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16 Sep, 2024 by Buddy wilson
5 years ago, I was in a rough spot personally and financially. Somehow I ended up finding Joe Pioletti to guide me through my situation. Joe and his team got me through everything in a professional manner and were unflappable at every turn. They are always available to help and never make you feel like burden. Highly recommended if you need a lawyer.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Almina rosalem
04 Sep, 2024 by Sarah lindroth
Irubiel Ferrer and his staff made the process go smoothly, and they were available to answer all of my questions, taking the stress out of filing from beginning to end
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10 Jan, 2023 by Jim
Mr. Simhauser has helped my wife and me on two different matters where we have hired him for his legal services. One was a traffic case that escalated into something more because of some missed court dates. The other was an estate. In both instances, he knew just how to handle things, to get a good result while minimizing our trouble and expense, and was calm and reassuring. We recommend him highly.
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02 Dec, 2016 by Lynda
Mr. Simhauser is a very nice and knowledgeable attorney and makes you very comfortable. I highly recommend him.
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30 Jan, 2019 by Melissa
Josh handled my divorce last year, and I couldn't have been in better hands. I ended up with a great settlement! I appreciate that he advised me on ways to save money with his fees -- limiting contact to only what was necessary, making copies & organizing discovery myself, etc. While I hope I don't ever need a divorce attorney again, I would recommend him to anyone.
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23 Jul, 2024 by Gloria savage
09 May, 2024 by Susan anderson
Excellent law firm. The very best at estate planning.
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19 Dec, 2023 by Iceman fpv
12 Sep, 2024 by Jon king
Very professional and helpful.. going above and beyond what I expected!
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21 Jun, 2024 by Sharon eaton
Jordan was awesome to work with. Very knowledgeable and helpful. I highly recommend this firm.
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12 Apr, 2024 by Jim hecht
Jordan was more than accommodating with the information I needed. I felt comfortable working with him.
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20 Sep, 2024 by Julie hart
We highly recommend Dan for your adoption needs. He was experienced, efficient, and true to his word. At this stage you have certainly been through enough. You can place your trust in Dan.
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20 Sep, 2024 by Toni bitschenauer
Dan was very sufficient in helping me adopt my xhusbands nephew, very polite, very to the point, and on top of everything..appreciate him so much. Thank You Dan
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24 Aug, 2024 by Tammy england-chism
Choosing Dan Way as our adoption attorney was the best decision we could had made. He's very knowledgeable and takes pride in what he does. We can't thank him enough for everything he's done to help us get our forever family!
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20 Sep, 2024 by Julie hart
We highly recommend Dan for your adoption needs. He was experienced, efficient, and true to his word. At this stage you have certainly been through enough. You can place your trust in Dan.
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20 Sep, 2024 by Toni bitschenauer
Dan was very sufficient in helping me adopt my xhusbands nephew, very polite, very to the point, and on top of everything..appreciate him so much. Thank You Dan
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24 Aug, 2024 by Tammy england-chism
Choosing Dan Way as our adoption attorney was the best decision we could had made. He's very knowledgeable and takes pride in what he does. We can't thank him enough for everything he's done to help us get our forever family!
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15 May, 2021 by Sarah
Chris made my custody hearings more bearable. I'm very thankful I had a knowledgable professional guiding me through a stressful time. His representation and advice lead to a good outcome for me and my son. I appreciated his assistant Leigh's work on my case, too. They both respond quickly and answered all of my questions.
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22 Jan, 2021 by Anthony
If i could give him 10 stars i would. I have never had an experience with a lawyer before so this whole process i was going through was a bit stressful. However, after my initial meeting with Chris i felt much better about everything. Chris does a fantastic job at walking through the process as a whole and breaking down pieces that might be confusing to help better understand what's going on. I obviously had a lot of questions about the divorce process and Chris did a great job at suggesting but not pushing ideas, he would say "this is what i have seen work in the past but at the end of the day you need to do what you feel comfortable with". I really appreciated that as i have heard some horror stories from friends about their experiences with lawyers.
Another nice thing about Chris was that it wasn't always work talk with him, he took a genuine interest in my life outside of the case which again I'm not sure a lot of other lawyers would do. From start to finish, not once did I have a negative experience both Chris and his assistant Leigh were both always available for questions and if they weren't sure they would always get back to me in a timely manner.
If you are looking for a lawyer would highly recommend Chris Sherer
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07 Feb, 2017 by Zach
I've had the pleasure of having Chris on my side a couple of times. First, Chris helped to make sure I was fairly compensated after an accident. Second, Chris helped to get my name cleared in a lawsuit. Not only did he fight to get the case dismissed, he made sure it ended quickly and with prejudice. One thing is very clear after working with Chris - he knows the law and he knows it very well. Not only that, he makes sure your're very informed throughout the whole process. He's there to answer any questions and to explain everything in a way that you clearly understand. He is also very personable and having a good personality helps take some of the stress away from the world of legalities. You can tell that he enjoys what he does and that he truly cares. All of these traits make for one heck of a great attorney and I would recommend him to anyone!
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01 Aug, 2024 by T b
Will not return calls or inquiries.
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14 Mar, 2024 by Juan acosta
09 Jan, 2024 by Nicole lanter
When I was in the beginning stages of my divorce, I thought we could be cordial and do it without attorneys. I was very wrong. I ended up in a scary situation where I needed to hire an attorney asap, as in that day! I called so many. No one could meet with me for at least a week or 2. Kim met me within a few hours. She understood the seriousness of the situation and immediately met with me and took action. My divorce was hard on me, but any time I ever needed anything she was always available to help. Fast forward a year after my divorce was finalized. I found that there were serious and unsafe issues with visitation. Kim took action again! She has advocated for both me and my child and has been absolutely amazing. She fights for what is right and she is compassionate and understanding about your situation. She’s not just after money, she genuinely cares about making sure that your family gets what they deserve and that everyone is safe. I also cannot say enough about her paralegal, Kathy. I’ve spoken to her so much throughout this I feel like she personally knows me lol. She has talked me through so many situations and quite frankly calmed me when I was scared or upset. She’s great and is also genuine and cares about your situation. These two ladies make a great team. If you want an attorney who will fight for you and do what is right for you and your family, look no further. Hire Kim.
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19 Feb, 2019 by Eric delvo
Had a great experience with Rick and Shaela
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05 Jun, 2018 by Dan richards
Great Criminal Lawyers
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11 Dec, 2016 by Neil nielsen
Diana cherry is a great lawyer
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23 Apr, 2024 by Todd malensky
20 Apr, 2024 by Paul neighbors
02 Apr, 2024 by Dheeraj poppoppu
According to my previous experience, Greg is one of the top-notch attorneys. I would highly recommend it for any legal issues in the future.
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19 Feb, 2019 by Eric delvo
Had a great experience with Rick and Shaela
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05 Jun, 2018 by Dan richards
Great Criminal Lawyers
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11 Dec, 2016 by Neil nielsen
Diana cherry is a great lawyer
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14 Mar, 2024 by Rich dowell
17 Feb, 2024 by Ann vogel
Refused to help me because I consulted with them without testifying, on one case. I am an abused woman. I habe known these two men for almost 30 and 20 years respectivly.
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06 Sep, 2023 by Darlene sagle
14 Mar, 2024 by Rich dowell
17 Feb, 2024 by Ann vogel
Refused to help me because I consulted with them without testifying, on one case. I am an abused woman. I habe known these two men for almost 30 and 20 years respectivly.
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06 Sep, 2023 by Darlene sagle
14 Mar, 2024 by Rich dowell
17 Feb, 2024 by Ann vogel
Refused to help me because I consulted with them without testifying, on one case. I am an abused woman. I habe known these two men for almost 30 and 20 years respectivly.
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06 Sep, 2023 by Darlene sagle
10 Sep, 2024 by Matthieu fortin
Michelle is extremely knowledgeable in family law. We did have a falling out over some mistakes that were completely my fault but I really appreciated the guidance and help up to this point. She is really good, make sure to follow her recommendations. Her team is equally amazing and it was a really great experience working with both. I would recommend Michelle for any family law needs.
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29 Dec, 2023 by Angela bobzin
24 Dec, 2023 by Scott pruitt
Laken Smaha was in my family case. She approached and harassed a witness with other party at sangamon County parking lot and a police report was filed. Family law firms are only as good as their attorneys.
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28 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
I read the other review and nothing could be further from the truth about Mr. Moran. I had cancer, PTSD and he was great. Likely the most patient attorney I’ve had. Knowledgeable and fair. No offense but the ARDC is not exactly a fair organization - and I’m not talking about doing their job - I’m talking about everything else. Next, it is his job to get along with the ARDC attorneys - that helps his client. One would think a lawyer would understand that because they have actually engaged in the practice of law. And if you are looped up on drugs, you should not be practicing law. Perhaps Mr. Moran was keeping you from being charged further? Again, theses cases are difficult - but I found Bill to be an honest, ethical, kind and competent attorney who will advocate for you.
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15 Sep, 2014 by Kerry
Bill Moran represented me at the ARDC. He was extremely knowledgeable about the law and the process. He provided invaluable and sound advice during a really terrible time. I cannot say enough good things about him.!
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16 Aug, 2014 by Anonymous
There is absolutely no attorney worse than Bill Moran. He is condescending, arrogant and will absolutely throw a client under the proverbial bus. After having several unnecessary and painful orthopedic surgeries, I experienced a lot of difficulty practicing law. Moran refused to allow me to bring up my surgeries as a reason (not an excuse) why I was over-medicated on pain killers and anxiety drugs. Moran erroneously told me that my legal accomplishments prior to the surgeries were irrelevant. Moran allowed a paranoid schizophrenic to testify against me without arguing that the witnesses perception of reality were flawed and not reliable. Moran conceded that a mental health diagnosis could be made by attorneys (as opposed to doctors). Moran told me that my mental health records should be allowed on the Internet indefinitely because the public needed to be protected against me. When I was diagnosed with cancer, doctors found those mental health records to refuse care to me. I suffered only from depression. Moran seemed to be prejudiced against people with depression. When I was in Chicago for a review hearing, he ignored me and my questions and opted instead to have lunch with his friends at the ARDC. Please. Find another attorney if you have attorney disciplinary problems. This man is ill equipped or motivated to help you.
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09 Oct, 2017 by Kelly
Within the limits of what can be stated.
I hired Mike, as an unmarried father, with almost no rights under Illinois law.
Mike seemed to be doing a good job but he didn't show up at court dates, and the case was defaulted and my ex got it transferred from Morgan County to Cook County. There were emergency petitions for my sons protection that as a result were never acted upon.
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31 Aug, 2014 by Isabella
Focused, intense, efficient: a perfect advocate for someone in real trouble: especially when they are able to look this man in the eye and honestly say that they are innocent. Mike Costello defended me, and won, and I felt safe and protected. He seemed abrasive, but really he is just doing his job with a minimum of effort, since his workload is enormous. His assistant "Donna" is enormously helpful, and her advice is to be taken seriously: she knows what she is talking about, and anyone in trouble would do well to listen to her, carefully. If you truly deserve a great defense, this is the right attorney for anyone who is not afraid to go to trial. Michael Costello is the best trial attorney I have ever seen. His legal advice is always correct. Obey him. Obey Donna. Do not argue. Pay your bills, and you will see a fair result (assuming that you are telling the team the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth). I was faced with an unfairly given Order of Protection and, later, faced trouble with a bank president. Both times, Costello's skilled negotiation (coupled with some harsh advice that I took despite not wanting to) got me a solution that I could happily live with, at a price that was well worth paying. I am enormously grateful. I have considerable experience with law, so I can say with assurance: most lawyers are afraid to go to trial. Most settle too soon. Michael is never (visibly) afraid of anything. When he goes to trial, he will defend you to the best of his considerable ability. And whatever result you get will be the best possible result under the particular circumstances. I now keep him on retainer.
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18 Sep, 2024 by Shaun bright
Drew did a phenomenal job with my case and achieved the best possible outcome, which I know wouldn't have been possible had I not been represented. Drew was very communicative throughout the process and provided extremely detailed notes in every invoice, so I was well aware of how my case was proceeding. The rates were fair and reasonable; I received service above and beyond what I expected.
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10 Sep, 2024 by Jill lionberger
Please listen and do not use this firm. They will rack up large bills without any quality work to support their charges and fees. In a matter of a few months I owed them close to $45,000 and had nothing to show for it. When I asked for consultation with other attorneys or advice my pleas were not followed through with. I ended up settling my own case and my ex-husband took me back to court within a few months. The entire case was a waste and very hard lesson to learn. I was completely taken advantage of.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Nicholas larue
I have had a wonderful experience working with Emma Curtis at Stange law firm. She is the best!
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18 Sep, 2024 by Shaun bright
Drew did a phenomenal job with my case and achieved the best possible outcome, which I know wouldn't have been possible had I not been represented. Drew was very communicative throughout the process and provided extremely detailed notes in every invoice, so I was well aware of how my case was proceeding. The rates were fair and reasonable; I received service above and beyond what I expected.
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10 Sep, 2024 by Jill lionberger
Please listen and do not use this firm. They will rack up large bills without any quality work to support their charges and fees. In a matter of a few months I owed them close to $45,000 and had nothing to show for it. When I asked for consultation with other attorneys or advice my pleas were not followed through with. I ended up settling my own case and my ex-husband took me back to court within a few months. The entire case was a waste and very hard lesson to learn. I was completely taken advantage of.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Nicholas larue
I have had a wonderful experience working with Emma Curtis at Stange law firm. She is the best!
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18 Sep, 2024 by Shaun bright
Drew did a phenomenal job with my case and achieved the best possible outcome, which I know wouldn't have been possible had I not been represented. Drew was very communicative throughout the process and provided extremely detailed notes in every invoice, so I was well aware of how my case was proceeding. The rates were fair and reasonable; I received service above and beyond what I expected.
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10 Sep, 2024 by Jill lionberger
Please listen and do not use this firm. They will rack up large bills without any quality work to support their charges and fees. In a matter of a few months I owed them close to $45,000 and had nothing to show for it. When I asked for consultation with other attorneys or advice my pleas were not followed through with. I ended up settling my own case and my ex-husband took me back to court within a few months. The entire case was a waste and very hard lesson to learn. I was completely taken advantage of.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Nicholas larue
I have had a wonderful experience working with Emma Curtis at Stange law firm. She is the best!
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03 Jan, 2022 by Norman lewis
Represent yourself & save thousands of $$$$'s. Absolutely worst attorney I've ever used.
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16 Jul, 2020 by Barbara kilhoffer
John helped my husband and I remarkedly when we needed advice and a great attorney. He is one of the BEST in Springfield area and this pathetic state.
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06 Jan, 2020 by Samantha haggerty
19 Apr, 2024 by Neil nielsen
Ashley Davis appointed as guardian ad litem. Ashley unethically ran up billable hours. Illinois,
Is one of several states that does not have a cap on guardian ad litem fees. That needs to be fixed. She inserted herself into everything in the case, including after her recommendation. Her recommendation wasn't needed. Ashley's further involvement only ran up billable hours, with no other purpose applied. Overwhelming evidence along with child testimonials forced Ashley to make a decision of sticking with the status quo. Her decision was welcomed yet surprising due to her coercion of the children during their interview. Ashley actually went on defense for the other parent. Other parent was neglectful and abusive and has since abandoned the children. It is a known rule from the Illinois state bench, not to put the primary care giver under duress. Ashley does not follow this rule. Putting the primary care giver under duress, harms the children. Ashley cares about her pocket book and not the children.
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07 Mar, 2024 by James
Called & asked for help on a family law case.
I have sufficient retainer to go forward.
Unfortunately they said No!
No explanation, No referral,
Very Unprofessional..
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23 Jan, 2024 by Nunya biznus
Unethical, unprofessional, a piece of @!it, That is Ashley Davis. Also she does not disclose her relationship to Brown, Hay, and Stevens law firm. Instead she participates in ex parte communication and then lies when called out.
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19 Apr, 2024 by Neil nielsen
Ashley Davis appointed as guardian ad litem. Ashley unethically ran up billable hours. Illinois,
Is one of several states that does not have a cap on guardian ad litem fees. That needs to be fixed. She inserted herself into everything in the case, including after her recommendation. Her recommendation wasn't needed. Ashley's further involvement only ran up billable hours, with no other purpose applied. Overwhelming evidence along with child testimonials forced Ashley to make a decision of sticking with the status quo. Her decision was welcomed yet surprising due to her coercion of the children during their interview. Ashley actually went on defense for the other parent. Other parent was neglectful and abusive and has since abandoned the children. It is a known rule from the Illinois state bench, not to put the primary care giver under duress. Ashley does not follow this rule. Putting the primary care giver under duress, harms the children. Ashley cares about her pocket book and not the children.
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07 Mar, 2024 by James
Called & asked for help on a family law case.
I have sufficient retainer to go forward.
Unfortunately they said No!
No explanation, No referral,
Very Unprofessional..
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23 Jan, 2024 by Nunya biznus
Unethical, unprofessional, a piece of @!it, That is Ashley Davis. Also she does not disclose her relationship to Brown, Hay, and Stevens law firm. Instead she participates in ex parte communication and then lies when called out.
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22 Jun, 2023 by Cole bishop
Expensive but good
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04 Jan, 2023 by Joe r
Paid a significant amount of money for these people to help me though a divorce a few years ago. Now my ex is not complying with court orders and they want a retainer fee to send a letter. Ill hire someone else. Buyer beware.
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21 Dec, 2022 by Piranha dickens
The absolute worst. I'm still being charged 2 months after my case closed. Like everyone else is saying just stay clear of these leaches they're not worth the money, get a real lawyer if you need one. All they do is charge your cards, change your lawyer any time they like, terrible communication. I wish I could sue them cause they're going to make me bankrupt just cause they want to I guess.
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09 Jan, 2023 by Bryan weckmann
Incredibly knowledgeable, helpful, and easy to work with.
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17 Sep, 2022 by Brittany cantrall
04 May, 2022 by Cherokeeangell24
I asked for a half hour phone appointment for 12pm the next and got an email confirming that pending approval from the attorney the appointment was set. I did not receive anything after that. No email stating that he couldn’t accept the meeting and he didn’t call at 12pm. If the attorney could not do the appointment at least let the person know. I was not impressed by this law firm at all.
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12 Jul, 2024 by Randall reside
This firm only cares about money. After taking mine they dropped me over a chance to represent a bank.
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29 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
What a joke of a attorney. His dad must've hated him. He lies under oath, draws everything out. Money hungry without a spec of empathy. This guy should have his license ripped from him. Go to Google and read reviews.
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20 Aug, 2023 by Camellia staab
12 Jul, 2024 by Randall reside
This firm only cares about money. After taking mine they dropped me over a chance to represent a bank.
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20 Aug, 2023 by Camellia staab
22 Jun, 2023 by Aaron edwards
Terribly misrepresented.
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12 Jul, 2024 by Randall reside
This firm only cares about money. After taking mine they dropped me over a chance to represent a bank.
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20 Aug, 2023 by Camellia staab
22 Jun, 2023 by Aaron edwards
Terribly misrepresented.
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30 Nov, 2020 by Megan
I turned to Jackson because he was the most inexpensive lawyer. I should’ve done my research. Basically you get what you pay for. I’m sure some of you have really good experiences with this man, but I did not. He is not professional, he doesn’t listen, and he doesn’t know how to communicate. I also informed him my SSN was stolen for employment purposes. He told me it shouldn’t be a problem. I asked him if he was sure because it’s showing a lot more money that I’m making then I’m not. I’m not a bankruptcy lawyer but I’m pretty sure that this is a very important situation. Finally after so many miscommunications he tells me he can’t handle my case. Surprise surprise. When he told me he can’t have me as a client anymore, I was short with him, but I had very good reasons. He called me back to yell at me. Who does that? I can’t wait to see what he’s going to post after this review.Oh and I don’t wanna hear about your wife’s heart attack. I’m sorry that happened to you but I also fractured my fibula. I’m not here to compare tragedies or listen to excuses.
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19 Mar, 2019 by Debi
Had an initial visit with him, was given paperwork told to come back when all the money was together. Called on a Thursday, heard nothing. Arrived on a Monday for the office hours of 10 to 4, no one at the office. Called left a message when would they be in. I believe I called three times between the hours of 10:30 and 1:30. Wanted to get our filing started. Called back to see if anyone would be in the office the following day because I wasn’t going to make another trip out to that side of town. Was informed that he did not want to take our case. Has no interest in representation other than to take your money, seems like a low life.
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25 Nov, 2014 by Angela
Jack Donley is a great attorney. He kept me informed and always returned my calls or emails in a timely manner. Great sense of humor also!
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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.
