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15 Sep, 2014 by Priscilla
James Fry is a man of integrity and is well respected in our community. I have used his services three times during the last four years, and he has always been successful in making sure the right thing was done for my family. From the first time I met James, he put me at ease. He is friendly and very approachable, and I know he genuinely cares about the well being of my family. He is a compassionate person, and yet clearly not afraid of a challenge, no matter how unpleasant it might be. I entrusted to him the well being of the two most precious things I have - my children, and James has gone to battle for them several times with their best interest in mind. I have and will continue to recommend him as an outstanding attorney.
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27 Aug, 2014 by Mike and brenda
When you see the words, "Family Law", the many thoughts that race through your head are endless. Whose family are we talking about, mine, the attorney or someone else's? After almost ten year's on a very difficult and demanding case, we now have his name in our dictionary under the heading "Family".
Our family would highly recommend Mr. James Fry to anyone who is in need of an honest and professionaly respected attorney.
We would also like to add that Mr. Fry could not have a more efficient and caring Legal Assistant than Ms. Donna Russell.
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04 Apr, 2012 by Sandra f
James is a wonderful, trustworthy and genuine lawyer. One does not find that in lawyers nowadays, They are just out to get your money.
He works hard for you and get you the best result.
His heart is as big as Texas and I proud to know him and call him as a long time friend.
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03 Jun, 2020 by Kent
I hired Angela to handle a legal dispute with a former business associate. She was great! She quickly absorbed all the facts and minutiae related to case and effectively used her experience and legal to develop a winning strategy. Her knowledge and confidence was a tremendous help in getting me through a tense and stressful situation. I was very pleased with her performance and the results.
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11 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
Represented me and my family in a business dispute. We won. Very professional and reasonable price.
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08 May, 2024 by Corey lewis
The Staff at Bill Kennedy Law have been nothing short of astounding. They helped guided me through some very trying times. Bill and Hilary have built an amazing team that have been very professional, and communicative, throughout my entire process. I cant give them any higher kudos on a job well done.
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19 May, 2023 by Nicole mccarrell
Bill Kennedy was very straight forward and did everything he could for my case I was very pleased and recommend him.
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05 May, 2023 by Kenneth carmack
awesome people to work with
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14 Oct, 2024 by Mike
I personally want to thank JarvisHamilton law firm for helping me out tremendously. And especially Matt Hamilton who went over and beyond to give my life peace. Everyone at the law firm were exceptionally helpful and I am proud and blessed I chose them.
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14 Oct, 2024 by Aaron g
Matt Hamilton is great! Got an even better outcome on the case than expected. 10/10
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20 Aug, 2024 by Devin
The best lawyer, hands down. Bob has helped me so much with my case, and I thank him and his team for helping me with my case that just got NO BILLED! The one and only Bob Jarvis. I highly recommend Bob as your future lawyer. Not only did Bob help me with my case and get it dismissed, but he was also very informative and gave off the sense of being behind me and getting the job done. He constantly gave me updates and made sure that I was in the best position to be set up for success. If you need a lawyer, go to Bob. I can guarantee you that if you follow what he says, you will be in the position to be just like me, a free man. Thank you, Bob, for all you did, and God bless you in your future cases. God bless.
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5.0
6 Reviews
4.7
42 Reviews
19 Aug, 2024 by Mike rowe
Mr. Pelley and his team are the best. I found myself in a bit of trouble towards the end of 2023 and needed an attorney, I didn't know who to call or where to go. I'm so glad I found Mr. Pelley and his team. Thank you all again so so very much.
If you need an attorney that will help you. Please give Mr. Pelley and his team a chance.
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01 May, 2024 by Ginnie stiefel
09 Jan, 2024 by Shawn hamilton
Do not use this attorney. He did nothing to protect me during a very emotional divorce. I’m currently paying the consequences for using him.
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16 Feb, 2024 by Pm814 moore (plmjdm)
18 Jan, 2024 by Ryan cluck
We have used the Munson firm for a number of different things including real estate transactions, various business matters and estate planning. They have always done a fantastic job. Their fees are very reasonable, and they are upfront about what a given project will cost. Highly recommend them.
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01 Nov, 2023 by Justin miller
Such an easy process. Had a deed made for a place that never had an address. Though it was going to be a way bigger deal than what it was and they made it simple.
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05 May, 2021 by Laronda
John is very rude and disrespectful. I have actual Text messages where this man was extremely rude to me each time I contacted him,he told me not to call during the day because he be in “trial called him at 5:30 he told me never call him at that time I paid him 4500 upfront then he came back and asked for 1500 more it’s been a yr and nothing not to mention he nor his office has contacted me in months literally, I called them the other day because I had an indictment for the case they working on they didn’t even contact to let me know that nor to let me know I had a warrant.. if I could give a negative I would. also I hired a new attorney because I just lost all trust in this practice he talked real good till he received my money and when I show the bar how he talked to his client and abandoned my case I hope they do something about him I’m planning on taking action to get my money back he did absolutely nothing it was clear he was working against me I just felt like they did me wrong and just took my money and sorry for the run on sentences but I just wanted to add this to every website..”oh I even asked him to call me last week lol I have not received that call yet
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01 Feb, 2020 by Christal
John is an amazing attorney, and even better person! He has represented my family and I with the utmost professionalism, and has never failed us. We appreciate this man beyond anything words could express! Thank you John!
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08 Jul, 2019 by Daphne
John and his staff went above and beyond what I expected. Everything was settled without going to court. Lola was so understanding and caring and appreciate her more than I can ever tell her.
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23 Aug, 2023 by Jared
A very knowledgeable attorney, quick to respond to any questions and it has been a great experience working with Ben and his team.
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25 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
I hired Ben to conclude my lifelong marriage. Ben failed to discover my ex husbands true psychological diagnosis, failed to collect the community income owed me during the course of the divorce, allowed my ex to sock money away privately during the divorce period, allowed my ex to distribute my half of the award in an untimely way, among many other grievances . He failed to discover my exes rented apartment for 5 years prior, which he used for his girlfriends a half mile from his office. Failed to discover the secret drug trading my ex conducted for nefarious activity. Ha! You women will NOT be served well in Grayson County! Get out! Bunch of sexist pigs, judges and attorneys rule up there who condone a double standard of men lying, cheating, and abusing women! How dare this man claim Ben won him 80% of HIS money! SHE made the kids, are those 100% HERS? I think I'd happily serve time for the satisfaction of severing the kid relationship and his prideful, hateful, sexist misogynistic anatomy. F this '80% His' piece of slime! Ben, Shame on YOU!! What is this 1971? Texas is Community property! 100% evidence of backward, violent sexism! Grayson is so retrogressive/repressive..sure men in liberal towns still try to exploit women, but they don't think they're gonna get away with being bisexual polyamorous Grayson swingers. I just hate men now. Thanks Ben.
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07 Dec, 2017 by Kevin
Ben handle a difficult divorce for me that ended a 28 yr marriage.
At stake was my 401k, pension, and a recently purchased home valued over 175k. Ben was straight forwarded with me about the division of marital assets in Texas. He asked the hard questions about my character and integrity and how I wanted the outcome of the divorce to be, then we made a plan.
Ben followed thought on every step we discussed and kept me informed. He is smart , knows his job and how to deal with his adversary's. The result of my hiring Ben was that I maintained 80% of my lifetime of hard work and savings.
You need a Lawyer then hire Ben Baker
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31 Aug, 2024 by Jennifer rosso
When you think of a “court appointed” attorney you think, “You get what you pay for” which is NOTHING, but NOT THIS TIME! Lacinda LeBron-Brese was AMAZING with my husband. While he was incarcerated his 24 year old daughter died. Lacinda had already finished the job she was appointed to do, remember we paid NOTHING for her services. I called everyone in the jail, the DA, the sheriff, the Chaplin, warden, the bond officer, sent letters to the state, TDC & 3 other attorneys who had also done work for my husband while appointed…..NO ONE wanted to help me get my husband a furlough to go to his only daughters funeral! “It was a lot of red tape, hassle, extra work, and simply just impossible” I was told by everyone EXCEPT Lacinda LeBron.
Ms. LeBron went OVER & ABOVE what any appointed atty has ever done in my lifetime! She went over all the heads that told me “NO” and she got my husband his furlough to attend his baby girls funeral and say goodbye when NO ONE ELSE COULD! I would send anyone I care about to this woman for any legal matters they may have because I KNOW PERSONALLY THAT SHE WILL FIGHT FOR HER CLIENTS whether they are free court appointed or paying clients. Thank you so much Lacinda for everything you did for us!
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29 Aug, 2024 by Michael thomas
Highly recommend Lacinda! was there with me from the very start got to drop my case from a misdemeanor A to C and was by my side until the end.
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08 Aug, 2024 by Madisyn rausch
Lacinda and her paralegal Bailey are awesome!
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10 Mar, 2024 by Rhonda corley
19 Dec, 2023 by Elaine robison
Attorney Poet treated me with respect and genuinely listened to my family's concerns. Upon leaving his office I felt confident that he was the right person for the job!
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03 Aug, 2023 by Damon woolsey
The absolutely best lawyer
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31 Aug, 2024 by Jennifer rosso
When you think of a “court appointed” attorney you think, “You get what you pay for” which is NOTHING, but NOT THIS TIME! Lacinda LeBron-Brese was AMAZING with my husband. While he was incarcerated his 24 year old daughter died. Lacinda had already finished the job she was appointed to do, remember we paid NOTHING for her services. I called everyone in the jail, the DA, the sheriff, the Chaplin, warden, the bond officer, sent letters to the state, TDC & 3 other attorneys who had also done work for my husband while appointed…..NO ONE wanted to help me get my husband a furlough to go to his only daughters funeral! “It was a lot of red tape, hassle, extra work, and simply just impossible” I was told by everyone EXCEPT Lacinda LeBron.
Ms. LeBron went OVER & ABOVE what any appointed atty has ever done in my lifetime! She went over all the heads that told me “NO” and she got my husband his furlough to attend his baby girls funeral and say goodbye when NO ONE ELSE COULD! I would send anyone I care about to this woman for any legal matters they may have because I KNOW PERSONALLY THAT SHE WILL FIGHT FOR HER CLIENTS whether they are free court appointed or paying clients. Thank you so much Lacinda for everything you did for us!
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29 Aug, 2024 by Michael thomas
Highly recommend Lacinda! was there with me from the very start got to drop my case from a misdemeanor A to C and was by my side until the end.
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08 Aug, 2024 by Madisyn rausch
Lacinda and her paralegal Bailey are awesome!
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12 Jun, 2024 by N johnson
Ms. Angela Norris handled my will contest case professionally and efficiently. Her office communication was clear and straightforward. She was the best attorney I could ask for during that difficult time, and I'm happy with the case results. I returned to her office to get my own will done. I highly recommend her.
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07 May, 2024 by Hope believe
30 Apr, 2024 by Cindy berlanga-orellana
Absolutely amazing Attorneys! Cannot say enough of how their work ethic and care for their clients truly comes through in anything they do. An absolute blessing!
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05 Sep, 2024 by Cr a
You won’t be disappointed, let them handle it from there.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Joel s
Get Mr Brooks if you want a confident winner, super knowledgeable and who goes over and above for your specific need. I won’t go in detail what he helped me out with but I will say I was more than satisfied. Office staff is top notch and returned my calls even though they are always busy. Who wants a lawyer that’s not busy?
Was treated like a client and not just another person, but they will let you know if you are doing something you shouldn’t be as well, about business the correct way. Thanks a lot Brooks law firm.
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28 Jun, 2024 by Stephanie sims
Mr. Brooks and his office are supportive and professional. They’re the best choice for legal counsel.
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27 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
I have been trying to contact you for more than 2 years, which is impossible, and today you have not called me back. It is sad to know that because you have no money and are an illegal person, they treat you this way, you should give up. If you do not like being assigned cases of undocumented people, since it seems that you have no vocation for this, it is very disappointing to know that people like you practice such a valuable and important profession, apparently perhaps you are the typical character who only serves the white community with money.
I am very angry because I should be kind enough to at least answer or return the call but with you it is impossible since you lack empathy towards people, you being a mockery for the professionals who do serve with courage and integrity.
It makes me sad and angry to know that I have been trying to communicate with you for almost two years, and you don't even take a few minutes to return the call, tired of this and knowing that you are not even going to read this email, that is why I write this, I know that my brother They don't have money, I know you made mistakes but at least you should answer us.
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28 Sep, 2018 by George
I hired Marcus to represent my daughter for charges related to drugs and weapons he was able to get all charges DROPPED he's great at his profession
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27 Mar, 2018 by Lisa
Marcus Olds...I am honored to recommend him as a very honorable and hard working attorney. He is the kind of attorney and friend that you can count on always..I am blessed that Marcus went to bat for me and never stopped until all things were taken care of and settled. He is intelligent, caring and a fine Christian man I will always be thankful for having in my corner.
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14 Sep, 2024 by Priscilla dallas
I can't recommend Jackie VanZant enough! I called Jackie about a situation that was complicated and had me very stressed out. Jackie was honest, explained the options I had, and absolutely had my back in my case! I appreciate that he was always there when questions came up and didn't hesitate to answer in terms that I understood. Jackie was there every step of the way to help make the right decisions and ultimately win my case. I will use Jackie for all of my future legal issues! Thank you VanZant Law!
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11 Sep, 2024 by Dave
Very busy man but definitely in great hands! If you want someone who is going to keep it real with you! This is the guy!
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30 Aug, 2024 by Donja flewallen
I couldn't have found a better representative for our situation. Mr. VanZant took a case most firms wouldn't touch and got us a substantial win considering the charges. His attention to details and ability to work with our financial situation gave us a second chance. Hands down the best attorney I'm Grayson county.
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14 Sep, 2024 by Priscilla dallas
I can't recommend Jackie VanZant enough! I called Jackie about a situation that was complicated and had me very stressed out. Jackie was honest, explained the options I had, and absolutely had my back in my case! I appreciate that he was always there when questions came up and didn't hesitate to answer in terms that I understood. Jackie was there every step of the way to help make the right decisions and ultimately win my case. I will use Jackie for all of my future legal issues! Thank you VanZant Law!
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11 Sep, 2024 by Dave
Very busy man but definitely in great hands! If you want someone who is going to keep it real with you! This is the guy!
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30 Aug, 2024 by Donja flewallen
I couldn't have found a better representative for our situation. Mr. VanZant took a case most firms wouldn't touch and got us a substantial win considering the charges. His attention to details and ability to work with our financial situation gave us a second chance. Hands down the best attorney I'm Grayson county.
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10 Mar, 2024 by Rhonda corley
14 Dec, 2022 by Sam owen
Gary Corley always had my back,great at what he does!!!
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11 Sep, 2022 by Ryan | monarch hospice
Have used Gary and Jared for multiple contracts. They are very through and make sure to breakdown everything to where its understandable and come up with creative ways to accomplish what is needed.
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18 Jul, 2024 by Karen stevenson
Worst experience ever! I only used him because I needed an attorney to help me with my mom’s trust. I had to sue one someone that had a loan who refused to pay a penny back, I won in court. While waiting for the court that morning, he asked me about the girl’s response that she mailed in. I’m flabbergasted that he asked this considering this was the first I’d heard of it. I ended up winning that since I had proof of a contract she signed. Being she’s in another state, had to have the police dept serve her. When I asked if she had been served, he couldn’t tell me. I ended up having to go to court myself because my brother claimed I stole money from the trust, which I have proof of all contracts. The day of court, Ron comes to be and said he wasn’t sure about being my attorney! Say what?!?!? After giving him money many times throughout the years he just stops helping me? What a waste of time and money. I had earlier in the years sent him an email stating that he was fired and I wanted a breakdown of his charges. Never ever received anything from him. The other attorney ended up being a judge in a different county so I ended up back with Ron. Sadly. Don’t waste ur time and r money using him. He’s lost both cases for me and another for my daughter that he claimed he was perfect for helping us win each case.
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02 Jan, 2024 by Jamie wagoner
23 Jan, 2023 by Dorothy johnson
Won't do anything my grandson had to get a new lawyer cause all this one did was talked about food and poker and coffee with the DA .so if you want sit in jail he's your lawyer I heard bad things about him placing kids in abusive homes also .its all about money here best bet find a lawyer out Dallas your have a better chance cause these lawyers and judges and Da all in together have have get togethers for poker and cook outs
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25 Jun, 2010 by Anonymous
TOOK A VERY DIFFICULT CASE TO TRIAL AND WON HANDS DOWN!
ALWAYS REASONABLE. TOUGH WHEN HE NEEDS TO BE. VERY HAPPY WITH HIM.
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16 May, 2010 by Anonymous
Handled my divorce case. Did a great job in court. One of the best, according to other lawyers in the hall.
Very reasonable and always kept me informed.
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23 Apr, 2009 by Anonymous
Jody will not protect your interests!!! He will not keep up with the details of your case. He will make you do things over & over on your dime. He does not keep you informed. He tells you one thing & at the end screws you over. He will tell you "you will go to trial" then at settlement conference he will actually make a deal with the opposing atty to get you less than you would have received at trial. He will tell you this is a "fair deal"!
He actually tells you "I've done these types of cases for 20+years & I can do it in my sleep" He literally but the settlement brief together at the last possible moment.
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19 May, 2023 by Lindsay
I cannot put into words how thankful I am for Bobbie. I was facing 10 years mandatory minimum in Federal Prison. Bobbie was brilliant with her strategy. The judge reduced my sentence to less than 5 years. After I took a program and received another year off my sentence I spent a total 3 years incarcerated.
Bobbie save my life and gave me a reason to change my life. Im forever grateful to her.
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19 Oct, 2021 by Anonymous
I am not going to go into much detail about my personal info but if you want to win a case please do your research and pick a good attorney. Bobbie will lose the case and act like it's the best she could do.
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28 Dec, 2018 by Robbie powell
Not bad for a Bonham attorney
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13 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
I had a 2 year old case in texas with my ex that was extremely stressful. It effected my everyday life. I hired jeff and no matter how many texes I sent and emails he was always kind to me. He put a end to a 2 year ordeal and faught hard for me. I strongly recommend to hire jeff with a divorce, legal problems and criminal cases. He has over 30 years experience and cares about what ever ordeal u are going through. Thank u jeff for everything.
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10 Aug, 2021 by Anonymous
great from his reviews i have a feeling im screwed ... a simple uncontested divorce with no children, no property, no assets but he was hired to represent my husband ... so many lies against me im willing to prove who is lieing and even pay for polygraph tests but no they're not replicable ... i never consulteed or hired him my husband did
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02 Jan, 2021 by Chad
Best divorce lawyer in Sherman. He went above and beyond to make sure my kids get to have their dad in their lives
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28 Feb, 2016 by Kristi
Horrible lawyer. Doesnt return calls, he knows the law but hes lazy and doesnt really care about yout case. He tried to get me to take a plea deal of 5yrs felony probation when i said lets go to trial the DA offered me a deal dropping my felony( first ever) to a misdameanor with 1 year probation which in Texas everyone is entitled to have their first felony dropped to a misd. But me being my first time in court he made me think he was a good lawyer only to find out later he didnt do anything i was entitled that anyways he was a horrible lawyer.
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27 Jun, 2014 by Anonymous
Joe is personable, knowledgeable and very confident. He has helped me and several friends get out of sticky situations. You can tell that the prosecutors like working with him. His rates are very reasonable and fair.
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05 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
After reading two of the three reviews on here I find myself having to say that these people, more likely than not, have zero understanding of how litigation is handled.
Mr. Vance is an extraordinary attorney who handled my case in a very professional manner and in a timely fashion. He's friendly, courteous and has over 30 years of experience with law practice so that speaks volumes over someone who claims they couldn't even pay their medical bills. The man wouldn't be in business if he wasn't good at what he does. Huge thumbs up and I'll provide excellent referral kudos to anyone seeking a competent strong attorney. Thank you, Mr. Vance!
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10 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
This is the second lawsuit Lester Wade Vance has handled for me and I am happier now than I was the first time!!
I think there are a lot of sue happy idiots that think that just because they were rear ended or fell in Wal-Mart that they are going to collect a huge amount of money and never have to work again! I think these are the idiots that post reviews online. I have been very pleased with Mr. Vance's representation and would definitely use him again.
While in Mr. Vance's office, the phone rang off the hook with calls. Mr. Vance's staff was professional, kind and very knowledgeable. Mr. Vance comes out to the reception area and greets everyone individually. I think he's great!
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14 May, 2013 by Sulav
lazy, messed me up. I still owe some bills to hospitals even though he made a lot of money out of my accident. unprofessional. I am not saying because I did not get any money from car accident injury, I could not even pay my bills. please do not go to him, better solve it yourself.
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20 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
Paid retainer and the just 1 phone call from him. You have to leave messages on his machine which are never answered. Seems like a good atty but he needs to get proper office staffing so his clients aren't in the dark constantly.
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18 Aug, 2021 by Brenda
He did a great job for me. He's a awesome lawyer. I definitely recommend him.
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06 May, 2021 by Anonymous
No communication. No emails or calls ever returned. If you need to get ahold of him you have to call every day or show up randomly. He didn’t explain things thoroughly at all. He did not help me with anything on my custody case. He didn’t speak up for me during our final hearing either. I haven’t even got my orders from him, other than in an email. He took my money and never had me sign a contract. I could have represented myself better than he did. He acted as if he didn’t care at all.
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14 Mar, 2024 by Barbara
Will not fight for you, don't care anything about your case, just wants to get it over with and move on. My Grandson was in jail for 5 months, was able to talk with him one time. Wouldn't take call, wouldn't return calls and the next and only other time he saw him was in court. In court tried to get him to plea for maximum time and wouldn't even try to get a lighter sentence for him. I'm writing to every place I can, this attorney shouldn't be allowed to represent a dog not to mention people
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Family Law Lawyer Can Do for You
A family law lawyer provides legal services related to family relationships, including marriage, divorce, child custody, and adoption. Family lawyers help clients navigate emotionally charged legal issues, providing guidance and representation in disputes that affect spouses, children, and parents. Whether you're going through a divorce, seeking custody of your children, or drafting a prenuptial agreement, a family law lawyer ensures your rights are protected and your interests are represented.
Family law attorneys often handle sensitive matters and offer objective legal advice, helping clients reach fair outcomes either through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.
When Should I Hire a Family Law Lawyer?
Hiring a family law lawyer is beneficial in several situations, especially when legal matters involve close personal relationships. Common reasons to hire a family law lawyer include:
- Divorce or separation: When ending a marriage, a lawyer can help you navigate issues such as division of assets, spousal support, and child custody arrangements.
- Child custody and visitation disputes: If you and your co-parent can't agree on custody or visitation, a lawyer can represent your interests and work toward a solution that benefits your children.
- Child support: Whether you’re seeking child support or defending against a claim, a lawyer can help ensure the appropriate amount is calculated and enforced.
- Prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: A lawyer can help draft or review agreements that protect your assets in case of divorce.
- Adoption: Family law lawyers guide you through the legal process of adoption, ensuring that all requirements are met.
- Domestic violence or restraining orders: If you're a victim of domestic violence or being falsely accused, a lawyer can help you obtain or challenge protective orders.
- Paternity cases: If there are questions about the paternity of a child, a lawyer can help establish or dispute legal fatherhood.
Hiring a lawyer early can prevent issues from escalating, and they can offer you the best chance of achieving a favorable outcome in emotionally charged situations.
What Does a Family Law Lawyer Do?
A family law lawyer provides a wide range of services depending on your specific legal needs. Their responsibilities may include:
- Advising on legal rights and options: Helping you understand your legal rights regarding divorce, child custody, support, and other family law issues.
- Filing legal documents: Drafting and filing petitions, motions, and agreements with the court, such as divorce papers, custody agreements, or support orders.
- Representing clients in court: Arguing your case in front of a judge if a settlement can’t be reached through negotiation or mediation.
- Mediation and negotiation: Assisting with alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, to reach agreements on issues like custody, property division, and support without going to trial.
- Enforcing court orders: Helping you enforce court orders related to child support, alimony, or custody if the other party fails to comply.
- Drafting prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: Creating agreements that protect your assets in the event of a divorce.
- Handling adoption proceedings: Ensuring that the legal process of adoption is followed, from filing paperwork to finalizing the adoption in court.
How Are Family Law Lawyers Paid?
Family law lawyers typically charge clients in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Common payment arrangements include:
- Hourly rates: Most family lawyers charge by the hour, with rates varying based on experience and location. Clients are billed for the time spent working on their case, including consultations, court appearances, and document preparation.
- Flat fees: For more straightforward legal services, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, some lawyers offer flat-fee arrangements.
- Retainer fees: In cases that are expected to require significant time and attention, such as contentious custody battles, a lawyer may charge a retainer, which is an upfront payment that covers the initial costs of legal services. The lawyer then bills against the retainer as they work on your case.
The exact cost will depend on the complexity of your case and the lawyer’s fee structure, which should be discussed upfront.
How Much Does a Family Law Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a family law lawyer varies based on factors such as the lawyer's experience, the location, and the complexity of your case. Here are some general cost guidelines:
- Hourly rates: Family law lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour, depending on their experience and the complexity of the case.
- Flat fees: For simpler cases, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, fees may range from $1,000 to $5,000.
- Retainers: For more complex matters, such as contested divorces or custody battles, lawyers may charge a retainer ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 or more. The lawyer will bill against the retainer for the work they do on your case.
- Additional costs: You may also be responsible for additional costs, such as filing fees, mediation fees, or expert witness fees.
Always ask for a clear breakdown of the lawyer’s fees and any additional expenses during your consultation.
Top Questions to Ask a Family Law Lawyer
Before hiring a family law lawyer, it's important to ask questions to ensure they're the right fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:
-
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.
