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20 Nov, 2018 by Jerry
I needed a attorney for bankruptcy and was refered to Kristina by a friend. I called her and set up an appointment. Upon meeting her, I liked her instantly. Her fee was reasonably and I retained her as my attorney. She scheduled appointments for my convenience, kept me advised on what was happening, told me what I needed to do and when to do it. The whole experience made me feel like I was dealing with a friend instead of an attorney. If you want an attorney thats “got your back” then choose Kristina. You won't be sorry you did.
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26 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
I found Kristina right here on Avvo after meeting with three other attorneys in St. Petersburg regarding my divorce. From the outset, her calm and accessible nature put me at easy and made what can be a stressful and intimidating process less so . I am so glad I found her and would recommend her to anyone needing legal assistance.
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11 Mar, 2015 by The country boy
I talked with Kristina over the phone first. Then we met at a mutual spot, didnt have to go to her office like every other lawyer, even offered to buy me a bite to eat or a beverage to make things feel more at ease. (you dont get this kind of treatment from lawyers these days) Felt very comfortable talking with her about what to expect and what would need to be done to achieve my goal. She was very knowledgeable and confident when talking about the case at hand. She made me feel at ease with the process. Seeing how I had to spend money that was from selling my dream truck I was definitely looking for confidence and she has everything I was looking for.
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31 May, 2024 by Barbara anderson
05 May, 2023 by Mach work
I assumed I was being helped with my homestead situation, I called and emailed multiple times for an update and nothing was done. Thanks for nothing.
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01 May, 2022 by Donna waters
He started probate for mother's estate. She passed in 2019 it took about 2 weeks That's fast and efficient. He's easy to contact. He answers emails quickly. 5⭐ for Ryan Schmidt attorney with Jon Coats.
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18 Sep, 2024 by Gianna mazzarelli
Absolutely horrific
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12 Sep, 2024 by Zachary belyea
08 May, 2024 by Connie grundmeyer
23 Dec, 2024 by Anonymous
She all but promised me that there was no way I would lose the case. She was wrong. She is worthless. She changed lives for generations by not representing me and my family well. She withdrew from the case as soon as she lost. Horrible!!!
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01 Dec, 2024 by Mikenna privett
12 Sep, 2024 by Jackson logue
31 May, 2024 by Barbara anderson
05 May, 2023 by Mach work
I assumed I was being helped with my homestead situation, I called and emailed multiple times for an update and nothing was done. Thanks for nothing.
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01 May, 2022 by Donna waters
He started probate for mother's estate. She passed in 2019 it took about 2 weeks That's fast and efficient. He's easy to contact. He answers emails quickly. 5⭐ for Ryan Schmidt attorney with Jon Coats.
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01 Nov, 2024 by Anonymous
She represented my ex wife in out divorce. She submitted inaccurate and false information in my ex wife's assets disclosure. Leading me to believe she owned a house which was, in fact, her son's home. She also failed to submit all financial information required for an honest disclosure of financial Information. In short, she didn't do much for my exwife and charged her quite a bit of money.
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26 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
I hired Kerya Koeut in 2013 and I’ve been so pleased with that decision ever since. I’ve been involved in a very convoluted and extensive child custody battle but once Kerya stepped in all outstanding issues were resolved being for her competence, persistence, and outstanding law knowledge. We had numerous hearings in front of Judge and she was always well prepared, very passionate and dedicated. I am very grateful to Kerya because with her assistance we finally achieved a time sharing schedule that actually works.
If you are looking for an attorney, I highly recommend Kerya, she is very efficient and well worth it! Also, great personality.
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18 May, 2016 by Zachary
Hiring Mrs Koeut was the best decision I made during my divorce proceedings. When I felt there was no hope left, she stepped up and showed me that the fight was not over. Every time there was an issue, she was right beside me. Her hard work and dedication shows through in her work. I was awarded sole parental responsibility of my two children. I can not thank her enough for saving my children.
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25 Feb, 2021 by Rodney
Mrs Wollums represented me during a divorce and she far exceeded my expectations. I didn't have to pay alimony, child support and I retained the cars and house! This was a very trying time of my life and she was able to help me through it as well as fielding numerous calls from my former spouse.
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30 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
Hired for my divorce. If I wasn’t actively calling or emailing them, they’d let weeks go by without reaching out even when action was needed on either end. I think the divorce took twice as long just due to slow responses and the inability to be proactive. I paid for legal advice to avoid losing more than I had to in mediation and ended up not getting much in the way of advice at all. I could have gone to a friend for free if I wanted to hear that it was all up to me in the end. It’s pretty upsetting to hire what amounts to a glorified $350/hr paper pusher.
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06 Nov, 2015 by Anonymous
I had to use Mrs Woolums for a recent legal matter, and the outcome was very favorable. She is highly recommended. Best advice is to let the wheels of justice run their course.
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08 Sep, 2024 by Karen
Mr.Goldstein and Andrea were great at filing my divorce, very helpful,it's over now I can move on I would use him again.
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12 Apr, 2023 by Sabrina
this man will take your money and stop getting in contact with you. I have paid this man to help me with child support and legal costars etc. and I haven’t heard from him since November. Someone finally reached out telling me he will not be representing me and my payment is non refundable. Please save yourself the money and stress and look elsewhere
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03 May, 2022 by Anonymous
To be upfront, I was on the opposing side of this attorney. I can't speak on his ability with other areas of law, but regarding Family Law, I can give you full insight. Mr. Goldstein is not the most intelligent attorney on this matter, but his aggressiveness, ability to manipulate and come up with stories are his strong suits. This worked out well for him in the beginning of our case; however, I learned how to handle Mr. Goldstein's tactics soon enough. As a result, Mr. Goldstein was easily handled going forward, both while being represented or just representing myself. The key to dealing with Mr. Goldstein is to just make sure you keep EVERY piece of communication involving Mr. Goldstein because he always tends to shoot himself in the foot during his cocky emails. By doing this, I submitted his communications to the judge as evidence and used case law Rosen v. Rosen which shows that a party is being difficult and intentionally delaying a solution and as a result, the judge awarded me $2,000 in attorney fees. Mr. Goldstein attempted to manipulate the child support calculations by submitting only half of his client's annual income, committing potential fraud. When he got caught red handed as we had all the W-2s in our possession, comically provided to us accidentally by someone from his office, he continued to deny and lie. Needless to say, not only did Mr. Goldstein look horrible in the eyes of the court, but Mr. Goldstein and his client (my ex) parted ways immediately after. Just be prepared for a circus show when going against this attorney.
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26 Oct, 2020 by Jelena
First of all ,, his text message cost 400 and how many minutes we was talk he is charging 400$ . Well at this time covind 19 was and still is going on I understanding that , but one think I Don t ???? He did not help me all what he was saying it is up to judge, also he is very nice first day when he resivng money, after that people please watch out , he charged is depends how long often you ask and I ask questions his first thought and worning is 1hr of talk is 400, on top my 5000, I was uncomfortable to ask him much , because he was keep saying im going over money. He did not do anything what I was thinking he will list , give advice, nothing... So not to long , after everything stay the same of sharing cousta , even my ex was not following rules and still not , i call back him after court over the phone and send 2 text messages and one call , and was missing call , he want now again 400 or more. Very sad and he is all about his , time and money ,
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22 Sep, 2017 by Sally
Phil McLeod profiles himself as a “Collaborative Attorney”…but he”s had to be so much more than that for me.
Let me begin this review by saying that I was married to an attorney for a number of years..and as a result my divorce was complex, difficult…and drawn out….Phil overcame every obstacle. He responded to every challenge with calmness, persistence and professionalism.
The divorce and resulting settlement has changed my life in a most positive way, simply because Phil wouldn’t walk away until I received what he felt was a fair and a proper settlement.
Like many of my friends.. my opinion about attorneys hasn’t been positive…but Phil McLeod has forever changed my mind… He’s a genuine credit to his profession.
A special shout out to his legal assistant of more than 30 years…Marge…"from the bottom of my heart Marge..thank you”.
And to Phil McLeod…. from the bottom of my heart...thank you for all.
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26 May, 2013 by Anonymous
Put forth very little effort. It was necessary to continually follow-up because he seemed otherwise distracted. He put forth the bare minimum effort to seemingly avoid malpractice but showed no inclination to, you know, give advice. When queried, he tended toward the "well, you never know" and "you can't predict these things". So then I would need to further inquire with "then tell me in your experience..." and "surely you at least have a better idea of the reasonable possibilities...". He seemed to be absurdly disinclined to offer what one might call "a professional opinion." I realize attorneys need to be careful with their words but this gent goes beyond that to where it is obvious he would rather not be bothered. When questioned, he tends toward the defensive and becomes snappish. Go elsewhere if you seek involved, considerate advice. If you like a lawyer with experience but with minimal assertiveness, this is your guy.
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10 Nov, 2018 by Anonymous
I feel the need to let the people know dawn is Very unprofessional and organized late to court leads her clients on Drags out court cases to benefit her financially are used her and my divorce went to trial miss O’Neill did not do me justice she was only in it for the money no evidence was put into my trial so therefore my ex-husband I owed him would never recommend her never prepared for anything I put my life in her hands was very confident at the beginning of my divorce but at the end I found out differently
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15 Nov, 2015 by Anonymous
was referred to dawn from a friend who also used her. after I was told I would never see my children again by my ex, very happy to say I see my children quite often and was very impressed at how she handled the case. quick, determined, supportive and most of all professional. I have also referred her to other friends going through similar situations and they too were very happy with her. she definitely made a difference in my life. thank you for everything dawn!
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15 Mar, 2013 by Anonymous
She had me sign off in the middle of mediation from my divorce which is unheard of. You can't do half and send it to the court. She destroyed my life and it has taken two lawyers to fix what she did. She can't do her paperwork or ever be prepared for anything. She is completely unprofessional. She has been in trouble before because she shared that with me. She should be disbarred. She thinks she can swing her hair and body and scare people, but she doesn't know law. I beg you to not make my mistake and use her at all. Thank god, I stopped in the middle and went elsewhere. You get what you pay for. RUN!!
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06 Aug, 2011 by Anonymous
She told me what to do & told me not to worry about perjury. I was afraid, but she won the case.
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23 Apr, 2015 by Melissa
He was my divorce lawyer, and he treated me like a little woman who didn't know anything. He'd inform me of "my" strategy just before hearings in the courtroom hallway. He refused to fight for timesharing with my children, saying that I just needed closure. He told me I didn't have enough money to prove parental alienation. When the judge made a temporary order giving me more time with my daughter than Attorney Kennedy requested (but still less than what I wanted), Attorney Kennedy tried to block it. He zealously advocated against my position, and he wanted me to pay $300 per hour for him to advocate against me! I had to order a transcript to prove what the judge said (and I was right), and then Attorney Kennedy wrote a timesharing order that was so vague that the police told me it would be difficult to enforce. I finally fired him, one of the best things I ever did in my life. And I represented myself and got the timesharing with my daughter that I wanted, at a level that Attorney Kennedy told me I'd never get and was staunchly unwilling to even request. He even wrote a letter to me saying that it was inappropriate for the judge to give more than what "we" asked for! This man is NOT an advocate. Dealing with him during an already difficult situation was one of the worst experiences of my life. If you want an advocate, someone who respects you, or someone who even cares slightly about your predicament, please run as far away from James Kennedy as you can get.
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FAQs
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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.
