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24 Aug, 2024 by Michael rojano
Best attorneys ever. Totaled my car, couldn't get to work and they took care of everything extremely fast. I never had to call them, they always called me. Sara, Sami, and Johnny are amazing attorneys. My settlement was waaay more than what I thought I was going to receive. I would seriously use them again in a heartbeat.
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27 Jun, 2024 by Jonathan torres
I had an exceptional experience with Monarch Law Group, and Sara was truly amazing and incredibly helpful throughout my entire case. I highly recommend Sara and Monarch Law Group for anyone in need of top-notch legal representation. Five stars all the way!
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31 May, 2024 by Martin
I felt Samin went above and beyond in her level of care, communication, and empathy she showed with me. She guided me through the process with care and respect, personally. I never felt, nor was passed on to an assistant or had to wait for any kind of response from her. She truly was exceptional to work with and has my deepest gratitude.
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25 Sep, 2024 by Julian
On time, always eager to get things resolved. Gave my family and I updated often. I felt she did a terrific job in reprensenting us.
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04 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
She was always on time, represented me well. I feel she fought hard on my behalf. I'm very happy with the end result. I would recommend her.
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25 Aug, 2024 by Robert g.
I had to file for bankruptcy, and she was able to help with that. Not knowing how to do any of this, she helped throughout the entire process. Highly recommend her.
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26 May, 2024 by George
Hey everyone I'm feeling really happy today because I finally managed to regain access, to my account after it being disabled for the past year. I'm grateful that I came across
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13 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
Gary was professional, well mannered, and helped ease my fears for a situation I was worried about. I would definitely reccomend him all day!
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14 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
I was reading some of his responses on high school dating. I am a freshman that is mature for her age(not just saying that, I really am) myself (14) and a senior(17) at my high school started talking and we like each other. We are not seeking sexual activity just companionship and I wanted for their to be a chance for us to be together legally.
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19 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
I hired the Law offices of H. William Edgar to assist me in my custody case as I was looking to have equal rights as a father to my daughter. They fought for me! I'm very pleased with the outcome. My experience has been nothing but positive. Everyone is extremely knowledgeable, and definitely made this experience go a lot smoother. If you are looking for an attorney who is knowledgeable, trustworthy, dependable, and one that will not sugar coat, this is it right here. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS TEAM. THEY WILL FIGHT FOR YOU TIL THE END!
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14 Mar, 2022 by Daniel
This law firm did an amazing job getting me more time with my boys. Hope to be getting 50/50 soon but they definitely got me further than I was with my children and I’m thankful for them in this process. They were very reliable and always willing to answer any questions I had, Kristina was always there for me when it came to paperwork and setting appointments with my lawyer Edgar. As a team this girl made my experience a great one considering the circumstances I was under. I left court feeling relieved and hopeful for the future in my children s lives.
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22 Jul, 2021 by Nakhonkham
Brian Dow and his team are a godsend. Hands down the most professional, amazing legal team. They always respond back quickly when concerning your case. I loved that fact that Mr. Dow was not hesitant to provide me with all possible outcomes of my trial. Worth every single cent. Worth every single second. Honestly, the whole team needs superhero capes.
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18 Jun, 2024 by Sara
Mr. Carson did an amazing job handling my son’s case. We’re very thankful for the outcome.
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28 May, 2024 by Christina
I got in trouble last year and hired Mr. Carson best decision of my life he kept me out of jail and with my family hire him you won’t regret it
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22 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
The best lawyer in town I recommend Mr Carson for anybody that has a case worth fighting
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02 Feb, 2022 by Pritpal
I'm just glad that what seemed overwhelming before, Tej was able to walk me through everything at a "5th grade level," making things super easy to understand. 5 Stars! Reach out to Tej for your Worker's compensation and other employment issue needs!
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27 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
Mr. Singh helped us when an unexpected issue came up. He took his time to listen to our concerns, and was thorough in his advice and recommendations to help resolve the issue. He was patient, reassuring, knowledgeable, and was available to help even after the fact. We really appreciated the time he took to help us.
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24 Jan, 2022 by Mona
Mr. Singh was extremely helpful for me and my friend whenever we were dealing with our workplace injuries in California. I would definitely recommend him for anyone looking to hire an attorney.
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28 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
Laura did a Prenup for me and was super quick and responsive. She always had things finished well before the deadlines and made it so I didn't have anything to worry about. I would recommend her to anyone and use her again in a heartbeat.
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28 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
It was a pleasure working with Laura to draft my premarital agreement. Laura was always prompt with phone calls and emails. She was easy and professional to talk with. She took the time to explain everything objectively--never trying to persuade me one way or the other and really listening to what I wanted. She was very informative regarding my state's laws and made sure I understood all the elements and consequences of our premarital agreement. Again, she was very prompt, professional, and exceptionally helpful. I would absolutely recommend working with Laura.
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22 Sep, 2017 by Sabrina lupoli
I am very satisfied. Laura is very professional. She gave me so many good advice. I would highly recommend her.
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01 May, 2019 by Claudia
I had almost lost custody of my Son but Shamika was able to prove to the courts that I was an outstanding mother who had just been through a rough spot in my life. She was very professional and extremely caring. I would recommend her to anyone who is in a unique situation as mine.
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04 Nov, 2017 by Stevie
Working with Mrs. Sookdeo was a valuable experience. She's not one to sugar-coat anything, unlike a other attorneys. I really appreciated her attention to detail and her ability provide an honest and well formulated opinion. She greatly aided me in my child's custody case, and I would absolutely recommend her to anyone seeking a reliable, intelligent and thoughtful attorney.
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03 Jul, 2017 by Timothy
Shumika is an amazing attorney. She is not out to do anyone dirty or lie about anything. She was very honest with me and I was with her. She had great communication with me during my whole divorce case. Even when my ex's attorney failed to even educate themselves on the case and attempted to play dirty pool, Shumika stood her ground on what was right and didn't stoop to their level. Shumika and I were a team on everything, working together like a well oiled machine. I recommend her to anyone in need of an attorney. Hopefully i never need her services ever again but i know where to go if i do. Thanks again Shumika!
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14 Oct, 2022 by Margo
I am a Document Preparer who referred clients to Mr. Stefan. When I became the victim the of a frivolous lawsuit by another attorney trying to extort a settlement by papering me to death. I hired Chris and worked relentlessly on my behalf. Because we refused to settle, this matter went to trial. We won on all causes of action. I highly recommend Chris.
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26 Mar, 2019 by Harvest
Chris has been truly a professional and has assisted our organization through several court cases. His focus and diligence during our cases, made the entire process manageable. I would highly recommend Chris and his services. Harvest Smith
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30 Jan, 2019 by Adrian
Chris is extremely professional, prompt and highly intelligent. As a client of his for the past (2)two years I'm thrilled with the legal advice he has provided for my company and me. I work in entertainment and before I sign anything I send it over to Chris.
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04 Jul, 2024 by Ddperez1978
My sister was in a car accident last year and I had to take care of her afterwards. The insurance company was giving her the runaround until she hired Mr. Dufour. Mr. Dufour made sure her medical bills were all paid and she got a nice settlement. He was very attentive, I highly recommend him
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05 Jan, 2009 by Anonymous
You will find that Gary is upfront and honest. He's personable and makes you feel comfortable. I would highly recommend him.
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01 May, 2008 by Anonymous
Mr. Dufour was personable and professional. He was diligent in his representation. He kept me informed and I am confident in his ability to represent me.
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04 Oct, 2010 by Anonymous
Marc's law firm was there for me when no other attorney would take my criminal case. I went with Lisa a few times to court and she informed me about my case status when Marc was out to court and not available. She was very friendly and knowledgeable about my case.
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27 Sep, 2010 by Rick
Lisa is a savior. She handled my bankruptcy and helped me save my home. She is the single best attorney I have ever met (I had a criminal case a few years back). I would recommend Lisa.
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25 Sep, 2010 by Sam
Marc had helped us on a personal injury case which is how we met Lisa. Lisa met with us several times without ever charging us before we finally decided bankruptcy was right for us. Lisa explained everything to us and helped us plan every move. Everything went like clockwork. Thanks Lisa - You're the Greatest!
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26 Apr, 2012 by Jose
I been paying child support for my 3 kids. When my company moved out of state, I didn't know where to start since my case was filed in Riverside County. One of my sons had turned 18 and it was time for me to start looking for them to stop garnishing my wages. I was looking for a local Attorney here in NV, but kind of find out that the law was bit different, plus my case was from CA, so I decided to google a Lawyer from Riverside. I came across Diana Renteria's #. I called her and it was the best thing I ever done. She was a big help and very easy. At one point before calling her, I was getting worried I thought I had to fly out there to file the right paper work for my case. My second child turned 18 and called her again and got that working for me ASAP. My 3rd child is turning 18 in a month and getting ready to call her again. I do recommend Diana, she's very good at what she does.
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18 Jul, 2009 by Anonymous
This is our second time using Ms Renteria. She is a very knowlledgeable lawyer, very trustworthy and she does not blow smoke up your butt and tell you what she thinks you want to here. If she feels you do not have enough to bak you up on your case she will tell you that up front.
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05 Dec, 2016 by Greg
I hired Carla to prepare a living trust for me. She was very detailed oriented and prepared a top notch trust with many extra documents like a durable power of attorney and medical directive. Later on, I had a family legal question and she was able to decipher the document and explain what it meant. Hiring a lawyer in life is probably not the best thing to have to do in life, but it seems we will all need one eventually. I would highly recommend Carla and use her again in the future.
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29 Mar, 2017 by Drew
Great counsel. Would highly recommend him to anyone looking for a great attorney. Always willing to go the extra mile. He is diligent and very thorough. Does an amazing job at explaining everything and thinks outside of the box.
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15 Nov, 2020 by Alberto medina
Es la mejor abogada, Es la mejor abogada Es la mejor abogada Es la mejor abogada Es la mejor abogada Es la mejor abogada
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08 Jun, 2022 by Andrew
A professional that knows the law and is willing to go above and beyond what ever the situation may be. If you were going into battle she would be the one you want on your side. without a doubt. she’s the type to inform you of your weakness’s and strength’s the do and don’ts because she has expert experience and advice. The best at what she doe’s. I wouldn’t want anyone else on my side. She’s not only helped me she’s helped friends of mine with excellent results. word of mouth travels and travels extremely fast. Be informed and know your options. she took very good care of me and I know she would do the same for you. I couldn’t appreciate her more.
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21 Nov, 2014 by Steven
I've had Mr. Edgar for the past two years and he's been a great attorney. I am involved with a very tough custody battle and he's always been there for appearances fighting for my children and myself. His staff is extremely friendly and hard working. I most likely will retain him to the end. I certainly recommend him as a good family law attorney. Protip: Best thing to do in family law battles is make it about the children and what's best for them. Refrain from fighting just to get back at the other party. Fight for what's right and good for the children. They are the one's that will ultimately lose. Be the better, honest and forthright party and it will be what's best for the children.
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05 Nov, 2014 by Anonymous
From the first time I met with Mr. Edgar I knew he would be able to help me with my case, because he is knowledgeable on family law. I feel Mr. Edgar is invested in my case and I trust his expertise. English is not my first language yet he is respectful and keeps my friend informed on my behalf, just as i have requested.
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14 Oct, 2024 by Katheryn
Law offices were able to modify my orders and complete extremely timely. This is the second time I have hired this law office of which both times I’ve had my situations resolved in an extremely timely manner as promised.
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04 Sep, 2024 by Luis
My mom hired him a few years ago and would like to talk to him. Does anyone have his contact information?
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03 Sep, 2024 by Chuck ev
Knowledgeable, intelligent, prepared, patient, gutsy, funny, loves the Dodgers, reasonably priced and cool guy.
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08 Aug, 2024 by Renee varela
Getting a divorce is not fun! It can feel really scary. If you want a new happy life, I know you do! If you need to divorce a conniving narcissist. Lauren Patterson and team NEED to be your lawyer! This whole office treats you like family. Once you choose Lauren as your Lawyer you wont be scared any more. She will get you the happy life you deserve. Thank You to the whole office.
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12 Oct, 2024 by Rawmen n00dle
Well where do I start? Happy that this process is finally over...😮‍💨.. It's been 7 years and 2 lawyer's. Glad that I ended my journey with Raj, Rita, and Denise... If it wasn't them working hard on my case this outcomes wouldn't have turned out the exact way I wanted it to. Yea we had our moments where we we're both in the heat of the moment, but at the end of the day we stuck through things and couldn't have asked for a better outcome... Thanks Raj it's been a pleasure working with you... Thank you for the hard fight you had for me and my family. Thank you Raj Rita and Denise blessings your way...
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12 Oct, 2024 by Sarah
Wow where do I begin? My husband was hurt doing his job and It’s been a 7 year roller coaster from Hell ever since. Dealing with the workers comp Doctors was a joke , they don’t care about you . He went through two attorneys with the second one being Raj Patel . The moment we signed with RP Law Group we felt confident as they began sending my husband out to different doctors in our area and we actually felt the ball was rolling. Even though the ball was rolling it still was a long process due to the insurance company dragging their feet the whole time . Our youngest was a baby when this whole thing started and now she’s in second grade ! We can finally say it’s over and move on with our lives. My Husband signed his settlement papers yesterday ! Thank you to Raj and his staff at RP Law Group for dealing with my stressed out , pissed off husband at times . Raj , Denise and Rita I thank you for everything .
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10 Oct, 2024 by Dakota lebeau
Very amazing service happy with the outcome Finally stress free thanks to the law group recommend to anyone whos in need of a comp good lawyer
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30 Aug, 2024 by Carmen zamudio
In English and Spanish: The Greenberg, Greenberg, and Kenyon, APLC is a much needed and sought after trustworthy, precise, and expert legal resource for the Inland Empire. This reputable and proactive firm has long served to protect and defend the rights and well being of it's clients in a variety of criminal cases. They are sympathetic, understanding, and they are easily accessible former district attorneys with decades of combined experience. Their practice is to respond to messages and calls within narrow time-frames and off hours. They are thorough, aggressive, and exhaustive investigators with a highly successful reputation. This firm and it's office support staff is set up with bilingual services for it's client's varied needs. I am very confident in sharing this valuable resource with my neighbors and others. As a career-long Bilingual Translator, Parent Liaison, Para-Educator, and Advocate for my students and their families, I am always looking to share trusted information and services that will support and advocate for my community and their loved ones. I am very pleased and satisfied with the solid, comprehensive advice, and conversations that I have had with attorneys and staff of Greenberg, Greenberg, & Kenyon, APLC. El APLC de Greenberg, Greenberg y Kenyon es un recurso legal confiable, preciso, experto y un apoyo muy necesario y buscado para Inland Empire. Esta firma proactiva y de buena reputación ha servido durante mucho tiempo para proteger y defender los derechos y el bienestar de sus clientes en una variedad de casos penales. Son comprensivos, y son ex fiscales de distrito y de fácil acceso con décadas de experiencia combinada. Su práctica incluye responder a mensajes y llamadas dentro de plazos reducidos de tiempo y fuera de horario. Son investigadores minuciosos, agresivos y exhaustivos con una reputación de gran éxito. Esta firma y su personal de apoyo de oficina cuentan con servicios bilingües para las diversas necesidades de sus clientes. Tengo mucha confianza en compartir este valioso recurso con mis vecinos y otras personas. Como traductora bilingüe de carrera, enlace de padres, para-educadora, y defensora de mis estudiantes y sus familias, siempre busco compartir información y servicios confiables que apoyen y defiendan a mi comunidad y a sus seres queridos. Estoy muy contenta y satisfecha con el asesoramiento sólido y completo, y con las conversaciones que he tenido con los abogados y el personal de Greenberg, Greenberg & Kenyon, APLC.
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17 Aug, 2024 by Nancy dino
Muchas gracias Greenberg por ayudar a Adam Todo el equipo es muy profesional, amable y hablan Español tambien.
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17 Aug, 2024 by Kristin pohly
Our family turned to Greenberg, Greenberg & Kenyon after my grandson's previous attorney failed to represent him effectively. Faced with an incredibly complex case and what felt like an inevitable conviction, Charles Kenyon stepped in and delivered an outstanding defense. He didn’t just win the case; he saved my grandson’s life. The entire firm is compassionate, communicative, and we cannot recommend them highly enough!
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16 Apr, 2024 by Daisha brown
100% made this experience such a breeze, the levels of anxiety I faced they took the best care of me. thank you to my team at omega law!
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06 Jan, 2024 by Borna golchian
Robin was very kind and helped me very well. All of their lawyers are very smart and know how to handle any situation.
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06 Jan, 2024 by Shayli esraeil
They are very kind and can handle every situation very well. They can deal with any situation flawlessly. Vera was a pleasure to work with
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16 Apr, 2024 by Daisha brown
100% made this experience such a breeze, the levels of anxiety I faced they took the best care of me. thank you to my team at omega law!
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06 Jan, 2024 by Borna golchian
Robin was very kind and helped me very well. All of their lawyers are very smart and know how to handle any situation.
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06 Jan, 2024 by Shayli esraeil
They are very kind and can handle every situation very well. They can deal with any situation flawlessly. Vera was a pleasure to work with
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14 Feb, 2024 by Rich a
Mark and his team did an amazing job at helping me get my record cleared. They kept in touch and informed me of every step along the way. Highly recommend.
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20 Aug, 2023 by Melissa lucero
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17 Jun, 2023 by Kathie lemons
Mark is an amazing attorney, he is professional, and cares about his clients. His staff are kind and helpful. You can trust him with representing you and getting great results.
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08 Oct, 2024 by Gilbert fletcher
My experience with Lemon Law Experts was exceptional and I can't thank them enough for all of their help and support with my case. Their professionalism, attention to detail, and desire to see me get what I deserved surpassed all expectations. The team also kept me in the loop throughout the entire process and proactively communicated all updates in a timely manner. I felt comfortable with the team throughout the entire process and I would recommend them 10 times out of 10.
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07 Oct, 2024 by Giovanna de la torre
Assisted me with a pre-filing case that I thought was going to be picked up. Thankfully, David was able to help and nothing was filed. I’m really grateful that David was communicative and helped calm my nerves through this whole process. As someone who never had to seek representation before, this was very important.
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02 Oct, 2024 by Ahmad zamir 123
Where should I start to say about daivd wohl Attorney 2019 I had case and I don’t know any one to help me and help my mom and my dad I was very upset and Lost all my hopes One of my friends tell me about daivd When I called Daivd , he answered his phone and he said come over and see me and I went there to see daivd with my parents and when I Explain everything to him he was listening to me and he said to me and to my parents I will do everything to help you and your parents And he did he help my parents and help me He got the case Dismiss and Me and my parents, we walk free form the Court. And I call him back my uncle had a criminal case and he helped my uncle and he got my uncle case dismissed And he Help my uncle for DUI Trust Daivd trust him, listen to his words and he will everything to get the case Dismiss Please call him for any type of cases He will get it dismiss and you will walk a way free
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02 Apr, 2024 by The candle network
So sad that Mr. Kennedy is no longer with us, he had a heart larger than life. . .
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18 Dec, 2023 by Emely cuevas
The Law Office of Kennedy & Associates, car accident lawyers in Riverside CA, provided exceptional support, were efficient, and professional, and kept me well informed.
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14 Dec, 2023 by Fletcher andrews
The Law Office of Kennedy & Associates, the go-to personal injury lawyers in Riverside CA, was exceptional! Their consistent communication and genuine concern made me feel secure.
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02 Sep, 2024 by Tatto g.g martinez
Nisiquiera contestan cuando uno llama no tienen mucha experiencia
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29 Aug, 2024 by Luis avalos
Great experience with the Dominguez Firm. A very smooth process and an even better case outcome with these guys. Would highly recommend!
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26 Aug, 2024 by Stephanie holland
The YLG team is so compassionate, dedicated, and effective in how they handle their cases and clients. I would highly recommend this team to anyone looking for legal support in an injury case. You will not be disappointed!
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02 Sep, 2024 by Tatto g.g martinez
Nisiquiera contestan cuando uno llama no tienen mucha experiencia
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29 Aug, 2024 by Luis avalos
Great experience with the Dominguez Firm. A very smooth process and an even better case outcome with these guys. Would highly recommend!
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26 Aug, 2024 by Stephanie holland
The YLG team is so compassionate, dedicated, and effective in how they handle their cases and clients. I would highly recommend this team to anyone looking for legal support in an injury case. You will not be disappointed!
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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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

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