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16 May, 2024 by Beverly
I hired Doug to help me with a rather sticky property transaction. I could have not asked for better representation! Even though he was doing his reserve time, he called me on his free time to get the case going. He has a wonderful paralegal "Lena" who also was very helpful and kind. No matter how many questions I had, she always was patient and nice. The two work very well together and in a timely matter. I was very very satisfied!
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30 Nov, 2023 by Ben
Very happy with Mr. Fredrick’s representation of us in a property line dispute case. Responded to phone calls in a timely manner, didn’t rush through in-person meetings and made sure to answer all our questions. Negotiated a good deal for us quickly and in a cost-effective way leaving a good portion of our retainer unused. Highly recommend him!
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15 Aug, 2022 by Shannon
Called and he was on Vacation but called me back asap. I look forward to using him as my lawyer.
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08 Feb, 2024 by Courtney
Austin was beyond amazing during the arduous process of custody modification. Austin was always very quick to respond and answer the million questions I had through each step. I am thankful for Austin and his team's work! I got the best result I could have gotten, and modifications are not an easy task.
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28 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
Austin was fantastic in our custody case. He truly cares for his clients and is very focused on doing the best thing for the children involved. I appreciated that he was realistic in the goals we set for our case. He was also able to point us in the right direction for a counselor for our daughter and a Guardian ad Litem. Because of him, we had a dream team of professionals all working toward the goal of keeping our kiddo safe, supported, and providing the best future possible.
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26 May, 2023 by Anonymous
Austin is the best family law practitioner in town imho. The staff at the office are lovely: very professional, friendly and responsive. Austin is very knowledgeable about his area of practice, takes the time to ensure that clients understand their options, and really goes to bat for them. Billing is very clear and uncomplicated. I felt very supported throughout my court case(s) and would ask him to be my lawyer again in a heartbeat if I ever found myself in a legal situation again. Would give him 10 stars if I could!
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24 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
Great staff! They have been extremely detailed, courteous, professional with each interaction.
Never had legal assistance that was this smooth and comfortable.
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06 Feb, 2024 by Jeff
Great communication, Friendly, Attentive and Kind. All around great experience.
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06 Feb, 2024 by Nelson
Great communication when given advice regarding my situation. I would definitely recommend.
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16 Apr, 2020 by Jamie
She helped to navigate a difficult situation for my family and she made us feel confident. She laid out a plan for us to reach out to people and groups that could help us also.
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02 Jan, 2015 by Krissy
Going through my divorce has been heart shredding Marsha is the lawyer n women that will stand for u when u are weak and gives u strength when u need it. I am Very blessed to have Marsha stiles in my life and as well as my lawyer. My children n I are indebted to her. :-)
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28 Apr, 2014 by Carol
MARSHA HAS BEEN VERY HELPFUL AND WILL ANSWER ANY QUESTIONS I ASK. SHE HELPED ME
THROUGH PAPERWORK WHEN MY HUSBAND DIED AND PUT MY ASSETS IN A TRUST. I FEEL SECURE
AND KNOW IF THERE EVER IS A PROBLEM, SHE CAN GIVE THE INPUT I NEED TO ADDRESS WHATEVER I NEEDS TO BE DONE. THANK YOU VERY MUCH, MARSHA, FROM A SATISFIED CUSTOMER.
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14 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
She helped me through a tough divorce. She kept me informed and did not mince words along the way. She let me know what to expect along the way was always right on. Even when I wanted things to go another way, she was thoughtful and kept my expectations in check. I appreciated her methods and her results.
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15 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous
Excellent Attorney, very professional demeanor . I was very impressed by her ability to verbalize her case with direct and true to the point and meaning. Her personal persona and body movement was of a way of an angel moving in my presence with high intelligence. I would highly recommend this attorney with a more than 5 star rating .
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02 Jul, 2015 by Mike
I would like to let everyone know how much I appreciate Robert's outstanding service. I have referred several clients to him and they all tell me he does an outstanding job and is a true professional.
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01 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
We have dealt with many attorneys over the years, but none have ever come close to the excellence of Bob Grosser. He is well versed in the law, and made us always feel as we were in the best hands, as we were. In so many legal situations, clients can feel overwhelmed and concerned. That was never the case with Bob. He always made us feel as if we were his only clients, and was never in a rush to answer all of our questions. He made a difficult situation comfortable, and we always felt at ease with Bob handling our legal needs. We will never consider another attorney for our legal needs, and would give him the highest recommendation possible.
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16 May, 2018 by Anonymous
Very professional. Hired her and she handled my case thoroughly. I felt informed on all possible outcomes, no false promises and I was prepared for Court. Her advice is spot on (follow it!) and she truly protected the best interest of my child. I would recommend her to everyone that has a family law issue.
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21 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
Mr. Pratt is a great lawyer. He helped me get exactly what I wanted. I'm very happy with the services I got from him. He was always at court when he needed to be. He always helped me with any questions I had. He always kept me updated on everything. He was good at communicating.
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08 Sep, 2022 by Angie rieschel
Susanna is an amazing attorney in every respect. She's reasonable in her fees and very attentive to her clients. She's a very caring Guardian ad Litem and one of the best attorneys around.
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07 Sep, 2024 by Melissa port
I love Brett and his team! They have worked on my behalf for years. I would (and do) recommend him to everyone that says they are looking to hire an attorney. You wont regret it if you give him a call.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Ashley ordner
I had no idea where to start. Landed at Brett’s office and couldn’t have picked better Representation. He is fair and will get you what you want, plus more. Actually listens to his clients. That’s the lawyer you want on your side.
Ketchen, Brett’s paralegal, will also goes above and beyond for you. She makes sure all loose ends are tied. And keep you laughing throughout the process.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Raquel lambo
Brett was very kind and understanding about my case. He listened to me very attentively and was able to reciprocate to the courts what was going on. Throughout the whole time I had Brett as my attorney he was able to keep me positive and even when it was tough he always had a way with getting me to calm down and then ended with laughter knowing the circumstances. I would recommend Brett to anyone because he cares and knows how to take care of business.
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11 Aug, 2024 by William nester
I live outside the state of Missouri and they made the process very easy. Very happy with the service provided to help me with this issue. Thanks!
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09 Aug, 2024 by Nilanjan dasgupta
Awesome service. My incident was changed to a non moving violation and it was not reported anywhere. Thanks a lot team.
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08 Aug, 2024 by Travis gentry
Dan and his team are amazing! He got my moving violation (speeding over 25) reduced to a non moving ,defective equipment violation. That’s incredible. FYI everyone’s results will vary. I hadn’t had a speeding ticket in 25 years. Great work Dan & team!
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21 Aug, 2024 by Elizabeth cooksey
I cannot say enough good things about Dylan, Kristen and this firm. The way they handled my case was like a burden being lifted off of my shoulders. They are very knowledgeable and professional while also being very kind and personable. I highly recommend them for any of your legal needs.
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21 Aug, 2024 by Elizabeth
cannot say enough good things about Dylan, Kristen and this firm. The way they handled my case was like a burden being lifted off of my shoulders. They are very knowledgeable and professional while also being very kind and personable. I highly recommend them for any of your legal needs.
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28 Jul, 2024 by Mary phelps
11 Oct, 2024 by Kathy iman
Dakota Paris provided us with excellent guidance. His compassion, integrity and knowledge provide great assurance that we are in good hands. Thank you Dakota!! You are appreciated more than can be expressed in words.
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04 Oct, 2024 by Kirk mullen
Jon is an energetic and confident lawyer. He was successful in not only resolving collection but also awarding reasonable compensation for a work related injury usually denied by employers. Thank you to all staff as well
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03 Oct, 2024 by Nick preston
Brittnee Hill was excellent from the first minute we were in contact. She did a great job of explaining my options and creating a plan with me. Then she did exactly what she said she was going to promptly. If I ever need an attorney in the future, Brittnee will be my first call.
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04 Oct, 2024 by Kirk mullen
Jon is an energetic and confident lawyer. He was successful in not only resolving collection but also awarding reasonable compensation for a work related injury usually denied by employers. Thank you to all staff as well
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06 Sep, 2024 by James baker
28 Aug, 2024 by Chris freeman
04 Oct, 2024 by Kirk mullen
Jon is an energetic and confident lawyer. He was successful in not only resolving collection but also awarding reasonable compensation for a work related injury usually denied by employers. Thank you to all staff as well
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06 Sep, 2024 by James baker
28 Aug, 2024 by Chris freeman
15 May, 2024 by Samantha murdaugh
30 Apr, 2024 by Vivian gray
I am so glad I chose the Licata Law Firm. From the minute I walked in the office I was treated with the utmost dignity and respect. Jordyn Hill and his team kept me informed and fully prepared in every aspect. Bankruptcy is a stressful and emotional decision but when you are represented by Licata you are making the absolute best choice for your future.
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03 Apr, 2024 by Tiburon tinajero
12 Sep, 2024 by Larry f
Smart attorney
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12 Aug, 2024 by Debbie sullivan
Anthony is a great attorney. He works hard on his cases
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24 Jul, 2024 by Matt s
Mr Phillips and Mr Stephenson were amazing! They kept me in the loop 100% and helped explain things to me in normal people terms haha!
We got a win on both cases and they delivered great legal services.
Great group of people and wouldn’t hesitate to refer them to anyone I know in need.
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20 Mar, 2023 by Shana porter
Horrible experience. Called trying to find an attorney. Tried to explain to Millington what was going on. He kept cutting me off and jumping to conclusions I asked him politely to please allow me to explain so that he has the correct details and he began yelling at me at the top of his lungs and then screams " forget it" and hung up. The total phone call was about 5 mins. HORRIBLE HORRIBLE EXPERIENCE. DIDNT NEED AN ANGRY MAN YELLING AT ME WHEN I WAS TRYING TO HIRE AN ATTORNEY!!!! Unprofessional and abusive. Couldn't even get through a 5 min conversation without him blowing up at a potential client. I've never experienced anything like it.
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05 Feb, 2023 by Tina rochin
Pleasant, positive experience assisting this reputable firm for the past several weeks. Answered calls and performed clerical tasks. From my front-row seat, I can attest to the professionalism that goes on behind the scenes.
The eldest partner, Topper, works diligently and tirelessly, spending considerable time with each client, handling each case conscientiously and compassionately. He treats everyone from the commissioner to the commoner with deep respect. He completely changed my outlook on aging in the workplace. Topper tops 'em all!
In actuality, I'm impressed with the entire practice, the legal skill and kindness of everyone on board. Millington & Glass has rejuvenated my faith in the legal profession.
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10 Feb, 2020 by Mc mikey
28 Jul, 2019 by Brittney farrier
Very nice people, lovely place. Tells you what you need to know instead of rambling on and making it hard to take it all in.
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16 May, 2019 by Vince hamilton
These are the best lawyers in town. I had a work comp claim that they helped me with. I found them to be very helpful.
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30 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
The meeting I had with this lawyer was a good meeting.I took all his advice he gave me and will use it. I also thank him for giving me straight forward information instead of beating around the bush.
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07 Mar, 2024 by Leroy lancaster
The manager in there is more helpful than any major around here bend over backwards for you one in Ozark she can't even discuss nothing without being read out in a lobby with everybody
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14 Feb, 2024 by Micah dronberger
18 Nov, 2022 by Jeanne paris
Rick Van Pelt handled my divorce and was very professional and very compassionate during the whole process. The whole divorce was very ugly with the other side causing lots of problems. Rick Van Pelt knows the law, knows how to handle evil people and stands up for what is right and fair. I highly recommend Rick Van Pelt if you are looking for a reputable and respected divorce attorney.
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21 Aug, 2024 by Johnathon howard
30 Apr, 2024 by Emily collins
From the first phone call of searching for a good lawyer and having Richard Bender call me back he made me feel like I was his only priority! Never ignored a word or a phone call. Very honest and dependable! Great guy!
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14 Apr, 2024 by Mike williams
Mr. Richard Bender, Sr is a huge blessing. He is a great man and amazing attorney. Very respectful and knows the law front to back. Uses law against law and tells you the truth in any and all circumstances. I wish that a day will come where I can show gratitude way beyond money. God bless you and your office for all your help.
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22 Aug, 2024 by Amanda
I had the displeasure of meeting this person for a consult on a custody modification case. He spent 20 minutes literally insulting me, belittling me, mocking my job and my income, and patronizing me.
I walked out mid consult due to his highly u unprofessional behavior and his arrogant, narcissistic attitude.
If this is how he presents himself, I’d be embarrassed and humiliated to have him represent me in any court.
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04 Jul, 2024 by Jean19862009
Straight forward doesn't sugar coat no matter how brutal the truth is.has been very helpful with my casefuel.definitely wouldn't wanna be on opposing party.prefers to talk with client vs email communication definite plus for me...Would Definitely Recommend and Hire Again!
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30 Jun, 2024 by Crystal graham
Clough is a matador who won't put up with any bull from the opposing party.
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30 Jun, 2024 by Crystal graham
Clough is a matador who won't put up with any bull from the opposing party.
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12 Jun, 2024 by Eric weiskopf
Welcoming, to the point.
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29 Feb, 2024 by Mal bunch
24 Oct, 2024 by Julieann spitzer
Unfortunately he wasn’t able to represent us at the time because the attorneys were headed into a big trial. But what they did that caused 5 stars. My phone call was returned in the same business day and referred me to a lawyer that was in the state that the accident that their (Bradshaw) office worked closely with. And also sent me a letter explaining the situation. Thank you for helping my husband get pointed in the right direction.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Summer j
25 Sep, 2024 by Shawn johnson
My family and I were involved in an unfortunate event late 2023 as passengers in a serious rear end collision & I emeditly contacted Dr. Brad Bradshaw's office for legal advice and representation with their fair 25% rate and their team has been beyond our expectations regarding legal advice & representation & support throughout our experience. A big shout out to Jenna, definitely ask for her for representation with your case, she did outstanding with clarification needs regarding our case. These folks have done an outstanding job for my family & I am very grateful for their support.
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20 Feb, 2024 by Rochelle brack
Great attorney!
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10 Feb, 2024 by K c
26 Oct, 2023 by Shannon edwards
James Poe, I wanna recluse my review. James Poe is an outstanding lawyer. He did everything in his power to.
Leave us as happy clients. James Poe is an outstanding lawyer and family person he. Understands how it is when you lose your house and and he is very sympathetic. To situations we are, I can't say enough about James Poe. He is just an outstanding one hell of a guy, 1 heck of a lawyer, just an all around, really, really good guy.
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21 Dec, 2022 by Anonymous
Hired Ben to handle my paternity case. He talked a big game but then refused to even try to fight. When I lost the case he offered to do the name change since he failed to put it in the original petition. But after I did the original paper he ghosted me. Would not recommend to anyone.
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06 Nov, 2022 by Garry
Hired Mr. Campbell for a probation violation he didn't show up to court. When i notified judge, I had an attorney I had hired a month ago he notified me he never even put in his appearance. I requested a refund from Mr. Campbell and was told no due to the work he had put in on the case the only work was the pre hire consultation.
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31 Mar, 2020 by Anonymous
Very informative, laidback ,and promptly available. Campbell Law goes out of the way above and beyond doing anything to get the job done.
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06 Sep, 2024 by James alexzander
Probably the BEST Family Law Attorney in the Ozarks! Shelly Reece and her staff were VERY professional and extremely helpful when it came to looking over my divorce paperwork to ensure I wasn't getting the short end of the stick.
She is the ONLY Family Law attorney I recommend and she's worth every cent! And every person I have referred to her has said the same thing!
As painful and messy as family law and divorces can be, she and her staff make it as pain free as possible and she fights tooth and nail for her clients!
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06 Sep, 2024 by Vernon clark
I really appreciate Shelly Reece’s help with my family’s case. I cannot recommend her highly enough. She went out of her way to help us through the most difficult time.
Her dedication and expert legal help made a significant difference in my case, and I am deeply grateful for her and Loni’s help. I have recommended her to several of my family and friends. Thank you Reece Family Law for your help!
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20 Feb, 2024 by Franky franke
DO NOT RETAIN THESE SNAKES, THEY WILL LEAVE YOU HOLDING THE BAG!!! Update and response - Let me correct the record, I called ur office to pay the $2500 retainer via credit card and ask a few legal questions and asked for Shelly but the secretary answering the phone was attempting to give legal advice over the phone, which is a violation of state laws, then she insinuated improprieties between the judges and attorneys stating that " they all know each other" and other things I won't mention here. I let her know that those comments and her legal opinon were inappropriate, then a few hours later we got a call from your office stating that y'all were no longer interested in the case. No need to doubt me cause I recorded the conversation with her in full (Missouri is a one party state)! Let me know if I need to forward it to the BAR for review. Thanks for wasting our time!👎👎
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01 May, 2020 by Michael
Ann was hired by me several years ago for a divorce and custody case. It was very messy from the other side and Ann handled everything with poise and the utmost professionalism. She has become my attorney of choice for all family law matters for my family. I recommend her to all of my friends and family.
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13 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
Ann handled my case from start to finish. As a father with children, Im thankful I left it all in her hands. Due to many personal complications as well as from the other side, it was a year and a half legal family law case. She did so much behind the scenes and her staff were so kind and timely as well. I continue to use Courtney and Mills for all law matters since.
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26 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
I have unfortunately needed attorneys every few years since getting divorced. Ann is the first attorney that I have hired that actually cares, follows through, and has my best interest at heart. It is so refreshing to have an attorney tell you one thing, and then follow through with it in court. I cant thank her enough.
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30 May, 2017 by Pam
Jim and his staff were very professional, but not pretentious. My case was done in a timely manner and I would and have recommended him to others. Thank you JBJames!
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15 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
HE DID A PERSONAL INJURY CASE FOR ME AND WON THE CASE! HE ALSO WAS VERY UP FRONT, WITH MY CASE, I NEVER HAD A PROBLEM GETTING AHOLD OF HIM OR HIS SECERTARY! HE ALSO, IS HANDLING A CHILD SUPPORT CASE AND DONE VERY WELL! I WOULD RECOMMEND HIM TO ANYONE!
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14 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
He was hired to handle a bankruptcy. Not only did he lose ALL my paperwork but refuses to refund my money as he has never finished my bankruptcy and now I have to go to someone else. Plus he will not return any phone calls
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3.8
11 Reviews
4.0
54 Reviews
06 Sep, 2024 by James alexzander
Probably the BEST Family Law Attorney in the Ozarks! Shelly Reece and her staff were VERY professional and extremely helpful when it came to looking over my divorce paperwork to ensure I wasn't getting the short end of the stick.
She is the ONLY Family Law attorney I recommend and she's worth every cent! And every person I have referred to her has said the same thing!
As painful and messy as family law and divorces can be, she and her staff make it as pain free as possible and she fights tooth and nail for her clients!
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06 Sep, 2024 by Vernon clark
I really appreciate Shelly Reece’s help with my family’s case. I cannot recommend her highly enough. She went out of her way to help us through the most difficult time.
Her dedication and expert legal help made a significant difference in my case, and I am deeply grateful for her and Loni’s help. I have recommended her to several of my family and friends. Thank you Reece Family Law for your help!
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20 Feb, 2024 by Franky franke
DO NOT RETAIN THESE SNAKES, THEY WILL LEAVE YOU HOLDING THE BAG!!! Update and response - Let me correct the record, I called ur office to pay the $2500 retainer via credit card and ask a few legal questions and asked for Shelly but the secretary answering the phone was attempting to give legal advice over the phone, which is a violation of state laws, then she insinuated improprieties between the judges and attorneys stating that " they all know each other" and other things I won't mention here. I let her know that those comments and her legal opinon were inappropriate, then a few hours later we got a call from your office stating that y'all were no longer interested in the case. No need to doubt me cause I recorded the conversation with her in full (Missouri is a one party state)! Let me know if I need to forward it to the BAR for review. Thanks for wasting our time!👎👎
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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.
