases. He is well respected in the industry and is honest, direct, and empathetic.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Christian garcia
14 Aug, 2024 by Shereda velasquez
06 Aug, 2024 by Karla chacon
20 Aug, 2024 by Christian garcia
14 Aug, 2024 by Shereda velasquez
06 Aug, 2024 by Karla chacon
05 Aug, 2024 by Raul moreno
Great place friendly staff and they will go all out for you!
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12 Oct, 2023 by Crystal allen
Working with Joel and his team has been such a great experience. During such a difficult time, Joel was there to support me and make sure I understood my rights. From beginning to end Joel and his team communicated and treated my case with respect. I would highly recommend Joel and his firm to represent someone who is looking for a dedicated attorney who really knows his stuff! Thank you Joel and Ronda!
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17 Sep, 2023 by Krissy isenberg
25 Jun, 2024 by Miss jordan
Seems like a reputable law firm with good reviews, however the staff hired is a direct reflection of the company, and their current front desk receptionist Kayla Bates came to my place over the weekend in my parking lot smoking weed and threatening to fight me and asking me if I want to come downstairs and get beat up over a man. A woman she knows is pregnant. What type of professionalism is that? I called and spoke to the executive team Holly and Tammy and was assured they would address the issue with said staff.
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08 May, 2024 by Karen j nechville
03 May, 2024 by Michael navarro
Very helpful I'm so great full for all there help!
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05 Aug, 2024 by Raul moreno
Great place friendly staff and they will go all out for you!
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12 Oct, 2023 by Crystal allen
Working with Joel and his team has been such a great experience. During such a difficult time, Joel was there to support me and make sure I understood my rights. From beginning to end Joel and his team communicated and treated my case with respect. I would highly recommend Joel and his firm to represent someone who is looking for a dedicated attorney who really knows his stuff! Thank you Joel and Ronda!
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17 Sep, 2023 by Krissy isenberg
10 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
I spoke to Angela and Tabetha today for the first time. After our conversation, they put my mind at ease. I was told about Angela 2 years ago and was hesitant to retain her because of my finances. After going with another attorney and not getting the outcome, I decided to reach out to her. She and her team made excellent points that my attorney failed to address. She is honest and will fight for you and, most importantly, the best interest of your children.
Rosine
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05 Nov, 2018 by Ja'net oitzinger
Angie helped my daughter through a very stressful divorce.
She and her team were AMAZING. She is super sharp and strong-
gets right down to it; however, they were so comforting and empathetic! There aren't enough stars or accolades to describe how much I respect her/team. It removed a lot of stress for me, as a mother, knowing my daughter was in such experienced and capable hands.
She truly is the BEST! **********++
Do yourself a favor and go to Angie!
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15 Jun, 2017 by Mary
WOW Angie has a unique focus to keep you in the POSITIVE light. Her goal is to help you and your loved ones head off into your next best lives. She realizes that we maybe cannot always live with each other for an eternity, but we can acknowledge that reality and move on.
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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.
