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06 May, 2021 by Anonymous
Could not recommend Dianne and her team more. I retained her to help me navigate a complex case that involved domestic violence, a restraining order, child custody, and a subsequent divorce. I could not be happier with the outcome, given the circumstances. What I appreciated most about Dianne is her tireless work ethic. She's active in her community of legal specialization and has a clear mastery of the law. Combined with her decades of experience in family courts, it's no surprise things turned out as well as they did.
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02 May, 2021 by Brian
Dianne Fetzer and her team are one of the hardest working law firms in the Sacramento area. I cannot recommend them enough if you are in need. They listen, they truly care, and are so supportive throughout the entire process. Dianne will fight for you like no other! And their recommendations are always made with the best interest of their client and what is right. I don’t think I could have made it through all the legal garbage if it wasn’t for them. They give you a peace of mind and enable you to sleep at night by knowing they have everything handled. They are worth every penny! Highly recommend if you are in need!
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05 Nov, 2018 by Bill higgins
Dianne helped me a few years ago she helped me resolve a challenging custody dispute. She is knowledgeable and professional if the need ever rises again i would not hesitate to partner with Dianne as she is a true partner in resolving your perspective case
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18 Aug, 2018 by Anonymous
I decided to hire Tara after attending a workshop she presented on family law. I was impressed with her quick wit, extensive knowledge of California family law and her confidence. She gave me much needed support during a tumultuous time.
Tara is brillianty organized, thorough and one step ahead of the opposition. The prevailing thought I had during the entire process was, “I am so glad I’m not on the other side of this table .”
Tara does not like to lose and she argues flawlessly. Her adherence to ethics cannot be compromised.
Divorce is a nightmare and brutally stressful. Tara succeeded in winning me more than I expected. I can not say enough about how relieved and pleased i am with the job she did for me.
Additionally, her staff is amazing, professional and delightful to work with . Teresa and Yolie are superstars in their own right . Thanks to all!
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17 Aug, 2018 by Anonymous
When I hired Tara, I honestly did not know how I would survive the thought of being divorced and raising children on my own. I was depressed, angry, and destroyed. Tara went above and beyond, was available to me anytime day and night, and she went toe-to-toe with opposing counsel who was very aggressive and had years of experience on Tara. We prevailed on every issue. By the time we were done, I had my sanity back, money to survive, and more property then I expected. Tara's fees are fair and her staff is amazing. I highly recommend Tara and her team.
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15 Sep, 2016 by Sfq
I will start by saying that I cannot praise Tara Rojas enough. Having now been through the seemingly endless strife of a custody battle, I know that if you are reading this that life might be hard right now. This is why I feel compelled to write about my experience and how Tara helped me through it. She has been the bridge between me and a relationship with my children. My case was complicated and tough, but Tara got me through it all.
My plight started with an ill-conceived marriage settlement agreement with a disingenuous former spouse. After taking up residence in another state, said former spouse then fabricated abuse allegations against me and got the court to cut off contact between me and my children. I consulted with several other attorneys, and did not get a good feeling. Then a friend referred me to Ms. Rojas, and the rest is history. I was confident in Tara’s ability to get the right outcome for my family from the moment that I met her. I went from being a stressed-out mess, to calm and confident. I attribute this to Tara’s tireless efforts on my case. She made me feel as if I was her only client, and I slept soundly knowing that she had my back.
After our first meeting, she evaluated all courses of action, and kept me informed every step of the way. I feel it is important to mention that what set her apart from the other attorneys that I met was that she took the time to get to know me. By doing this, she was able to tell my story to the court. With truth on our side, after multiple hearings, a custody evaluation, and a trial, I now have sole legal and physical custody of my children. Tara disproved all my former spouse’s allegations, and now I am free to raise my family in a healthy environment. If you want the absolute best attorney to work on your behalf, then hire Tara Rojas.
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07 Sep, 2022 by Debra
Mr. King was very generous with his time and you can tell he really cares about people and their legal matters. I would highly recommend him.
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27 Feb, 2012 by Daniel r.
Mr. Derek John King is the best attorney I have ever had represent me. He is honest, trustworthy, no non-sense. He personally answered all of my questions and phone calls. He handled my case in very timely fashion. It was a pleasure to meet him and have him represent me. If you need an attorney that can get your case completed in the most professional manner possible, he is the attorney for you. He is a very honest and reputable person.
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30 Nov, 2010 by Chris
I was from out-of-state and I needed a traffic attorney in Placer County. Just a little research took me to Derek King, whereupon I called and received a free consultation from him- which, in the legal world, is very valuable and telling of an honest lawyer. John was knowledgeable and straight-forward. I hired him and he was able to have my ticket cleared. This was a good experience.
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12 Dec, 2024 by Jasper
I hired Lara to help me quickly (and cost-effectively) wrap up the divorce process with an ex whose focus was to make things more difficult at every turn. I specifically did not want a bulldog of an attorney.
Lara is quietly competent, but assertive. She skillfully managed my ex’s attempts to drive up costs and exert control over her and the Court. Lara is sharp and attentive. I felt like she listened and understood what was important to me, and was both direct and gentle in her communication with me. She was very efficient with my retainer.
During a time when I was more frazzled than ever, knowing Lara had the situation under control saved me so much stress. She reminded me what I was legally entitled to and successfully negotiated a settlement agreement — something that I would never have been able to accomplish on my own.
I cannot recommend her highly enough.
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21 Jul, 2023 by Amber roberson
05 Feb, 2023 by Gabe collins
David Booth was the best. My ex wife is an alcoholic and complete mess. David dealt with her attorney who was equally a mess and a failure at communicating. David got me everything my daughter and I wanted and deserved. By far the most important: full custody of my daughter. Thank you David and Sherry!!! Much love and respect!
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27 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
Based on my experience with Ms. Hudson, she doesn't fit the typical perception of attorneys that most people have.
1. She's sharp...very sharp.
2. She actually cares about her clients.
3. When she's focused on your case, she's totally focused on your case.
4. She treats her clients with dignity and respect.
5. Though quite aggressive from a legal standpoint, she is not hostile or arrogant with judges, other attorneys, opposing parties, or clients.
6. She is very good at "thinking on her feet" and is able to respond quickly and tactfully to situations that suddenly appear during a hearing.
In summary, if you're looking for an arrogant attorney from a big prestigious law firm, or one with a hostile "junkyard dog" demeanor, look elsewhere. However, if you're looking for a sharp attorney who doesn't fit the stereotype that spawns the plethora of lawyer jokes and causes people to despise attorneys, Ms. Hudson is worth consideration.
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10 Jun, 2013 by Anonymous
If you are looking for a lawyer who is not only smart but has an excellent reputation in the Alameda County court system, Heidi Hudson is the lawyer for you. Once I felt Ms Hudson understood what was really going on with our family situation I was able to completely step back and take her advice and follow her coaching without worrying.
If your family is in a high conflict separation or divorce and you are tired of trying to convince professionals (judges, mediators, therapists, lawyers) that the high conflict is the result of much more than just a he said she said conflict or different parenting styles, Heidi can help.
Heidi has become very skilled at understanding that high conflict can be rooted in at least one of the parents having a true but perhaps undiagnosed personality disorder. It has been my experience that personality disorders wreak havoc on the family by often (not always) fooling the court system, mediators and therapists. The result to the family is a case that is dragged on for years with a revolving door to the courtroom and your children being subjected to multiple custody order changes each year, flopping them back and forth between parents.
Heidi has a deep understanding of how the courts handle these high conflict cases, what they will and will not listen to, what you need to do and more importantly NOT do to best protect your children. She thinks out of the box to reduce the risk and stress on your family.
I highly recommend contacting Heidi Hudson, especially for those dealing with a high conflict divorce or separation.
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24 Apr, 2012 by Anonymous
Heidi handled my divorce with dilligence, care, and thoughtfulness. She is a lawyer's lawyer. There may be bigger "names" out there, but if you ask those in the know, they will point you to Heidi. And her bill was reasonable under the circumstances. What more could you ask for? No regrets. Pure and simple.
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26 Jul, 2020 by Felecia
Gina took on my custody case with my newborn son, which was already scary enough. She made the process go smoothly and ensured my concerns were heard. She was terrific at discering the situation and knowing the best course of action. I recommend her to everyone I know when asked for a family law or custody attorney.
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29 Oct, 2018 by Mark
Gina provided an excellent service. Anyone who engages her won’t be disappointed.
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22 Nov, 2017 by Chuck
Gina helped with getting everything filled out correctly and in the right order so we only had to file paperwork one time.
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27 Nov, 2023 by Jason
Like most, I never expected that I would find myself going through a divorce. This, however, was not the worst part of it. I was served with a temporary DVRO from my ex-wife that was full of the most slanderous statements that I ever could have imagined and an expressed desire to move out-of-state with our 6-year old daughter. I was feeling scared, desperate, and nearly without hope.
I was referred to Mr. Burton by a dear friend of mine and I wasn't sure what to expect. However, within a short period of time, he and I found our way to craft what we believed to be a winning strategy.
We were outspent 5 to 1 and went through a grueling six day trial. But, at the end, we kept my daughter with me and I feel a tremendous amount of gratitude to the work and dedication to the truth that Mr. Burton demonstrated during our shared ordeal.
With my divorce final and my daughter near me, I can, without hesitation, state that if I had any other attorney, I doubt my life would be the same.
Thank you, Randall.
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17 May, 2010 by Rheau cramsey
Mr. Burton demonstrated all of the qualities that you expect and HOPE that you will find in a lawyer. During an extremely difficult time in my life, I experienced his knowledge and professionalism as my lawyer and yet found it very easy to converse and explain to him my feelings and emotions. He gave me encouragement and a sense of value as a person. I would not hesitate to call on him again or recommend him to my friends.
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05 Apr, 2010 by Edwin
I was referred to Mr. Burton by a friend who chose him based on his low Bar number, which indicates a high number of years in practice.
Besides (or rather in spite of) his many years of experience, Randall Burton offers some of the most competitive rates for comparable services of anyone practicing in the state.
Communication between the client and his lawyer and any persons in opposition is key to the succesful resolution of any litigation and Randall's skill in this area, along with his ability to focus his attention on my areas of concern, resulted in a more than satisfactory outcome to my divorce proceedings.
From the outset of the action Randall was able to manage my expectations by educating me about the proccess and keeping me fully informed throughout the ordeal.
Because of his even temperment and innate grasp of the principles of advocacy, Mr. Randall Burton has a life-long fan in me; I continue to utilize his services for my legal needs.
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15 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
Mrs. Kissinger was an amazing attorney. She helped me through my divorce and with my child custody. She was very informative and lets you know what to expect. She was kind and caring and a good listener and very professional. I highly recommend her!
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17 Sep, 2018 by Vincent
As a father dealing with custody issues I could not be more pleased to have retained Jamie Kissinger on several occasions concerning my children. Jamie is extremely easy to work with and to communicate with. Her knowledge of family law and ability to explain complex issues has been a benefit to my family, especially my children. Ive experienced that being a father can be very difficult in any family law case. I always felt like my case was able to be heard fairly especially as a father in a California Family law case. She gave me great advice by helping me navigate the highly conflicted issues regarding child custody. I Would recommend Jamie to anyone Looking for a fair, ethical and professional attorney. She literally will go the extra mile. I originally retained her Sacramento during the early stages of my case. Despite moving to Walnut Creek she was willing to commute and was always on time for hearings at the courthouse in Sacramento. I want to leave this review by saying that family law cases are extremely difficult. Attorneys like Jamie Kissinger make this process so much easier fir their clients. I would definitely retain her again for any of my family law/custody issues.
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24 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
Jaime is an excellent attorney. She is honest and works hard for her clients. I was referred to Jaime to handle my child custody and divorce cases. She diligently stated on top of my cases and because of this, I was granted a divorce through the bifurcation process. Im thankful that Jaime’s persistence paid off. Her hard work brought closure and has allowed me to move forward in my life.
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29 May, 2016 by Anika
I live outside of the state and contacted Ewing Law Group when I was faced with a stressful, frustrating case and a very short time frame that would require them to travel to another county. I spoke with Jason Ewing, and during our very first conversation it became clear that he is an honest person of integrity. I explained my situation, and he took the time to answer all of my initial questions, then advised me that he could take my case but that it would be cheaper for me to choose someone closer to the county where my case was filed. Knowing my financial situation, he also offered to help me complete paperwork myself, but in the end, I asked him to take the case to avoid the stress, and I am so glad I did. Through the course of working with Jason, he was very professional, but I felt more like I was communicating with a friend than simply an attorney. I never felt rushed, or that he was “squeezing me in”, even though I had a deadline coming up when I contacted him.
He was very knowledgeable, and was always willing to answer any and all of my questions, no matter how annoying I’m sure they were. I tend to worry but he never discouraged my “what if” questions and was patient and understanding of all my concerns. He took the time to break things down into simple terms and make sure that I understood things clearly.
I was impressed with his consistent promptness in returning calls and emails – there are attorneys who figure once they have your money, you are basically stuck, so you can wait until they get around to dealing with your situation. He informed me that he believes if he is being paid to perform a service, he owes it to his clients to address their concerns as soon as possible, which is something I really respect. He was very thorough, and I appreciated that if I sent him an email, he made a point to address each issue individually – I never had to email him again or call him back because something was overlooked.
Jason went above and beyond in my case, and we got the outcome we wanted. I would not hesitate to recommend Ewing Law Group to my friends and family, and would call him immediately if I ever needed legal assistance in the state of California in the future.
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18 Apr, 2014 by Kevin & kay
My wife and I who are senior citizens found ourselves in the grips of grave injustice's being waged against us . We were renting a home from a landlord who made our lives a living hell by failing to provide safe and habitable conditions, and then persecuting us for simply asking management to fix the problems. After my wife became very ill and had to be taken to the emergency room because her airway was closing and she couldn't breath due to the landlord failing to provide safe living conditions , we contacted a law firm. Jason Ewing and his co counsel Janet Haines handled our case with surgical precision, They listened to us and made us at ease, They immediately went to work for us, setting us at ease along the way, Jason and Janet guided us through the complicated litigation process comfortably, they took on what would be a complex muti- layered case, and with their experience, tenacity,and dedication to their clients they sought justice from the mighty insurance industry and a grizzly bear of an opposing counsel, With Jason and Janet's resolve, integrity, honesty, and an unyielding spirit of determination, we were successful in winning our case. Jason and Janet slew the dragon and proved there are angels among us. Thank you Jason and Janet.
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26 Sep, 2013 by Courtney
Im one who doesn't trust law enforcement, judges or lawyers. Been through too much, too independent, and count on me. But... when I absolutely needed a lawyer I interviewed and hired jason! Family man. And more importantly was always communicated and in it for me not his own pocket. In this economy and world, he is a lawyer to count on for you not your check I ng account. Thanks jason for making my problem easier on my stress and being there and honest!
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13 Sep, 2021 by Isabel
I hired Mr. Ritchie to represent me on an uncontested divorce trial and a child custody battle. I had a super very difficult divorce and custody trial. I am really satisfied with the results and I recommend him 100%.
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22 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
Mr. Ritchie assessed my very complicated divorce when it was half way through the case and cleared things up, prioritized and got the case back on track. He is extremely skilled, smart, available to answer questions and clarify and a great asset to have. High recommend him.
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03 Dec, 2016 by Anonymous
Matthew Ritchie won a very difficult case for me. He was very thorough and always got back to me when I had any questions or concerns. I would HIGHLY recommend him to anybody seeking a great attorney. Thank you Matthew!!
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14 Oct, 2021 by Steve
While I’ve never used Mr Mandabach for legal help, he did answer a question I had posted on AVVO
Absolute professional.
Helped answer my question and offered some sound advice. I can only imagine how fantastic he is, in legal representation
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29 May, 2019 by Lucinda r.
I retained Mr. Carl Mandabach to represent me against my employer of 20 years in an ugly Workers Compensation fight in 2012. He was highly professional, knowledgeable in the Law and demonstrated strong work and moral ethics. Mr. Mandabach presented a forceful and persuasive argument under extremely difficult circumstances. He consistently fought for me and his diligence resulted in a sizable settlement for our side.
Again, in 2014 Mr. Mandabach represented me when I had a dispute with the Social Security Administration. He worked my case and stuck with it until he succeeded in securing permanent disability status for me. This “win” was a life-changing event for me and happened because of his caring and expertise dealing with the Social Security system.
I consider Mr. Carl Mandabach one of the finest, most competent attorneys in the greater Sacramento area and would not hesitate to call on him for legal assistance in the future.
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01 Apr, 2019 by J
Mr. Mandabach is one of the best attorneys I know. He took my case when none of the big shots would take it.. And he won my case, I would refer Mr. Mandabach to any person.
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24 Apr, 2018 by Anonymous
Stephanie Finelli
Choosing Stephanie to be our lawyer was like hitting the “jack pot “
Smart, realistic really knows her stuff
And how to fight for it
I wish we had her for the trail court because we most likely would have never had to go to the appeal court
Where other lawyers turned our appeal case away she jump for it
She was excited to help us
She helped us file the right paper work at the right time
She gave us an opportunity turn this extremely unreasonable judgement that didn’t follow the law around
She wrote an amazing opening brief and reply brief
She is familiar with our case for oral argument
She is truly amazing no matter which way the appeal case goes
I know if you choose Stephanie ,
you have an amazing lawyer to back you up
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23 Dec, 2015 by Xavier
It is my privilege to recommend the Law Office of Stephanie J. Finelli as an excellent practice focused on legal matters with regard to appellant law. Stephanie J. Finelli is an exceptional appellate attorney!
To be frank, I had an awful disposition due to the impacts of a trial court ruling. The legal process prior to that ruling had been very challenging and I was entangled in a legal experience no one should have.
I consulted with several appellate attorneys but Stephanie's engagement was remarkable. She is a legal expert. She understood the challenges and what was needed to unravel occurrences to achieve our goal. I will use a term I don’t really use but she was "brilliant" in her decomposition of issues and analysis of the ruling in the trial court. She identified a dichotomy in the case law applied and its applicability to our case as well as a need to improve the law. That was the basis for her argument before the State of California Appellate Court. Unfortunately, the appellate court did what it is inclined to do: it found a way to uphold the ruling of the trial court.
In spite of circumstances, I had rather optimistic expectations of outcomes from the appellate court. Stephanie had confidence in her argument but leveled our expectations with pragmatism. The ruling was disappointing and a seemingly devastating blow. It is in times like that when “having a legal expert to represent your interests and provide you with counsel” really matters. Stephanie was respectful of the appellate court's ruling and explained it to me. However, she also told me she believed the appellate court "did not get it right" and explained why. Her counsel was to persist with our argument to the State of California Supreme Court.
Stephanie performed an analysis to identify issues with the ruling of the State of California Appellate Court. She believed asserting the issues identified would be compelling for the State of California Supreme Court to consider our case. She believed if the Supreme Court would accept our case, the veracity of our argument may prevail.
The rest of my accounting is history now...for the State of California. The State of California Supreme Court (it declines ~90% of the cases submitted to it) was compelled to accept our case. Stephanie was excellent in her presentation and argument to defend our case. She won and changed/improved a rather fundamental law that governs us in the state of California. She helped establish a “bright line” that improved Family Law in California.
I highly recommend the Law Office of Stephanie J. Finelli. Stephanie is principled, a resolute litigator, and a very good person. Stephanie J. Finelli is what every person needs their lawyer to be: candid, a consummate professional, a legal expert, and a winner!
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09 Dec, 2020 by Mike
Hughes Law group recently helped me complete a highly contentious divorce. I was recommended to the firm by someone with a great deal of experience in family law, and I could not have made a better choice than to hire Marc and Melanie. After taking the time to learn my needs, they determined an appropriate path for my case, set clear expectations, communicated with me through the entire process, and ultimately landed a fair CCRC and judgment which was precisely what I sought.
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31 Aug, 2011 by Anonymous
I am in the third year of a complicated divorce involving domestic violence and many other issues. Hughes Law Group has been responsive, knowledgeable, and ethical, and they have been extremely effective in ensuring my children’s safety and well-being. I am so thankful for their representation and would recommend them without hesitation.
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23 Jan, 2017 by Claire
I feel very Blessed to have found Linda States to represent me as my family law attorney. I didn't know what steps to take when I was suddenly served papers from my ex-husband.
She was very helpful and understanding. She explained to me what the procedures were and how we were going to handle them. She handled my case in an extremely competent and professional manner. I was able to reach out to her anytime of the day and she was always there to set my mind at ease. I am so pleased with the work she did and the efforts she made to make sure I had a prompt and fair settlement.
I strongly recommend Linda for her ethical and professional representation of clients.
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27 Sep, 2016 by Anonymous
This has to be one of the most challenging time of my life and to have the most trustworthy attorney makes it all that much easier. There are no words to express how thankful I was to have Linda States in my corner through my family law battle! I was involved in a very unique and challenging family law matter and Linda has risen to the challenge. I strongly recommend Linda for her ethical and professional representation of clients. She is smart, ethical, and worked tirelessly to get the results that were warranted. Whenever I felt stressed out with my legal matters; Linda always made me feel confident again! This goes without saying, in the future, States Family Law will be my first choice for any family law matters.
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07 Mar, 2014 by Mandy
Although I was very intimidated at first, you were easy to talk to. During the seven years of my divorce, the opposition seemed to throw every obstacle they could find to complicate matters even more. Your court presentations were informative, to the point, and very well thought out. You were able to sort out the truth and come through a successful resolution. I appreciated your "bulldog" approach, with utmost confidence. You had an exceptional filing system and were able to retrieve documents quickly. In addition to this, I feel I gained a good friend.
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01 Feb, 2014 by Melissa
Ms. Codekas is one of the finest most ethical and hardworking people I know! Her knowledge of the law and tireless quest to assist her clients is second to none! Not only has she represented me in family court, she has caught my Ex in financial indescressions because of her degree and history as an accountant for the film and movie industry. I trust her completely. You won't want to choose another and find yourself in a courtroom opposing her!
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12 Aug, 2016 by Katie
When my husband explained that he wanted a divorce, I was concerned about hiring an attorney. My perception was that the attorney's goal would be to escalate the situation in order to produce more billable hours. This was not at all the case with Alexis. I knew immediately after our first meeting that I wanted Alexis to represent me. I was not without culpability and Alexis did not judge me. She gave me many options and thoroughly explained all costs. The new client packet even details how to avoid accruing attorneys fees with how you conduct yourself in the process. Alexis definitely had my interests and my child's best interest at heart. I achieved my child custody goals by taking her sound advice. I also appreciated that Alexis and her paralegal, Shana, always responded to me promptly and did absolutely everything they said they would do. All paperwork was filed on time and was completed accurately. This was not true of the opposing counsel. I cannot imagine what it would be like to go through such a difficult experience with an attorney that was not as knowledgeable and supportive as Alexis. I highly recommend Alexis Thodas to any person that is faced with the difficult reality of divorce.
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16 Sep, 2015 by Jim shilts
Alexis is the best. She is honest, helpful, insightful, and very experienced. If you are looking for someone to help you through a difficult time without adding addition undue contention, the she is a perfect fit. Highly recommended.
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19 Feb, 2017 by Heather
It has been a pleasure to work with Janet on different legal matters. I appreciate her professionalism and willingness to throughly answer any question whether it is minor or could have a major impact on what we are trying to accomplish. Anytime I contact Janet, she will respond in a timely manner. She is also approachable, calm and supportive even during the most difficult times. This will be the 3rd straight year I will hire Janet to assist me with a legal matter. Thank you!
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19 Apr, 2014 by Kevin & kay
My wife and I needed a lawyer to represent us, we had grave injustices waged against us along with a personal injury, we interviewed many attorneys to find the right one, one that truly understood our problems and what we were going through and could do something about it. After an exhaustive search and many conversations with attorney's who seemed more interested in whats in it for them. We made an appointment with Janet Haines, we were impressed with her at the first meeting. Like a good doctor she treats the whole patient not just the disease. Janet listens, and that was important to us, were senior citizens and what we were going through was scary to us. Our case was a multi-layered, complex case that Janet took on, Janet's ability to research areas of law comes from her years as a para legal before becoming an attorney, and that experience lends to her success with the courts, Janet is very thorough and the judges like that. Janet is very relentless litigating, her resolve for her clients is unyielding, Janet litigated our case against a large insurance agency and an aggressive opposing counsel, and with her determination, experience, honesty, and integrity she brought our case to victory against overwhelming odds. I'm a former Marine that is old schooled and holds to high standards, Janet proved to me she does to. My wife and I highly recommend Janet Haines. Thank you Janet
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11 Oct, 2021 by Anonymous
My case would have been dismissed because I included rental payments that were due over a year from the date of service on the 15-Day Notice to Pay or Quit. This is something I had not even thought of until Ms. Devon advised me on Avvo. Ms. Devon gave me so much valuable information! I am extremely grateful for all the time she took to help me when I posted a question on Avvo. She is extremely knowledgeable and gave me so much excellent advice.
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18 Sep, 2013 by Rachael
I never anticipated being in the position of needing an attorney, and was genuinely reluctant to even call one. But after hearing very good things about Sean Laird, I made a call to him about my case. From that day forward, I went from being in the unfortunate and quite desperate position of being harassed, stalked and blackmailed to having a fierce, competent, highly skilled advocate fighting for justice on my behalf. Sean's twelve years of previous experience as a well-respected, extremely successful District Attorney was evidenced in every aspect of the way he handled my case. He consistently returned my calls in a timely manner, assuaged my very real concerns about the possible negative outcomes that could occur, and in spite of the unusual aspects of the case, he instilled confidence in me that we had a solid case. The outcome was even better than I ever hoped for. The judge found for our side, and even more surprisingly, demanded that 100% of my substantial restitution costs be paid by the defendant. Without Sean's expertise, substantial skill set, confidence, unflappability, patience and dedication, there's no doubt in my mind the outcome would've been far different. I am still stunned at what started as a devastating experience turned into such an immensely victorious one where justice, and then some, was served.
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03 Nov, 2016 by Gail
As daunting as it initially seemed, Glenn was able to successfully guide me through months of family law negotiations from the other side of the country. I always felt that I had the best attorney and excellent representation.
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07 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
George is an exceptional attorney who has demonstrated the highest level of professionalism, approachability, and friendliness in our interactions. When I found myself facing a legal situation that no other attorney was willing to take on due to its complexity, it became imperative to secure the services of the right legal expert. After consulting with numerous attorneys, it was George who stood out as the sole individual capable of providing the assistance I required.
George simplified the entire process for me, making it easy to navigate. During our consultation, he exhibited a commendable dedication to understanding the intricacies of my case, ensuring that we were aligned in our understanding and approach. His genuine care and consideration for his clients were evident throughout, offering me a much-needed sense of assurance during a challenging time.
While I ultimately decided to pursue a different course of action for my case, I am grateful that George was able to assist me during this critical phase. His pricing structure is notably affordable in comparison to other legal professionals, demonstrating his commitment to serving his community and clients over financial gain. This dedication to his clients is especially commendable in the current economic climate.
George may not fit the stereotype of a flashy or ostentatious attorney with grand offices, but he possesses the qualities that truly matter. He is a straightforward and results-driven professional who knows how to get the job done efficiently. In my experience, George has proven himself to be a true gem among attorneys in Sacramento, and I wholeheartedly recommend his services.
I extend my heartfelt appreciation to George for his assistance, and I am confident that should the need arise in the future, I can rely on him for steadfast representation.
Thank you for your invaluable support!!
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05 Mar, 2013 by Christy
I'd been to another lawyer's office to attempt my bankruptcy, they put me with a paralegal who stuck some numbers in a spreadsheet and said I could only qualify for chapter 13 with huge monthly payments. Shareen looked at my situation as a whole, and was able to help me file chapter 7! It was great to work with someone who has the knowledge and was willing to take the time to advise me on the best way to proceed in MY situation. She handled my divorce as well, and now I am ready to start fresh! What I expected to be difficult and stressful, she made easy!
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21 Sep, 2023 by Bill
I had Greg look into the option of finishing a legal separation agreement as a divorce. He spent quite a bit of time researching my options and presented me with a memo that was extensive and thorough. He answered all of my questions and was neutral and didn't give any opinions just the facts. The memo was well laid out and professional. I feel he did more work than he charged. I would not hesitate to use him again.
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21 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
Margaret contacted me by phone and we spoke about my case. I faxed her the pertinent pages from my divorce decree. She sent a legal letter to my ex-husband. She was very detailed and spoke specific to my concerns. I appreciated all her help.
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12 May, 2020 by Bart
I know Jennifer Hemmer from her charity work and community leadership on behalf of the Sacramento Sports Commission, Sacramento Ballet Board, youth basketball coach, and other support of arts, culture, and sports in Sacramento. She's an absolutely stellar person, one I admire greatly. I've consulted with her on my family's legal affairs, and referred her to several friends over the years going through difficult family transitions. My experience and those of my friends is that she's handled our concerns with sound advice, sensitivity, and a cost-effective process using negotiated settlements as much as possible.
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04 Jul, 2017 by Laura
Allison Kephart is, and has been, great lawyer. She handled my extensive, involved divorce. Opposing counsel was more than difficult and her patience and professionalism were extraordinary. Ms. Kephart is expensive but well worth it. I would highly recommend her. My divorce was finally completed in Jan 2016, yet she continues to assist me with questions and issues with my difficult ex-husband.
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04 Aug, 2009 by Anonymous
Used Ms. Hemmer for a very tricky custody situation involving a 730 evaluation. She was very honest, personable and helped get full custody of my son. As a single father with the odds stacked against me, she did an amazing job. I would highly recommend Ms. Hemmer.
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03 May, 2017 by Brittany
We had a pretty cut and dry child custody case. I live out of state with my husband and new baby, my ex-husband would not allow my 7 year old daughter to come to Idaho to visit. At first my ex fought us in allowing her but now she will be coming for summers and holidays. Dustin spoke with his attorney and together they came to the conclusion that the case for us was strong. Child support was a bit more tricky- I have been paying $300/m and my ex wanted me to pay $659/m. Living in Idaho wages are lower and my ex makes 3x more than me. Thanks to Dustin I am now pay $188/m.
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17 Nov, 2011 by Anonymous
Best lawyer I have ever had! Highly recommed him.
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31 Jan, 2015 by Adam
After working with a number of different attorneys for divorce and support modification issues, I found Jennifer Hunt. Jennifer is intelligent, caring, attentive, and extremely responsive.
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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.
