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18 Aug, 2024 by Joanne
HIGHLY Recommend Todd Basler A very patient, understanding and kind lawyer. Him and his staff are there at anytime for an individual questions and concerns responding in a timely manor. Giving reassurance , positivity and support through my difficult time of my divorce. I would like to say Thank u to him and staff which was greatly appreciated and not expected. Thank u again If anyone is in need of a lawyer, please consider Todd Basler . A respectable and fair lawyer to stand by your side.
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14 Aug, 2021 by Kwame
Attorney Basler represented me in a custody/placement case for daughter. From the very first conversation I had with Todd he assured me he would fight for what was right, and if that wasn’t in my favor, he wouldn’t represent me. I appreciated his integrity and respected his straightforward candor. Thankfully Todd always believed that what was in my child’s best interest was being placed primarily with me and he kept his word and fought for what was right. He was prepared and calculated in all his legal presentings and he made me feel confident that I would be treated fairly in a court I feared may never place a young child with her father vs her mother. I am so grateful that Attorney Basler was so knowledgeable and well respected in the Sheboygan County Courthouse. It spoke volumes to them the he was honored to represent me and that made me feel like I had made the right choice. I will always recommend Attorney Basler to anyone who is fighting for what is right because that is exactly what he does.
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04 Feb, 2021 by Nicholas
Attorney Basler was recommended to me and shepherded me through a divroce. My divorce was lengthy and my ex wife tried to throw about everything she could at me. Attorney Basler was excellent in assisting in response and always stressed the long game. He was right, and in the end, his advice proved very correct and I ended up getting the better of my ex wife. We never got to trial, thanks largely to Attorney Basler's work, thank heavens. Attorney Basler navigated the opposing attorney's legal onslaught excellently and through his and his assistant's professionalism, made opposing counsel and her firm look bush league. In summary, extreme professionalism, mastery navigaton of tactics, and though it thankfully never came to it, I think Attorney Basler would have owned opposing council in a trial. Highly recommended.
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26 Sep, 2024 by Erika heichler
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24 Sep, 2024 by Catherine zirngibl
No one enjoys going through the divorce process, but I was grateful to have Atty. Kautzer guiding me throughout it. He was knowledgeable, straightforward, and extremely responsive. Whenever I reached out to his office with a question, he got back to me right away, and he took the time to explain his position/recommendation. He listened to my concerns and priorities, and he was a strong advocate for them. The office team members were also wonderful. Overall, a great staff, and I was happy with the outcome.
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20 Sep, 2024 by Lisa bower
If anyone is looking for a good divorce lawyer, I highly recommend Attorney Ryan Kautzer! The staff is great and easy to work with as well.
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20 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
Lisa Stengel was the best decision we could have made when choosing a local attorney to help us navigate through a very complicated and emotional family court situation. She was very helpful throughout the entire process, listening, asking us questions, and advocating for us. She listened to our history, issues, and concerns with attentiveness and interest. She helped us to understand what to expect during every stage of the process as it evolved and unfolded. She always answered our questions between meetings with prompt and helpful responses. Whether in her office or the court room, she was always professionally dressed and mannered, punctual, and well prepared. She guided us with compassion and respect and reminded us that no matter how tough the process got (which it did at times challenge our emotional strength and endurance), to never lose sight of why we were there. Lisa is a mother herself and therefore, possesses that ingrained understanding of parental relationships and family dynamics, but she also brings forth a wisdom that I assume can only come from many years of dedicated work experience. Lawyers are regular people too, and therefore, there exists all kinds. There are certainly stereotypical "sharky", "dirty" lawyers that exist in the field, but it is not true that you need on of those to win your case. Sometimes you just need a wise, educated, assertive, and articulate person to advocate for you and help you fight for family justice. I would highly recommend anyone looking to hire a dependable, professional, respectable, experienced lawyer, to call Lisa Stengel.
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20 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
As the title suggests my kids are home. When I first met Lisa I had made a terrible mistake and had signed a temporary custody agreement and let my ex take our kids out of the house and county already. This put me in a very bad position once I realized that things were not going to go as well as I had hoped. Lisa was recommended by our family attorney and others to whom I had enquired. Lisa helped my family and I through a two year long heavily contested divorce and custody battle. During the last two years I had been investigated numerous times by Social Services and had false allegations made agenced me to the police not only by my ex but also my kids. Parental alienation was a huge Factor in my case and was very hard to prove to the guardian ad litem however by the end everything was made clear to the guardian ad litem and the judge. Fighting a custody battle as a father is already a uphill battle and I truly believe I would not have my kids home today if it were not for her. During the three days in court I got to see the differences between a skilled and knowledgeable attorney and one that was not so much. Lisa was very organized and cross-examinations were very well thought out. She will continue to be my go-to person for any issues regarding family law.
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02 May, 2017 by Anonymous
Lisa was very approachable and professional. She handled herself very well both inside and outside of the court room. She communicates equally well with everyone. She responded to my questions framing them in a manner useful to me. I'm glad I hired her. She was very conscious of being as efficient as possible.
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04 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
This guy is ridiculous! Pay over $5000 and my situation is worse then before I hired him. Sits in court with his legs crossed, saying nothing and letting my case just sink. All he cares about is MONEY! GO TO SOMEONE ELSE
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15 Nov, 2022 by Anonymous
Mr. Darrow is easily one of the worst attorneys I have ever dealt with. Very unresponsive and inattentive to needs. Did not share direction or strategy with me as a client. Even resorted to name calling when I expressed my dislike for his performance. Bills for hours of busy work that has no effect on the case. I would avoid this firm at all costs. Their responses to reviews also constitutes lible showing he has no respect for his clients
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15 Feb, 2019 by Michael
Attorney Darrow is absolutely the best trial lawyer I ever observed in action. I watched him skillfully exam and cross exam witnesses. He knows how to ask questions and present a winning case. At trial he was extremely organized and well prepared. His team behind the scenes put together the facts and details, nothing was left to chance. The one thing I was concerned about was my dad and his lack of understanding of the legal process of divorce, but attorney Darrow was compassionate and helpful to him, I can not be more pleased! I live far away from my father, and when I contacted his team, they were so prompt and honest in answering all of my questions.
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10 May, 2024 by Aydon ordonez
He was a terrible representative never asked questions in regards too are actual case, never ounce asked what id like done, didnt fight for me.He would only notify me day of, about things going on, i repeathe only notifiedme day of as in court dates, ir test. Never ounce sent me any orders until I demanded them. Don't not, I repeat do not let this man/company represent you you will be hung out to dry. He only worries about the paycheck.
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04 May, 2023 by Tanya camarillo
I don't see how these people before me gave him a 5 star this guy do not fight for you in court dont let him represent sent you on CPS as case he will throw you to the wolf I wanted a jury trial this guy push me to say that I'm the patisner that i will get my kids back still waiting. Worstlawyer ever
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04 May, 2023 by Logan
I live in California and was looking for a probate lawyer for a friend who is in India and whose married son passed away. I must have called at least 20 lawyers. Something in his voice, made me to hire him immediately, without reading reviews. He is top notch. He never leaves any stone unturned. His fees are very very reasonable. I am 100% satisfied with his lagal work. He is very down to earth. I will recommend him any time. My friend was fortunate to get a competent and capable lawyer as attorney Morgan. He works very fast. God bless.
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07 Feb, 2014 by Brook's services
This lawyer represented a property owner. The property in question was a 3 car garage with attached office space. After renting said space for my landscaping company, I was told by the owner that I would be "Self Help Evicted". In the state of Wisconsin this is illegal. Besides there was no issue(s) present and rent was paid on the first or before every month. My entire company property (trailer, work benches, tools, equipment, 2 full offices, and much much more) was relocated, without my consent, 20 miles away. When I contacted police, they informed me that Basil had informed them that this was a legal eviction and that because I did not have an attorney it was a civil matter. (Clearly local police failed to protect ans serve as well) Over the next 3 months the property owner refused to contact me and informed me that I would need to speak to his counsel (Basil). Basil informed me that the property was not zoned correctly for the use I was using it for. I learned this was far from the truth. The building was built zoned UC (urban commercial) I was then told that I legally had to pay the rent for my items new location, moving costs, and other fees to get my property back. I learned that what he was asking was just as illegal as the property being moved without court proceedings in the first place. I was then accused of missing a months payment, justifying the relocation. I showed proof of payment and deposit, while also presenting the small fact that even if rent was missed or late, the possessions in question was taken in the first week of the month, not long enough to take ANY legal action let alone remove the property. I was then told that because there was never a contract for lease or rent, that I was trespassing for months. After presenting Basil with a singed contract between the property owner and myself, I was told it was forged. After a week of refusing to meet, speak, or respond to emails, I got a short email stating an address of where my property was and that I need to pick up my belonging as soon as possible... I feel Basil was not only bending laws and reading between lines, he was clearly disregarding the law in some if not most of this situation.
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24 Nov, 2010 by Jessica
Basil Buchko is great in and out of the court room. He knows what it takes to get the job done right. He helped me with my divorce as well as placement of my two kids. He's an honest and trust worthy att. that wants the best for his clients.
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21 May, 2010 by Tammy & derek
Mr. Buchko helped my husband and I out of a land contract with a scam artist. We will now be able to save our money and buy when the time is right for us. We want to THANK him over and over again.
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26 Jul, 2024 by Galen kincanon
Very unprofessional and unethical lawfirm. I can only speak from my experience with Oliver Bauer, but he uses witnesses that lie on the stand. I made him aware that purjery was committed, and the same witness was used as a credibility witness on another court date.
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30 May, 2024 by Beau
Paul was great.
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19 Dec, 2023 by Lisa morgan docter
Do not....I repeat do not hire Herbert Humke unless you want to be ignored. Tells you that you can't afford to file contempt of court!!! Tell you what Herbert I will take my money elsewhere.
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15 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
Said she’d fight for me but didn’t do much at all accept take my money. Couldn’t get her to communicate straightforwardly as she seemed already decided upon how to proceed beforehand.
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21 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
Due to an extremely abusive relationship, I hired Malis to help my children and I during a divorce. During that time she ignored calls/emails, lied repeatedly, did not inform me on "everything" that was going on. Though, still adding ongoing excessive expenses. Malis entirely ignored my needs. Completely controlled the situation by manipulating me into giving into my ex. Insisting I sign a paper that stated there was no abuse and would would give my ex primary placement of the children. When settling into the courtroom, Malis also stated that I am to sit quietly, and not speak a word to the judge. OUR ABUSER WAS GIVEN PRIMARY PLACEMENT. Due to her malpractice, our lives could have been different..
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08 Jun, 2016 by Anonymous
Stephanie and her team did an excellent job handling my difficult divorce for me. I have also worked with Stephanie on things business related and she has become my "go to" attorney.
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21 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
Good: He was courteous and respectful. He kept me updated on changes consistently throughout the process. He comes highly recommended based on his previous cases and knowledge. Bad: His presence in court was nonexistent. He basically got steamrolled by the other attorney and could not muster the energy to stop it. The other attorney even referenced being friends with him WHILE IN COURT. If you give him any feedback, he will become upset and instantly tell you to go find another attorney. I felt like my own private detective and attorney in my divorce case. I had to fire him. Within a month, my new attorney fixed his mistakes and started getting me results. If you are a male, get ready for him to do nothing for you.
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14 Jun, 2019 by Anonymous
I retained Atty Dietrich a few years ago because his firm was highly recommended to me. I was very disappointed with the lack of communication, slow-moving process, and unpreparedness for court. I will not be retaining this attorney again.
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05 Jun, 2018 by Orlando
Mr. Dietrich is a good lawyer but an even better person. I fired my first attorney and was desperate to find a replacement. It took 3 months to negotiate and settle my divorce. I wish I would have found him sooner. He's a solid negotiator and his focus is to get you out of court as soon as possible.
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14 Jan, 2021 by Tammie
I hired Herb to handle my case. The experience was unfortunate. He wouldn't return phone calls. Though many messages were left, it sometimes took weeks. This made everything take so much longer than necessary; the case dragged on and on. Papers needing my signature came with my name misspelled. That was never corrected. For the final, legal, paperwork, I just crossed it out and rewrote it. He made me feel very insignificant . . . he was too busy to take my case seriously.
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03 Dec, 2018 by Lee
I've been working with Attorney Humke for about a year. In all this time, I've found him to be professional and great at putting forth my best interests. The way I wanted to handle my case was by fighting it standing up instead of getting down in the muck. Attorney Humke has done an outstanding job of being direct and clear, striking hard when necessary, but being cautious and not overplaying his hand. Also, he reminds me of Sam the Eagle. I recommend him highly.
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23 Aug, 2015 by Faith
My husband hired this attorney because he believed he had the reputation of his father, not the case. He was interested in us in the beginning but that changed during the process. He waited until the last moment to do things which he told us he was going to do the day we met with him,which we have in writing. This caused us to have to file for extensions which we feel we should not have been charged for since they were his mistakes. This happened more than once. He would not return calls, and made us feel as though we were not important clients. We asked for monthly statements, it took many months of asking before we received any. I would not recommend him .
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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:

  1. What experience do you have with family law cases like mine?
    Make sure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it's a contested divorce, child custody dispute, or adoption.
  2. How will you charge for your services?
    Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, a flat fee, or requires a retainer. Ask for an estimate of the total costs involved.
  3. What are the possible outcomes of my case?
    An experienced lawyer should be able to give you a general idea of what to expect based on the facts of your case.
  4. What is your approach to resolving disputes?
    Ask whether the lawyer tends to favor negotiation and mediation or whether they prefer to take cases to court. This can help you determine if their style matches your goals.
  5. How long do you expect my case to take?
    While it’s difficult to predict, the lawyer should give you an estimate based on similar cases.
  6. Who will be handling my case?
    In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may do much of the work, so make sure you understand who will be your main point of contact.

How to Check the Credibility of a Family Law Lawyer

To ensure you're hiring a reputable family law lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and reputation:

  • Check state bar association records: Verify that the lawyer is licensed to practice in your state and is in good standing with no disciplinary actions.
  • Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on websites like Avvo, Google, or Martindale-Hubbell. Previous clients can give you insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and success in family law cases.
  • Request references: Ask the lawyer for references from past clients who can speak to their experience with the lawyer.
  • Review their website or professional profile: Look at the lawyer’s background, case history, and areas of focus to ensure they have substantial experience in family law.
  • Look for professional memberships: Membership in reputable organizations, such as the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), can indicate a lawyer's expertise and dedication to family law.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To get the most out of your first consultation with a family law lawyer, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what you should bring:

  • Relevant documents: Bring any documents related to your case, such as marriage certificates, prenuptial agreements, financial records, custody agreements, or court orders.
  • List of assets and debts: For divorce cases, prepare a detailed list of all assets (e.g., homes, bank accounts, retirement funds) and debts (e.g., mortgages, loans, credit card balances).
  • Details of the family issue: Provide a written summary of the situation, including key dates and facts related to your divorce, custody dispute, or support issue.
  • Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions you have about the legal process, costs, and potential outcomes.
  • Your goals: Be prepared to discuss your objectives, such as custody arrangements, property division, or spousal support, so the lawyer understands your priorities.

Being organized and clear about your situation will help the lawyer evaluate your case more effectively and offer the best advice for moving forward.

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