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14 Feb, 2024 by Jessica
I was in a divorce case evolving into a more complex divorce case over time as more n more came out that was happening in my marriage behind my back, even when I anticipted a kosher/easy divorce than I had foreseen when I filed.
I went to a well know atty that then began to put me on the defensive as his client, I had to prove to this 1st atty that I was not who my atty & ex, & ex’s atty was making me out to be. He seemed to be siding w my ex after a few months rather than giving me full support…it was “just take this, u already are getting enough and who cares that ur husband has had a girlfriend.”.
Obviously onto atty #2, this was a flat fee for service….bad idea, it became “forget this and that, let’s just get done and finalized” but I felt strongly on issues I personally had and wanted to address in my case and that need attention by my atty and representation to fight for me.
Both lawyers #1 & #2 were afraid of my ex’s lawyer and wanted to look “good” for her, who is/was the President of The Law/Bar Association of WI.
So I began to search for atty # 3, which can sometimes look poor in the eyes of some judges (& atty’s), but I needed 100% support for me and my kids, a strong atty and one that help focus on and address my issues I cared about….. that were almost pushed to the way side by my 1st two atty’s.
Plus, when calling around for my 3rd atty, I had to find one that was not afraid of my ex’s atty. Atty Philip Trampe’s team assured me he is the one to go w in Racine Co….he was originally referred to me by a Waukesha/Milwaukee co atty and swore that Trampe (represented Racine Co.) will side w me and also be open n honest enough to tell me what truly is fair during negotiations, and since it was a high emotion divorce, atty Trampe was able to me focused if I got off track or reeled me back in if my emotions flared up.
I Highly recommend professional atty Philip trampe and his team!
Thank you!
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03 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
My experience working with attorney Trampe was very positive and successful. Mr Trampe responded to my questions in a timely manner, really took time to pay attentions to the details of my case, and genuinely cared for the well-being of my family. Dealing with family matters is stressful and painful but attorney Trampe helped to make the process as smooth as possible. He did a great job of putting my anxiety to ease and help me stay focused on what is really important. I am very grateful for his experience and expertise. I highly recommend Attorney Trampe.
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02 Jan, 2024 by Mollie
I retained Attorney Trampe because I wanted someone who could guide me through the divorce process and get results in my case, and he did not disappoint. He was very patient with me and did an excellent job of keeping my case on track and explaining things to me that I didn't understand. I especially appreciated that he and his team kept after my ex to sign paperwork and keep the process moving along. Overall, I was very satisfied with his service and would highly recommend him to anyone who is looking for a great divorce attorney.
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24 Jan, 2020 by Chris
He handled everything quickly and efficiently. Would definitely use him again.
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20 Sep, 2019 by Ahmad
I was so glad I used Attorney Chris Glinski for my out of state traffic matter. He was thorough and diligent in every step of the way, and all matters of the case. He was great at communicating feedback and kept me posted at all times. As an IL driver I wasn't aware of traffic citations and processes over the border, but Chris handled it so well, and was able to deliver as promised. I couldn't be more happier with the outcome of my case!
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05 Nov, 2018 by Anonymous
6 point speeding ticket reduced to defective speedometer with 2 points and no suspension on the drivers license. Being from NC i had only email and phone conversations with Chris and he kept me posted thru out this process.
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02 Jan, 2024 by Rob
Attorney Matthew P. Johnson is extremely professional, dedicated, and a very knowledgeable lawyer. The staff at MJT law firm were very friendly and respectful to my needs. Highly recommended.
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14 Dec, 2023 by Tammy
Matthew did an excellent job for me as my divorce attorney. It was complicated and I was emotional during most of it. He kept me calm, worked through truly what would be best outcome for me and helped me stay strong. I can't thank him enough for his knowledge and support.
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13 Dec, 2023 by Nicki
Matt is an outstanding man to have on your team through the divorce process. He, along with his staff, is very knowledgeable, understanding, detailed and timely. I would HIGHLY recommend him for anyone who is looking for an attorney who puts heart and sole into your situation.
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16 Jul, 2019 by Nicholas
The decision to get a divorce was the most difficult decision I have ever had to make. There is a roller coaster of emotions that go along with making the decision. Most notably is the fear of not knowing how it will affect your time with your children or how it will impact you financially. Another important factor was the fear of being judged for your decision. Once the decision was made I was referred to the law offices of Hostak, Henzl & Bichler by a friend. I set my first appointment up with Jen and immediately knew that I was in a safe place. My best interest and the interest of my kids was going to be her priority. Once the process was started she kept me informed every step of the way. If I had a question about something she was quick to get back to me with an answer. All important court dates were set up immediately, and I was able to see a light at the end of the tunnel very early on in the process. The same level of support continued after everything was finalized. Jen continued to help me through the allocation of property process until everything was complete. Professional, hardworking, and compassionate are words that I would use to describe Jennifer Hemmer. I strongly recommend giving her a call if you find yourself with a difficult situation and all that is stopping you is fear of the process.
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10 Apr, 2019 by David
Was great in helping us understand the laws and helped us in picking the best course of action to move forward with our case. In our case she help with some ground work and Legal intel and indirectly referred us to district attorneys office and even check in with us throughout the case. In my opinion she was both consulted and hired up to handing case over. With her help we moved forward and won our case in court.
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10 Apr, 2019 by Adam
Attorney Hemmer is an excellent attorney and one that I would highly recommend to anyone in need of legal advice or representation. She took the time to fully understand my case, explained things in a clear and concise manner, and kept me informed throughout the process. Attorney Hemmer is very thorough and well-organized. She has a genuine passion for her clients and their well-being. Her professionalism and in-depth knowledge of the law were demonstrated to me throughout the process. Attorney Hemmer was very responsive and available whenever I had questions or needed her assistance. She is also a very pleasant and approachable person to work with.
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06 Sep, 2022 by Charles
James did everything I wanted him to complete successfully thank you James for your hard work
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29 Jun, 2022 by Anthony
Excellent representation! Understood the laws and fought for me in court to defend my divorce, litigation and my rights as a father. Assisted in every way getting me on track to get me the information and contacts I needed.
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24 Jun, 2022 by Nathan
10/10
James is an excellent attorney. Always prepared and quickly adapted as evidence was presented. He researched and used evidence I provided to calmly and effectively litigate my case. In a ongoing and very rough case, James gave me the right advice. He was responsive to emails and requests. James thought critically and acted professionally. James updated me about changes in my case as soon as possible.
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06 Dec, 2021 by Sandra
My divorce was long, drawn out and complicated prior to hiring Attorney Amber Ragonese. She gets things done! Her knowledge of family court and the law is unmatched. Anytime I had a question, I was given every scenario so I could make the best decision for my future. She pushed me towards a resolution, not another disagreement. Which I feel is so crucial during a divorce. It’s so easy to get distracted by all of your emotions during a time like this. Amber is an excellent listener and her calm demeanor kept me very grounded and focused. She was always organized and prepared from something as simple as emails and phone calls to more complicated in person court appearances and zoom court calls. Most importantly, I was able to settle my case without going to trial. Which saved me so much stress! I highly recommend Amber and truly trust that anyone who hires her, will feel the same.
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22 May, 2021 by Anonymous
Amber was a great help to our family. She advocated for us every step of the way, remained professional throughout, and was very knowledgable. She was always quick to respond with communication and kept me in the loop every step of the way. I have had other lawyers in the past for this matter, but Amber was by far the best. I am glad that we worked with her, as she went above and beyond for us and we came out with a good outcome. Thank you, so much!
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18 Sep, 2020 by Ashlie
I retained Attorney Amber Ragonese for a post judgement case. Absolutely amazing and responsive service. She is very knowledgeable, provided great suggestions, great negotiations and on top of all that, she was able to put up with me! I would recommend Amber to anyone needing a family lawyer and will definitely use her in the future if needed.
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10 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
Cristina reviewed my divorce decree from 2011 to help me determine if I could request child support to begin after my current maintenance order expires. She took the time to go over the current state law requirements for eligibility and helped with the state calculation to determine the amount. She was thorough, professional, and extremely efficient with the review and preparation of all the necessary documents to be sure that there is no gap in payments. I will be sure to utilize her services again if needed in the future and will definitely recommend her to family and friends! Thank you Cristina!!
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06 Jan, 2017 by Nathan
So far, i am beyond pleased with her firm. She is aggressive but yet in a way, most lawyers lack, calm. She is very knowledgeable and she gets things done in timely manner. She keeps her billing very accurate. You will pay but from what I see she's not there for anybody but her client. I can see she is not there to make friends she is there to get her client what they want. All in all the best lawyer I've every retained and I have retained several across the boards of different cases. 5 stars. And her willingness to work with you on payments makes her stand out. Keep in mind I did put down a retainer But not all that she requested and she has afforded me a father a timeline to get it to highly recommend you think of consulting her before making any descions on who to retain.
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26 Nov, 2014 by Tim
My daughter received a very serious traffic citation. We were very concerned how this would affect her driving privilege and future insurance costs. Mr. Fishbain was kind, courteous, and respectful. He explained the process he would undertake and what we might expect. As a result of his expert work on her case, the serious violation was modified in to something far less serious. Attorney Fishbain far exceeded our expectations!
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13 Sep, 2024 by Alma castaneda
11 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
Very helpful and attentive attorney who is extremely knowledgeable! It was a relief to have Attorney Durkin working on my case!
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06 Sep, 2024 by Angie marushin
I would highly recommend Attorney Durkin to assist you with your case. My case was very complicated and I was approved due to the high expertise and knowledge of Attorney Durkin. His legal assistant, Sandy, was also a gem throughout the whole process and made me feel very confident that all my records were being filed for my case. During my hearing, Attorney Durkin just absolutely nailed everything and knew my case and history backwards and forwards. I cannot thank him and his office team enough. I'd give 10 Stars if I could!
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13 Sep, 2024 by Alma castaneda
11 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
Very helpful and attentive attorney who is extremely knowledgeable! It was a relief to have Attorney Durkin working on my case!
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06 Sep, 2024 by Angie marushin
I would highly recommend Attorney Durkin to assist you with your case. My case was very complicated and I was approved due to the high expertise and knowledge of Attorney Durkin. His legal assistant, Sandy, was also a gem throughout the whole process and made me feel very confident that all my records were being filed for my case. During my hearing, Attorney Durkin just absolutely nailed everything and knew my case and history backwards and forwards. I cannot thank him and his office team enough. I'd give 10 Stars if I could!
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25 Sep, 2024 by Bobby felicelli
Alana was a Savant in her profession.
Strategic, professional, & willing to listen which from my experience with other attorneys not doing was very important to me as a father going through a hard time.
She delivered as she said, as well as found other opportunities I had no idea I was entitled to. She will Not nickel & dime her client. She will always stay in communicate and stay professional.
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10 Sep, 2024 by Sarah grochola
I have worked with both Phil and Alana. I highly recommend both of them if you should need their services. Alana, thank you for always being so kind and caring during some very difficult situations!
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06 Sep, 2024 by Phillip scheltens
Robert is the man in the Kenosha Racine area. From start to finish he made the whole process as painless as possible. Can’t thank him enough.
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25 Sep, 2024 by Kimberly diekow
Two time customer! Highly recommended. Attorney Dimmer goes above and beyond for his clients!
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05 Sep, 2024 by Mohamed mohamed
I cannot thank Brian Dimmer enough for their hard work and dedication to my case. Their expertise in Traffic tickets was clear from the very beginning, and they consistently kept me informed throughout the process. I felt confident and reassured knowing that Brian Dimmer was handling my case with professionalism and integrity. Thanks to their determination, we achieved a far better result than I ever anticipated. I would highly recommend Brian Dimmer to anyone seeking legal representation. Thank you again for your help and support.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Theresa king
Brian helped me so much with my case he’s definitely the guy to go to, I was very satisfied with case’s ending results .
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25 Sep, 2024 by Kimberly diekow
Two time customer! Highly recommended. Attorney Dimmer goes above and beyond for his clients!
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05 Sep, 2024 by Mohamed mohamed
I cannot thank Brian Dimmer enough for their hard work and dedication to my case. Their expertise in Traffic tickets was clear from the very beginning, and they consistently kept me informed throughout the process. I felt confident and reassured knowing that Brian Dimmer was handling my case with professionalism and integrity. Thanks to their determination, we achieved a far better result than I ever anticipated. I would highly recommend Brian Dimmer to anyone seeking legal representation. Thank you again for your help and support.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Theresa king
Brian helped me so much with my case he’s definitely the guy to go to, I was very satisfied with case’s ending results .
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25 Sep, 2024 by Kimberly diekow
Two time customer! Highly recommended. Attorney Dimmer goes above and beyond for his clients!
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05 Sep, 2024 by Mohamed mohamed
I cannot thank Brian Dimmer enough for their hard work and dedication to my case. Their expertise in Traffic tickets was clear from the very beginning, and they consistently kept me informed throughout the process. I felt confident and reassured knowing that Brian Dimmer was handling my case with professionalism and integrity. Thanks to their determination, we achieved a far better result than I ever anticipated. I would highly recommend Brian Dimmer to anyone seeking legal representation. Thank you again for your help and support.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Theresa king
Brian helped me so much with my case he’s definitely the guy to go to, I was very satisfied with case’s ending results .
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03 Jan, 2022 by Lisa
Margaret was incredibly impressive with my difficult case. Due to the complex nature, it lasted 28 months and Margaret stuck through it like a champ maintaining her drive to get everything I wanted in my divorce. We did end up avoiding trial but had we ended up in trial, I know without a doubt Margaret would have won. Her tenacity is amazing! Margaret got me what I wanted!
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03 Feb, 2021 by Marta
After leaving an abusive relationship, I knew I had to seek legal council to secure custody and the safety of my child. As soon as I met with Margaret O’Connor, I knew I would be in good hands. She is very professional, caring & well known around the court house. Anytime I needed her, she was always very responsive and helpful. She is strong, graceful and confident. In one of the most stressful and worrisome times in my life, or in that matter any parents life, she put me at ease and showed me with her actions in the court room that everything would be alright. My ex had also hired an attorney, but was no match for Margaret. She got me 100% sole custody and placement and all the stipulations I asked for, along with a generous amount of child support each month. Margaret was truly a guardian Angel and I can’t thank her enough for all that she has done for me and my family.
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20 Mar, 2019 by Carolyn
When seeking representation for an ongoing family court issue, I came across attorney Margaret O'Connor's website. Being that I'm a person with strong intuition, I felt that she would be the right fit for me. She was quick to get me into a consultation.
I was put at ease from the moment I walked through her door, because of her calm yet confident demeanor. She was very professional and took extra time to thoroughly answer all of my questions. Her words were comforting in a very turbulent and stressful time. I knew that I was in great hands, so much so, that I wasn't even nervous in court with her by side. We did very well in court. The outcome exceeded my expectations.
If you're looking for an attorney that has integrity, confidence, and who's extremely competent, look no further. You won't be disappointed.
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31 Oct, 2019 by Anonymous
Me gusto la atención y que es free la consulta, y hablan español podrán representarme mejor , conocí al abogado x la Radio la granD MKE
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20 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
Attorney Cabranes helped us in an immigration matter. He was very upfront about the process, and he kept us informed about the procedure. It was a very stressful process, and having an excellent lawyer helps.
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21 Jan, 2015 by Anonymous
We live in Waukesha County and needed a "good" family law lawyer. We hired a local law firm who seemed to have the right stuff. 3/4 of the way through our family court matter, we had to fire our lawyer. We heard about John Cabranes through a work associate and made the call. We met with him and he made us feel so comfortable. He didn't mince words about the status of our case or the potential for a hopeful outcome, since our previous lawyer mucked things up procedurally from a legal perspective. Regardless, he was tough and aggressive in the court room. He presented case law and rulings that had the opposition attorney's head spinning. John is a great advocate for his clients and represents and fights for their well-being -- AND -- he's a really nice guy! His associate Cynthia Herber was involved in our case. She, too, is compassionate toward we, the client; and, tough in legal matters. We strongly recommend Cabranes Law Offices if you live anywhere in Southeast Wisconsin.
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07 Oct, 2015 by Anonymous
Sally is a very competant lawyer who kept me well informed throughout my divorce. She not only fought in and out of the courtroom for me but also for my children. She is clear, precise and caring.
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25 Sep, 2015 by Anonymous
Sally was the first and only lawyer I hired when I was seeking a divorce and primary placement of my young children. She was extremely knowledgeable, understanding, professional, and prepared. I was able to obtain the exact results that myself and children needed by choosing Sally as my lawyer. She guided me through the entire process and truly listened to my concerns and needs. Her response time to emails and phone calls was excellent. I would absolutely return to her if needed in the future.
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07 Jul, 2011 by Sean
She is basic a fair good lawyer. However, I feel she should change her position with Racine county Human service after my son loss a pound of weight from 13 lbs to 12 lbs in a county foster home at one year old. She did feel it would not be in my best position as my GAL. She did a fair job return my legal custody to me at least.
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18 Apr, 2024 by Aa a
I wouldn’t recommend neither of these attorneys. Mr French and Mr Betker are both liars. They will tell you what you want to hear just to get your money. I was promised reimbursement of attorney fees which was more than the amount that I was suing Midas muffler for. Unfortunately, now they refuse to accept responsibility for their fraudulent actions. I trusted these attorneys and now I regret that I gave them my trust. Because now they are denying that they promised me attorney fee reimbursement because they didn’t put their lie in writing. They don’t deserve any rating because they are liars. So don’t trust them, and make sure that they put all of their promises in writing before you give them your money. I never imagined that attorneys would lie to the consumer just to get their money. Beware of these fraudsters.
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15 Jan, 2024 by S j
From day 1of my wife's WC I knew that the people who recommended Mr. French were being modest. His straight forward style is so reassuring and all you have to do is sit back and watch a very knowledgeable attorney slowly and meticulously put the pieces together and get the best result. WC carriers respect him. DO NOT HESITATE TO CALL!
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26 Dec, 2023 by Scott klinger
Scott French is the best lawyer I have encountered in my life. He’s very transparent about my situation and a straight shooter. My legal matter resolved just as he predicted. I got a settlement when other lawyers turned down my case.
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18 Apr, 2024 by Aa a
I wouldn’t recommend neither of these attorneys. Mr French and Mr Betker are both liars. They will tell you what you want to hear just to get your money. I was promised reimbursement of attorney fees which was more than the amount that I was suing Midas muffler for. Unfortunately, now they refuse to accept responsibility for their fraudulent actions. I trusted these attorneys and now I regret that I gave them my trust. Because now they are denying that they promised me attorney fee reimbursement because they didn’t put their lie in writing. They don’t deserve any rating because they are liars. So don’t trust them, and make sure that they put all of their promises in writing before you give them your money. I never imagined that attorneys would lie to the consumer just to get their money. Beware of these fraudsters.
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15 Jan, 2024 by S j
From day 1of my wife's WC I knew that the people who recommended Mr. French were being modest. His straight forward style is so reassuring and all you have to do is sit back and watch a very knowledgeable attorney slowly and meticulously put the pieces together and get the best result. WC carriers respect him. DO NOT HESITATE TO CALL!
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26 Dec, 2023 by Scott klinger
Scott French is the best lawyer I have encountered in my life. He’s very transparent about my situation and a straight shooter. My legal matter resolved just as he predicted. I got a settlement when other lawyers turned down my case.
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09 Nov, 2023 by Karina sosa
Honestly I paid him 7,000 to represent me . I got a email the day before my sentencing date stating that he wouldn’t be able to represent me. I’ve called many times and the phones are disconnected. I used all the money I had to buy him and I’m 19 years old and he scammed … I have emailed him and called him to be left with nothing ..
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04 Nov, 2023 by Steven zoske
Terrible lawyer. Paid him 5,000 and all of a sudden they are out of business and all phones are disconnected. Definitely filing a grievance with the lawyer regulation department. I encourage everyone else to do the same that he scammed.
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21 Oct, 2023 by T. harry
Holy rug pull Batman!
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05 Nov, 2011 by Anonymous
She talked a big game in the initial consultation (for this alone I was slapped with an enormous bill). When all was said and done, I got standard child support, and half of my ex's enormous debt load - that's it. Could have gotten that walking in there by myself. To top it off, received a HUGE bill 4x what other lawyer's had quoted me during their FREE initial consultations. She did not listen to me, she charged me to keep redoing paperwork that I told her straight away my ex would never agree to. She kept saying, if we go to court we'll get A, B, and C, but when push came to shove, told me it wasn't worth going to court because we'd never get A, B, or C. Extremely frustrating experience. I also thought she initiated way too much personal conversation which I later realized she was charging me an arm and a leg to listen to. Totally not worth it. I'm still shoveling out money to her while my ex is living the high life.
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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.
