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12 Aug, 2023 by Jamie morton (jaylyn)
02 Jan, 2023 by Robert roux
I've worked with Attorney Thistle on MANY cases, and I have to say Eric IS the BEST attorney out there. Not only is he a great lawyer, but he's also the man. I've never been let down by Eric. He's realistic and goes above and beyond for his clients. I recommend, to anyone who needs a criminal defense attorney OR even a family attorney. Attorney Eric Thistle thank you for everything you've ever done for me in the court room. Working wonders is an understatement sometimes idk how he does what he does but whatever your tactics are as an attorney keep them. Very respected by me and my family. Thank you
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07 Jun, 2022 by Chris girard
The professional service I received was like none I’ve ever received from any lawyer before. I would say I’m…. Lawyer experienced!!!
Facing A Class A felony was Made easier bye Eric’s preparation. His respectfulness and direct personality made hard conversations understandable.
The levity of my situation was i was facing 30 years with extra cases….
Fired my court appointed attorney… Hired Eric & he went to work for me right away. He Resolved the cases holding up my bail. Allowing me to get out of county jail & await trial from home!!!
This gained Eric enough leverage to get me a resolution that i was willing to accept… i might not have gotten everything I wanted & While i don’t want to create unrealistic expectations! If needed I surely would never hire anyone else!!!
If your reading this I would put my trust into Eric if I were you !
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03 May, 2024 by Jeannette cardin
02 May, 2024 by Parousia !
Erik Peters over the course of several years assisted me with my case to the end. He is wonderful to work with and took the time to explain the process and predicted outcomes. He is genuine thorough and I'm thankful I found him when I did.
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21 Apr, 2024 by Bruce “dookiɘ” jarvi
03 May, 2024 by Jeannette cardin
02 May, 2024 by Parousia !
Erik Peters over the course of several years assisted me with my case to the end. He is wonderful to work with and took the time to explain the process and predicted outcomes. He is genuine thorough and I'm thankful I found him when I did.
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21 Apr, 2024 by Bruce “dookiɘ” jarvi
03 May, 2024 by Jeannette cardin
02 May, 2024 by Parousia !
Erik Peters over the course of several years assisted me with my case to the end. He is wonderful to work with and took the time to explain the process and predicted outcomes. He is genuine thorough and I'm thankful I found him when I did.
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21 Apr, 2024 by Bruce “dookiɘ” jarvi
03 May, 2024 by Jeannette cardin
02 May, 2024 by Parousia !
Erik Peters over the course of several years assisted me with my case to the end. He is wonderful to work with and took the time to explain the process and predicted outcomes. He is genuine thorough and I'm thankful I found him when I did.
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21 Apr, 2024 by Bruce “dookiɘ” jarvi
03 May, 2024 by Jeannette cardin
02 May, 2024 by Parousia !
Erik Peters over the course of several years assisted me with my case to the end. He is wonderful to work with and took the time to explain the process and predicted outcomes. He is genuine thorough and I'm thankful I found him when I did.
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21 Apr, 2024 by Bruce “dookiɘ” jarvi
03 May, 2024 by Jeannette cardin
02 May, 2024 by Parousia !
Erik Peters over the course of several years assisted me with my case to the end. He is wonderful to work with and took the time to explain the process and predicted outcomes. He is genuine thorough and I'm thankful I found him when I did.
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21 Apr, 2024 by Bruce “dookiɘ” jarvi
03 May, 2024 by Jeannette cardin
02 May, 2024 by Parousia !
Erik Peters over the course of several years assisted me with my case to the end. He is wonderful to work with and took the time to explain the process and predicted outcomes. He is genuine thorough and I'm thankful I found him when I did.
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21 Apr, 2024 by Bruce “dookiɘ” jarvi
03 May, 2024 by Jeannette cardin
02 May, 2024 by Parousia !
Erik Peters over the course of several years assisted me with my case to the end. He is wonderful to work with and took the time to explain the process and predicted outcomes. He is genuine thorough and I'm thankful I found him when I did.
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21 Apr, 2024 by Bruce “dookiɘ” jarvi
03 May, 2024 by Jeannette cardin
02 May, 2024 by Parousia !
Erik Peters over the course of several years assisted me with my case to the end. He is wonderful to work with and took the time to explain the process and predicted outcomes. He is genuine thorough and I'm thankful I found him when I did.
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21 Apr, 2024 by Bruce “dookiɘ” jarvi
03 May, 2024 by Jeannette cardin
02 May, 2024 by Parousia !
Erik Peters over the course of several years assisted me with my case to the end. He is wonderful to work with and took the time to explain the process and predicted outcomes. He is genuine thorough and I'm thankful I found him when I did.
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21 Apr, 2024 by Bruce “dookiɘ” jarvi
03 May, 2024 by Jeannette cardin
02 May, 2024 by Parousia !
Erik Peters over the course of several years assisted me with my case to the end. He is wonderful to work with and took the time to explain the process and predicted outcomes. He is genuine thorough and I'm thankful I found him when I did.
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21 Apr, 2024 by Bruce “dookiɘ” jarvi
03 May, 2024 by Jeannette cardin
02 May, 2024 by Parousia !
Erik Peters over the course of several years assisted me with my case to the end. He is wonderful to work with and took the time to explain the process and predicted outcomes. He is genuine thorough and I'm thankful I found him when I did.
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21 Apr, 2024 by Bruce “dookiɘ” jarvi
26 Apr, 2024 by Frederick c. littlejohn
Very professional and helpful with my business needs.
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24 Aug, 2021 by Dhyaa al-hussaini
Words really can’t express how wonderful, professional, and amazing Lauri and the team are!!! Lauri was very kind, supportive, helpful and always on top of things. I’m so glad I was referred to her, she worked on my case for years. And was always patient even when things looked desperate. But her hard work and determination saved me and my future. Words can’t express how wonderful and hardworking she is, and I 100% recommend her!!
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22 Aug, 2021 by Mike duck
Just over a year ago a truck collided with me while riding my bike. I sustained serious injuries requiring two surgeries and ongoing rehabilitation. My Wife was left with how to proceed with hospitals, ambulance services, insurance companies, police communication and the future.
After a number of calls to friends, some attorneys , as to who best to represent us, Lauri Boxer- Macomber name came up. What a stroke of good fortune amidst a great deal of darkness. After that initial visit with her, all aspects of our case were under control. So helpful for my Wife and me. We were truly represented by a professional - the results impressive.
Cannot say enough about what Lauri accomplished for us.
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01 Dec, 2024 by Amanda jimenez
I am most utterly pleased to be able to work with attorney Conor Todd. Coming from someone whose never had a lawyer before, Conor delivered and keeps delivering above and beyond. One can really tell that he cares for his clients and is willing to work hard for the needs of his clients. I had a extremely difficult family case and Conor turned it into an exceptionally easy to deal with situation. I had the best possible outcome happen thanks to him. I’m so grateful to have him as my family lawyer and would highly recommend him to anyone in need of legal representation. Overall 5/5 stars!
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08 Oct, 2024 by Mario marte
I am absolutely pleased to had worked with Attorney Conner Todd. He is for sure the Attorney to go to if you're dealing with any Criminal or civil matters. He is very experienced, very knowledgeable and extremely professional. He will 110% work to get you the best results for your case. I was dealing with a civil case that could have potentially became a criminal case but Conner was there by my side threw it all and was able to successfully get the results that I wanted and rightfully deserved with no problem what so ever. It is because of Attorney Connor Todd on why I can go back to living a peaceful life again. I would highly recommend Attorney Conner Todd to anyone and everyone….Thank You So Much Conner For All Your Help!!!!!
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12 Aug, 2024 by Michelle guffey
Connor Todd had represented me for 2 and a half years. He is very diligent, intelligent, and humble. Through every hearing I experienced with Connor by my side, I have been so confident in him. He was very quick to ensure the case facts were presented, and always so quick to reassure me when needed. He was absolutely amazing with the constant communication and always had his spirits high, even when mine were not. He has proved to me he is more than capable to defend anyone in need. In a situation where most would be found guilty, Connor helped the facts come to light and I was found not guilty in trial. There is no one I trust more than Connor to defend what is right. A huge thank you Connor for the long hours and years of work!
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01 Dec, 2024 by Amanda jimenez
I am most utterly pleased to be able to work with attorney Conor Todd. Coming from someone whose never had a lawyer before, Conor delivered and keeps delivering above and beyond. One can really tell that he cares for his clients and is willing to work hard for the needs of his clients. I had a extremely difficult family case and Conor turned it into an exceptionally easy to deal with situation. I had the best possible outcome happen thanks to him. I’m so grateful to have him as my family lawyer and would highly recommend him to anyone in need of legal representation. Overall 5/5 stars!
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08 Oct, 2024 by Mario marte
I am absolutely pleased to had worked with Attorney Conner Todd. He is for sure the Attorney to go to if you're dealing with any Criminal or civil matters. He is very experienced, very knowledgeable and extremely professional. He will 110% work to get you the best results for your case. I was dealing with a civil case that could have potentially became a criminal case but Conner was there by my side threw it all and was able to successfully get the results that I wanted and rightfully deserved with no problem what so ever. It is because of Attorney Connor Todd on why I can go back to living a peaceful life again. I would highly recommend Attorney Conner Todd to anyone and everyone….Thank You So Much Conner For All Your Help!!!!!
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12 Aug, 2024 by Michelle guffey
Connor Todd had represented me for 2 and a half years. He is very diligent, intelligent, and humble. Through every hearing I experienced with Connor by my side, I have been so confident in him. He was very quick to ensure the case facts were presented, and always so quick to reassure me when needed. He was absolutely amazing with the constant communication and always had his spirits high, even when mine were not. He has proved to me he is more than capable to defend anyone in need. In a situation where most would be found guilty, Connor helped the facts come to light and I was found not guilty in trial. There is no one I trust more than Connor to defend what is right. A huge thank you Connor for the long hours and years of work!
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01 Dec, 2024 by Amanda jimenez
I am most utterly pleased to be able to work with attorney Conor Todd. Coming from someone whose never had a lawyer before, Conor delivered and keeps delivering above and beyond. One can really tell that he cares for his clients and is willing to work hard for the needs of his clients. I had a extremely difficult family case and Conor turned it into an exceptionally easy to deal with situation. I had the best possible outcome happen thanks to him. I’m so grateful to have him as my family lawyer and would highly recommend him to anyone in need of legal representation. Overall 5/5 stars!
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08 Oct, 2024 by Mario marte
I am absolutely pleased to had worked with Attorney Conner Todd. He is for sure the Attorney to go to if you're dealing with any Criminal or civil matters. He is very experienced, very knowledgeable and extremely professional. He will 110% work to get you the best results for your case. I was dealing with a civil case that could have potentially became a criminal case but Conner was there by my side threw it all and was able to successfully get the results that I wanted and rightfully deserved with no problem what so ever. It is because of Attorney Connor Todd on why I can go back to living a peaceful life again. I would highly recommend Attorney Conner Todd to anyone and everyone….Thank You So Much Conner For All Your Help!!!!!
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12 Aug, 2024 by Michelle guffey
Connor Todd had represented me for 2 and a half years. He is very diligent, intelligent, and humble. Through every hearing I experienced with Connor by my side, I have been so confident in him. He was very quick to ensure the case facts were presented, and always so quick to reassure me when needed. He was absolutely amazing with the constant communication and always had his spirits high, even when mine were not. He has proved to me he is more than capable to defend anyone in need. In a situation where most would be found guilty, Connor helped the facts come to light and I was found not guilty in trial. There is no one I trust more than Connor to defend what is right. A huge thank you Connor for the long hours and years of work!
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23 Jan, 2021 by Charles
I spoke with Peter about a legal matter and I was very happy with his Legal advice.
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07 Feb, 2013 by John
I was told (coached) how to behave in court. Opposing attorney slipped a fraudulent financial exhibit in on me as a First Exhibit. Mr. Rodway should have objected. Exhibit showed I had merely $900 of NON-marital assets, when in fact I had a house, three cars, an airplane, motorcycle, collection of firearms, an IRA worth $30,000 at the time of my marriage to my wife, Kay Fraser. Maine family court was a "kangaroo" setup and I had to file a bankruptcy in Arizona to put a stop to the delays and Maine legal expense. Mr. Rodway did some excellent work uncovering nearly $100,000 of marital assets my ex-wife had stolen from the marriage.
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08 May, 2023 by Anonymous
Stephen was extremely helpful in guiding me through the divorce procedure. He knew exactly what needed to be done and how to get it filed quickly. I am very thankful for his help though a difficult situation.
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04 Mar, 2023 by Danielle
Attorney Sweatt was hired to represent my disabled adult in regard to a PFA filed against him. Attorney Sweatt advised my son to agree to the PFA that was filed against him. My son could have had the same outcome without spending money on an attorney. This is a terrible outcome. I urge caution before hiring or doing business with this attorney.
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29 Jun, 2022 by Barbara
Stephen was very helpful and handled my divorce quickly and professionally.
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01 Dec, 2024 by Amanda jimenez
I am most utterly pleased to be able to work with attorney Conor Todd. Coming from someone whose never had a lawyer before, Conor delivered and keeps delivering above and beyond. One can really tell that he cares for his clients and is willing to work hard for the needs of his clients. I had a extremely difficult family case and Conor turned it into an exceptionally easy to deal with situation. I had the best possible outcome happen thanks to him. I’m so grateful to have him as my family lawyer and would highly recommend him to anyone in need of legal representation. Overall 5/5 stars!
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08 Oct, 2024 by Mario marte
I am absolutely pleased to had worked with Attorney Conner Todd. He is for sure the Attorney to go to if you're dealing with any Criminal or civil matters. He is very experienced, very knowledgeable and extremely professional. He will 110% work to get you the best results for your case. I was dealing with a civil case that could have potentially became a criminal case but Conner was there by my side threw it all and was able to successfully get the results that I wanted and rightfully deserved with no problem what so ever. It is because of Attorney Connor Todd on why I can go back to living a peaceful life again. I would highly recommend Attorney Conner Todd to anyone and everyone….Thank You So Much Conner For All Your Help!!!!!
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12 Aug, 2024 by Michelle guffey
Connor Todd had represented me for 2 and a half years. He is very diligent, intelligent, and humble. Through every hearing I experienced with Connor by my side, I have been so confident in him. He was very quick to ensure the case facts were presented, and always so quick to reassure me when needed. He was absolutely amazing with the constant communication and always had his spirits high, even when mine were not. He has proved to me he is more than capable to defend anyone in need. In a situation where most would be found guilty, Connor helped the facts come to light and I was found not guilty in trial. There is no one I trust more than Connor to defend what is right. A huge thank you Connor for the long hours and years of work!
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01 Dec, 2024 by Amanda jimenez
I am most utterly pleased to be able to work with attorney Conor Todd. Coming from someone whose never had a lawyer before, Conor delivered and keeps delivering above and beyond. One can really tell that he cares for his clients and is willing to work hard for the needs of his clients. I had a extremely difficult family case and Conor turned it into an exceptionally easy to deal with situation. I had the best possible outcome happen thanks to him. I’m so grateful to have him as my family lawyer and would highly recommend him to anyone in need of legal representation. Overall 5/5 stars!
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08 Oct, 2024 by Mario marte
I am absolutely pleased to had worked with Attorney Conner Todd. He is for sure the Attorney to go to if you're dealing with any Criminal or civil matters. He is very experienced, very knowledgeable and extremely professional. He will 110% work to get you the best results for your case. I was dealing with a civil case that could have potentially became a criminal case but Conner was there by my side threw it all and was able to successfully get the results that I wanted and rightfully deserved with no problem what so ever. It is because of Attorney Connor Todd on why I can go back to living a peaceful life again. I would highly recommend Attorney Conner Todd to anyone and everyone….Thank You So Much Conner For All Your Help!!!!!
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12 Aug, 2024 by Michelle guffey
Connor Todd had represented me for 2 and a half years. He is very diligent, intelligent, and humble. Through every hearing I experienced with Connor by my side, I have been so confident in him. He was very quick to ensure the case facts were presented, and always so quick to reassure me when needed. He was absolutely amazing with the constant communication and always had his spirits high, even when mine were not. He has proved to me he is more than capable to defend anyone in need. In a situation where most would be found guilty, Connor helped the facts come to light and I was found not guilty in trial. There is no one I trust more than Connor to defend what is right. A huge thank you Connor for the long hours and years of work!
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17 May, 2024 by Country family always !
27 Mar, 2024 by Sheryl taylor
Could not help with my issue.
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14 Feb, 2024 by Kelly burk
Highly recommend the firm of Clifford and Clifford. They handled alot of business issues and treated my mother and family with the upmost respect and dignity. Peter and Maryann went above and beyond measures for my mother and stood beside her every step of the way. I'm so grateful for them.
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10 Jul, 2024 by Atchan tamaki
17 Mar, 2024 by Adam palmer
Robert is very professional very smart I would say on of the best you would be lucky to have him on your side
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11 Oct, 2023 by James selberg-stross
22 Mar, 2024 by Douglas gordon
Great school. What I’ve seen of it anyway. Which would be the law library and lobby. Since I’m a little partial to libraries I might be biased. The staff treated me very well and I will returning soon for more legal research. Will update my review after that experience.
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02 Mar, 2024 by Ishtiaque ahmed
Great law school
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26 Sep, 2023 by Jm
04 Jun, 2023 by Bobby n
Had a case a couple of years ago. Office staff were always nice and professional which is why I added another star.
Peter himself is a nice guy, but very frustrating to work with. On several occasions, during our conversations, I noticed he couldn't remember much about my case and had to be reminded! Obviously that equaled a higher bill.
A below-average performance in my opinion. He never went above/beyond. His court representation was also below expectations.
I would not recommend him!
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27 Dec, 2022 by Heather hope
I paid him a small retainer to help me in a deposition and he did virtually zero preparation with me for my case yet charged me 2k not sure what that went to. He demanded another 2k the night before my very emotionally difficult depositions where I had to testify against a recently convicted abuser of mine. It felt like I was being squeezed. When I was asked sensitive questions that were irrelevant, invasive and triggering - I turned to him for help and he did nothing. I tried to plead the fifth, twice. He did nothing but sat there and let me be revictimized and I felt defenseless. That was my experience, very upset for my deposition, was unprotected. Funnily enough I can't find a single attorney to take my case now...
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23 Apr, 2022 by Zebadiah byrd
Absolutely worthless in ever shape and form. Had him for PFA for my son. He said oh yeah I got this. Gets to court and stated… ahh we should throw this out! Don’t waste your money or time. Honest rating would be -100 if it was available.
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09 Aug, 2023 by Linda geiger
Ms. Griffin was so kind and thoughtful when she assisted my mother after my father’s death. She was very thorough in going through all of my dad’s paperwork and I’m explaining everything to my mom and me.
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09 Aug, 2022 by A w
02 Aug, 2022 by Margaret j o'connell
08 Nov, 2023 by Kris
I hired Diane a few years ago when my husband and I were divorcing. Without getting into too many details, my ex-husband had done some very shady financial things during our marriage which cleaned out my inheritance from my mother. I was financially devastated. Diane went to bat for me and I felt as though I had a guardian angel. I ended up with a decent settlement after hours of mediation. Diane was fantastic and countered every argument that the other side made. I am not sure where I would be right now if it wasn't for her. I have probably referred 10 people to her since then and she is the only divorce attorney that I would recommend!
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27 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
Worked hard to get the best resolution for my divorce while being very upfront with me about the unpleasant financial realities. I felt Diane represented me extremely well and worked to get to a settlement with terms that were likely much better than what I would have ended up with a hearing.
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06 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
Any divorce, by its very nature, is difficult. My divorce, you could easily say, has been extremely difficult, and exceptionally long - almost two years long. Attorney Dusini, and her firm, MittelAsen, has represented me since day one. I can unequivocally state, without any hesitation whatsoever, there is not a better, more competent Family Law Attorney in the State of Maine then Diane Dusini.
I knew from the very start of my divorce that it was going to be difficult, so I spent quite a bit of time at the onset selecting an attorney to represent me. As a first step, I asked a number of prominent lawyers in Portland who they would recommend. Ms Dusini's name was on everyone's short list. As a second step I also spoke with a number of people who had gone through difficult divorces themselves. Again Ms Dusini's name was continuously mentioned. One woman, who I respected tremendously, told me this: "you have to hire MittelAsen."
My divorce has had endless twists and turns, almost to the point of being unbelievable: two PFA's in two states, numerous Court hearings, working with a GAL, DHHS and Spurwink, amongst others. Whenever we were in Court it was so clear to me that Diane was always 100% prepared and ready, and that is why she/we have had so many victories along the way. I always felt confident stepping into the Court Room with Diane. I knew I had the best representation possible. Granted, I did not always agree with every Judge's ruling (and I do not think that anyone does in a divorce case), but I always knew that Diane did her absolute best for me. I could not ask for more then that.
If I could go back to day one I would hire Diane again. I consider myself very fortunate to be her client. I hope she will stick with me for the rest of my life.
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10 Jun, 2024 by Ralph
This man helped me with process of adopting my beautiful daughter when I was a young parent we will never forget him
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06 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
David was my divorce lawyer. He and his paralegal were readily accessible by phone and email and were transparent and communicative in helping me understand the process. David's expertise is clear; he pursued a strategy that ultimately brought both parties to the table more quickly and led to finalizing the divorce much more quickly than I anticipated. While his fees are not inexpensive, his know-how brought the case to a quick conclusion, thus saving money on both sides. If you are looking for a kind professional to help you navigate a difficult process, I highly recommend David and his team.
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29 Jun, 2017 by Ann marie
David was my attorney in my divorce. He worked hard to get me what I was entitled to in my case and get the best possible settlement. He encouraged me and helped me to understand my legal rights. He was always available to me. I would recommend him very highly.
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08 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
Paige Streeter was the worst attorney that I’ve ever had to deal with in family law and in trusts. I’m glad to see that she’s moved away from that looks to be dealing with bankruptcy issues and what not in Portland. I felt that she was playing god, in my life and in my children’s lives Please be aware if you’re tempted to hire her
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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.
