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15 Jan, 2016 by Ellen
I have heard that a divorce is one of the hardest stresses you ever will face, it was . But having Mr Beals in my corner made it easier . He help walk me threw legal details. Answered all my questions. Guided me threw decisions that would affect my future There is a comfort when you trust your atty. I trusted him . He did a great job. I would have no problem recommending him to anyone. I already have.
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04 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
A HUGE shout out to THE BEST attorney!! I admire you so much Samantha Brinkman Berkhofer!! If ANYONE needs an amazing attorney call her! She won my custody case with a snap of her fingers. She put time and effort into it and asked all the right questions. We can not thank you enough.
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30 Jun, 2023 by Carole foster
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22 Mar, 2023 by Sara winkle
Gloria and her team are great. I got in an accident while working, and needed surgery for the nerves in my neck. I honestly didn't think my workplace would help me, but because of Gloria, they did.
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21 Mar, 2023 by Tammy williamson
Gloria is a great attorney. She is always on my case and answers all my questions. Gloria keeps me informed and always prepared. Thank you Gloria you're AWESOME.
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13 May, 2022 by Walter
Very experienced with bankruptcy laws. Also had estate planning work done, and a deed, and all went smooth. Great staff! A+++
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07 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
I have had numerous cases, including bankruptcy and a divorce, with Attorney John Juergens. He is very competent and thorough. His legal staff is A+. I highly recommend the legal services of this firm.
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30 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
Paid John Juergens in full for our case over a year ago. We are never informed of changes or pressing matters and cannot contact his office within regular business hours. Our case has been dragged out thanks to his laziness and carelessness. It has been a severe disappointment.
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22 Nov, 2024 by Jamie mccoy
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05 Oct, 2024 by Shannon stacy
I am incrediably grateful for Zach and the support he provided during a recent estate process. It was a complicated situation, and we live out of state so it was all very overwhelming. Zach was the first person who put me at ease, offering invaluable help right from the start. When I came to town, he made time to see me quickly and set the entire process in motion. He connected us with everyone we needed and was there for us every step of the way through the process. It would have been literally impossible to sort everything out without his expertise and dedication. Beyond his professionalism, he was an absolute delight to work with and made a difficult time so much easier for me and my family. I couldn’t have asked for a better experience, and I highly recommend him to anyone needing estate help.
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07 Jun, 2024 by Slap hammer
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06 Dec, 2023 by Bradley bradley
My experience was golden great attorney
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05 Oct, 2023 by Merp s
John is very sincere, honest and helpful!
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20 Sep, 2023 by Timothy sanders
My wife recently lost a parent and we had a lot of questions and no answers, like most people that lose a parent unexpectedly we had no idea where to start. Thankfully I called Jack and his team for help and they were so helpful and honest in getting the answers we needed. Jack, thank you for your honesty and straightforwardness. You gave us a sense of closure and it means a lot to us. You will be our fist pick when your services are needed in the future. Thanks again for helping us through such a difficult time in our lives. I won’t forget it.
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09 Jan, 2025 by Jason thayer
Very professional and kind-hearted. Supported my decision to give my x and myself a bit more time. I'll be back for your help soon unfortunately. But hey I can say I tried.
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19 Jul, 2024 by Mark harler
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23 Jan, 2024 by Stacy rose
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09 Sep, 2024 by Tom lyons
Stacey and his assistant Susan are great people and care for the best interest of their clients. Highly recommended
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25 Aug, 2024 by Pam claxton
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19 Jun, 2024 by Jesse gonzalez
Went into Stacey Pavlatos Office after being referred to him by a family member and an undisclosed source(With a warning and I quote he’s a good lawyer if you can keep his attention on your case) anyway was there after a life altering accident and had no clue what to expect or do next he was very friendly at first and seemed knowledgeable but things are not always as they seem. We hired him and never heard anything back for a good month maybe 2 staff was never available and always seemed rude finally get another appointment with him and he gets us into his office and is practically picking at us and insinuating we lied and we were the at fault party and he was very aggressive and rude and resulted in us walking out……during the first meeting we were just talking about life and he made a comment about our race something along the lines of do we think we have bad luck cuz we’re Hispanic…….fast forward to the second meeting I wholeheartedly believe he dwelled on the fact that we’re Hispanic and that’s all his problem is and was he sent us a rude letter in the mail trying to brush it off and say he’s not racist blah blah blah…………..My suggestion is if you need any legal help pick a law firm who actually cares enough to have their building be presentable unlike these goof balls not to mention he made a will for an elderly aunt that was void and help conspire with her grandchildren and son to steal her house that she has receipts where she paid it off multiple times
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09 Sep, 2024 by Tom lyons
Stacey and his assistant Susan are great people and care for the best interest of their clients. Highly recommended
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25 Aug, 2024 by Pam claxton
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19 Jun, 2024 by Jesse gonzalez
Went into Stacey Pavlatos Office after being referred to him by a family member and an undisclosed source(With a warning and I quote he’s a good lawyer if you can keep his attention on your case) anyway was there after a life altering accident and had no clue what to expect or do next he was very friendly at first and seemed knowledgeable but things are not always as they seem. We hired him and never heard anything back for a good month maybe 2 staff was never available and always seemed rude finally get another appointment with him and he gets us into his office and is practically picking at us and insinuating we lied and we were the at fault party and he was very aggressive and rude and resulted in us walking out……during the first meeting we were just talking about life and he made a comment about our race something along the lines of do we think we have bad luck cuz we’re Hispanic…….fast forward to the second meeting I wholeheartedly believe he dwelled on the fact that we’re Hispanic and that’s all his problem is and was he sent us a rude letter in the mail trying to brush it off and say he’s not racist blah blah blah…………..My suggestion is if you need any legal help pick a law firm who actually cares enough to have their building be presentable unlike these goof balls not to mention he made a will for an elderly aunt that was void and help conspire with her grandchildren and son to steal her house that she has receipts where she paid it off multiple times
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19 Jul, 2024 by Mark harler
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23 Jan, 2024 by Stacy rose
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04 Dec, 2023 by Lamar gaskins
Thank you for all your help Dan at the time needed!!
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25 Nov, 2024 by Sarabjit singh
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27 Jul, 2024 by Angela blue
Says to share your experience of this attorney and I have seen that the truth is not always in the best interest and time has shown me 4 under oath I’m not sure how one can represent a individual that is mentally not right and be in charge if a family estate … might want to consider another lawyer this will change a person to see it happen multiple times and a honorable judge to accept it … makes me wonder.
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31 Mar, 2024 by Elmer boles
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16 Nov, 2024 by Brad horton
Mr. Lind has handled several matters for me, and I have been throughly satisfied with his attention to these matters. His office staff is kind and efficient. Mr. Lind has been an excellent attorney for our family.
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02 Aug, 2024 by Caitlin vincent
Greg Lind helped to obtain the title of memorandum to my truck when the dealership couldn’t produce one. He walked me through the steps of what I needed to do and was able to get my title in a timely manner. Would highly recommend his law services.
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24 Jun, 2024 by Amy clay
Doesn’t understand the meaning of integrity or decency. Is a disgrace to the legal system and I would give zero stars if I could. I would recommend finding an attorney with a moral compass.
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20 Dec, 2023 by Ryan rocksalot
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10 Oct, 2023 by Acetheavenue 2619
Very friendly and helpful
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13 Dec, 2022 by Shara
Zach did an amazing job handling a very difficult case with confidence, knowledge, and professionalism as well as genuine care and concern. He isn’t your typical lawyer! He went out of his way to provide timely and caring assistance and brought a calming reassurance to every situation we dealt with. He has been such a blessing to our family and we thank God for all he did to help us. We highly recommend him.
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07 May, 2024 by Betsy davis
I used Walt several times in 2010. He was always very honest and reliable. I have and will always recommend him.
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16 Oct, 2023 by Brennon hill
Walt handled my case some years back (2018). The reason for the review isn't specifically the handling of my case. Though he did pretend to know what he was talking about, and was sure to run up as many billable hours as possible without doing much. But again, not the reason for the review. The reason for the 1 star is because during his handling of my case, I received court documents with my name spelled wrong, and I informed him about it and was ensured that it wasn't a big deal. Fast forward five years of me doing exactly what I am supposed to and it's time to seal my record, except guess what, I can't because my name is spelled wrong on the courts side of things. I called to discuss this with Walt and he didn't even hear me out before starting to sell me on his "record expungement service." And told me he couldn't remember me or my case. Took $8000 from me over the course of 9 months, only 5 years ago and he has no idea who I am. When I told him I was unsurprised he didn't remember me because of how little he did in my case. He grew hostile and snobby and told me to "handle it myself then" and hung up. So now as a result of the fine work of Walt, I get to hire another lawyer to fix mistakes that he was aware of and refused to do anything about. Walt doesn't care about you. Hell he might not even know what your case is about. He is a very good pretender and will act like he knows what he is doing to get paid. That's all Walt cares about at the end of the day is the money. Don't make the same mistake I did. Don't choose Walt. If you do, I promise you'll regret it.
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13 Sep, 2023 by Chrisy flood
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31 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
He is literally like a ghost. He ghosted me. He does not give a crap about your child as he is the ad litem in my child's case. I think I've gotten two phone calls that I placed and it says he reads my texts pleading for him to call but he doesn't answer. The whole system is rigged. For $ure. A disgrace to his profession and what he says he stands for. I met him ONCE and that was it. Money grab for sure. Or even worse if the state appointed him. Then it's like zero stars. Caused my daughter and my family a lot of grief by simply not responding or showing up. Just my personal opinion.
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31 Oct, 2012 by Greg
He is a lawyer who is part of the Springfield "Good Ol Boy" system. A relic at best that has long past his hay day. I personally found him BIAS and uneducated on several matters. He does not read or see the facts or proof presented, only what is most convenient to himself to minimally do his job. In short he is the snake in the grass that does not have the client’s best intentions in mind!
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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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

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