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19 Mar, 2024 by Dale
I had an illegal stalking case in 2007, supposed to get probation, Redfield made an agreement with the DA, but the defendant went on the stand for about an hour & ended up screwed over & convicted. I stopped in yesterday & spoke with Redfield, but didn't remember him making an agreement. If she wouldn't have gone on the stand, would have gotten probation. He is retiring at the end of this month & won't take new cases.
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30 Apr, 2022 by Adam
By far the best family law experience I have ever had. I have been battling a custody case for going on 7 years. If we're honest I didn't really have the money to hire an attorney and had been doing it on my own. Well in short I had a couple disgruntled ex gfs and a biased g.a.l. against me. Mr Redfield handled it all very well. I almost felt as if my case was the only case he was handling although I know that wasn't the case. The biggest thing for me was his compassion. He and I talked for hours and hours...all of which he didn't charge me extra money for, as has been my experience with most other lawyers. We discussed a price and he stuck to it. Which was HUGE for me, because if he wanted more money I probably would have been out of luck. In court (which ended up being a 3 day evidentiary hearing) he couldn't have examined/cross examined better. He and I had some different thoughts on the process but I put my trust in him seeing as he's the lawyer. He didn't let me or my son down. In fact he couldn't have done better. If you're dealing with a custody issue choose this guy. You won't regret it. Every man I know feels they don't have a chance in custody court, pick Jared Redfield and you won't feel that way anymore. The cards were against me going in. But he brought to light ALL the facts that really mattered and showed the court what a fathers love truly means. And against the g.a.l. recommendation the judge ruled for me to have primary placement and sole custody. Which is truly what is in my sons best interest. From me and my kids. THANK YOU Jared.
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20 Oct, 2020 by Ryan
From the outset Jared was a true professional. I was entering into what became an extremely difficult divorce case which was further complicated by my loss of job and an opposing attorney that would say and do anything his client wished regardless of facts. Jared will listen and advise accordingly. His calming demeanor helped me when things were at there most difficult. Jared is compassionate and actively cared about me during the whole process. There were hard times for me personally and Jared was there to listen and give comforting expert guidance and a plan forward. After a hard fought case, Jared prevailed and won the case. I cannot imagine having a more compassionate, knowledgeable and professional attorney representing me throughout this whole process.
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16 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous
I hired Donna for my divorce and from the beginning she answered every question or uncertainty that came up throughout the whole process. Donna was very approachable and made the process as easy as possible. I am grateful to have had her represent me and would highly recommend!
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17 Feb, 2021 by Desiree
I had a pretty simple divorce, but the custody dispute made it extremely complex. Donna never faltered. I’m still amazed by her knowledge of the law, her insight with people and her ability to articulate to the court so affectively. Flawless in the courtroom! Completely flawless!
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05 Dec, 2017 by Mallory
I have hired Donna twice for custody/placement and now grandparent visitation rights. Donna is very respectful and professional. Donna has made me feel confident even though she never promised me any results she promised to work hard on these two cases. Donna is a very good laywer that I trust, she has true passion and has put my mind to ease. Donna also is very understanding and very easy to get along with. I recommend her to anyone that needs a laywer. I'm very grateful I have Donna as my laywer she's handled alot of things that I wouldn't of known to do as I'm not fimilar with laws. Donna has helped me understand the laws by explaining everything so I could understand. Thank you again Donna for all your hard work! Your an amazing laywer!
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26 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
Attorney Klein handled my divorce case flawlessly! Although the person I was divorcing made every attempt to make it most difficult to get it done and get equal custody of my child, Attorney Klein and his staff gave me proper advice throughout the entire process. I now am sitting here enjoying the best outcome I could have hoped for. In the beginning I had MANY questions about how things work and the staff was very helpful and patient with me. Looking back to the beginning of the case I have to give them lots of credit for how they handled all my questions at a time when my emotions running high. I highly recommend attorney Klein to anyone looking for someone who will produce results
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18 Jun, 2014 by Ann
I hired Mr. Klein after my first attorney failed to prepare for a court hearing and left me to pick up the pieces of a decision so wrong it does not bear repeating. Attorney Klein was straightforward from day one. He did not pull punches. He told me, in exact detail, what I had to do and what he was going to do. He never sugar coated that we had an uphill battle, but not for one second did I doubt he was in the battle with me. I don't need my attorney to pat my head and tell me warm fuzzy stories and give me hugs, I have friends for that. I don't need to walk out of my attorney's office feeling like I just had lunch with my best friend. I need to know, without a doubt, the attorney I hired is on my side 100% and is going to fight with me and for me. I have that with Mr. Klein. His professional staff is prompt and courteous; I have never had to wait days/weeks for a returned call. I know they see this stuff every day, but I never have been made to feel it didn't matter. I have nothing, but respect for Mr. Klein and his staff and would readily suggest his practice to anyone. His professional staff is prompt and courteous, I have never had to wait days/weeks for a returned call. I know they see this stuff every day, but I never have been made to feel it didn't matter.
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14 Feb, 2014 by Alexander
When I sought a lawyer for my case, I first spoke to a few highly accredited Ivy League lawyers from Madison, and while I was tempted to go with them, they suggested that it might be worth looking into someone local to make things easier on my end. As my family had used the services of Klein’s firm in the past, I decided to seek the counsel of Klein, who asked for a retainer that was twice the amount quoted by the aforementioned lawyers- with travel fees factored in. Now I do not know exactly what it was that he took issue with in me. If I am simply being sensitive, or if it was the details of my case, my age, my race, or just that he did not like the fact that I asked him questions and took notes at our meetings, but he clearly made an effort to be unprofessional in our dealings. Perhaps Klein’s representation can be summarized in a defining phone conversation we had AFTER I had paid him a retainer. I had never personally hired a lawyer before, so I understandably had a few questions about the financial aspects of my case, as well as wanting to go over a few details of my case with my lawyer. After I asked Klein a couple questions about the difference between out-of-pocket expenses and court-fees, he snapped. “What is this, twenty questions?” he yelled into the phone. “You’re wasting my time!” This was funny, coming from a man for whose time I was paying hundreds of dollars for even in this phone conversation alone. He seemed just barely able to restrain himself from cursing at me as he tried to convince me to drop him as a lawyer after I tried to explain that the retainer I paid for was a fair amount for me, and that I just wanted to make sure I understood both the case, and wanted to go over details on expenses: “If you think X dollars is a lot of money, then just come here, and I’ll cut you a… stinking check for X dollars! Stop wasting my time!” This was followed by a few snide remarks (nothing unexpected) directed at me. “I thought you went to college,” he yelled. “You should be grateful for what I did for you,” he yelled, referring to the deal made with the DA, as if this was some pro-bono case where he did this simply out of the goodness of his heart. I mean, it was not like he was paid for his legal work or anything…Of course, the condescension didn’t stop there. After he was finished with his tirade, I calmly asked why he was angry. His response was that he wasn’t angry, but that I should “Come here and I’ll cut you a check for your lousy X dollars, and you can go represent yourself. If it’s so much money to you, good luck!” This was all because I asked him if a court stenographer (which he recommended for my case) would be covered by the retainer. “No,” was all the answer I got. Wanting to know a bit more, I just asked “Isn’t that considered a legal fee?” He replied briskly: “No,” again offering no elaboration. Not left with too many options due to his monosyllable answers, I asked “Why not”. He simply said “It’s an out of pocket expense.” So I asked him what the difference was, setting him off, because apparently college graduates shouldn’t ask questions, as they should be grateful for overpaid, grumpy lawyers. I tried to politely explain to him that I was only asking him these questions as I simply wanted to clarify details about the use of finances, to which he replied “If a stenographer is so expensive to you, then get a job or something. If it’s a financial problem, then it’s your problem, not mine!” In what situation is it ever okay to be that condescending to a client, and to make implicit insults directed at their intelligence, education, or financial situation? And one final point. If you are looking for a lawyer that can return your emails (which some find crucial in this day and age), forget it. Klein does not respond to emails. In fact, Klein does not even have an email, and refuses to use one. At least that was what he said in our dealings.
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08 Oct, 2022 by Anonymous
Travis wanted my the issue resolved then and now. The facts or circumstances were irrelevant. He was egar out to cut a deal grab his check and bolt, while my intentions were opposite. If your looking for a quick deal/offer/plea. Sign here Slattery is your guy.
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What a Family Law Lawyer Can Do for You

A family law lawyer provides legal services related to family relationships, including marriage, divorce, child custody, and adoption. Family lawyers help clients navigate emotionally charged legal issues, providing guidance and representation in disputes that affect spouses, children, and parents. Whether you're going through a divorce, seeking custody of your children, or drafting a prenuptial agreement, a family law lawyer ensures your rights are protected and your interests are represented.

Family law attorneys often handle sensitive matters and offer objective legal advice, helping clients reach fair outcomes either through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.

When Should I Hire a Family Law Lawyer?

Hiring a family law lawyer is beneficial in several situations, especially when legal matters involve close personal relationships. Common reasons to hire a family law lawyer include:

  • Divorce or separation: When ending a marriage, a lawyer can help you navigate issues such as division of assets, spousal support, and child custody arrangements.
  • Child custody and visitation disputes: If you and your co-parent can't agree on custody or visitation, a lawyer can represent your interests and work toward a solution that benefits your children.
  • Child support: Whether you’re seeking child support or defending against a claim, a lawyer can help ensure the appropriate amount is calculated and enforced.
  • Prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: A lawyer can help draft or review agreements that protect your assets in case of divorce.
  • Adoption: Family law lawyers guide you through the legal process of adoption, ensuring that all requirements are met.
  • Domestic violence or restraining orders: If you're a victim of domestic violence or being falsely accused, a lawyer can help you obtain or challenge protective orders.
  • Paternity cases: If there are questions about the paternity of a child, a lawyer can help establish or dispute legal fatherhood.

Hiring a lawyer early can prevent issues from escalating, and they can offer you the best chance of achieving a favorable outcome in emotionally charged situations.

What Does a Family Law Lawyer Do?

A family law lawyer provides a wide range of services depending on your specific legal needs. Their responsibilities may include:

  • Advising on legal rights and options: Helping you understand your legal rights regarding divorce, child custody, support, and other family law issues.
  • Filing legal documents: Drafting and filing petitions, motions, and agreements with the court, such as divorce papers, custody agreements, or support orders.
  • Representing clients in court: Arguing your case in front of a judge if a settlement can’t be reached through negotiation or mediation.
  • Mediation and negotiation: Assisting with alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, to reach agreements on issues like custody, property division, and support without going to trial.
  • Enforcing court orders: Helping you enforce court orders related to child support, alimony, or custody if the other party fails to comply.
  • Drafting prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: Creating agreements that protect your assets in the event of a divorce.
  • Handling adoption proceedings: Ensuring that the legal process of adoption is followed, from filing paperwork to finalizing the adoption in court.

How Are Family Law Lawyers Paid?

Family law lawyers typically charge clients in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Common payment arrangements include:

  • Hourly rates: Most family lawyers charge by the hour, with rates varying based on experience and location. Clients are billed for the time spent working on their case, including consultations, court appearances, and document preparation.
  • Flat fees: For more straightforward legal services, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, some lawyers offer flat-fee arrangements.
  • Retainer fees: In cases that are expected to require significant time and attention, such as contentious custody battles, a lawyer may charge a retainer, which is an upfront payment that covers the initial costs of legal services. The lawyer then bills against the retainer as they work on your case.

The exact cost will depend on the complexity of your case and the lawyer’s fee structure, which should be discussed upfront.

How Much Does a Family Law Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a family law lawyer varies based on factors such as the lawyer's experience, the location, and the complexity of your case. Here are some general cost guidelines:

  • Hourly rates: Family law lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour, depending on their experience and the complexity of the case.
  • Flat fees: For simpler cases, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, fees may range from $1,000 to $5,000.
  • Retainers: For more complex matters, such as contested divorces or custody battles, lawyers may charge a retainer ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 or more. The lawyer will bill against the retainer for the work they do on your case.
  • Additional costs: You may also be responsible for additional costs, such as filing fees, mediation fees, or expert witness fees.

Always ask for a clear breakdown of the lawyer’s fees and any additional expenses during your consultation.

Top Questions to Ask a Family Law Lawyer

Before hiring a family law lawyer, it's important to ask questions to ensure they're the right fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:

  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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