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21 Dec, 2021 by Matthew
He’s represented me in quite a few criminal matters and always comes out with the best scenarios. He’s a great man and I would highly recommend him to any one.
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18 Oct, 2019 by Marty
I got into some trouble with theft in the workplace. I had gotten a recommendation from a good friend.
So when I went to consultation with him, we was very insightful and straightforward with the laws and process. As I have never done anything like this.
We went to court and worked out with a probation and resititution.
It was nice to be charged a reasonable rate and have a lawyer you can trust with your life!!! Would definitely come to him with any legal problems in the future. Very Trustworthy!!
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11 Dec, 2018 by Sally
I hired Eric after police took possession of my truck when someone drove under the influence while borrowing my truck. Eric was very professional and always returned calls when I had questions. He was able to litigate it’s return without a court hearing. I would recommend Eric and use again if needed
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02 Mar, 2021 by Ayana
Adam represented me during my very complex and contentious divorce 6 years ago. He always acted in my best interest, and made sure I felt seen and heard throughout the arduous process. He went out of his way to make himself available to me, and if I had questions or concerns, he’d followed up with me when needed. I got everything I asked for in my divorce, and I couldn’t have been more pleased with the outcome. He’s fair, thoughtful and compassionate and I will continue to recommend Adam to friends and family, because I know they’ll be taken care of.
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13 Mar, 2018 by Anonymous
Adam listens well and acts in good faith. He told me once that 99% or all lawyers give the 1% of lawyers a bad name. I laughed. He is right. My experience with attorneys is that they only care about the money and could honestly give a damn about your problems or the impact of those problems on your life. I was victimized first by my mentally ill ex-wife and then, eventually, by the legal system itself. Many people defend our legal system as being the best in the world . . . if my personal experience has anything to say about it then the rest of the world is in a lot of trouble. Our legal system is a mess and if a judge gets something wrong--or fails to review critical evidence in your case--then you will not be happy with the result. There are corrupt child custody evaluators that work divorce cases in Minnesota. My case featured a child custody evaluator that shouldn't be able to determine the custody of lab rats much less two beautiful children. My children are currently in grave physical danger as they are presently ingratiated to a known criminal personality that the judge (based on a recommendation of the child custody evaluator) chose to allow my children to have continued access to this person. The reality is, however, that Adam Terwey did his job and represented me to the best of his ability. I do not blame Adam for a terrible decision that was engineered by a corrupt child custody evaluator. Adam continues to watch over me and offer a variety of services beyond the scope of our original agreement. He does this because he genuinely cares about my family. Very few lawyers are willing to do this for their clients. I am grateful for Adam's representation and thankful that I have an attorney that cares about something more than just money.
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25 Nov, 2013 by Grace
Adam handled a sensitive family matter for us. He was very competent and extremely professional.
He was sensitive to the highly emotional situation and was our Hero. We felt protected legally, but cared for on an emotional level also. He fought for us when we felt very alone.
Months later I contacted Adam with a request and he was quick to respond and offer advice. We consider him "Our" Attorney.
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05 Dec, 2021 by Anonymous
I’ve worked with Sam on a personal and professional level. Sam has the attention to detail and persistence necessary to handle the most complex tedious legal cases. I would defer to Sam for family law referral cases.
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16 Jan, 2013 by Mrs.thompson
he was a wonderful lawyer for my husband and his case, and our family, if i ever have any needs for a lawyer he will be the one I call. He was a public defender and a good one, you dont get em' that good these days and we were lucky to have him working on the case.
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28 Oct, 2018 by 2529 bruce
Great ferm small enugh to form a personal relationship with
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16 Apr, 2018 by Branden stevensen
4.7
13 Reviews
4.6
118 Reviews
26 Aug, 2024 by Jenna benson
It took me a while to decide which firm was right for me, and my consultation with Matt made my choice obvious. My primary goal in the divorce was to be protected financially as much as possible. Matt and the AFL team not only delivered but far exceeded my expectations. Additionally, having unlimited access to client coach Tara was invaluable in helping me navigate unfamiliar waters. AFL is worth every single penny – you won’t be disappointed regardless of your goals!
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02 Jul, 2024 by T “2” r
Matt and Courtney are highly competent lawyers who listen to their clients and work hard to achieve the best possible outcomes. More importantly, they balance firmness with integrity and ethical guidance. You won't be disappointed!
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28 May, 2024 by Tiger fruit
18 Jul, 2020 by Dave
Del knew little about my case and seemed to rely on his secretary for much of the case info.
Poor service, distracted. Seemed to have too many cases on the go and not focus on them individually.
Slow service but quick to charge
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31 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
Del does great work and I recommend him to anyone looking for a divorce attorney.
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30 Jan, 2018 by Jim
Del is very diligent, detail oriented, knowledgeable of the law, and tries to reconcile if at all possible. He was really patient with me. Great in the courtroom where it really counts. He did so well that I hired him twice.
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02 May, 2024 by Brett quiggle
01 Feb, 2024 by Meddy paul
If Mitchell Sell keep losing he might want to switch to defense lol
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20 Nov, 2023 by Kristine jackson
30 Aug, 2022 by John
Sam was very professional, knowledgeable, and worked through the process of my case exactly as he said he would. While I hope to never need a lawyer again in the future, Sam will be the first to get a call from me if I do. I highly recommend Sam Surface.
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27 Dec, 2021 by Matthew
Absolutely this sam surface is no good at all.the 4 times I talk to him as the first time telling him yes on hiring him and that was it like a 5min talk.the 2 time he had to make it quick because he was at swimming lessons with his son and that was maybe 5min.the 3 time he had to make it quick again because he was out skiing with his son and again that was less then 5min.and the 4 time was the day befor court and him telling me he never filed any of the evidence or audio that he was given and had in his possession that was on my behalf to show different then what was sed about me.i allso asked him to file for the other person to show cause or prove with showen what thay wer saying was try or not.wich he dint do any thing at all.he told my aunt I would not call him back or I was avoiding his calls so I called him and ask him why would you lie to my aunt and say that to her and I have my phone records to show every time I talk or he called me or I called him.i asked him for a receipt on what he chared because my aunt is the that payed him and I wanted a recipe because I was fileing a complaint with the bar association and he told me I'm not give you any thing and I ask him if thairs any thing he wanted to say on his behalf why he dint file anything and he had a addatude again telling me I'm not given you anything.please note I have not seen my child in 17years and this time hired sam to represent me and he had made it so much worse now I cant even get a court date to have a judge here my side because thay sed I had my cance.after all this he still got payed 2500.00$ for talking to me on the phone for maybe 30minutes all together wich he claims that would be his free console realy and a court date asken for a continue because he had just been hired and needed time to file paperwork wich he never did.
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02 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
I had the opportunity to work with Sam on my OFP case. He went above and beyond to represent me. I am impressed in his approach of defense in the court room and very knowledgeable of the law. I kept a close relationship with him after my case and he has been able to give candid legal advise. I will recommend Sam any day anytime to anyone.
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09 Jun, 2023 by Zach
My case is almost over and Gail has ghosted me.
This after postponing or being late for meetings, not following up for several days, and failing to deliver work by her own promised deadlines. Other reviews indicate that this is a trend, I should have paid closer attention before I wasted my money on an incomplete case. Wildly unprofessional.
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06 Mar, 2022 by Anonymous
My dad and I hired Gail to advocate for an OFP. We were on a low money and price seemed right. She showed up to court and pulled out nothing more than an empty yellow note pad. My ex-wife dropped all charges and for some reason we did not pursue a counterattack. We were able to combat allegations directly that day with perjury. Gail was visibly nervous. I noticed her fidgeting her pen and paper, and I had to speak up for myself on two occasions. The children ended up remaining with the ex-wife and 1 year later CPS had to get involved for their safety. I would not recommend this lawyer for loved ones.
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22 Mar, 2021 by Ashley
Gail Mattey has been a phenomenal attorney in my divorce/domestic abuse/child custody situation. My children were with-held from me for over three months, and after a very stressful court hearing I was almost immediately able to pick them up from their father and bring them back home. She has been a godsend for me and my case. Gail is very down to earth, and easy to talk to. Although she is very kind and compassionate, she is a force to be reckoned with.
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16 Feb, 2020 by Sherri marier
Don’ waste your money.
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18 Sep, 2019 by Jim weyker
Wonderful Lady, hard worker.😊
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08 Jan, 2019 by Chad brueske
12 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
DISAPPOINTING experience with Mr. Stokes. We were already prepared with exhibits, etc... for a trial & we hired him mainly to expedite court procedures. It took months longer than we expected, as he had no filing or mediation actions until months later, 2 days before our scheduled hearing. And he was hired for legal advice (he rarely responded to emails or phone messages). And, he was paid to honor our requests. Instead, he scolded our requests, argued, & did what he wanted. We reached out to him several times, letting him know the stress of waiting for a discussion with other party was causing our family much unneeded anxiety. He didn't seem to get our priority & he never responded & never kept his initial promise. He didn't even do any court doc. filings, the other party's lawyer did the drafting. Regarding the drafted order, we had no time to review & it was emailed to us, night before our trial. Order humored the other party's lies (other party is still defaming us on social media!). We signed last minute order just for "dismissal purposes". Although, it defeated the purpose of us showing our innocence & proving other party's purgery & abuse! For a family lawyer, Mr Stokes sure didn't seem to understand family needs. He got paid thousands of dollars for doing not much.
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07 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
I retained Sean Stokes to represent me on a contempt charge resulting as a backlash from a divorce settlement. Upon paying a $5000 retainer, I discussed some additional items that I needed to be brought before the Judge: some monies owed to me, property that wasn’t returned as ordered in arbitration and an issue with a loan my ex put in my name after the Decree. The Court date had already been set for 8 week later. During those 8 weeks, I attempted to reach Mr. Stokes by phone 7 times (documented) and additional attempts by email. It was not until the evening before my Court date Mr. Stokes returned my call to state that none of my issues would be brought before the Judge at this time as he had not filed a motion.
The next morning as we arrive to the Courthouse, Mr. Stokes had none of my paperwork nor exact facts and numbers available for the hearing. After the attorneys met in chambers, a settlement was reached in the conference room, however, when Mr. Stokes read the agreement on record, he misspoke. Even though I tried to correct the error while in the courtroom, the official settlement, which I did not agree to, was approximately $100 less per month for the next 10 years. Alot of money!
Shortly thereafter, I received my bill stating that all $5000 (approximately 17 hours) was used up. When I requested for an outline of how I could have possibly been billed $5000 when we were in Court just a few hours and never spoke until the evening before, I was only provided a general summary, never my requested itemization.
I was not only disappointed with Mr. Stokes’ responsiveness, but his follow through and accuracy.
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21 May, 2015 by Anonymous
I retained Mr Stokes for assistance shortly after I received divorce papers. Mr. Stokes encouraged me to mediate my divorce rather than going before a Judge. While this recommendation may have been appropriate, the execution of my mediation was less than focused. As we went through with opposing counsel and agreed upon a parenting schedule and the splitting of larger items (investments, house etc..) it was the lack of focus on the smaller items that has ended up costing me thousands and thousands of dollars in a few short years. It began with simply over valuing the vehicle I was keeping (he simply guessed at it’s value), leaving out topics that should have been discussed, and inconclusive wording which ended up sending me to Court.
Even though opposing counsel wrote the Decree to contain our agreements for our review, our approval was required before it could be submitted to the Judge. There was high conflict around the area of the children’s sports and those fees, this topic was not discussed in mediation nor included in the Decree. When I asked about it, I was told the Judge wouldn’t address it anyway if we went to Court and it was in my best interest to sign the Decree and move forward. As a result, I am responsible for all the fees associated with activities for all of the children because the father did not agree in writing to assist and he has chosen not to. I have retained another attorney to assist me with some Property issues stemming from the Decree and he was appalled that the activities topic was not discussed and completely absent from my Decree. This topic should absolutely be talked about and addressed in writing in the Decree.
When the Decree was received for review there was an area of medical reimbursement, which was very sensitive to my situation. It was important this area had very tight specific wording to protect me financially. I approached Mr. Stokes multiple times concerning this wording wanting more detail to be included; he stated the broad categories listed in the Decree draft covered all my concerns. Fast forward one year later and I am in Court seeking reimbursement for the exact items I had concerns over.
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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.
