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29 Aug, 2024 by Phresh stiles
I can’t say enough about Vik Vij. He represented me as my court appointed lawyer and right off the bat I knew he takes his cases seriously. He told me things were going to go and they went exactly that way and got my case dismissed. Great lawyer and an even better human. I’m definitely keeping his info in case I need representation in the future.
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27 Aug, 2024 by Vandi shourie
Sheena from Shiloh Travel and Tours helped me with my OCI Application. She was very prompt and did everything fast. I am thrilled with this service. My friend uses them for her overseas travel and I will be using them too. I wouldn’t have been able to do this without their OCI support. Thank you so much.
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27 Aug, 2024 by Biju mathew
Good service. Thanks Martin Xavier.
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4.5
8 Reviews
5.0
350 Reviews
29 Aug, 2024 by Phresh stiles
I can’t say enough about Vik Vij. He represented me as my court appointed lawyer and right off the bat I knew he takes his cases seriously. He told me things were going to go and they went exactly that way and got my case dismissed. Great lawyer and an even better human. I’m definitely keeping his info in case I need representation in the future.
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27 Aug, 2024 by Vandi shourie
Sheena from Shiloh Travel and Tours helped me with my OCI Application. She was very prompt and did everything fast. I am thrilled with this service. My friend uses them for her overseas travel and I will be using them too. I wouldn’t have been able to do this without their OCI support. Thank you so much.
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27 Aug, 2024 by Biju mathew
Good service. Thanks Martin Xavier.
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5.0
20 Reviews
5.0
47 Reviews
20 Aug, 2024 by Kobi merrell
Ben did a great job on my auto accident case. Im blessed to meet him and look forward with working with him again.
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29 Apr, 2024 by Cody mach
Ben and his office did a fantastic job! I am truly grateful for all the hard work they did to get me the best possible outcome.
Thank you for everything!
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11 Apr, 2024 by Omotola enwe
Thaks for all the legal advice Attorney Brushe. You also have a wonderful team, the front desk specialist has also been awesome everytime I've called.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Kobi merrell
Ben did a great job on my auto accident case. Im blessed to meet him and look forward with working with him again.
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29 Apr, 2024 by Cody mach
Ben and his office did a fantastic job! I am truly grateful for all the hard work they did to get me the best possible outcome.
Thank you for everything!
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11 Apr, 2024 by Omotola enwe
Thaks for all the legal advice Attorney Brushe. You also have a wonderful team, the front desk specialist has also been awesome everytime I've called.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Kobi merrell
Ben did a great job on my auto accident case. Im blessed to meet him and look forward with working with him again.
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29 Apr, 2024 by Cody mach
Ben and his office did a fantastic job! I am truly grateful for all the hard work they did to get me the best possible outcome.
Thank you for everything!
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11 Apr, 2024 by Omotola enwe
Thaks for all the legal advice Attorney Brushe. You also have a wonderful team, the front desk specialist has also been awesome everytime I've called.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Carlos
Worked hard and got my case dismissed! 1000% recommend
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26 Jul, 2024 by Adam nguyen
I had a nearly impossible unbeatable case. But adam capetillo waved some kind of magic voodoo and got me dismissed. He’s a blessing for real!
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19 Jul, 2024 by Barb neumeyer
Adam Capetillo is accessible and his communication is clear. His experience and professionalism is evident and I would highly recommend him and his firm!
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20 Aug, 2024 by Kobi merrell
Ben did a great job on my auto accident case. Im blessed to meet him and look forward with working with him again.
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29 Apr, 2024 by Cody mach
Ben and his office did a fantastic job! I am truly grateful for all the hard work they did to get me the best possible outcome.
Thank you for everything!
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11 Apr, 2024 by Omotola enwe
Thaks for all the legal advice Attorney Brushe. You also have a wonderful team, the front desk specialist has also been awesome everytime I've called.
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13 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous
Mr. Ducote jumped to my divorce case quickly. He is very professional and confident. Ready to fight for you. His team is very supportive as well. They helped me with little pain as possible to divorce successfully. The divorce decree and all legal paperwork were very official and legally strong. Mr. Ducote and his team have a lot of knowledge in legal field. You definitely can rely on this lawyer and his team. They will do their best for you. At the same time, expect that good legal support will cost appropriately. There is a required time to go through your case, so it won't be done as fast as you want. Recommend this lawyer for all family law issues.
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20 Aug, 2019 by Anonymous
I contacted and retained Jeremy with The Love DuCote law firm as my attorney. I was going through a divorce and facing a Protective Order against me , yet myself having been the one that was assaulted by my wife at the time. She was actually arrested and charged with Family Violence with Bodily injury Misdemeanor.
When I explain my situation, he knew right away how we were going to fight this. He was able to get the protective order against me denied and granted divorce-disposed. I was being falsely accused and the protective order could have jeopardized many things for me, yet he helped my fight back resulting in a great outcome. I couldn’t have done it without the help of Jeremy and his staff, they updated me promptly with any information I needed and were with me every step of the way. Friendly, experienced and very knowledgeable firm. I definitely would recommend Jeremy DuCote to family and friends.
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14 Dec, 2018 by Anonymous
Mr. Ducote was my court appointed attorney. I went into his office very emotional because I was being sued by my ex-husband. I knew that I couldn’t afford a lawyer of his caliber but Mr. Ducote took the time to listen to my ramblings and reassured me that I would be ok. In the end, I didn’t go to court because Mr. Ducote convinced my ex to drop the case. He and everyone in his office were very professional and always treated me with respect. He was a blessing.
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18 May, 2020 by Dustin evans
The best law firm I have ever came across! I didn't meet up with anyone at The Pinak Law Firm at any point of my divorce, everything was done through email and they did an amazing job. They were able to manage my case via online, they attended all court dates for me, and best of all had my divorce complete within 2 months! They offer quality work for a great pricing, simply the best law firm I have ever worked with!
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12 May, 2020 by Jonathan hays
The Pinak Law Firm is the best law firm you can hire for any type of divorce! I was having so many issues with a previous lawyer that when I was recommended to The Pinak Law Firm I wished I would have found them sooner. They have so much experience, they made sure to get everything done for me. I did not have to attend court at all, and did not have to stress about any paperwork what so ever. Everything was taken care of by them, and if the quality of their hard work isn't enough, they also offer great pricing!
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27 Apr, 2020 by Susann kate
I received the child support I had been missing out on all thanks to The Pinak Law Firm! They are very hard working and dedicated to help their clients and it showed. They were great communicating with me any updates having to do with my case, I appreciate the honesty as well by this law firm. They promised me only what they knew would happen nothing more, they worked very hard for me and the results of my case showed that. I absolutely recommend them!
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18 Jun, 2020 by Jean
Function of an Umbrella (shield, protection, weapon, cane, and a bridge) he was all this to me. Low period in my life when I decided to file for a divorce that I did not want but was needed. Goggled and found Attorney Michael D Tracton. During this divorce period I became part of the Tracton Family. Lisa, Nancy, Robyn. and Attorney Krocker with The Umbrella (Attorney Michael D Tracton) in charge. Will be forever grateful to him and his team.
Jean
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17 Jan, 2020 by Carlos
Michael listened to my situation and was adamant to address all of my concerns during the divorce process.
If you are looking for someone who will make sure you get the best deal out of the situation. I strongly recommend you hire him, you won't be disappointed.
Besides his capabilities, he is surrounded by the best team of paralegals that will be always there for you.
I came here to Avvo looking for a great attorney and found one. So, I am paying forward!
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24 Mar, 2019 by Carla
From the initial consultation, I knew that Michael would be my attorney of choice. Prior to finding him, I had consulted with another attorney and left the consultation not feeling confident in the abilities of that particular individual. Michael was a pleasure to work with, thorough and passionate. He went over areas and concerns that I had not even considered and made sure to explain things every step of the way. At no point did I feel taken advantage of or misled. Michael was upfront, transparent and trustworthy. I would have no hesitation in recommending him to anyone in need of the legal services he offers. Thank you, Michael, for everything.
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26 Sep, 2011 by Anonymous
Lynn Foster handled my divorce/custody battle with absolute professionalism, and even a bit a humor that helped through a really difficult process. He is a straight shooter and very well respected in the Ft. Bend Co court system. I not going to comment on the outcome of my case, but either way I would have come away satisfied with the level of service I received.
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28 May, 2011 by Anonymous
Attorney Foster helped us write our will a few years back and within the last year or so helped us rewrite it. He was very knowledgeable and worked with us in a timely manner. He is very easy to work with and attentive to his clients needs.
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26 May, 2011 by Denise
Lynn is very professional, extremely knowledgeable, and compassionate. He helped me through a very difficult time in my life and guided me through the legal process. His integrity and honesty shows in his work, both in and out of the courtroom. His work ethics and expertise won my case and I will be forever grateful.
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07 May, 2019 by Byron spates
Byron Spates: I hired Mr.Nassif for a criminal case i had. Meet him through a mutual friend. I could not have asked for a more motivated and compassionate down to earth attorney. He gave me very appreciated and satisfying results. Will always recommend him to anyone who is in need of a worthy attorney. Thank you Mr. Nassif
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27 Nov, 2018 by Anonymous
Me Nassif is an excellent Attorney. He has succeeded in lowering my bond in a matter of a couple of weeks. Hard working, dependable, and he is a caring person. He responds to my calls and my text messages. If not the same day, the next day. I recommend him to anyone that needs a lawyer just not to defend you but a lawyer who will give you his 110%. Thank you , Mr Nassif
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26 Jun, 2018 by Anthony
He’s was a great help with my case and went above and beyond to get what was fair. Highly recommend him for anyone seeking a highly qualified lawyer!
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16 Aug, 2017 by Paul
I would like to offer a few words regarding my recent experience of my engagement of Damon for legal services.
I found myself in dire need of legal representation on a personal matter, divorce, and Damon answered the call in a timely manner. After our initial meeting in which I outlined my wishes, Damon “took the ball and ran with it”. He persisted in negotiating my desires and handled the manner in a professional and prompt manner, while always keeping me apprised of any ongoing circumstances.
By putting this matter into Damon’s hands, this freed me to pursue other pressing matters in my life at that time.
Should you need legal advice on any matter, I would highly recommend that you set-up a consultation meeting with Damon, go over you stance and wishes in the matter, and let him advise you of the “legal roadmap” to that end, thereby allowing you to make an informed decision.
Paul
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08 Mar, 2017 by Monty
I hired Damon to setup my will and couldn't be happier with the service I received. Damon is the consummate professional and he made the will/estate planning process very simple to understand. He's trustworthy and reliable. I highly recommend Damon for your legal needs.
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24 Feb, 2017 by Rickie
Damon was a great benefit during our legal and personal dealings, including Wills and Power of Attorney documents as well as my divorce process and proceedings. He had a very professional style, was timely and handled with great care from my personal experience perspective. He was an exceptional listener and planner during the entire process. I have recommended Damon as a lawyer to my family members and he managed them with the same care and professionalism. I definitely recommend Damon for others to seriously consider his services.
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10 Apr, 2016 by Lynne
I had an amazing experience in hiring Ms. Holloway as my attorney, she was extremely helpful in guiding me through my legal family issues. She provided options I had no idea existed- making what could have been a complicated process much easier. She was very forward in what she felt was reasonable and never tried to sugar coat or give me false hope, she offered realistic expectations.
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10 Sep, 2014 by B. eric
Retaining Patricia Holloway as the attorney for my child support and custody case has been one of best decisions I have made in my case. My case was/is complicated, difficult and out of state. Patricia has given me excellent advice at every stage and handled the proceedings and hearings in a very experienced and professional manner. She is extremely knowledgeable regarding family law. She clearly explained my rights and responsibilities and together we have mapped out a plan of action. She has been superior at not only synthesizing and presenting evidence to the Court, but also in carefully listening to me. She is good at communicating, and consistently responded to my emails promptly and thoroughly. I feel that she has truly worked on my child’s behalf and I can’t ask for more than that.
I highly recommend Patricia Holloway for your family law needs.
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19 Jun, 2014 by John
Mr Engelhaupt is more like a trusted friend. He has acted on behalf on various occasions, including drafting our wills, reviewing and composing contracts for real estate and other business ventures. I always call him before making any important decision... very experienced and knowledgeable and extremely honest.
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30 Dec, 2016 by Steve
Margaret was referred to me by someone who has used Ms. Connolly's for creating a will. I used Ms. Connolly to create my Trust. I had limited knowledge of the intricacies of a Trust. Ms. Connolly walked me through every step of the way. Additionally, she offered me advise that I would have not considered in the development of my trust.
I highly recommend using Margaret Connolly to help you with the development of your will or Trust.
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16 Aug, 2024 by Jane dolan
Excellent attorney who does explain clearly and then do just exactly what he said he would do! Always polite .
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22 Jul, 2024 by Sarah sullivan
Very helpful and caring
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06 Jul, 2024 by Katie mcbeath
I wholeheartedly recommend their home improvement snd related ancillary services to anyone. Great job! Keep up the great work that you do!
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05 Jul, 2024 by Luis carrizales
Happy with the outcome, walk us through the entire process. Made it easy and our outcome was better than expected.
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24 Apr, 2024 by Juan casas
Very professional and amicable. Recommending this law form to my whole family.
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29 Jan, 2024 by Jose lopez
Fue un excelete trabajo quede facinada con el results do de mi caso. Difinitivamente la recomindo.
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04 Sep, 2024 by Shreerekha pillai
Attorney Puvvada does excellent work for his clients. He knows the laws and also remains kind and respectful as people go through the most challenging time in their lives. Highly recommend him and his office!
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04 Jul, 2024 by Eugene armstrong
I was very pleased with how attentive and thorough Vicky and her staff were during a difficult time. Everything was done in a timely manner, and I was satisfied with the result.
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02 Jul, 2024 by Suzan grande
They got me to the finish line! And that was not an easy feat. Great communication.
Top notch!
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04 Sep, 2024 by Shreerekha pillai
Attorney Puvvada does excellent work for his clients. He knows the laws and also remains kind and respectful as people go through the most challenging time in their lives. Highly recommend him and his office!
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04 Jul, 2024 by Eugene armstrong
I was very pleased with how attentive and thorough Vicky and her staff were during a difficult time. Everything was done in a timely manner, and I was satisfied with the result.
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02 Jul, 2024 by Suzan grande
They got me to the finish line! And that was not an easy feat. Great communication.
Top notch!
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02 Mar, 2024 by Boogs thamfdon
This lawyer was appointed to me and helped me expose the police Injustice and got all charges dismissed
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28 Feb, 2024 by Rick white
Very professional firm. If you're looking for serious representation, look no further. I've used Jeremy before, and that's the reason I'm hiring him again.
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23 Oct, 2023 by Adetola babarinde
03 May, 2024 by B bushnell
I was looking for an attorney for a wrongful termination lawsuit. He doesn't practice that type of law anymore, but called me back same day and knew exactly the type of case I had and gave me the numbers for attorney referral services to find one. What a stand up guy.
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03 May, 2024 by Angela driscoll
The attorney was helpful and was able to get me the information I needed to proceed with my issue.
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03 May, 2024 by Caroline z
08 Feb, 2024 by Juanita gonzalez
This lawyer is the greatest lawyer he listens to your input and will resolve ur case always answers his calls 🙏god continue to bless ur career
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17 Jan, 2024 by Jaci cavazos
19 Dec, 2023 by Michael burchett
Everything handled from start to finish very professionally done
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05 Oct, 2024 by Kiran khoja
I had the privilege of working with Zain Maredia during my immigration process and would highly recommend him! From our first consultation, it was clear that he possessed a deep understanding of immigration law and genuinely cared about my case.
Zain was thorough, and always available to answer my questions. He guided me through each step, ensuring that I understood the process and what was required of me. His attention to detail was impeccable, and it was evident that he prepared my case with the utmost care.
I felt supported throughout the process, which can often be stressful and overwhelming. Thanks to his expertise and support, my application was successful. I am incredibly grateful for his help and would recommend him to anyone in need of immigration assistance.
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24 Sep, 2024 by Taslima chowdhury
I highly recommend Zain Maredia and his LLC for anyone seeking expert immigration assistance. His professionalism, dedication, and deep knowledge of immigration law made my process smooth and stress-free. He took the time to explain each step clearly, ensuring I understood everything. Throughout my case, he was responsive, compassionate, and always available to answer questions. Thank you so much Zain, for making my immigration process easy and successful where I couldn't be happier with the outcome. He truly go above and beyond! I wish his success and lots of blessings for him.
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23 Sep, 2024 by Saiful momin
I recently switched from an F1 OPT to an E-2 visa, and Zain and his team did an excellent job. They handled all the paperwork carefully, put together a strong case for USCIS, and managed the RFE really well. I’m very happy with their service and highly recommend them for immigration help.
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28 May, 2013 by Perkins
When I first started working with Georgia it was a bit intimidating because she has so much knowledge and I couldn't keep up. She's such a great person because when I lelt her know that I needed for her to break everything down for me, she did it with such grace and patience. She went above and beyond for me, even when I started to feel a little defeated. She was my strength and got me through it all by not only holding me together but, by winning my/our case in a strong way. She is a force to be reckoned with in the court room! Awesome Attorney!!
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24 May, 2013 by Anonymous
Ms. Trudeau is very knowledgeable of the law. She worked diligently to resolve my issues. She was creative in working to achieve a favorable result, as well. She was fair. She explained matters to me so that I could understand them.
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12 May, 2013 by Chris
Georgia handled my personal case. She kept me informed by phone and e-mail of all communication with the other party. Communication was prompt and frequent. All my calls were taken immediately or returned promptly. The case was settled out of court, in my favor, in approximately 3 weeks.
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03 May, 2024 by Jeremy ross
I would like to take this opportunity to thank the entire team at Romano & Sumner for their superb professionalism and excellent work regarding the probate of my late father's Will & Testament. Elizabeth kept us informed with periodic updates and Kenny never hesitated to respond to our questions directly. Despite the trying circumstances, I'm glad we chose Romano & Sumner to handle our case.
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05 Mar, 2024 by Brenden nagel
My brother and I recently had a consultation with Mr. Sumner at this firm, and within a quick 20-minute meeting, we received more valuable information about guardianship than we had managed to uncover in four days of independent research. We were both thoroughly impressed by the clarity and usefulness of the guidance provided. It was a relief and a delight to finally obtain clear next steps for our situation, thanks to Mr. Sumner's expertise.
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08 Aug, 2023 by Jonathan dodge
We used this law firm to get our will and estate documents done. So glad to get it done after thinking and talking about it for years. You always hear the stories of people not doing it and the chaos that can ensue. Our experience here was excellent from start to finish. Very professional and detailed. I recommend this firm without any hesitation.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Kobi merrell
Ben did a great job on my auto accident case. Im blessed to meet him and look forward with working with him again.
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11 Aug, 2024 by Zachary harris
Excellent and professional services. I was able to present my concerns and have them addressed in a timely manner. 5/5 experience.
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10 Jul, 2024 by Cherl burgess
4.8
11 Reviews
4.7
181 Reviews
20 Aug, 2024 by Kobi merrell
Ben did a great job on my auto accident case. Im blessed to meet him and look forward with working with him again.
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11 Aug, 2024 by Zachary harris
Excellent and professional services. I was able to present my concerns and have them addressed in a timely manner. 5/5 experience.
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10 Jul, 2024 by Cherl burgess
5.0
2 Reviews
4.7
181 Reviews
20 Aug, 2024 by Kobi merrell
Ben did a great job on my auto accident case. Im blessed to meet him and look forward with working with him again.
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11 Aug, 2024 by Zachary harris
Excellent and professional services. I was able to present my concerns and have them addressed in a timely manner. 5/5 experience.
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10 Jul, 2024 by Cherl burgess
5.0
1 Reviews
4.7
44 Reviews
08 Feb, 2024 by Juanita gonzalez
This lawyer is the greatest lawyer he listens to your input and will resolve ur case always answers his calls 🙏god continue to bless ur career
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17 Jan, 2024 by Jaci cavazos
19 Dec, 2023 by Michael burchett
Everything handled from start to finish very professionally done
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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.
