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16 Oct, 2024 by Evan weise
He is an extraordinary lawyer. I know three other people who have used his services, and we are all amazed in his performance and professionalism inside and outside the courtroom. He goes above and beyond, making sure you reach the most favorable and fair deal/ verdict possible with the prosecutor.
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07 Oct, 2024 by Gerardo amador
Evan Zelig was very supportive, clear, and understanding throughout the whole process of my legal case. Evan answered all my questions in clear detail and made sure I completely understood the following steps. Evan was very realistic when it came to certain legal outcomes (considering the circumstances), but reassured that he would do his absolute best in achieving the outcomes we both set in mind. For the record, Evan was able to achieve the best and favorable outcome for my situation. I am very happy that I hired Evan Zelig to represent me in my legal case and could have not asked for a better representation on my behalf. I would highly recommend Evan Ziegler for legal representation.
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04 Oct, 2024 by Esme valencia
I hired Evan Zelig for a friend and I am so happy I did. Evan is an amazing attorney I will highly reccomend him! From start to finish he worked hard to get my friend the best outcome even though it was not easy because he had gotten 3 DUI within a one year period. When we met Evan he was very kind and was honest about what he thought could happen. Once he took the cases he always kept us in the loop of what was going on thru the entire process with the courts. He always communicated and was fast to return our calls when he was unavailable. When we looked online to find someone to help many choices came up but we decided to go with him and are so happy we did. Thank you so much for all your hard work Evan we will for ever be grateful! If you need an attorney do not hesitate call Evan Zelig!
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01 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
Bret and his team at "A Family Law Firm" were knowledgeable, supportive, and professional. It was easy to communicate with them, and my emails and questions were always answered promptly. I received appropriate advice from them, which made the process of my divorce easier.
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30 May, 2024 by Melvin151515
Under the best of circumstances, divorce is difficult. I didn’t think I needed an attorney. I was wrong. Joann and company did not tell me what I wanted to hear. They told me what I needed to hear. In the end, it came down to the fact that I had a much better attorney. More organized. More proactive and knowledgeable. And dare I say it, more aggressive. Divorce is like whack a mole. And a box of chocolates.
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24 Apr, 2023 by Anonymous
Excellent communication skills, fast and good attitude. Responsible good documentation.
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19 Apr, 2024 by Simon raya
Needed help with cyber and direct harassment for my online profile. Davin and his team are fantastic. I feel good that I have connected with them. I have also used Davin and Jeff in the past for suit to quiet title actions in the past. These gentleman can help with disputes and litigation. 5/5
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08 Apr, 2024 by Austin locke
Kim Marois is the best! She told me I was incapable of taking care of a pet. Now there are several and Chippy just had five kittens. They are 1/2 leopard and 1/2 tabby. They go purr 😸 all day long and bite everybody else and their pets, except me. Chippy's labor was extremely difficult, she took a 24 hour break but still accepted food. Well, it seems that my pets are weird but controllable. It would be my honor to offer one to Kim, only after teaching it to only piss on the floor. And other things. Because Kim is so great she deserves this. A nice kitten. 🐱
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08 Sep, 2019 by Stephen zang
16 Oct, 2024 by Evan weise
He is an extraordinary lawyer. I know three other people who have used his services, and we are all amazed in his performance and professionalism inside and outside the courtroom. He goes above and beyond, making sure you reach the most favorable and fair deal/ verdict possible with the prosecutor.
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07 Oct, 2024 by Gerardo amador
Evan Zelig was very supportive, clear, and understanding throughout the whole process of my legal case. Evan answered all my questions in clear detail and made sure I completely understood the following steps. Evan was very realistic when it came to certain legal outcomes (considering the circumstances), but reassured that he would do his absolute best in achieving the outcomes we both set in mind. For the record, Evan was able to achieve the best and favorable outcome for my situation. I am very happy that I hired Evan Zelig to represent me in my legal case and could have not asked for a better representation on my behalf. I would highly recommend Evan Ziegler for legal representation.
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04 Oct, 2024 by Esme valencia
I hired Evan Zelig for a friend and I am so happy I did. Evan is an amazing attorney I will highly reccomend him! From start to finish he worked hard to get my friend the best outcome even though it was not easy because he had gotten 3 DUI within a one year period. When we met Evan he was very kind and was honest about what he thought could happen. Once he took the cases he always kept us in the loop of what was going on thru the entire process with the courts. He always communicated and was fast to return our calls when he was unavailable. When we looked online to find someone to help many choices came up but we decided to go with him and are so happy we did. Thank you so much for all your hard work Evan we will for ever be grateful! If you need an attorney do not hesitate call Evan Zelig!
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26 Apr, 2024 by T rob
We have received excellent service over the past 5 years from Welty, Weaver & Curry. The staff is also fantastic. We highly recommend their service.
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09 Apr, 2024 by Ian tavelli
Jack and the team at Welty Weaver & Currie, are exceptional. I've personally utilized their services and referred others because of the trust I have in them and the way they do business. They are not only highly skilled but also incredibly trustworthy. They listen attentively, provide realistic expectations, and work tirelessly to achieve the best outcomes. Their honesty and transparency set them apart in the legal field. If you need reliable legal representation or advice, I highly recommend Welty Weaver & Currie because you can navigate legal matters with confidence and trust. They are truly some of the best in the business!
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22 Aug, 2023 by Just kidding
Beware,
This office will make eviction threats based upon lies that even the SRPD cannot prove to be legitimate!
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16 Oct, 2024 by Evan weise
He is an extraordinary lawyer. I know three other people who have used his services, and we are all amazed in his performance and professionalism inside and outside the courtroom. He goes above and beyond, making sure you reach the most favorable and fair deal/ verdict possible with the prosecutor.
Read more
07 Oct, 2024 by Gerardo amador
Evan Zelig was very supportive, clear, and understanding throughout the whole process of my legal case. Evan answered all my questions in clear detail and made sure I completely understood the following steps. Evan was very realistic when it came to certain legal outcomes (considering the circumstances), but reassured that he would do his absolute best in achieving the outcomes we both set in mind. For the record, Evan was able to achieve the best and favorable outcome for my situation. I am very happy that I hired Evan Zelig to represent me in my legal case and could have not asked for a better representation on my behalf. I would highly recommend Evan Ziegler for legal representation.
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04 Oct, 2024 by Esme valencia
I hired Evan Zelig for a friend and I am so happy I did. Evan is an amazing attorney I will highly reccomend him! From start to finish he worked hard to get my friend the best outcome even though it was not easy because he had gotten 3 DUI within a one year period. When we met Evan he was very kind and was honest about what he thought could happen. Once he took the cases he always kept us in the loop of what was going on thru the entire process with the courts. He always communicated and was fast to return our calls when he was unavailable. When we looked online to find someone to help many choices came up but we decided to go with him and are so happy we did. Thank you so much for all your hard work Evan we will for ever be grateful! If you need an attorney do not hesitate call Evan Zelig!
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05 Dec, 2023 by Kelly fleury
Worst experience with an attorney in my entire life- I couldn’t afford to pay his exorbitant costs anymore and as such he said he was dropping my case
Instead he continued to work behind my back with my ex husband and his lawyer for 3 months and attempted to have my son taken away from me
He never once made any contact with me or my children or ex lawyer to hear anything we had to say
Worst parenting coordinator in Sonoma County by far
Don’t use him unless you want to give him all of your money to get him on your side
Otherwise he leaves you out to dry
Run if the courts suggest you use him
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19 Aug, 2023 by Jared bertoli
Shawn Bunyard is a great attorney and more importantly a great man. I can assure you he and his firm have the child's best interest in mind.
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17 Dec, 2021 by Khristina
Robin is kind, honest and direct. I hired her because I wanted to approach my divorce in a respectful way and she appropriately handled my case this way. She is very knowledgeable about and can successfully navigate the Sonoma County Superior Court system which is beneficial to her clients.
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18 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
I had a consultation with Ms. Browne when looking for an attorney. I could not work with her for personal reasons. I strongly recommend her. She is wise, kind, and knowledgeable. Not a combination that is easy to find,
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21 Feb, 2022 by Gloria
Divorce something I never thought I would be going through. I was desperate and needed guidance and I found Jeanne!! Can't thank her enough for her services. She made things seem so easy during the process, she cares about the people she's helping. Thanks to her I found courage and strength during this hard time I could not have done this without her. I left it all in her hands and I would do it again if I had to. Thank you very much Mrs. Jeanne my children and I are forever grateful.
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08 Jul, 2019 by Anonymous
I was often frustrated with how long it took Jeanne to follow through on things during divorce process. Things she should have taken care of didn't get done. I relied on her to know, and make sure I knew, the things that needed to be done. Ultimately, she didn't follow through on a very important final detail. It resulted in costing me several thousands of dollars and months of time consuming/stressful phone calls and letters to unraveling the mess. when I contacted her for help, she was willing to talk with me, send me a copy of my settlement, and make a phone call; but anything more than that and she "would have to charge me for her time". Not exactly the way I would have handled it if I had made that mistake.
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30 May, 2024 by Melvin151515
Under the best of circumstances, divorce is difficult. I didn’t think I needed an attorney. I was wrong. Joann and company did not tell me what I wanted to hear. They told me what I needed to hear. In the end, it came down to the fact that I had a much better attorney. More organized. More proactive and knowledgeable. And dare I say it, more aggressive. Divorce is like whack a mole. And a box of chocolates.
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06 Sep, 2022 by Noah lowry
I recommend A family Law for your legal needs. They are friendly, competent, efficient, and good communicators. I used them for my divorce and got it finalized when other firms couldn’t. Ideally I won’t have to use them again for another divorce, lolz, but I do recommend them for others. Cheers
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24 Jun, 2022 by Cynthia powles
16 Nov, 2023 by Ez tree inc tree group
Elissa and her staff are literally the best when it comes to Family Law. From our first meeting, She explained everything to me in terms I could easily understand and was always very responsive whenever I had any questions.
If anyone is looking for a knowledgeable attorney who is compassionate about her work , call Elissa and her staff!
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09 Sep, 2023 by Macy-june brooks
Elissa is extremely kind, compassionate, very intelligent! And Heather is so on top of things! Great team I highly recommend!
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25 Aug, 2023 by Michael ferran
Eric is an extraordinary attorney who relentlessly advocated for me against a platoon of defense attorneys. He prevailed against significant game playing resistance by the defense while obtaining the evidence we needed that no other attorney would have been able to obtain. He previously successfully argued a personal injury case for his client in the Supreme Court, and established precedent law that other PI attorneys now utilize to advocate for their PI clients. Remember the line from the movie 'Taken'..."What I do have are a very particular set of skills, skills I have acquired over a very long career" That's Eric Young
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05 Dec, 2023 by Kelly fleury
Worst experience with an attorney in my entire life- I couldn’t afford to pay his exorbitant costs anymore and as such he said he was dropping my case
Instead he continued to work behind my back with my ex husband and his lawyer for 3 months and attempted to have my son taken away from me
He never once made any contact with me or my children or ex lawyer to hear anything we had to say
Worst parenting coordinator in Sonoma County by far
Don’t use him unless you want to give him all of your money to get him on your side
Otherwise he leaves you out to dry
Run if the courts suggest you use him
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19 Aug, 2023 by Jared bertoli
Shawn Bunyard is a great attorney and more importantly a great man. I can assure you he and his firm have the child's best interest in mind.
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13 Sep, 2021 by Be tron
I dont know what happened but shawn said he was going to fight for my mom. We didnt feel that it happened. He said he was going to fight for half of the properties the pention and spousal support the car and so on. None of that happened except half of the pention and the house was sold but my dad ended up keeping the properties and the car. And all this took forever to end but my mom isnt happy with the outcome of how he said he was going to get all this and didnt get it like he said. I honestly dont recomend. I thought he was going to do more and didnt. My dad basically got to keep everything
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17 Apr, 2023 by Anonymous
He is by far no 5 star lawyer,, that is false. Richard Sax is nothing but a crook,, who overcharges his clients for things he doesn't do to defend you. My experience with this man was embarrassing when it came time to defend me. He babbled about taking the deal I was offered and in front of everyone he raised his voice telling me I was a drug abuser and put me down suggesting I was at fault when he was suppose to be defending me. He was fired directly after our conference with the other attorney wasting a year of my time making false statements to me saying how he would fight for me when he does nothing but get red in the face and flustered when put on the spot. He will not defend you,, he pushes off court dates and drags it on and on,, to make money off his clients. He is an embarrassment to have as your lawyer. I don't think he is capable of doing his job. You van do better defending yourself as he does nothing you ask,, always disagrees and does only what he wants n does not care about his clients at all. He will charge you for many things and then lose your case that's the truth. Stay away from this crook. I've never had a lawyer who is so stupid. I've watched him do the same thing to peeps I've net n known for years as he ripped them off and lost each case I've heard of threw his clients. Somebody should stop him from cheating people out of their money and time. He can't even defend himself for his lame actions. Dirtbag lawyer in my opinion. Fact
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12 Nov, 2020 by Scott
Richard may have been a good attorney once - I now think he doesn’t care about his clients. Everything here is my opinion, personal feelings or facts of the case.
A person is using restraining orders to stalk me. Desperate to recover my life, I reluctantly sought a protective order. I told Richard I only want to proceed if he was certain we’d win; he was pretty sure we could. After 2 years extreme PTSD, I gathered up last savings, paid his retainer. A huge step for me just to be in the courtroom with my abuser.
We agreed to hiring a process server. His office called, insisted I find a friend to serve process or we’d miss filing date. High anxiety for me, never did get her served. I informed Richard, he said I’d wanted to be “near her.” First red flag for sure. Should have fired him then and there.
He refused to become familiar with the prior case, could not convince him to be prepared. He not being conversant cost us dearly. In the courtroom, he was a complete greenhorn.
My stalker took my claims and filed her own restraining order. Richard was unreachable - even his office doesn’t know how to reach him. When he finally responded, he said nothing new here - of course, it was my exact language!
My stalker charged at me on the beach screaming and cussing. I couldn’t prove it, then lo, she brought in video which did. The video showed she lay in wait and images further contradicted her own Declaration. She lied 2x. Richard couldn’t win with that.
My own witness described being harassed by my stalker 2x, followed out of the market by my ex with fists raised, spittle flying. She feared for her own safety and underwent six weeks of panic attacks. A County Supervisor’s wife, no less! Richard couldn’t win with that.
My ex’s argument for running a stop sign to hit me was there were places I could have pulled over. I said I did pull over, her fool attorney just repeated himself. She did not deny the violent attack with a motor vehicle.
Richard told me he’d won restraining orders just because someone gave someone the “bird”. I personally find it aggressive and yet my stalker proudly admitted it. Richard did not win.
Richard presented his bill as if he’d won the case, a full 25% over his rate. The whole courtroom seem embarrassed as this doddering man was fully out of step with the proceedings.
Ex and I were in the same restaurant together, no restraining orders issued. I never approached her, I never saw her. Oddly, my ex describes her own fixated behavior taking photos of me backwards over her shoulder, which photos contradict her own claims. Judge said ex gasped when she saw me, therefore deserves a 5 year restraining order against me, even though her testimony and declarations contradicted! I’m further entrapped by this person I only dated 1.5 years and want nothing more than to be left alone, worse off than before I’d met Richard.
He failed to object, despite being asked, to the other attorney’s highly inflated fees, costing me an additional $5,000. I was suffering from PTSD so badly I couldn’t earn income. One word, object, would have done it.
Richard’s invoice came in 3x over his quote, though no change in scope, venue, or the anticipated contention of opposing party, less work than promised, was unconversant.
Entitled to copies of exhibits, Richard failed to request real-time, then refused to get them for me. Basic stuff. I feared I may have to move from my home. Richard quipped, “I think we did a pretty good job.” Really?
She continues to stalk me. There’s nothing I can do, I’m disabled, terrorized, afraid to go out. COVID may have a single upside - I’ve been left alone more, and can finally get my head around what happened and write this review.
It is my view that Richard Sax does not care about his clients, cases, profession. He struck me as lazy, uninformed, unresourceful, unskilled. He got me into far worse territory than I was. I highly recommend avoiding -
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22 Apr, 2018 by Melissa
After fighting foreclosure on my own for years by raising legal challenges it was time to turn it over to a professional. Knowing that most homeowners lose I needed the best attorney possible because I couldn't lose my home of thirty years. After much research on Google scholar it was narrowed down to three or four attorneys or law firms in Northern California based on repeated success for homeowners against the banks. One stood out not only for having a published opinion but also because I'd hired him years earlier to successfully represent me in a partnership dispute and that was Richard Sax.
He has all the qualities that you want in an attorney. He's a sharp and experienced litigator who's driven to win and respected by the courts and the opposition. He's also honest and wants the best result for his clients. His communication skills are excellent, he listens and works with the client and always promptly responds to emails which I understand is kind of unusual.
There aren't that many attorneys willing to go up against big business and the banks on the behalf of the little guy but this is something at which Sax excels. Foreclosure litigation is complex involving multiple areas of the law and he is experienced in them all.
Making his representation even more effective his practice includes highly regarded real estate attorney, William Matz. His paralegals and staff are always cordial and helpful and this means a lot in something as nerve wracking as fighting a financial institution trying to take your home.
His successful representation has prevented my home from being foreclosed on and I give him the highest possible recommendation.
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14 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
Christine is a charismatic litigator and strong personality in court. She excels in domestic violence actions and setting client expectations in each of her matters.
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05 Sep, 2021 by Ann marie
I hired Mr. Grattan on advice from my divorce lawyer, who assured me that he would efficiently work through my case and get the results I wanted. Mr. Grattan was very attentive to the case, which was resolved through a deposition and one meeting with my ex and his attorney. I felt well-represented and supported during the process and recommend him unequivocally.
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24 May, 2011 by Michael
This attorney will cost you a ton of money as he is slow and submissive in the court room and the opposing counsel will walk all over him. Was not forceful in fighting for my case and my needs, but very good at sending out the bills. I am stuck with a steep alimony for years to come because this lawyer was so ineffective in representing my case.
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30 Oct, 2010 by Kathleen
Mr. Grattan was understanding, efficient and tough. He saved me money and got the result I wanted. cannot say enough about his competence.
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08 Mar, 2022 by Anonymous
Perhaps if you are looking for someone to escalate, increase conflict and wreak havoc on the other party, Kate is worth your hire. But, she was assigned as our child's minor counsel in a high-conflict divorce and she caused irreparable harm to my child. Immediately siding with the charming, manipulative abuser, she filed false allegations against the protective parent, which shifted custody in the abuser's favor and never reverted back, despite evaluations proving her allegations were unfounded. She in no way represented our child's best interests and instead didn't invest the time, energy into fully understanding our admittedly complex case. She is a shame to the system and should not be serving as minor's counsel for any child.
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09 Mar, 2020 by Marco
Kate and her team including Danielle have been my rock throughout this process. Would not have accomplished what I have accomplished with them. Worth every cent! Caring and compassionate! Definite passion for family law and doing what is right!
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29 Aug, 2019 by Amber
Kate has been a great help. She is sensitive to my situation, but also honest and straight forward with what needs to happen. I am currently going through a custody battle and Kate has helped me through it. She gave me guidance when I felt completely lost. Her advice and insight are priceless.
Although I hope to never have to hire Kate again and be in this situation, I would hire her in a heartbeat.
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05 Jan, 2022 by Csp
At first she was sweet and I believed that she had my best interest. But once I paid her the money she asked for she became Angry and told me that if I didn’t respond to her text within an hour she would fire me. I just left the first attorney who was failing miserably for this lady. She also worked with the other side and was getting paid under the table and when asked what was going on She denied it .But few days went buy .that 14000 bill we owed said paid in full. She has no loyalty and does not honor her word.please understand that anybody who had a good review of Roz I’m sure somehow someway was cocoo for coco pops
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05 Jan, 2021 by Joev
We went to court unprepared. I received a restraining order, my new attorney said Roz would have filed a form it would have gotten dropped. She went to court with me and did not say anything and let court run it’s course. I agree with other reviews, you get what you pay for.
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16 Dec, 2017 by A.b.c.
I hired Roz Bateman-Smith, Esq. for an extremely complicated and contentious divorce involving domestic violence/restraining order with a shared child/custody. She was extremely easy to communicate and work with and solidly reliable in my most troubling times. Her demeanor in a heated exchange in nothing short of composed and professional.
One of the most important things to me is that I knew she truly cared about the safety of me and my children.
After the divorce was finalized, I hired her once more. She represented me again in court after it was revealed my ex committed a horrible crime against a child. Once I knew I needed a lawyer she was the first and only lawyer I called! She helped prove that we needed even more protection in the form of strict supervised visitation, confidentiality of our location and a maximum term protective order.
For the past two years, she's been invaluable and I will always be grateful for the role she played in the lives of me and my children.
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06 Oct, 2021 by Jenney vasquez
If I could give 0 stars I would. Corrupt and unprofessional. She does not deserve her title one bit.
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17 Sep, 2021 by Adriana romeo
13 Aug, 2021 by Itstiffgirl
How can I give 0 stars . ?!!!Horrible women .
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27 Dec, 2020 by William
You want to take extreme caution if you're assigned Daniel Chester (aka Daniel Keith Chester) as a Child Custody Recommending Counselor through the Sonoma County (California) Family Court. This man is very dangerous to families. He has no background in psychology and yet he issues assessments of parents for purposes of judges determining their child custody worthiness using a variety of Clinical Psychology determinants. He will attempt to get you to sign papers that will give him unlimited access to third parties (like, for example, therapists) and will ultimately determine that you need a psychological evaluation while steering you to two specific psychologists to execute the evaluations. This is an open kickback. In 2015 through the present (it's currently 2021), more than 135 parents have confirmed that he has applied his armchair psychological assessments and has pointed parents to these two therapists with each case. This man should not be trusted. He has a battery of complaints against him including a portfolio of complaints currently before the CA State Bar. Do yourself a favor: DO NOT ALLOW DANIEL CHESTER TO EVALUATE YOUR SUITABILITY FOR PARENTING YOUR CHILD. You have the right to request alternative evaluators. There are currently three to choose from. You also have the right to not attend a pre-hearing meeting with Family Court Services. THIS IS YOUR RIGHT. EXERCISE IT. This man is a train wreck.
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24 Nov, 2012 by Anonymous
My research and interviews with Family Law attorneys and Family Law facilitators here in Sonoma County indicate Mr. Dan Chester is associated with creating the "Court-Involved Therapist Referral List (CIT)" deemed to constitute a lack of the required judicial neutrality of the Court by his immediate supervisor. One of the service providers on the CIT list is a three-time convicted felon legally defined as morally depraved who makes his living testifying on behalf of murderers and child molesters. It is my understanding that Dan Chester was making direct referrals to this individual before the State of California came in and told the County Superior Court's Family Court Services to stop making direct referrals. Now this CIT list is sponsored by the Sonoma County Bar Association's Family Law Steering Committee.
In my case, Dan Chester recommended to the court that my ex wife and I continue seeing service providers on this CIT list "for the duration and frequency determined by the counselors," - an open checkbook!! Forewarned is fore-armed, this individual is in a position to financially burden you until your child turns eighteen. Of fundamental importance to his impropriety in my case, he fails to cite the specific reasoning for his recommendations, in direct violation of the Elkins Family Law Task Force recommendations.
Dan Chester told me "you are going to be sorely disappointed if you think you are ever going to get 50/50 custody," without providing reasoning for his threat. BTW, I have achieved 50/50 custody, you can too. My recommendation is that you ask for a different child custody recommending counselor, in order to avoid Dan Chester's well-established history of collaboration with a convicted felon and his willingness to recommend to the court that you open your checkbook forever to therapists with whom he has prior dealings. In my opinion, Dan Chester is more interested in financially benefiting service providers on the CIT list rather than seeking the best interest of children.
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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:
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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.
