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19 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
I hired the Law Office of Paul B. Mack for a divorce and couldn't have been happier. They were receptive to my financial constraints and got me great results outside of court. I can't recommend them more.
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10 Jan, 2017 by Joe
I was told he was the best in Spokane, in my opinion he and his associates are the worst. I paid him tens of thousands of dollars and received very little in the way of competent representation. I was promised that he would personally ensure my case would be a priority after one of his associates left the practice and a new one took over my case and I believed him. That was huge mistake on my part, I feel like he will tell you anything to get your money.
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23 Mar, 2015 by Sabrina
Paul is awesome he got me what I wanted and we didn't even have to go to court. He let me know when I was asking for too little or too much. If you decide to go with paul as your lawyer you will not be sorry.
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10 Mar, 2018 by Anonymous
Cam was my divorce attorney in 2016. Cam over books herself and is worn out. Cam did not have time for me and would not call me back for several days. When she finally called back she was rushed and irritated.. She was unkind and condescending to me, just what you do not need while going through a stressful divorce. After 3 months of a horrible experience I had to drop her. When I sent her an email telling her this she immediately wrote the court and said she dropped me! She did nothing to make my case progress and she took $10k from me. She did not protect me and left me worse off than if I had never hired her. I feel it is my responsibility to let others know my experience.
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06 Sep, 2016 by Rena
It is beyond ridiculous how incredible this woman is. Dynamic, articulate, a fireball, knows my case inside and out, available when needed, passionate for my children, forthright with what is possible and what would be a stretch to ask for, all in all she has helped me find my spine again after years of being torn down by my ex. She reminds me what my kids deserve and my right to fight for them and they're overall wellbeing. Would hire her again in a heartbeat and trust her abilities even if it was a murder charge. What a lady!!!!!
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25 May, 2015 by Dana
Cam’s strength, compassion, knowledge, and persistence were unbelievable. Time and time again, whether it was in the courtroom, on the phone, corresponding on email, or in a room face to face; she took control, and always made it happen. Highly ethical, her interpersonal skills and legal expertise combined with her no nonsense approach is a formula for success. And, her assistant Deb is phenomenal. The team, is one to watch!
I am, and will always be forever grateful to Cam and Deb. Their patience, respect, and positive perspective, as I struggled to get back on my feet in a very complex case, was truely a life saver. The complications of divorce, restraining orders, bankruptcy, and foreclosure were handled with the utmost professionalism and collaboration. Cam is simply the very best. Excellence defined!
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31 Jul, 2023 by Christy
Hiring Rob Cossey was the best thing I could have done in my terrible legal situation. I was violently assaulted and wrongfully accused of being the assailant in early 2023. I was charged with second degree DV assault with strangulation. This was a horrific ordeal for myself and my family. The entire charge was DISMISSED after 5 months because he successfully was able to prove that I was not the assailant, I was the victim. He is obviously very well respected in the legal community. As you can imagine, in the aftermath of being assaulted, I was not in the best place, but he communicated with me so well. He was responsive, honest, up front, but also assuring and grounding. He even made me laugh multiple times and I appreciated that. His wife Shirley was also just such a sweetheart and added such a good balance to their partnership in representing me. Multiple times they went out of their way to support me and assure me. Rob and Shirley believed in me the entire time, which meant the world, and they worked as quickly as the system would allow them to in order to resolve the situation. I couldn't have asked for a better outcome. Not only did they dismiss the charge, the prosecution recognized I was not the assailant, which meant a lot for me to know. I would recommend Rob to anyone and am FOREVER so grateful to him and Shirley and the rest of the office for EVERYTHING. Shout out to Kelly, as well, for being a firecracker and representing me in the PO portion of all of this. She was also just fantastic. Everyone in the office was so kind to me, treated me with dignity, and worked hard to achieve the best possible outcome!! A million thanks to them and a huge recommendation to anyone looking for legal representation (specifically in my case a criminal defense attorney and protection order representation).
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13 Dec, 2022 by Donald
Words cannot describe the effort that I have received from this office. Above and beyond. Family law is an extraordinarily difficult situation as a loving Father and I am beyond grateful for the opportunity to be a client. Because of this office I am able to bring a few extra smiles to my son's life and we are able to share moments that would not be without the efforts of this office.
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13 Jun, 2022 by Dan
Rob is an ethical, honest and extremely knowledgeable attorney. In addition, his long career has created and nurtured many relationships with professionals in the Washington legal system where he is highly respected. During my two recent very hurtful legal cases, first for a completely falsified restraining order by my loved one, followed by my family law case, I found Rob and his staff truly listen to you to get a full understanding of what your case entails, including the backgrounds of those involved. Rob stays current on the happenings of your case, reads all emails and documents in a timely manner and is very responsive. They guide you along the way; you never feel ignored or put on the backburner. My previous divorce experience a few years ago was disastrous as it became apparent the only goal of attorneys on both sides was to prolong the case, increasing their income while draining their clients of time and money. So I much appreciated Rob and staff lessening the financial and emotional stress involved by zeroing in on the truth, impressive representation at trial and successful efforts to achieve the best possible outcome (the Restraining Order was denied and my family law case was satisfactorily settled out of court). My confidence in Rob and his staff to not only be diligent, but to put me and my case first never wavered. I sincerely enjoyed working with Rob (and attorneys Kelly and Jennifer) as well as Estie and everyone else I encountered at Cossey Law. They are competent, friendly, genuinely nice people who make a painful experience so much more bearable!
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27 Jun, 2024 by Jason cooley
I have been working with Lukins & Annis now for two years, and I must say that all the staff I have interacted with are truly professional. David Webster and his team helped me navigate the probate arena, while Charles Hausberg and Zaine M. Yzaguirre have been stellar in helping me with my litigation. Their expertise and advice is well above the price they charge, and I cannot recommend this law firm enough; you will not be disappointed.
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18 Apr, 2024 by K
0 stars if I could. Go elsewhere
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23 Dec, 2022 by Michael a. mckay
Excellent work. Very pleased with the outcome!
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28 Apr, 2023 by Jocelyn
Me gustan los servicios son muy eficientes tienen paciencia al cliente muchas gracias.
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09 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
This lawyer is not proactive at all. I have an ex that is very deceitful and asked him from the beginning to seek definitive proof on all her statements. I’ve predicted every move she’s made. We’ve been to court three times and not once has he asked for pay stubs or anything to prove her needs. He doesn’t listen to concerns and is lazy. Does not do good research to prepare for court and allows opposing counsel a competitive advantage by allowing them more time than I was allowed to prepare statements. He gets outplayed in strategy by lawyers less experienced and can’t conduct himself in a confident manner before the authority of court. He does not raise concerns about damaging judgements at the end of arguments when asked by the authority of the court. I spend one third of my time and money arguing with him on trying to get him to do what I want him to do and he has all kinds of excuses for his failures. Don’t waste your time or money. He has not protected me or represented me at all. I’ve asked for specific language to he included in a mediation judgement and it was not. I was misrepresented by him and the mediator in mediation and am not happy about it at all.
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09 Aug, 2019 by Gavrayell
I hired Olaf to help me get my child back from her father who took her away and I ended up with a year of three hour visits with my child. Olaf never asked for me to have more time, he would tell the judge that my child’s father worked to much, being an attorney he should have known that the court does not care about parents work schedules and argued something else but he never did. Anytime I would ask him to do something he would tell me no, like he would not get me a guardian ad litem, would not put what I wanted in my declarations, would not come up with a customized parenting plan at mediation, he would wait months before scheduling court dates or sending the opposing counsel things and when I sent him information he wouldn’t look it over. I switched attorneys and within two weeks had an agreement with my ex and signed our parenting plan.
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10 Aug, 2024 by Mellisa johnson
Gina and her associates know well what they’re doing. Trust them and trust the process, they know the way. Personally, I entered into the divorce process lost, scared, and intimidated, and at the end of my process felt supported, empowered, and relieved. I felt that my child’s and my best interest was always at the forefront thru the entire process, my gratitude is immeasurable for their considerations. Divorce sucks, and with the right support network, it sucks a little less. Thank you, Gina, you will always have a special place in my heart!
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19 Jun, 2024 by Kyle amonson
I was served with an outlandish protection order making very wild claims months after my ex-wife and I had divorced. The news was shocking to me and I only had 10 days to find an attorney to represent me. The original temporary order held little information. Gina agreed to represent me, was upfront about cost and options. She allowed me to mail bomb her office with all the potential texts, communication and support documents I had. She was able to sift through the piles of information and to suss out what was useful and not useful in my defense.
More than that she was able to identify the true cause of the problem, a desire to change the parenting plan for support money. I was the primary parent and my ex tried a desperate act.
Gina worked with my ex-wife's attorney to find a new balance to find a solution to make the time lost with the kids and the financial balance my ex-wife was seeking. She had a heart to make the case less difficult on the children and me. My ex-wife did not agree to any of the terms. And still wanted her day in court.
Gina danced circles around the plaintiff, expertly wielding the information and the understanding of a reasonable person's standards. The case was ultimately thrown out. Gina even followed up with me personally to ensure that I was ok.
I recommend Gina, especially to anyone who really is in a place where they know they are being wronged, and are willing to let their attorney be the expert on what is reasonable.
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11 Feb, 2024 by Pj troxell
Miss Castello was able to help us out on very short notice. She cares. We would definitely use her again and recommend.
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31 Jan, 2023 by Anonymous
Briana was my divorce lawyer. Extremely difficult to get a hold of, didn't use any of the evidence I provided in proceedings, and missed some very basic (that I've learned since) deviations to child support and adjustments to parenting plan. I didn't feel represented, I felt like a paycheck.
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24 Jan, 2023 by Anonymous
Briana gieri, was my lawyer for about half of my divorce case.
From never answering emails to never answering text. Would tippcley have to wait days or weeks to get a simple response.
Also she works from home. So more often then not you can hear her kids screaming in the background on phone calls.
When my new lawyer took up the case she had a hard time seeing any work the Briana actually did on my case!
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30 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
She was able to get our family guardianship case handled even though it was a mess. She was always very understanding and professional.
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18 Nov, 2022 by Christian
I first hired Michaela to represent me on a minor modification to my parenting plan. I was the non-custodial parent on this case. Soon after litigation began, there was a substantial change in circumstances that required the children to be placed under my primary care to ensure their safety. What began as an ordinary case, turned out to be incredibly complicated child custody case. Michaela did a fantastic job helping me navigate this case and make sense of every hearing, which greatly reduced my anxiety and stress.
Every part of our strategy heading to trial was carefully considered. In chess, there's a saying: "once you've found your next move, look for a better one!". I appreciate Michaela's willingness to consult her associates when necessary in order to always find the better move. This was a highly litigious case lasting almost 3 years. Michaela took the time to make sure we didn't leave any legal "holes" for the opposing party to exploit, and this approach paid off at trial.
Michaela gave me a voice in the court system. With her help, I was able to present eloquent, persuasive arguments in the many declarations that I filed over the years. This case had hundreds of dates and events that had to be sorted through. Michaela's attention to detail was impeccable. I sincerely believe that I got the best representation that money can buy. Michaela is an excellent attorney and you should hire her.
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11 Oct, 2022 by Anonymous
As a fellow professional in the industry, I can say that Michaela stands out as a stellar attorney. She's good with people and she's good with the law.
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16 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
Continues to "update" forms and declarations. Tons of "research" to review tax returns that were prepared by a CPA. All of this so she can take your money. Oh and when she consults another attorney, because she doesn't know, you get charged for BOTH attorney's times. (double your cost there!) And when you give her updated information, she only updates part, so it has to be fixed again. and again. Over 9 months and not 1 document has been filed. Out thousands of dollars already!! Ridiculous. Would NOT recommend her!
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02 Dec, 2015 by Kellie
Julie helped me with some legal issues. I was very impressed! She is caring and compassionate - yet very detailed, knowledgeable, and experienced. I could contact her by phone and she was prompt, courteous - very approachable and easy to talk with her about difficult situations. She handled all my paperwork quickly and efficiently. Anyone looking for a top notch family law attorney should contact Julie. She made a difficult situation bearable and I will always be grateful for her help.
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04 Sep, 2014 by Shantel
My mom makes an appointment to get a divorce. I told Julie my mom was keeping this a secret and if Julie needed to talk to my mom she could call me. By sure luck my dad called her later to set up an appointment for himself. Not only did Julie confirm my mom called her and my mom's intentions but then proceeded to cancel my mom's appointment. There has to be a law or code of ethic she broke. I'm going to call the attorney general's office. Julie made my mom's life even worse. My dad got in my mom's face confronting her about the desire of divorce, threatening her and rubbing in her face that her appointment is cancelled. Thanks Julie. This is NOT the end of this!
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21 Jun, 2013 by Renee
Julie was informative and quick to act in all matters of this divorce. Julie is extremely knowledgeable and competent at judging what is needed for a fair and successful outcome. I am very pleased at her attention to detail and quick response to any request. I especially liked the fact that she was available to answer questions and did not have a legal secretary run interference.
If you would like an attorney with an empathetic ear and is fierce about representing you, Julie is the one.
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14 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Stay away from Paul. The guy seems very nice but once you get to know him it's all a front. Always unprepared for hearings and always bending the truth to try an manipulate situations. Only in this profession for the money. Paul will try to convince you to do unnecessary things just to get paid for them. Save yourself time and money.
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27 Aug, 2019 by Anonymous
Extremely unresponsive, and would not follow through with requests unless constantly pestering. Failed to properly submit paperwork which cost a hearing.
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15 Jan, 2016 by Jeremy
I used a attorney in his office by the name of Jennifer. I had a very vile situation with my ex wife and the custody of my children. Jennifer did a amazing job getting everything done. She got me a protection order to boot due to my ex wife's lifestyle. I live in California so she had to take extra steps to get me the paperwork but she did. If i ever have a family matter again, i will definitely use again without hesitation! Thank you so much Jennifer for getting me full custody of my children. You literally saved my kids lives. Also she set me up on a convenient payment plan so we could get this done.
Thank you once again! You are wonderful!
Jeremy s.
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12 Jul, 2015 by Doug
Suzanne has represented me in several different cases. Each result has been in my favor. Her preparedness and knowledge were such that the other side had little or no chance at victory. She kept me "in the loop" each and every step of the way, telling me what to expect and reminding me to stay on track. She's ethical, and informed. She will tell you how it is and will also tell you when to settle your case so it does not drag on forever. She is tenacious and will not give up. Everyone knows horrible lawyers whose sole purpose seems to be billing hours. Suzanne Bartleson provides her clients with good value for her time, excellent knowledge of the law (in several different areas), and a strong work ethic. I have recommended her services to many people in the Spokane community who have used and relied on her law skills. I would give her 6 stars, but there are only 5.
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07 Oct, 2011 by Charles
i hired her based on the add in the yellow pages which indicates caring about children. i meet with her for free consultation and decided to hire her. at that time she indicated to me that i should seek 50% custody of our 6yr old son based on my work schedule which allows me availability to be a parent. one day after i hired her, my wife had her attorney file and serve a temporary dissolution. i was told that i needed to write a response to the dissolution to also be filed. i was not given any instruction to achieve this but was able to get the information from the internet. we emailed my response back and forth to edit it. i virtually wrote about 80- to 90% of the documents. at one point i questioned the condition of her edits and was told defensively that she had to spend 3 hours rewriting my documents because they were poor. i doubt that. when we meet with my wife and her attorney to file our legal seperation the next week, i asked ms. bartelson about the 50% custody and she told me that if either party is not in agreement that 50% custody would not occur. i told her that if she had told me that early on, i would not have requested it because i knew my wife would never allow it. this also caused my wife to get overly aggressive. at the time of our filing the legal seperation, i had agreed to move out of our home within 30 days. at the filing i was given documents to sign but was rushed and really not able to review them. the one that i should have reviewed was my child support schedule. the documents were filled out incorrectly and caused me to have to pay $200 more in child support each month. ms. Bartelson was aware of the correct figures but allowed the opposing attorney to use her schedule which was based on a copy of a worksheet that i had filled out incorrectly during our edit process.my wife retrieved the copy off my email account and provided it to her attorney. a big issue that i stated to ms. bartelson was that i needed to have access to the shop at our house for the winter to store things during the divorce process. once the legal seperation occured, my wife began a process of harrassment which i saw that i could not stay in our home for the 30 days i was given. i immediately moved out and my wife and her attorney began requesting that i vacate the shop also. ms. bartelson contacted me several times about this issue even after i stated to her that it was not possible and that it was the only agreement that i asked her to maintain. there were a few more motions filed by my wifes attorney which were resolved by agreement. i hired ms. bartelson in the beginning of oct and by mid dec. i reviewed my support schedule and realized that i was paying $200 more on my support than was needed. i called ms. bartelson to discuss my feelings about her short comings with my case but before i could list the multiple issues she cut me short and said she needed to remove herself from the case.at that time there was a motion in court to allow my wife to take our son on a winter vacation for three weeks. i was opposed to this because my time with him was reduced to 20% visitation and i wanted him to stay with me for the 3 weeks.she abandoned me at a critical point. in 2 1/2 months i spent $4,500 utilizing ms. bartelson and i spent $1000 in child support overage which i never recooperated. where divorce attorneys feel that they are due $200 - $250 per hour to provide poor service or to charge you for their time when you call to see why they are not working on your case. i spent an extra $2,800 on my next attorney which did absolutely no legal work but was to help file my finalized "mediated" dissolution. the $2800 was spent on me calling his legal aid from feb. to june to see why the divorce was not finalized. in the end, the majority of the dissolution documents that were signed and filed were from my original documents. my wifes attorney used my drafts. something is wrong with spokane's divorce attorneys.
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22 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
This lawyer was hired to represent me for post-secondary support. In spite of me being timely with my filing request, handing him all of the necessary documents, meeting with him and calling his office weekly to find out the status of my case, he was so incredibly tardy with the court filings that I got penalized by the justice system and didn't receive any post-secondary support. Bryan did NOT represent me. He was completely unprepared for court, would come running in at the last minute, and was not knowledgeable as to the specifics of my case. In spite of his lack of preparedness, he still received payments of nearly $10,000 in fees - while costing me $10,000 in lost support. I wish I would have fired him many months ago.
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15 Sep, 2016 by Jan
This is an incompetent, ineffective, greed filled attorney. When YOU need a strong, capable advocate, this guy is NOT at all "on your side", He is ONLY on his side. And the billable hours he submitted, 5 minutes billed for a 1 minute phone consult. I have the phone bill to prove it, but I was told that they "round up" for billing. I have been cheated and duped by this "human". We will see what happens when the WA State Attorney General finally investigates the numerous complaints on him.
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19 Mar, 2015 by Scotty
I hired Mr. Geissler about 20 years ago after hiring multiple unprincipled Spokane attorneys previously; in a four year nightmare, I lost every hearing to include the week long trial. Geissler is poor at developing overall strategy and writing compelling legal arguments even when the facts and the law are overwhelmingly in his client's favor. To be fair, Geissler is adequate tactically; however, without a guiding strategy the "little wins" are meaningless. Also to be fair, the court was highly prejudiced against me. There is no doubt that Geissler is primarily money driven, but I've never met an attorney that wasn't. I will also point out that no attorney is going to do what is right if it is going to adversely affect their future relationships with the judges that they have to work in front of everyday; their livelihood is more important than their character and integrity or your children.
Overall, I think that Geissler's ineffectiveness is because of his average intellectual prowess more than any other factor. I give him a poor rating because when you're kids are at stake there are no excuses.
p.s. don't think I am just speaking from bitterness because I was able to win custody of my children with some post-trial behind the scenes efforts of my own - I'm sure that Geissler chalked this up as a win for him, but it wasn't.
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12 Feb, 2022 by Olewhatsername
Priscilla A. Vaagen was the attorney for the other party in a child custody case. She ghosted my attorney every time we had issues. It was ordered through the court that any time I wanted a UA from my ex all I had to do was request it. Priscilla never made sure they were completed. She would not send the answers to my Motions causing me to get 6 continuances because she either did not show up for the hearings or she was not prepared. That cost me double money since I still had to pay for my attorney. Then she decided she no longer would represent my ex so we are on hold waiting for her to get another attorney. We have been in the court with this case for 18 months and it is still not resolved due to her incompetence. Run ... don't walk away from this attorney.
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04 Apr, 2014 by Anonymous
Priscilla did a great job on my divorce case. I never had an attorney prior to using her and she made me feel empowered to take my life back. I would recommend her to anyone who is looking for a understanding, tough, and smart attorney.
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30 Jun, 2013 by Larry
Never got any Copys of anything, Found out I was Divorced form a Friend who seen it in the Paper I sent an E-Mail to Priscilla two week After that then she sent me a E-mail Copy. We went into Meadition without My Xs Finacial Disclosure. Would not keep me up to date on any thing or do any thing to help me. Only what she had to do. My Fault I should have got a Good Lawyer Please Run from this one
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05 Dec, 2022 by Anonymous
He did get my divorce done but it cost a fortune and took forever. Plus his communication is obsolete. Can never get ahold of him.
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19 Oct, 2021 by Elle
He took my retainer and didn't do the work. It's been a year of ignored phone calls, Bar Association complaints and frustration. Use Jane Brown for your divorce (excellent) and Pete Svennugsen for your QDRO, even if it seems simple. He doesn't know what he's doing. The work he attempted to file was wrong.
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26 Apr, 2021 by Jeff
Brian K. Dykman is a nice man and a poor Lawyer. Do not expect return phone calls or emails. He will wait to the very last minute to do anything on your case. He will work the case to his expected conclusion not yours. On top of that he is a thief. Took $500.00 from me to finish my case and never did a thing. Never heard from him again.
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25 Feb, 2021 by Jennifer
I would recommend you go to someone else if you need a QUADRO. He charged me $1500, it took 5 months for him to get my Quadro to me, and then told me that he would charge me $400 an hour to actually file the QUADRO with the court-I had to do it myself!
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04 Jul, 2021 by Brad
Dalton was assigned to me by David Crouse, whose firm I had hired for my divorce. He came to the first hearing unprepared and expressed to me his embarrassment at his performance. He then quit the firm with my second hearing coming up. It was on a Wednesday and I called the firm daily to try and talk to him and was told he was simply not in each time I called, until the Monday before the hearing, when I was told he had quit and that David Crouse would be handling my hearing. David spent his time at the hearing rambling about his own career, demonstrating that Dalton failed to brief anyone at the firm on my case. David later told me that Dalton "was not cut out for family law." Maybe he is cut out for what he's doing now, but I would worry about him quitting without telling anyone.
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What a Family Law Lawyer Can Do for You
A family law lawyer provides legal services related to family relationships, including marriage, divorce, child custody, and adoption. Family lawyers help clients navigate emotionally charged legal issues, providing guidance and representation in disputes that affect spouses, children, and parents. Whether you're going through a divorce, seeking custody of your children, or drafting a prenuptial agreement, a family law lawyer ensures your rights are protected and your interests are represented.
Family law attorneys often handle sensitive matters and offer objective legal advice, helping clients reach fair outcomes either through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.
When Should I Hire a Family Law Lawyer?
Hiring a family law lawyer is beneficial in several situations, especially when legal matters involve close personal relationships. Common reasons to hire a family law lawyer include:
- Divorce or separation: When ending a marriage, a lawyer can help you navigate issues such as division of assets, spousal support, and child custody arrangements.
- Child custody and visitation disputes: If you and your co-parent can't agree on custody or visitation, a lawyer can represent your interests and work toward a solution that benefits your children.
- Child support: Whether you’re seeking child support or defending against a claim, a lawyer can help ensure the appropriate amount is calculated and enforced.
- Prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: A lawyer can help draft or review agreements that protect your assets in case of divorce.
- Adoption: Family law lawyers guide you through the legal process of adoption, ensuring that all requirements are met.
- Domestic violence or restraining orders: If you're a victim of domestic violence or being falsely accused, a lawyer can help you obtain or challenge protective orders.
- Paternity cases: If there are questions about the paternity of a child, a lawyer can help establish or dispute legal fatherhood.
Hiring a lawyer early can prevent issues from escalating, and they can offer you the best chance of achieving a favorable outcome in emotionally charged situations.
What Does a Family Law Lawyer Do?
A family law lawyer provides a wide range of services depending on your specific legal needs. Their responsibilities may include:
- Advising on legal rights and options: Helping you understand your legal rights regarding divorce, child custody, support, and other family law issues.
- Filing legal documents: Drafting and filing petitions, motions, and agreements with the court, such as divorce papers, custody agreements, or support orders.
- Representing clients in court: Arguing your case in front of a judge if a settlement can’t be reached through negotiation or mediation.
- Mediation and negotiation: Assisting with alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, to reach agreements on issues like custody, property division, and support without going to trial.
- Enforcing court orders: Helping you enforce court orders related to child support, alimony, or custody if the other party fails to comply.
- Drafting prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: Creating agreements that protect your assets in the event of a divorce.
- Handling adoption proceedings: Ensuring that the legal process of adoption is followed, from filing paperwork to finalizing the adoption in court.
How Are Family Law Lawyers Paid?
Family law lawyers typically charge clients in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Common payment arrangements include:
- Hourly rates: Most family lawyers charge by the hour, with rates varying based on experience and location. Clients are billed for the time spent working on their case, including consultations, court appearances, and document preparation.
- Flat fees: For more straightforward legal services, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, some lawyers offer flat-fee arrangements.
- Retainer fees: In cases that are expected to require significant time and attention, such as contentious custody battles, a lawyer may charge a retainer, which is an upfront payment that covers the initial costs of legal services. The lawyer then bills against the retainer as they work on your case.
The exact cost will depend on the complexity of your case and the lawyer’s fee structure, which should be discussed upfront.
How Much Does a Family Law Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a family law lawyer varies based on factors such as the lawyer's experience, the location, and the complexity of your case. Here are some general cost guidelines:
- Hourly rates: Family law lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour, depending on their experience and the complexity of the case.
- Flat fees: For simpler cases, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, fees may range from $1,000 to $5,000.
- Retainers: For more complex matters, such as contested divorces or custody battles, lawyers may charge a retainer ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 or more. The lawyer will bill against the retainer for the work they do on your case.
- Additional costs: You may also be responsible for additional costs, such as filing fees, mediation fees, or expert witness fees.
Always ask for a clear breakdown of the lawyer’s fees and any additional expenses during your consultation.
Top Questions to Ask a Family Law Lawyer
Before hiring a family law lawyer, it's important to ask questions to ensure they're the right fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:
-
What experience do you have with family law cases like mine?
Make sure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it's a contested divorce, child custody dispute, or adoption. -
How will you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, a flat fee, or requires a retainer. Ask for an estimate of the total costs involved. -
What are the possible outcomes of my case?
An experienced lawyer should be able to give you a general idea of what to expect based on the facts of your case. -
What is your approach to resolving disputes?
Ask whether the lawyer tends to favor negotiation and mediation or whether they prefer to take cases to court. This can help you determine if their style matches your goals. -
How long do you expect my case to take?
While it’s difficult to predict, the lawyer should give you an estimate based on similar cases. -
Who will be handling my case?
In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may do much of the work, so make sure you understand who will be your main point of contact.
How to Check the Credibility of a Family Law Lawyer
To ensure you're hiring a reputable family law lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and reputation:
- Check state bar association records: Verify that the lawyer is licensed to practice in your state and is in good standing with no disciplinary actions.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on websites like Avvo, Google, or Martindale-Hubbell. Previous clients can give you insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and success in family law cases.
- Request references: Ask the lawyer for references from past clients who can speak to their experience with the lawyer.
- Review their website or professional profile: Look at the lawyer’s background, case history, and areas of focus to ensure they have substantial experience in family law.
- Look for professional memberships: Membership in reputable organizations, such as the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), can indicate a lawyer's expertise and dedication to family law.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a family law lawyer, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what you should bring:
- Relevant documents: Bring any documents related to your case, such as marriage certificates, prenuptial agreements, financial records, custody agreements, or court orders.
- List of assets and debts: For divorce cases, prepare a detailed list of all assets (e.g., homes, bank accounts, retirement funds) and debts (e.g., mortgages, loans, credit card balances).
- Details of the family issue: Provide a written summary of the situation, including key dates and facts related to your divorce, custody dispute, or support issue.
- Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions you have about the legal process, costs, and potential outcomes.
- Your goals: Be prepared to discuss your objectives, such as custody arrangements, property division, or spousal support, so the lawyer understands your priorities.
Being organized and clear about your situation will help the lawyer evaluate your case more effectively and offer the best advice for moving forward.
