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01 Sep, 2024 by Jasmine troy
I definitely recommend Attorney Vassal Johnson! He is very professional. I was always able to get any question answered quickly. He has a vast knowledge of the law. He handled my son's case & we are very grateful for the outcome. He went above & beyond!
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02 Aug, 2024 by Mikeybaldman 1975
Mr Johnson and his staff are very Excellent and deserves🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆
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29 Jul, 2024 by Armanda stanton
I Want To Say Thank You Mr. Johnson It Was A Long Process Because Of The Court System But You Did An Outstanding Job And I’m Forever Grateful.
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1.0
1 Reviews
4.8
117 Reviews
16 Dec, 2024 by Hussein shouman
5 stars service and loyalty
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01 Nov, 2024 by Andrew gharbieh
This whole law firm from top to bottom is amazing even when I thought all hope was lost they worked harder than I did at times I appreciate them hopefully I don't have to use them again but if I do need a lawyer it will be this law firm
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21 Sep, 2024 by Thegallant9
Guys are pretty good, would recommend. Willing to go above and beyond
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13 Feb, 2025 by Marcus j
07 Feb, 2025 by Brenda
Attorney Nesren Hamoud is professional as well as compassionate. We hired her to evict a family member. Not an easy thing to do. But she made it easier for us. She sticks to the facts in court. She is respectful of her clients situation. Every time we called with questions she answered them promptly. I highly recommend Attorney Nesren Hamoud for landlord and family evictions.
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26 Dec, 2024 by Alexandrina goncearuc
Awful experience,the attorney did not even prepare for the case at all. Do not recommend this office,neither Amber Lee , nor Elimitix office in general, especially for any CDL or driving tickets. Unprofessional, unprepared and non answering when they realized it was their fault for going unprepared to the court. And not talking about some heavy and sofisticated preparation, they went to court fight a CDL ticket without knowing it was a CDL driver. You are better off finding other lawyers in the area, we found some professional ones, but too late after this lawyers’ office fault and non-action.
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09 Sep, 2022 by Rick
I had a challenging custody case where I took a job out of state and was fighting for the court to approve my son moving with me full time, only having visitation in MI with his mother during school breaks and vacations. I had spoken to several other lawyers before Eric, and none of them seemed to have confidence in my case. After speaking with Eric, he made me feel comfortable with my chances. Ultimately, after several months of court issues, we won the case and my son moved with me. The price was considerably more than I was prepared for, but, had I gone with the lower cost/less confident options and lost I would always regret not choosing to hire the best. He communicates well, is direct, and knows his stuff... All things I would want/expect from a Lawyer. I also think he is a nice/friendly person who takes an interest in his clients, but when considering a lawyer that is fairly low on my priority list as I want a lawyer that will win so that aspect is just a "bonus" in my eyes. All that being said, my son is with me, he is very happy and has straight A's in his new school. Hopefully, I never NEED to talk to Eric again, but if something ever happened and I need a family law lawyer again, I wouldn't hesitate to call him.
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19 Jan, 2022 by Ronald
After getting me everything I wanted out of the divorce Eric has still to this day ( 2 years later ) assisted me with problems that have come up with the ex-wife. Excellent advice and council.
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26 Apr, 2021 by Charles
I was married 25 years; With that said, I couldn't have known a good lawyer from a bad lawyer. Pazner was an awesome replacement from a terrible lawyer. My case was dragged nearly an entire year because of the previous attorney's weakness. When I understood what was happening I hired Pazner as substitute counsel. In a little over two months my case was concluded with a fair and equitable settlement.
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07 Feb, 2025 by Paul stroud
Was very polite, professional company. Helped my wife get awarded full disability.
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17 Jan, 2025 by Dale mann
I'm still a client I think. They really dragging their feet for me. Been over a year. Social Security continues to contact me for all questions. I'm not really sure what they have done for me. Always call me AFTER I've talked to social security and answered questions.
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26 Dec, 2024 by Kim drew
The Best!
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23 Jan, 2025 by Anonymous
Great service they do what needs to be done to assure that the best outcome is reached
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19 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
Rita is one of the most professional lawyer I have met, very empathetic, a good listener and an awesome communicator, she stayed on top of my case, made my journey very smooth and great experience, she updated me constantly and got the job done, definitely I will use her in the future❤️
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30 Apr, 2024 by Margarita aguirre
Hiring an attorney isn’t anyone’s first choice for resolution but sometimes it’s your only choice. It takes time, commitment, being a good listener, being able to interpret the law responsibly, money but most of all, trust. When someone says they stand on their Christian beliefs, it comes with a much greater responsibility. More than words, it’s based on action and integrity; so when you’re searching for the right attorney, that’s what you hope you’re hiring. Of course money is a huge factor, especially during difficult times, which you’re in if you’re in need of an attorney to begin with. So, you invest all that you have in the person/firm representing you, hoping that together, you win your case. I was grateful to think that’s what I had found in Ms. Taylor until I realized that even as an attorney with Christian values, it can be disappointing. I hired Ms. Taylor to appeal my case, not fully understanding what I was really facing. My initial case was already grim, no additional evidence could be entered and it meant that her argument really wasn’t going to be enough but I still held on to hope. We discussed going in front of the judge, as that was her strategy, to put a face with the case, knowing what was at stake. Waiting for over a year felt like a long time as though I was holding my breath, waiting for my turn at truth, waiting to exhale in order to find some long-awaited relief in my journey. Unbeknownst to me, my trial date came and went, only to be notified by my initial attorney who did absolutely nothing to help my case whatsoever. I felt my appeal was my only opportunity for justice. However, the only explanation Ms. Taylor provided was that there must have been a mix up or a mistake. Ms. Taylor said it was a “partial win” because her brief identified an overreach concerning my property. Maybe her brief brought enlightenment to the case but I felt without a trial argument, my opportunity was lost and therefore, I indeed lost my case. How is it that your attorney misses your court date and without explanation? Later, I learned that while waiting for trial, Ms. Taylor was faced with other challenges - scrutiny against her law firm, going into partnership, running for US Senate, teaching and still managing her firm, representing more important cases, as she would sometimes remind me. As a woman with Christian beliefs myself, it was most disheartening at the very end, being spoken to as though I had been guilty all along, as though she never really believed in me or my case. Accountability as a Christian is essential, especially when you commit to your profession by taking another person’s livelihood and trust into your own hands.
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05 Dec, 2024 by William branch
This lawfirm was extremely helpful with our situation. Although they were not able to help us with our case they went above and beyond to help us figure out who could. Highly recommended.
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01 Aug, 2024 by Sharon gavala
"Mr Hamawi is a true professional, an expert in his craft, I cannot thank him enough, and thank you to his staff."
Kind regards,
Cletis Kendrick
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01 Aug, 2024 by Heather palmer
We are so thankful for Rabih and his staff. Linda is very kind and helpful. They did everything in their power to get us prepared for our EUO. We went into our EUO with confidence. Rabih and his staff have gone above and beyond for us and we cannot thank them enough! We highly recommend Rabih and cannot say enough good things about him and his staff. We would not hesitate to hire him again.
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23 Nov, 2020 by Alfreda
Attorney Ward is Very proffessional and helpful and she keeps you updated and keeps in Communication with her clients. Attorney Doris Ward knows her stuff and will fight for you. I would highly recommend her services!
A. Muntz
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27 Feb, 2013 by Todd
The best lawyer in the world. She has knowledge, drive, and she is very caring about her client's. She worked with me to keep my family together when I didn't think it was possible. I wouldn't hesitate for one second to call her again if me, my family or friends have any trouble. A true Godsend!
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16 Nov, 2024 by Dawn divito
08 Jul, 2024 by Precious harvey
Mr goldin came along and helped get my case up 20,000 extra dollars than what I was offered with someone else! He was very helpful and kept me in the loop the entire way. Very satisfied will be using again if need to
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20 Jun, 2024 by Rosie journagan
Gary Goldin is a great lawyer. He made sure we understood everything about our law suit. He got us more money than we thought we would receive. If you were injured is an automobile accident. You need to call him, he goes beyond the work he needs to win your case.
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05 Nov, 2015 by Anonymous
Ms Hardaway has been my legal and non-legal counselor for many years. She listens well, takes all issues into consideration before responding. And, she always takes the time to explain her advise, other options to address your matter.
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01 Oct, 2013 by Anonymous
Judith Herman is the total package. She's an attorney who is knowledgeable, professional, honest and accessible. She gets results in a tough fair manner.
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14 Aug, 2019 by Rick
Paul has done an excellent job for me each time I used his services.
Paul goes above and beyond. And he returns messages
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14 Aug, 2019 by Meka
I had a child support case that I realized I could no longer deal with on my own. While consulting different attorneys I ran across Ms. Posner and instantly felt like “she was the one”. She kept me up to date with the process and proceedings and we eventually saw the light at the end of the tunnel. When I wanted to give up and let the case go she wouldn’t let me and I was granted a favorable judgement in the end. I tried for 7 yrs to get child support for my daughter and she accomplished this for us in under a year!
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22 Aug, 2016 by James
Mrs Trent is the best attorney i have ever had she represented me in two cases and both of them she did great i would recommend her too all of my family and friends.. and besides being a great attorney she is a great person...ty Mrs Trent for all your help...sincerely James...
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26 Jul, 2022 by Jeannine
Ms. Truss represented me through a very difficult period in my life. She paid great attention to detail and has an excellent knowledge of family law. She went above and beyond in her representation of me. She is fair and her fees are reasonable. I highly recommend her.
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25 Oct, 2012 by Anonymous
The outcome was much less painful than it could have been. What impressed me most about your representation, was how much you cared about me and my family. You believed in me when others wouldn't.
Thank you for everything!
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25 Oct, 2018 by Jill
I have been a client of Robert Dubins for many years. The first thing he handled for me was a bankruptcy, which went flawlessly.
Whenever I have legal questions, he's willing to spend some time with me to answer them and ease my mind; for which I never receive a bill.
He has been handling three cases for me over the last eight months or so, we've won two of them and I expect the last one to be resolved in my favor soon.
Whenever anyone tells me they think they should call a lawyer, I give them Dubin Law's number and tell them to talk to Robert.
I don't do anything from a legal standpoint without consulting Robert first. I Actually TRUST Him!! That's saying something; No, that's Saying a Lot because I Don't Trust Lawyers!!
You can't go wrong with Dubin Law!!
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25 Oct, 2018 by Bartholomew t. mackler
My lawyer kept his cool during a very messy divorce case. He separated the emotions and concentrated on the facts. His guidance allowed me to keep my sanity during a very difficult time in my life. He actually cared about me, my son and my life.
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10 May, 2017 by Richard custer
Bob handled my case a few years ago. After three other attorneys told me i would lose everything i was refered to bob. He not only saved most of my houses but had people do a lot of other work on my case. Hr did a great job keeping in touch with everything during the case
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07 Mar, 2019 by Scott
Five years later I'm finally getting back on my feet, without Erics help I may never have gotten here. The Divorce was literally as quick as the courts allow. I paid child and spousal support but it was fair. I was awarded custody of 2 of my 3 children (not the 3rd by his choice) and was able to keep our home where all 4 of us now live today. THANK YOU ERIC! worth every penny.
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19 Mar, 2015 by Eric
I highly recommend this law firm, do not waste your money elsewhere. I should have paid the extra money in the first place, I went cheap for my first lawyer when going through my divorce and in turn lost everything after 31 years of marriage. I had to hire a lawyer for spousal support, so this time I hired the right law firm ADAM. They assigned Mr. Eric Gloudemans to my case much to my pleasure. Mr. Gloudemans took my case and presented all the facts and figures to the courts, in doing so Mr. Gloudemans won my case hands down, I pay no spousal support and no back pay. Once again pay the extra money for a good law firm and a great lawyer. Thank You Again Mr. Eric R. Gloudemans for a great job at winning my case.
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19 Mar, 2015 by Eric
I highly recommend this law firm, do not waste your money elsewhere. I should have paid the extra money in the first place, I went cheap for my first lawyer when going through my divorce and in turn lost everything after 31 years of marriage. I had to hire a lawyer for spousal support, so this time I hired the right law firm ADAM. They assigned Mr. Eric Gloudemans to my case much to my pleasure. Mr. Gloudemans took my case and presented all the facts and figures to the courts, in doing so Mr. Gloudemans won my case hands down, I pay no spousal support and no back pay. Once again pay the extra money for a good law firm and a great lawyer. Thank You Again Mr. Eric R. Gloudemans for a great job at winning my case.
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13 Dec, 2024 by Alan lossing
I have been so pleased with experience I have had with Goodman and Acker. The staff are all so wonderful but I have to say that Michelle Best goes above and beyond. Great job! Will definitely be recommending them to anyone who needs legal services!
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13 Dec, 2024 by Melody harris
Great experience calling in. The person I spoke to Michelle was very helpful, patient and eager to assist. I never felt rushed and she was very empathetic to my situation and questions
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12 Dec, 2024 by Courtney mills
When I called Goodman Acker, I was nervous because I felt like I had so little power over my life when I was severely injured due to the negligence of my landlord. Deja made me feel taken care of and heard during my intake and made it a painless process. Faddi and Brad gave me back my confidence that I do matter, I am important and that my case has merit. Don't second guess yourself, the team at Goodman Acker is there to make things right for the little guy... or little girl in this case. Thank you!
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04 Feb, 2025 by Larry martin
The W tax group Has done a great job with my back taxes I recommend them to anyone with tax issues.
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04 Feb, 2025 by Jennifer deem
Yvonne was very friendly, and personable. She was professional, and comforting to my situation.
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31 Jan, 2025 by Pedro vargas
Was satisfied with the treatment and the respect I was given and the work done for me.
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18 Jun, 2023 by Kathleen kuhlman
05 Apr, 2023 by Damiso arrington
Professional, thorough, efficient and very knowledgeable. The Attorneys and staff are top notch resources.
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28 Aug, 2022 by Tina williams (twilliams)
Allen has been my attorney of choice for at least 10 years now. He always has time for me. He always has the best approach, he takes care of you. I don’t have to even worry about anything m. Anytime I get some mail with something legal… most of the time I don’t even read it. I say, “this is something for Allen.” He takes the worry out of being a small business owner.
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20 Nov, 2022 by Anonymous
I hired Mrs. Richie as my attorney for a custody matter. (Parenting time) She promised me that she would try everything in her power to get my children back home. Unfortunately that didn’t happen and I only received phone time. She was very knowledgeable, but didn’t seem to use her knowledge as much as she should have during the time of her being my attorney. I was left to do all the foot work, and hardly any of my completed documentation was submitted to the courts that I worked so hard to get during this time. Lastly she withdrew from my case at the time I needed her most, and said the reasoning was because I wasn’t following her legal advice. When in all actuality, I went above and beyond on everything the judge ordered. She also was very soft spoken.
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22 Jun, 2019 by Anonymous
I have had the opportunity to consult and work with this attorney and she is nothing short of amazing. She does her job very well and has a good track record. She is personable, realistic, and knows the law. I would recommend this attorney to anyone looking for a family law attorney.
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12 Apr, 2017 by Crystal
I hire Shantelle for a child custody case. She was very easy to work with. She only had less than a week to prepare for my court date, but she delivered. I received everything I asked for. I definitely would recommend this lawyer.
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14 Feb, 2025 by Claudette powell
29 Oct, 2024 by Daniel b
Ron Asmar is a skilled attorney and professional gentleman. I work with attorneys across the nation on personal injury cases, and I put Ron and the Asmar Law Firm at the top. I recommend Ron and his firm for any personal injury legal needs.
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21 Oct, 2024 by Marven مارڤن
I absolutely love him. I won $10,000 case.
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22 Aug, 2024 by Ben hall
Don was great at communicating and sharing his expertise! The outcome was absolutely wonderful. Having Don at my side to deal with this was a massive benefit! Thank you!!!!
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05 Jun, 2023 by Suz joslin
28 Oct, 2022 by James maher
28 Sep, 2024 by Cmw cmw
I love this lady she represented my boyfriend now husband and did a wonderful wonderful job. I will always be grateful to her.
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14 Jul, 2024 by Kbdacapo capo
26 May, 2024 by James compton
Didn't hear back from anyone
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21 Aug, 2021 by Chad garrison
04 Jul, 2021 by Joe frisella
13 Jan, 2021 by Linda
I hired Sara Elizabeth Allen in 2016 due to a Retirement Pension dispute between me and my pension plan. I retired from the UAW on 1-1-2016 and did everything I was supposed to do and in a timely manner. I followed all of the pension plan rules, age, years of service, etc.
In May 2016, they notified me that I, in fact, had not retired and notified me that I was obligated to pay back the last 5 months of the pension entitlement that I had received. I was terrified they were going to take my pension away from me. Thankfully, Sara Elizabeth Allen, took my case and with professional expertise and in a expeditiously manner, resolved this matter for me. The results were; I did not have to pay back the first 5 months of my pension entitlements, my pension plan had to pay me all monies I lost due to the litigation timeline and my original retirement date of 1-1-2016 was once again reinstated. I could not have been happier or more satisfied with Sara Elizabeth Allen. I highly recommend her, she is very professional, incredibly smart, extremely personable and she will handle YOUR case as if it was hers!!
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13 Dec, 2024 by Alan lossing
I have been so pleased with experience I have had with Goodman and Acker. The staff are all so wonderful but I have to say that Michelle Best goes above and beyond. Great job! Will definitely be recommending them to anyone who needs legal services!
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13 Dec, 2024 by Melody harris
Great experience calling in. The person I spoke to Michelle was very helpful, patient and eager to assist. I never felt rushed and she was very empathetic to my situation and questions
Read more
12 Dec, 2024 by Courtney mills
When I called Goodman Acker, I was nervous because I felt like I had so little power over my life when I was severely injured due to the negligence of my landlord. Deja made me feel taken care of and heard during my intake and made it a painless process. Faddi and Brad gave me back my confidence that I do matter, I am important and that my case has merit. Don't second guess yourself, the team at Goodman Acker is there to make things right for the little guy... or little girl in this case. Thank you!
Read more
18 Jun, 2023 by Kathleen kuhlman
05 Apr, 2023 by Damiso arrington
Professional, thorough, efficient and very knowledgeable. The Attorneys and staff are top notch resources.
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28 Aug, 2022 by Tina williams (twilliams)
Allen has been my attorney of choice for at least 10 years now. He always has time for me. He always has the best approach, he takes care of you. I don’t have to even worry about anything m. Anytime I get some mail with something legal… most of the time I don’t even read it. I say, “this is something for Allen.” He takes the worry out of being a small business owner.
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18 Jun, 2023 by Kathleen kuhlman
05 Apr, 2023 by Damiso arrington
Professional, thorough, efficient and very knowledgeable. The Attorneys and staff are top notch resources.
Read more
28 Aug, 2022 by Tina williams (twilliams)
Allen has been my attorney of choice for at least 10 years now. He always has time for me. He always has the best approach, he takes care of you. I don’t have to even worry about anything m. Anytime I get some mail with something legal… most of the time I don’t even read it. I say, “this is something for Allen.” He takes the worry out of being a small business owner.
Read more
18 Jun, 2023 by Kathleen kuhlman
05 Apr, 2023 by Damiso arrington
Professional, thorough, efficient and very knowledgeable. The Attorneys and staff are top notch resources.
Read more
28 Aug, 2022 by Tina williams (twilliams)
Allen has been my attorney of choice for at least 10 years now. He always has time for me. He always has the best approach, he takes care of you. I don’t have to even worry about anything m. Anytime I get some mail with something legal… most of the time I don’t even read it. I say, “this is something for Allen.” He takes the worry out of being a small business owner.
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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.
