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10 Sep, 2024 by Sarah shakeel
Worst law practitioner ever. Their assistant. Tania Rodriguez is very unprofessional and very rude. She doesn't even listen to what is being told and nod without listening to you. She also interrupts you and asks you to leave premises if you wanna talk to your attorney. They don't even provide a room to talk privately. Never going there again. Not recommended at all!
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04 Nov, 2022 by J colombo (jc)
07 Jul, 2022 by Isabel
10 Dec, 2022 by Angela santiago
Mr. Chavez proved to be a knowledgeable, as well as compassionate attorney. He was able to provide me with insight as well as confidence regarding my divorce. With the help of Mr. Chavez and his team, I was able to finalize my divorce in a timely manner. Thank you, Chavez and associates!!
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10 Dec, 2022 by Ben graves bambam
I would highly recommend Daniel Chavez to anyone in need of a lawyer. Represented me to my upmost satisfaction and was able to work the best outcome of a situation. Really felt the attention to detail as he went above and beyond to make sure he had all details when representing my case.
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10 Dec, 2022 by Coby caraway
Daniel is a great attorney! He has helped me multiple times with various situations. From my divorce to custody of my kids. Thank you sir!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Valerie vasquez
Mr.Peveto was very helpful with my case and even helped me with a related job issue! He was very polite and was prompt to respond via text.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Shirley howard
I am not happy with the result of the work he did for me.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Derrick johnson
Peveto Law have represented me on more than one occasion and I am more than satisfied with the work that they have done for me. He will us all avenues to make your case as Fair as possible.
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3.6
17 Reviews
4.3
236 Reviews
23 Sep, 2024 by Kathy rogers
I can’t say enough good things about Bill Bronson and the help he provided us. Although everybody’s case is different, from our initial meeting and throughout the entire process he answered every question and helped guide us through each and every phase of what everyone would agree is the unpleasant situation of owing back taxes. He always responded quickly to any concerns we had and really helped with keeping our minds at ease. Because we put our trust in Bill, we are now in a much better place and have finally been able to stop worrying about the “what ifs”. He is definitely on my list of favorite people! If you need any help with an IRS tax problem, don’t hesitate to give Bill a call.
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16 Sep, 2024 by Muhammad umar
💯 recommend
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16 Sep, 2024 by Muhammad razzaq aslam
💯 recommend
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23 Sep, 2024 by Kathy rogers
I can’t say enough good things about Bill Bronson and the help he provided us. Although everybody’s case is different, from our initial meeting and throughout the entire process he answered every question and helped guide us through each and every phase of what everyone would agree is the unpleasant situation of owing back taxes. He always responded quickly to any concerns we had and really helped with keeping our minds at ease. Because we put our trust in Bill, we are now in a much better place and have finally been able to stop worrying about the “what ifs”. He is definitely on my list of favorite people! If you need any help with an IRS tax problem, don’t hesitate to give Bill a call.
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16 Sep, 2024 by Muhammad umar
💯 recommend
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16 Sep, 2024 by Muhammad razzaq aslam
💯 recommend
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24 Sep, 2024 by Jason
I cannot express how grateful I am to have had Attorney Carl Cedar defend me in my DUI case. After initially hiring another attorney who seemed eager to plea out without fully understanding the details, I made the best decision to switch to Carl. From the very beginning, he took the time to thoroughly review my case and was able to identify crucial facts that proved my innocence—details that had been completely overlooked by my previous attorney.
Carl’s professionalism and dedication were apparent throughout the entire process. He worked tirelessly, leaving no stone unturned, and it was clear that he genuinely cared about achieving the best outcome for me. His deep knowledge of the law and attention to detail made all the difference, and thanks to his hard work, I was proven innocent.
I highly recommend Carl Cedar to anyone seeking a defense attorney who will go above and beyond. His expertise, commitment, and persistence were invaluable, and I am forever thankful for his outstanding representation!
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12 Sep, 2024 by John beaty
I had an on going legal issue and the team at Shapiro Law Firm, especially Peter Ganyard was able not only help me through the issue but provide a great and better outcome than I would have expected. Peter worked diligently to make sure I was taken care both at the time of my legal issue and again a year later when I needed follow up to even better off the previous result. Highly recommend Peter and the rest of the team at The Shapiro Law Firm.
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07 Aug, 2024 by Curtis
Great service of and attention to your needs. I would recommend this firm to anyone.
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12 Sep, 2024 by John beaty
I had an on going legal issue and the team at Shapiro Law Firm, especially Peter Ganyard was able not only help me through the issue but provide a great and better outcome than I would have expected. Peter worked diligently to make sure I was taken care both at the time of my legal issue and again a year later when I needed follow up to even better off the previous result. Highly recommend Peter and the rest of the team at The Shapiro Law Firm.
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07 Aug, 2024 by Curtis
Great service of and attention to your needs. I would recommend this firm to anyone.
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06 Aug, 2024 by Sebastian de salas
I had the pleasure of working with Peter Ganyard, and I couldn't be more grateful for his help. He assisted me in reducing a significant legal issue to a deferred probation, allowing me to continue my life as normal. Peter was incredibly attentive, always taking the time to understand my situation and work towards the best possible outcome. It's clear that he truly cares about his clients and their futures. If you need a dedicated and compassionate lawyer, I highly recommend Peter Ganyard at Shapiro Law Firm.
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14 May, 2023 by Dave
My experience with Mr. Boyd’s law firm has been nothing short of exceptional. Jon’s knowledge of Texas law and years of experience dealing with child custody, make him an invaluable resource for any parent. From our first consultation, through several interactions, and until the complete settlement; Jon and his staff provided timely correspondence, and insightful advice on the laws and statutes pertaining to child custody, helping me navigate Texas legal system. This is a testament to Jon’s character, who truly cares about his clients and their future well-being. I would strongly recommend Jon law firm to anyone who needs help in Texas. This is a top-notch firm.
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14 Dec, 2022 by Anonymous
MR BOYD Failed to file the proper documents to the Court resulting in a hearing that went totally south in favor of the abusive mother et.al. Delayed submitting damaging evidence to the Court. Asked me on multiple occasions. "HOW MUCH MONEY DO YOU HAVE TO SPEND ON THIS CASE". Thats quite the loaded question. He filed an intervention (without affidavit mind you) sent a stranger ANOTHER ATTORNEY FROM HIS FIRM WHOM we never HAD ANY CONTACT WITH EVER to the hearing who briefed me on my intervention for 10 minutes immediately before the hearing\- yet he wasn't even aware that my intervention wouldn't be heard because Mr. Boyd failed to submit an affidavit with the petition. Mr. Boyd later after the hearing said to me "oh I knew OPC was going to oppose ". Really?? than how was the attorney you sent to the hearing to represent us under the impression that my intervention would be heard....since, he briefed me on the intervention! It seems reasonable and fair to believe that the attorney (we never met or spoke with) assumed the affidavit was filed with the Court - otherwise why would he be briefing me on the intervention 10 minutes before the hearing? OR MR. BOYD JUST SENT A MAN IN A SUIT TO SHOW UP AT the HEARING!!! MR. BOYD WAS BUSY DOING OTHER THINGS. I am yet to receive Mr. Boyd's legal opinion citing the Texas Law that would even consider an 'intervention'. At this point, I have requested this several times, he does not reply. My conclusion....there is no legal merit.
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27 Oct, 2020 by Nathan
I was overly impressed with Mr. Boyd. He listened to me and took the time to explain everything in detail. In the end he got me everything I asked for he is highly recommended.
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12 Sep, 2024 by John beaty
I had an on going legal issue and the team at Shapiro Law Firm, especially Peter Ganyard was able not only help me through the issue but provide a great and better outcome than I would have expected. Peter worked diligently to make sure I was taken care both at the time of my legal issue and again a year later when I needed follow up to even better off the previous result. Highly recommend Peter and the rest of the team at The Shapiro Law Firm.
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07 Aug, 2024 by Curtis
Great service of and attention to your needs. I would recommend this firm to anyone.
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06 Aug, 2024 by Sebastian de salas
I had the pleasure of working with Peter Ganyard, and I couldn't be more grateful for his help. He assisted me in reducing a significant legal issue to a deferred probation, allowing me to continue my life as normal. Peter was incredibly attentive, always taking the time to understand my situation and work towards the best possible outcome. It's clear that he truly cares about his clients and their futures. If you need a dedicated and compassionate lawyer, I highly recommend Peter Ganyard at Shapiro Law Firm.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Vitu vidogo
Please! Pleaseeee look elsewhere…it would greatly behoove you to do so with the number of problems you will encounter with these scammers.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Joseph paylor
I would like to thank Justin for what he did for me in my DWI case . He was able to to get my case reduced to a non alcohol charge . I am a truck driver so for me it was a life saver. Justin is an up standing lawyer and a great guy. He is a very knowledgeable about the Law. I highly recommend him to anyone that needs help. I would also like to say his staff are always there to respond to any questions you have . Thank you again Justin.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Tyronne pac
I would hire this lawyer anyday he knows exactly how families are and have difficulty in life but sticks together!I love all the information on this website it really helped me feel better about my pending case🥰🥰🥰💯❤️
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28 Mar, 2024 by Vitu vidogo
Please! Pleaseeee look elsewhere…it would greatly behoove you to do so with the number of problems you will encounter with these scammers.
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27 Jan, 2024 by Devenn massey
Wouldn’t recommend if my life depended on it. Completely unprofessional, incredible lack of communication, not punctual, bare minimum effort. All they have managed to do is make a difficult time even worse. I’ve been trying to get in contact with my own lawyer for about a month now regarding an early release from probation hearing. I have called 5+ times and emailed another 5+ and all I can get in contact with is a receptionist. I guess I’m just not important to them. (Probably higher paying clients they value more) Please, whatever you do go with someone else. There’s plenty of other lawyers way more qualified and have been doing it for longer.
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14 Aug, 2023 by Destiny soto
I can never get through to anyone in office. I only want to know if they got everything they needed from me to get this divorce finalized. What could have been quick an easy as i signed everything not even a full 10 days later, has turned into a 4 going on 5 month ordeal. Ive left atleast 10 messages asking for a call back.
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31 Oct, 2024 by M marini
What a great experience! Mr. Coleton Guidry was incredibly helpful, his guidance in our 30 min session was professional, on point, and informative. Mr. Guidry's courtesy, understanding and sympathy to my concerns were amazing. I definitely recommended. Thank you again Mr. Guidry.
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28 Oct, 2024 by Alex montes
Jose and Jerry are the best. Highly recommended.
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26 Oct, 2024 by Terry shields
Initially before representation, the reviews about Mr. Tidwell were very encouraging, but eventually after I hired him, his work was questionable. When I sent him certified paperwork multiple times it was damaged because of the staples so I ended up bringing copies with me from out of state, also in the process of the case he informed me the protective order was dismissed until further notice so when I attempted to visit my daughter at her school I was arrested for violating the protection order, further complicating the matter with criminal charges. During the final hearing he gave me legal advice which led to be unfavorable to the final ruling in which the judge stated. I can only speak for my experience, choose another firm or another lawyer within the firm…
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25 Dec, 2019 by Bruce alford
18 May, 2019 by Faisal mustafa
Amy is very responsive , experienced and will set the right expectations from day1.
She did a great job for me and I would recommend anyone to use her with any personal injury needs.
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30 Apr, 2018 by Spencer bonneau
Phenomenal lawyer who handled an accident resulting in a double spinal fusion with absolute ease and professionalism and reached a settlement within 9 months. After that experience I figured she would do an absolutely amazing job with what she herself deemed a "simple whiplash" case. Well over one year later, I am still waiting on a simple update as to what is going on with my case. Not only have her communication skills greatly dropped off, her organizational skills, and confidentiality has fallen dismally short of what I had come to expect. While attempting to communicate with Amy has been more difficult than trying to get a straight answer from a 18-year old girl, she has sent me other client's police reports containing their personal information on accident, wrongly answered my emails under the assumption I was another client, and will not answer my phone calls without provocation. To add insult to injury, I was relocated by my job to another location, and upon informing Amy of the move, I was and have been given the third degree multiple times on how this made her job so much more difficult despite the fact I had ensured all PT, doctors appointments, and everything else was taken care of for her PRIOR to the move leaving only her end of paperwork. Now here we are two more weeks later, and I can't get a simple response to an email asking if everything is going ok with my case.
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13 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
I was divorcing my ex husband in 2006 due to emotional and physical abuse along with adultery. I was seeking sole custody of my children due to my husband's drug and alcohol addiction, and the physical abuse/neglect. I was told that it was impossible for me to get sole custody even with my medical records as proof. Ms. Stroh did not even show up to court, charged me $5000.00 and then harassed me saying that I still owed even more money. FOR WHAT??? Two years later I went back to court on my own, without counsel, and I walked away with more child support AND SOLE CUSTODY! Thanks for endangering my children's safety for two years and the mental damage it did to me and them. Worst attorney ever.
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13 Jun, 2010 by Danny
I interviewed five attorneys before I decided on Andrea. She was very professional, and was always very accessable. Anytime I called or emailed her, it was returned promptly.
She didn't give me any unrealistic expectations like some attorneys try to sell you in order to get that retainer. I had a lying, cheating, drug adtick wife that had been in an out of Green Oaks Mental Hospital 5 times in the last 14 months we were together. She also managed to get arrested a few days after I left for forging a prescription.
I ended up with everything I wanted, which was my retirement that I had workded so hard for and that my ex didn't deserve.
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28 May, 2010 by Anonymous
Andrea handled a very nasty divorce for me. Andrea is FABULOUS - I got everything I wanted. Andrea is professional and thorough. She provided me clarification, insight and valuable guidance. I know she has a lot of clients, but she made me feel like I was the only one
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12 Feb, 2024 by Veronica
Mr.Gonzalez and his super sharp and sweet Mrs.Glasby are a team you need on your side!! Them together did an amazing job with my brother’s murder case and got the charges dropped and expunged from his record. They went above and beyond what was expected from them on the case but they worked together and even came out on the weekend to talk to the family and check out the “crime scene” . I love mito and his sidekick and would definitely recommend him to anyone. I even plan on hiring him again real soon on a personal case of mine.
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26 Sep, 2020 by Robert
Besides the fact that Mr. Gonzalez violates attorney client privileges on an ongoing basis, he will trade you for another client at a drop of a hat. So tied in with the Collin County's DA office that they actually assign him to your case because they know he's all game in the trading of human lives. He negotiated a plea in my matter and never once told me what he had negotiated nor did I authorize him to do so. During phone conversations about my criminal case he would call the DA's office and give them all the information we had spoken about and they would pass that information on to the Attorneys representing my ex-wife and also the Judge Piper McCraw. Gave him a list of witness that he never made contact with, and even release all the information in the case to my first ex-wife who just called in and he jumped right on the phone and spilled his guts. I never authorized him to speak with anyone other then myself, He did no verification of who was actually calling, and my private investigator actually stood right next him as he discussed my case with then assistant DA Deborah Harrison. He has allowed his SUPER LAWYER status to go to his head and he will trade you to maintain that status because he's to lazy to actually work on a case. Investigate, no he doesn't know what that word means, he reads the police report and believes every work written. DON"T WASTE YOUR MONEY, FIND A REAL LAWYER
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29 Dec, 2012 by Anonymous
Manuel helped us during a very difficult time with our 19 year old son. He was the voice of reason when we didn't feel very reasonable. His history as a prosecutor and inside knowledge and relationships with the police department proved very valuable. Feel lucky a friend recommended Manual to us before we chose another attorney from an ad that came in the mail. The outcome for our son would have surely been much different!
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09 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
I engaged Luke to help with a child custody case after dealing with former spouse who fought dirty. The initial meeting with Luke was promising, he pointed out things that needed to be clarified, however Luke never took action. 3 years (and $85k later) nothing had materialized. Beware of expensive lawyers who claim they can help. Big disappointment to Luke’s “services” is an understatement.
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14 Dec, 2017 by Rebecca
Carl Gunnstaks (aka C. Luke Gunnstaks, Carl Otto Gunnstaks) was hired as my divorce attorney in August 2016.
Gunnstaks misspelled my name on his Gunnstaks Contract for Services.
A Limited Power of Attorney had my name misspelled and listed 3 different ways in this one document. My driver's license was not requested in order to officially and legally notarize said document, had it been, these errors would not have been made. The date was changed and I was not requested to initial change.
I revoked this Limited Power of Attorney (LPOA) to which Gunnstaks responded that he could not have any communication with Opposing Counsel unless I gave him explicitly and approved authorization/instructions to do so. When I forwarded a message with explicit, easily understood and approved instructions, I received an email from Gunnstaks stating that I had to reinstate this LPOA before he could have any correspondence with Opposing Counsel. I had to remind him of his first instructions to me, “the explicit and approved/instruction authorization etc.” Only then did he begin to comply with his own instructions.
Opposing counsel wanted changes made on the final divorce decree. Gunnstaks made this change to my Divorce Decree without my knowledge, consent or approval and forwarded said changes to opposing counsel.
I had to be “Pro-Active” in order to get information to the Opposing Counsel on a timely basis. An example is: Gunnstaks Office told me Gunnstaks was out of town from October 18th, 2017 to the 25th, and would not be reading or answering my correspondence that I forwarded to him on the 19th, until his return on the 25th and only in the order to which his emails were received. When I questioned Gunnstaks about this on the 25th, as there was an item that was to be returned to the Opposing Counsel's office by the 23rd, his response was that Opposing Counsel had a copy of the Schedule filed with the court of when he was absent from his office and Opposing Counsel was aware that he, Gunnstaks, was out of the office from the 18th – 25th. Gunnstaks then forwarded along with that email a copy of this Schedule he was in reference too. It showed that he was only out the 18-20th. I then emailed him to point out that Opposing Counsel would not know of his absence until the 25th because it was not on the Schedule.
Gunnstaks forwarded the wrong final divorce decree to me after other changes had been made and did not review it before sending it to me for my signature. It was sent to me with these instructions: “Please forward your signature to our office for entry of the Decree with the Court.” This was not forwarded to me for “Review.”
I had to hire another attorney to proofread all final Divorce Decree documents to make sure all matters of the Divorce Decree were correct and legally written. Changes to my personal real estate property descriptions had to be made or would become an issue for a title company should the property be sold in the future.
I have learned that 5 Star Reviews can be made by employees. I wrote Gunnstaks and told him that I did a Review Search for him before I made my first visit to his office (under the name of C Luke Gunnstaks, unaware that he has used Carl Gunnstaks). I also stated that I felt 5 Star Reviews should only be made by a Client, not employees. Gunnstaks denied that any of his employees have ever left a review for him, however, I have found two reviews that have the same names as his employees, one current and one that is no longer with his firm.
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27 Nov, 2017 by Tamara
I have been in a high conflict abusive custody battle for over 12 years now. Luke came to me through me through a friend that knew my situation. My ex fled with our son to another state and had abducted him and alienated me. I've had supposed "good" attorneys before but Luke is beyond "good", he's excellent and exceeds in his field! He is a hard worker, and looks for the truth of the matter. He is genius in the courtroom, and a perfectionist on any and all court documents that are drawn up. His staff is extremely helpful, professional, and have it together. He his well known, and is one of the best that does what he does. Although, he's hard to get ahold of and that's just because he's always busy. He always answers and is responsive, to my questions and concerns, through his staff. I've had attorneys that I had to educate, not him!! The only thing is that he can't do the foot work that I can do, as far as, documentation and filing out things that are of my knowledge and experience. I don't want an attorney, I've had them, that will do things like charge for filing out discovery. He is a man of integrity, brilliance, and a heart of gold. If you need some poop cleaned off your shoe from courts and exes, he's the one who shows you how to get it off without getting it all over yourself. He has done what I thought was not possible and got the work done, and cares.
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09 Dec, 2021 by Kelley
I cannot caution you enough to run away from Rebecca Armstrong. Her lack of preparation, misleading information, and poor representation (recording wouldn't play, stumbled over questions, didn't ask questions to address evidence provided) in the courtroom for the temporary divorce hearing in Denton County caused traumatizing and devastating results. She was outmaneuvered in every way by opposing counsel and took little to no responsibility afterwards except to collect payment for her time.
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11 Nov, 2019 by Tom brown
This attorney and her partner Reagan Riddle as well as paralegal Jessica were outstanding communicators. I have no experience with attorneys . Ay 72 I have avoided lawyers. This firm set me at ease and promptly and openly handled the issues
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24 Apr, 2019 by Patty
Howard was very straight forward with me about my divorce. He didn’t mix words. I received in my final divorce decree exactly what I had been praying for. Lisa Jones Howard’s senior paralegal his right hand person is very very knowledgeable and was always prepared to help me. Howard and Lisa took care of me throughout the whole process from beginning to end. I am grateful to Howard and Lisa. Sincerely.
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22 Apr, 2018 by Anonymous
Don’t hire this lawyer. I wish I would have read these review before hiring Howard. I believe every one of them.
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30 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
I hired this attorney to get custody back from my ex-wife and he did that for me. I had no real grounds to do it but Howard seems to get what he asks for due to his connections and the judge didn't even listen to my ex's lawyer and in fact screamed at him in the court room to sit down. Now I don't have to pay child support from my six figure income to my ex wife and she has to pay me even though she hardly has any money at all. I was fortunate to take away many of her rights as well, so I feel fortunate that I hired the right attorney. I would definitely hire him again for the same case.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
Very poor representation. Likes to scream and yell probably because he does not know what he is doing. Absolutely the worse lawyer I have ever dealt with over the years. Do not waste your time on this person, look elsewhere for another lawyer.
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05 Jun, 2019 by Paul
Douglas Floyd is just about the very worst attorney that one can contact. I just called him to get his opinion on a personal injury case involving a senior citizen who suffered chemical burns from a leaking package that was mailed to her over Amazon.com.
Douglas Floyd was extremely arrogant, discourteous, aloof, and inconsiderately dismissive. Without even hearing the extent of the incurred injuries and damages, after about 3 - 4 minutes into the conversation, he said that he will not take the case as he does not think that there is enough money in it for him...
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26 Jul, 2018 by Anonymous
I had the displeasure of having a conversation with this man regarding an issue I am having. He seems to lack any social cues, respect for others and comes off terribly offensive. Honestly, if he treats everyone as poorly and as disrespectful as he did me, I wonder how he has been able to maintain any type of client base. Bypass this attorney and find a real one.
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20 Feb, 2019 by Anonymous
She had me do all the paperwork &’ go through the whole process and now she won’t return any of my calls nor emails . When I call her secretary &’ they give her my name she says she will call back or they change it up &’ say she is not available VERY UNPROFESSIONAL!
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06 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
Spends inordinate amount of time and resources drafting frivolous motions to jack up attorney fees.
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27 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
Not responsive, often ignoring messages. Couldn't remember facts. Argumentative. Problems with bill.
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16 Feb, 2015 by Bob
Met w/ Danny and paid a $375 consultation fee. Attempted to have a single letter drafted (as a start to our proceedings) and two months later gave up and hired a new attorney as we could not get the letter completed from his firm. His assistant Julie M. is unresponsive, uncaring, & rude. In a nutshell, we were unimportant to him and not only did his firm drop the ball in assisting us, but we lost valuable time in our case. If you are seeking an unprofessional staff, rude assistance (when you can gain it) and a sincere lack of care on his firms part, then this is the firm for you!!!
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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.
