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24 Jun, 2024 by Elite motorcycle llc
Melissa is the best attorney, I recommend everyone that’s in need to go see her. Always handled my stuff efficiently and effectively until the very end.
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29 Dec, 2023 by Ka wai wong
I contacted Melissa over a speeding ticket in a neighboring county. Although she does not work on minor traffic violations in that county, she was super nice and very kind to give me advice. She listened to me attentively and understood my concerns well. She even shared her own experience with me to make me feel better! She explained to me in great detail the potential consequences and the subsequent procedure. I am very grateful to her help and advice. Thank you very much again! Giving my strongest recommendation for Melissa here!
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16 Jul, 2023 by Connie ray
When we were looking for an ethical attorney to represent our son, it was a daunting task. We interviewed many attorneys, but after meeting and speaking with Matthew Izzi, I knew that he was the one to represent our son's defense. I felt he would approach his defense with integrity and respect for our son, and he did. Matthew doesn't fall into believing false accusations of articles written, community pressures and opposing counsel stacked charges, he develops his defense based on facts, based on the truth for his client, our son. He assured our son of his defense plan and collaborated with our son on the best way to develop his defense strategy. Matthew's demeaner in the courtroom is professional, no matter how much opposing counsel tries to pull his strings, he remains calm and forthright. He addressed injustices that were made against our son and explained many facts, of the truth, that sheds a bright light for the jury to see and that light doesn't go out, for that is what the truth does, it shines bright. Matthew gave us hope, something the DA tried to destroy. The Shasta legal system is a process of delays, unnecessary jail time --for our son, questionable decisions made by appointed judges, unfair bail , this is 'not' a justice system in our point of view. This was frustrating for us and for our son. We experienced many injustices during my son's trial by opposing counsel and Shasta Sheriff dept. So you need a good lawyer when you are in Shasta's court system. If you are looking for a good defense lawyer consider Matthew, he cares for his client's well being, despite the uphill battle he faces when dealing with the opposing counsel's unprofessional behaviors, different judges and Shasta Sherriff/Probation dept., etc.. One more comment, if you read anything written via yelp, social media or in the newspaper, that is negative about Matthew's character, by certain people in Shasta county, don't believe them, they can't deal with Matthew being so good at his job and believing in our son's account regarding what really happened. God knows the truth and the yappers negativity against my son, will be dealt with by God.
When stacked charges are brought up against your loved one, you need an attorney who will represent your loved one, in an aggressive, professional, intelligent and smart manner. The highlight is-- you need Matthew who will believe in you and will work diligently to prove your loved one's innocence. Matthew helped me understand an area, that I wasn't familiar with, the legal system, this also helped our son fight the system for his innocence and to try to get through the difficult situation. Matthew's staff is friendly, listened to me through many phone calls regarding my frustration with the Court process, the DA and Sherriff dept. So consider Matthew for your defense, this will be the most important decision of your loved one's life.
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19 Feb, 2021 by Ruby
My fiance is going through bad child custody/ support case with his ex, and I was scared cause judge was going for mom and child support went up, so I called almost all attorneys in our county and no one would work with us - we don't have thousands of $ to give a lawyer... but she could hear how scared I was and she is working with us. We are still going through this right now but I would recommend her to Anyone. She is upfront and can be a lil rude but, I don't care, she is an Awesome lawyer! I can't thank her enough!
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07 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
Ms. Lauser is a wonderful attorney. She is an attorney who is devoted and loves what she does. I truly respect her for the work and devotion that she puts into each of her clients and cases. I have seen her at work she is constantly fighting for what is right. When she believes in her case she will fight for you until the end. She is handling my juvenile case at this moment and is doing an outstanding job. As far as if Ms. Lauser loves the Lord on some of these reviews they say she is a hypocrite I say this to them "You without sin cast the first stone" we all have our dirty little sins and we are not perfect but I can say that Ms. Lauser does love the Lord with all her heart and she may have her faults at times but she is a very God fearing women and an excellent attorney. If you need a devoted attorney Ms. Lauser is that women. One word that I can say for her is "RESPECTED" she is highly favored and respected.
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28 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
I was recommended Pamela by another mother going through custody and CPS false reporting. After the interview with Attorney Pamela. She reviewed my case with a short noticed that trial would be in 30 days. I felt confident and quickly hired Attorney Pamela. I felt very confident that I called Attorney Pamela one a week, I had no worries that my case was in good hands. I had two days of trail, well-organized, a list of witnesses - Yes! Pamela had to move fast on my case. Two days and Pamela was great in asking all the right questions, reviewed all documents and on time. An honest, hard working, well prepared to a last minute trial. I was given custody in a small increment but at the mediation meeting two weeks after the trail. The other party decided/willingly to share 50 - 50 joint custody.
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21 Jul, 2022 by Amanda
Very pleased & highly recommend Jacob Levin, as an attorney and person. Very intelligent & intuitive too!
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11 Mar, 2021 by Michael
We highly recommend Jacob Levin Law Office. Jacob was a supportive and effective guide for us when we needed an attorney. He was professional throughout our dealings, listened carefully, and thoughtfully approached our issue. With the information we supplied, Jacob was quick to provide a creative and sound resolution .
We felt comfortable with Jacob from the start and although he was serious about our issue he allowed room for a light hearted approach. We found the cost very reasonable and well worth our money. We will be using Jacob’s services and intelligence in the future.
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28 Dec, 2016 by Anonymous
The most knowledgeable and honest attorney in the area. She will go all out for you and deliver the result you need. She is incredibly caring and truly concerned about the client as well.
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23 Mar, 2021 by Steve
Dret is a professional, well organized, and caring attorney. My case, that he successfully represented, was complex and lasted more than a year. Mr. McHatton kept my interests, my personal emotions, and the overall goal of a divorce as a priority. I can not thank him, and his staff (Michelle and Julie) enough. I would highly recommend Dret McHatton to represent you, keep you informed, and successfully lead you through the difficult and complicated process of a divorce. Highly recommended!
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19 Mar, 2016 by Allen
Andreas deserves a superb rating here. I really could not emphasize enough the quality character and ability this man possesses. He is top notch professionally! I hired him for a bifurcation with a divorce case that other attorneys sat on for nearly two years. He consulted with me over the phone as I was physically unable to travel. I received an invoice and he had my paperwork filed within the week! Andres took time to answer my questions both over the phone and via email, often at late hours, without nickel and dime-ing me. I trust him to represent me as he is straightforward and honest. He achieved my desired outcome. He is hands down the best attorney that I have ever had the privilege to work with and would look to again and again. Thank you, Andres!
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21 Aug, 2019 by Liz benage
Pete is thorough and treats everyone as a friend. Love ya Pete.
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21 Aug, 2019 by Liz benage
Pete is thorough and treats everyone as a friend. Love ya Pete.
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5.0
14 Reviews
4.8
110 Reviews
30 Sep, 2024 by Donna cortez
21 Aug, 2024 by Kaitlyn
Rob and his wife Amber handled everything for me after I recieved a dui! Friendly people, easy to talk to, they walked me through everything and got my dui reduced to a wet and reckless. It was so effortless using Rob and Amber. Thank you guys for everything and I will continue to recommend you to others that need an attorney!
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22 Jun, 2024 by Cindy derner
Mr Hammonds is very polite and respectful. He explains everything easily and is just wonderful. Definitely well worth the money. If you need a top notch attorney this is your guy! Straight foward and doesn't sugar coat. His office manager Amber is wonderful also. She sets the tone for the office, very helpful and quick to respond. They handled my son's case with much kindness and professionalism. Even with Mr Hammonds out of town our case was still handled quickly and efficiently. I just can't say enough good about this office. You won't be disappointed! End result on one charge was a plea deal and when DA decided to try some double jeopardy stuff Rob and Amber where on it quick and of course case was dismissed! They help take some.of the stress off knowing we were in good hands!
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24 Sep, 2023 by Melissa stiliha
We actually own this place it is the most amazing thing we bought it for a friend so he could work there and we are in the painting and furniture
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06 Jun, 2023 by John durbin
18 Nov, 2021 by Brady
David Clark was recommended to me after I had been through three attorneys, all of whom took my money and then did nothing to get the matter resolved. Mine is a complicated divorce involving legal abuse, financial abuse, emotional abuse, coercion and control, and domestic violence.
Mr. Clark was the first of my attorneys to treat the abuse aspect of the case as if it mattered, and also the first to follow through on promises he made. He has been diligent in pursuing several avenues to get me a fair financial resolution, and to demand that my husband account for the abuse he perpetrated on my body and my spirit. Mr. Clark takes my concerns to heart, he takes all aspects of my case seriously, and he is an effective and creative litigator. My case has been in trial for four days, and I have witnessed Mr. Clark navigate complicated financial matters, guide me with grace through a very difficult testimony, and deftly expose liars on the stand like a Musketeer wielding a sword.
I recommend Mr. Clark to anyone looking for an attorney who, rather than just putting his clients through a “divorce mill” (all signatures and deadlines and forms), will listen to their concerns, explain his methods, and do his very best to meet their individual needs.
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21 Sep, 2024 by Roger
Ryan was instrumental in helping bring justice to a very serious crime I was accused of. I was facing some serious charges that could have impacted my life in a very bad way. Though the court process was long, he was persistent and worked endlessly to eventually have my case dismissed. I would highly recommend him.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Wayne simpson
The best by far in Redding California.
He will work for you whatever you are going through.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Paint bro'z inc.
Does what he says he’s going to do. Trustworthy. Follows through his words with action. Willing to work with you.
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24 Sep, 2023 by Melissa stiliha
We actually own this place it is the most amazing thing we bought it for a friend so he could work there and we are in the painting and furniture
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06 Jun, 2023 by John durbin
02 Nov, 2020 by Blaine spence
Friendly staff and excellent service. I would highly recommend Jeffrey Ogilvie for any of your legal needs.
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06 Aug, 2024 by Ashlee thomure
After a consultation I paid for, Dret McHatton agreed to take my case. While I was waiting for something from them to get the retainer paid, they decided to not take my case and "fill their calendar." They didnt even bother reaching out to me to let me know. I had to reach out and ask myself. Knowing it's a last minute case. I cancled another consult with another lawyer because Dret gave me his word. Wouldn't trust this lawyer to keep his promises.
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23 Jul, 2024 by Max wade
After having money sucked from my soul by 2 other lawyer.... Kinny and Kinny really treated me right and made me feel like my money was well spent.
Thank you so very much
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17 Jul, 2024 by Scott mcmillan
Very well informed and amazing people.
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06 Aug, 2024 by Ashlee thomure
After a consultation I paid for, Dret McHatton agreed to take my case. While I was waiting for something from them to get the retainer paid, they decided to not take my case and "fill their calendar." They didnt even bother reaching out to me to let me know. I had to reach out and ask myself. Knowing it's a last minute case. I cancled another consult with another lawyer because Dret gave me his word. Wouldn't trust this lawyer to keep his promises.
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23 Jul, 2024 by Max wade
After having money sucked from my soul by 2 other lawyer.... Kinny and Kinny really treated me right and made me feel like my money was well spent.
Thank you so very much
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17 Jul, 2024 by Scott mcmillan
Very well informed and amazing people.
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18 Jul, 2019 by Rose
I hired Karen to handle my divorce and custody case back in 6/2015. My case was complicated due to the fact that I have a severely disabled son. My divorce was not final until 2/2018. Karen was always available when I needed her. She attended every court appearance and was professional and well-prepared. She made sure that I maintained ownership of my house and other personal property. Neither of us were happy with the final custody decision in June, 2017. And 3 weeks later when my son turned 18, my ex filed a petition for sole conservatorship of my son in an effort to remove me from my son's life. Incredibly, Karen offered to represent me in conservator court (unfamiliar territory for her). Together, Karen and I navigated through the conservator court system. We went to trial. Karen was up against one of the best probate/conservator attorneys in Shasta County. Karen had previously had the pleasure of 2 trials with my ex, so she knew exactly which buttons to push (big grin). Did I mention that Karen brings her 'A Game' at trial? She is sooo good in trial!!! We finished the conservatorship trial in January, 2018 and in February the judge granted MY petition! I'm truly appreciative of all that Karen has done for me and my son.
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15 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
Karen and her staff were fair, compassionate, honest, and nothing but helpful. She turned my extreme circumstance into a manageable situation and it resulted in a positive outcome at a reasonable cost. Most impressed with the compassion regarding the well being of my children.
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09 Sep, 2014 by Anonymous
After spending thousands of dollars with another attorney and nothing had been done, I came to Karen and she and her staff quickly finalized all issues at a minimum cost. I highly recommend her to anyone needing help with a family law case.
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21 Sep, 2024 by Cecile s
My experience with Jacob Levin as my family court lawyer was mediocre at best. Altho Mr. Levin is very friendly and seemingly empathetic, he did the bare minimum from the beginning, and it got worse as time passed. Jacob Levin did zero follow up on any of the paperwork filings that he was hired to oversee in my case. Eventually he abandoned my case entirely with no warning. Jacob Levin dodged my communication attempts, and refused to follow up until i threatened to report him to the state bar, ultimately leaving me without representation at the last minute. Seeing the trend in his reviews, insult to his performance seem to be the only way to get any effort from him, altho the effort is to defend HIMSELF, not his paying client.
Unless your case is extremely simple and everyone involved is in agreement, i do NOT recommend him for anything that requires time, care, attention to detail, follow up, or follow thru.
Im sure he will have a wonderful defense for himself on here too, which will just further prove my point.
Not showing up for your clients court date is inexcusable. Case closed.
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19 Sep, 2024 by Susie lievsay
I retained Jacob Levin as my lawyer during my divorce, expecting him to prioritize my interests, but unfortunately, his paralegal, Natalie, failed to do so. Despite paying approximately $3,000 out of pocket, with my ex-husband still owing additional funds, I felt the services were overpriced and ineffective. Notably, I never met with Mr. Levin, and he didn't attend any court hearings with me, making his involvement seem superficial.
The office appeared overbooked, and the staff unprofessional, particularly Natalie, who made errors on my paperwork. When I calmly brought this to her attention, she responded with attitude, deprioritizing the situation, rather than addressing my concerns. Natalie consistently demonstrated unprofessional behavior, including hanging up on clients, yelling, and interrupting. Not taking responsibility for her mistake.
Upon attempting to discuss these issues with Mr. Levin, he redirected me to Natalie, who refused to speak with me. As a result, I'm forced to file an amendment and restart the process, which is unacceptable and warrants a refund. Based on my experience, I strongly advise against using their services, as there are more reasonably priced and competent attorneys available. Everyone I know who has used their services regrets it.
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18 Jul, 2024 by Blakanator w.
Very professional. Very communicative during the whole process, even if you can at times be a difficult client, he handles it well.
10/10 would recommend hiring Jacob Levin.
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20 Jun, 2024 by Choya bos
He is not proactiive by any means . Don’t expect him to do as little as possible on your case
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09 Apr, 2024 by Jerry roberg
Nice and honest, would recommend Dave 100%
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20 Mar, 2024 by Randy leon
Mr. Wilson was very helpful in answering my questions!
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27 Dec, 2023 by Paul
Very professional staff. My questions were answered quickly and in detail. I highly recommend their services.
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04 Jul, 2023 by Ali copeland
Rupert Corkill is a fearless advocate for civil justice. Diligent to shed light on the facts of each case that he accepts. Rupert is educated and articulate, loyal and brave in his practice of law. Rupert is not afraid of spiders and can make way for your civil rights.
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18 May, 2023 by Nicholas palmer
I am writing this to recommend Rupert Corkill as an excellent Family Law attorney. I can speak to his attributes first hand because he represented me in litigation. Engaging Mr. Corkill was the best decision I could have made. It is not just about winning with him. It is about reliability, honesty, integrity and skill. In highly charged emotional situations, it is about his calm--in and out of the courtroom. Mr. Corkill worked effectively with me as a client, with witnesses and opposing counsel to protect my children. Mr. Corkill was competent, thorough, always took my calls to answer my questions, to keep me informed and to intimately guide my path. With over 20 years experience, he out shined opposing counsel in so many ways. His excellent support staff was capable, efficient and highly skilled. This writer is most confident that Rupert Corkill would be an asset in any legal action.
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30 May, 2024 by Anonymous
My child literally needed help with the situation he was in and she completely made it worse for him . Showed up to court seething with anger you could feel it she was so mad tried to stare down the opposition the entire time . Truly sad when a lawyer only cares about money and doesnt care about ppl
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30 Mar, 2023 by Ken
She was a good attorney at one time. When she lost her assistant, she lost it. If you want an attorney that doesn’t respond to your requests, calls, emails and does not communicate important things to you, by all means, hire her.
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09 Feb, 2021 by Peter
Carmel D’Amato is an outstanding family law attorney and I feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with her and her team at Seinturier and D’Amato. Of particular importance to me, she listens carefully to her clients and asks good questions in order to understand their goals and needs. She provided me with excellent advice based on the facts of my case and what I told her my goals were. Of particular importance, she helped me understand the difference between what I wanted and thought was fair, based on what I read about California family law, and what were likely outcomes given the reality of California family law and the family law system in Shasta county. I was very impressed by Carmel’s ability to maintain her integrity, composure, and good humor despite the difficulties of this flawed system and the challenges of dealing with opponents who are willing to sacrifice their integrity and constantly mislead the court to gain an advantage. In the end, I got what I consider to be an excellent settlement that allowed me to move on with my life.
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29 May, 2024 by Stephen arnett
Wrong image her office is on west street & I didn't meet with her I met with Matt Hannum who is out of Weaverville both are good attorneys I'm just not a fan of children's services & courthouses but it happens
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27 Mar, 2024 by Taylor keenan
Jennifer has done many trials for me for 4 years now I highly suggest her to anyone with family law matters! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I talk about her all the time to my friends! Thank you so much again Jennifer I really can't thank you enough ! Time and time again ! ⭐☺️
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19 Dec, 2023 by Amber harnois
Does not waste time and money with unnecessary correspondence. She told me what to do. I listened to her and did it and I won my case. She knows what she is talking about.
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31 Jan, 2019 by Diana
Filed bankruptcy with him and they filed too soon and screwed us up. Now we owe the IRS more with penalties an interest. His office girl did all the work and he never checked it out to make sure it was correct and now we are messed up with the IRS.
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27 Mar, 2018 by Reece
I hired Mr. Ogilvie to represent me in a family law case and a Civil lawsuit. Basically I ended up representing myself because Mr. Ogilvie didn't take the time. So much so that he allowed the other sides attorney, Mike Darlington, to file fraudulent documents for his client and Mr. Ogilvie signed off on them, obviously because he either never bothered to read them or didn't care or both. He appeared in court for me only long enough to postpone hearings and trial until we finally settled and never had a trial. The settlement was written by me and a different attorney, not Ogilvie and not the opposing sides attorney, Mike Darlington. Mr. Ogilvie is a nice man but I think overwhelmed and perhaps past his prime. I would love my money back but too much trouble to take the time to pursue at this point. I would never hire him again or recommend him to anyone who actually wants an attorney who cares and will work for them. You will be very disappointed with Mr. Ogilvie.
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22 Feb, 2018 by Richard
Mr. Ogilvie did not present any of the evidence that I researched and presented him with. He made no attempt to research any of the evidence on his own eg. wifes earnings. Made no objections did not stand up for me when the judge said she did not believe I couldn't hear. The whole proceding was a kangaroo court in which opposite council presented false "evidence" concerning my income. It goes on and on
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11 Oct, 2024 by Ryan
Amber is a expertly competent lawyer who doesn't cut corners, and who is not afraid to stand up for what is right in court. She is articulate, incredibly intelligent, and cares about every person she represents. If you want an expert that will fight effectively, go with Amber.
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07 May, 2024 by Anonymous
After consultation was told to call back as soon as I received divorce papers from my spouse. When I called back one week later, after being served, I was told that they weren't accepting any clients. This has left me in a bind. Now I'm currently searching for a new attorney so that I can file my response within the 30 day timeframe. Would not recommend...
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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.
