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06 Mar, 2023 by Dana
We hired Mr. Bauer for one specific issue that through battling morphed into a million other issues that not even the judges orders seemed to "stick."
Due to Mr. Bauer and his teams diligence, all of the issues were compiled into one resolution and our nightmare finally ended!
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01 Mar, 2022 by Emily
Michael Bauer is a great lawyer he defended me from 2018 until 2022. I was wrongfully charged in both of my cases , I was fighting a felony case and a DUI and the battle was a struggle but each month he showed up to court for me and kept me updated. Both cases were dropped and I cried. I am so thankful for him and his team for the fight and not taking any plea deals and never compromising . I am saying he is most definitely a great lawyer and very good at what he does . I am forever grateful!
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10 Dec, 2020 by Matthew
Mr Bauer was able to get a result that my previous attorney was not able to accomplish. I would suggest him for an aggressive attorney who is willing to do what it takes to win the case.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Charlotte hill
Ms Thurman was such a blessing and a help to my family. We thank God for leading us to her. She is an excellent lawyer...Very knowledgeable and helpful. She was able to explain everything in a way that we could understand. She made sure that we were well informed and armed with the knowledge we needed to make the best decision for our family. She is running for judge and she certainly has my vote. We could use more people like Ms. Thurman both in life and in law. I highly recommend her.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Sal nuzzo
Christine has been a godsend. She's so much more than an attorney. She took what was an incredibly challenging and complex set of circumstances and helped me navigate them when I had no ability emotionally to do it. She's been a counselor, advocate, friend, and more - even when I didn't directly need her. I can not speak highly enough of Christine and her entire team.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Robert gillander
We used Thurman for our adoption paperwork. Christine hires great people and they were with us every step of the way. I really felt like she cared about us as a family and wanted our needs taken care of. If you are looking for the genuine article please give them a try. They are awesome
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20 Sep, 2024 by Kayla
Mr. Way was instrumental in finalizing my divorce quickly and efficiently. He was incredibly supportive, advocated for me, and made himself available whenever I had questions. His patience and responsiveness were outstanding. I cannot recommend him enough!
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19 Jul, 2024 by Lari peavy
12 Jun, 2024 by Ryan guenther
This guy has a knack for representing the scum of society. He was once a prosecutor in Wakulla but now he represents the most heinous murder suspects such as Denise Williams, whose infidelity led to her beau killing her husband for his life insurance policy. He also represented my my kid's mom( who is coke/crack addict) in a case of "poor me". If you want a good attorney, that Ethan is afraid of, go with Tony Bajaowski. He's terrified of Tony. Avoid Ethan at all cost, he is the epitome and immoral attorney that lack integrity...
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5.0
7 Reviews
4.4
41 Reviews
03 Oct, 2023 by Bill rushing
Fournier represented me in a abuse/custody case. This case was continuous and complicated in many ways. Three years to completion. After three years of experience I can confidently recommend this law office. I wouldn’t trust another law office with my family!!!!!!!! Thanks Ashley, Gena, Susan, and everyone else in the office! They worked so diligently!
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03 Feb, 2023 by Kenchard daniels
Super Attorneys, Wise Counsel, Became My Family!
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18 Jan, 2023 by Claude rabbath
The best lawyer in Tallahassee who can represent you . Thank You Gena .
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30 Oct, 2024 by Samantha creel
Mr. Factor is amazing to work with, and everyone was so comforting and helpful. Thank you Sandie!
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29 Oct, 2024 by Kris martel
The entire staff at Max Factor were always very welcoming and made me feel comfortable from the very first time I visited their office. Mr. Factor explained everything and ensured I was aware of what to expect every step of the way. I don’t believe I could find another lawyer who is more level headed, logical, and able to be my champion through the divorce I was unfortunate enough to go through. If you want an honest, trustworthy, and well connected lawyer to represent you in a divorce, look no further than Max Factor Law.
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24 Oct, 2024 by Mei1947 irvine
Max Factor' firm was outstanding in helping me with my divorce. Sandie,Amber, Eric, Will and Max made in so easy to tread though the legalize of divorce. I recommend this law firm highly for any family law issue you may encounter.
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5.0
20 Reviews
4.6
66 Reviews
20 Jul, 2024 by Melanie mason
Mr. Thompson and Ms. Rebecca were so friendly and helpful. They were both easy to work with and provided top notch customer service. I would highly recommend this firm.
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24 Jun, 2024 by Tony bower
Mr. Thompson and his para legal, Rebecca Martin, gave us pre service consultation, said what they would do and did it, professionally, timely and kept us informed throughout.
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19 Jun, 2024 by Jimmy h
Have been a joy to work with. Very skilled in dealing with all kinds of matters. Helped me deal with something that came out of the wood work from almost 20 years ago. Would highly highly recommend!
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30 Oct, 2024 by Samantha creel
Mr. Factor is amazing to work with, and everyone was so comforting and helpful. Thank you Sandie!
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29 Oct, 2024 by Kris martel
The entire staff at Max Factor were always very welcoming and made me feel comfortable from the very first time I visited their office. Mr. Factor explained everything and ensured I was aware of what to expect every step of the way. I don’t believe I could find another lawyer who is more level headed, logical, and able to be my champion through the divorce I was unfortunate enough to go through. If you want an honest, trustworthy, and well connected lawyer to represent you in a divorce, look no further than Max Factor Law.
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24 Oct, 2024 by Mei1947 irvine
Max Factor' firm was outstanding in helping me with my divorce. Sandie,Amber, Eric, Will and Max made in so easy to tread though the legalize of divorce. I recommend this law firm highly for any family law issue you may encounter.
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20 Jul, 2024 by Melanie mason
Mr. Thompson and Ms. Rebecca were so friendly and helpful. They were both easy to work with and provided top notch customer service. I would highly recommend this firm.
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24 Jun, 2024 by Tony bower
Mr. Thompson and his para legal, Rebecca Martin, gave us pre service consultation, said what they would do and did it, professionally, timely and kept us informed throughout.
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19 Jun, 2024 by Jimmy h
Have been a joy to work with. Very skilled in dealing with all kinds of matters. Helped me deal with something that came out of the wood work from almost 20 years ago. Would highly highly recommend!
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09 Sep, 2024 by P p
I wouldn’t hire Adam again as I am in middle of a divorce. I wasted thousands of dollars. I fired him as my lawyer and hired new council, immediately the same day.
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22 May, 2024 by Carlton kellett
04 Feb, 2024 by Michael sattler
18 Jun, 2024 by M b
Bad attorney who colludes with other attorneys to keep a client from getting the legal money owed them. Avoid and stay away.
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08 May, 2024 by Callie kitchens
15 Mar, 2024 by Jeremy patterson
I could not be happier about the representation that I received! Alenna and Brian were very communicative and generally supportive from my very first phone call to the firm. We had a great phone consultation that let me know I was dealing with professionals. Process took less than 50 days and my situation was complete! Pricing seemed fair. Highly recommend
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21 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
Hiring Mr. Horan as my attorney was a great experience! He is very knowledgeable about Florida law and passionate about his clients. Attorney Horan will make sure you get what is owed to you. I highly recommend!
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14 Feb, 2019 by Anonymous
Mr. Edward (Ed) Horan was hired to fight for the protection of our daughter. Mr. Horan explained the challenges to us, by not being blood relatives, but nonetheless, he put his heart, experience, tenacity and his love for the protection of our daughter and he never gave up. Thanks to Mr. Horan and God, we WON the case. Mr. Horan always sent us detailed invoices that explained the work he completed. My husband and I recommend him to anyone who needs a great, honorable lawyer. In the court room, he is respectful to the judges and other attorneys. He is very known in the leon county courthouse and seems to be respected. He does his homework and KNOWS the right angles and questions to ask whoever is on the stand. You can trust Mr. Horan and the angle he is taking to win and fight for you. Mr. Horan will allow you to bring evidence to him and if it is credible, he will use it. We are thankful that Mr. Horan held our hands throughout the entire process (from the TPR to the adoption). Mr. Horan was very kind to us and stayed in touch, to make sure we didn't have any surprises. Again, if you looking for a GREAT Lawyer that goes up and above his calling, you need to call Mr. Horan to fight for you.
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05 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous
I hired ed about 4 years ago, let's just say everything he had told me went out the window once we went to mediation. I ended up with a horrible agreement that had multiple mistakes in it that the other party used to their advantage. His only advice was for me to hope they didn't notice. I know better now, but was much to trusting back then.
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17 Aug, 2019 by Anonymous
Christin helped me through one of the most difficult times of my life. She's a good listener and advocate.
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12 Jul, 2019 by Anonymous
I hired Christin to represent me in a collaborative divorce. She was committed to my case, prepared me for each collaborative meeting, and made sure I was informed and felt comfortable with the decisions I made throughout the case. I appreciated Christin's approach to constructively handling issues and am relieved that I was able to reach an amicable resolution to my case.
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06 May, 2019 by Anonymous
I hired Christin to guide me through my divorce. She did a good job of preparing me for the divorce process and taking care of the rote legal matters. However, when it came to negotiation of settlement terms, I felt like Christin was not very good at negotiation. Filling-out boiler plate forms is the easy work, but negotiating a good settlement is what justifies the cost of a good attorney and I don't think Christin was up to the task.
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08 Oct, 2024 by David altmaier
I highly recommend Diana Cohn Law, P.A. She was very knowledgeable and made the process seamless. An easy 5 star review.
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22 Aug, 2024 by Susan bastida
Diana Cohn surpassed my expectations through my entire divorce process. I wanted a professional Attorney who was going to fight for me, have the knowledge and experience to do so, as well as, answer all my questions throughout the entire process. I would highly recommend her as an Attorney with a vast amount of knowledge who will stand for you in every step of the process.
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01 Aug, 2024 by Ash gandee
Diana was amazing!!! I can't express enough how happy I was working with her. She was very fast, attentive and her response time was super speedy. If you need an attorney I highly recommend working with this Law Firm!!
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28 May, 2024 by Toddria ball
30 Mar, 2024 by Brandi williams
10 Nov, 2023 by Angeli tominez
28 Jun, 2024 by S.s. 2014
I never thought after 12 years of marriage that it would end the way that it did. But thanks to Mrs. Gleason and her wounderful staff they made it as smooth as it could be under the stress of it all. They kepted me informed everystep of the way. I did'nt want to be taken advantage of so I knew I needed a good Lawyer to represent me. I just lost too much and could not efford to lose anything else. They will be my go to people should anything arise in the furture. Thanks again! S.S.
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23 Aug, 2023 by Jerry sanders
21 Dec, 2022 by Beth echols
17 Aug, 2024 by Mopowerup onlyup
15 Jul, 2024 by Randy jones
I spoke with John back in early June to see if he could handle something for me. He took the information needed and said he would call back. After a couple of weeks I called again and left a message. I spoke to a Rebecca and she stated that he would call me back also. After several attemps, no one to this date has called back or followed up with me. Either the job was too small or there was a conflict of interest. Just let me know either way is all I wanted.
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11 Aug, 2022 by Lane stephens
Obviously a professional operation. Top notch attorney and awesome legal staff.
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17 Aug, 2024 by Mopowerup onlyup
15 Jul, 2024 by Randy jones
I spoke with John back in early June to see if he could handle something for me. He took the information needed and said he would call back. After a couple of weeks I called again and left a message. I spoke to a Rebecca and she stated that he would call me back also. After several attemps, no one to this date has called back or followed up with me. Either the job was too small or there was a conflict of interest. Just let me know either way is all I wanted.
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11 Aug, 2022 by Lane stephens
Obviously a professional operation. Top notch attorney and awesome legal staff.
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10 Oct, 2024 by Noah wolff
Unfortunately i cannot report such an experience that others here report. I originally saw this office and its google rating and had high hopes to only be taken through a nightmare. I unfortunately was paired up with the "Associate" and not Gary Roberts -- perhaps that's where the issues lie. The attorney i was paired with was Tiffani Brown. After being assigned with this attorney i looked her up and saw that the area of my issue (HOA law) is basically her bread and butter. Having said that, this was far from the case as i had to constantly push her and Rebecca (whom was actually very nice the few times i talked to her on the phone). This issue with started with this attorney around the middle of July and is still not resolved to this day. I constantly had to call the office and ask about statuses and push them to act on things that were seemingly just sitting around. I had time-sensitive situations that Tiffani had no concern for. Another situation where i had requested for documents from HOA where after 10 business days i would be owed a minimum $50\day and she had no idea what i was talking about when i mentioned this, that this was even relevant to the situation, and when mentioned told me that she would essentially have to go look into it if it's even relevant or pertains to the situation -- it's cut and dry, and laid out in F.S 720 that if i request documents (meeting minutes) that i am owed those docs within 10 business days; it was going on 20! She had no urgency to push back on opposing counsel, AT ALL. I had to push her to do everything, feeding her Florida Statutes and Case Law all to no avail. I basically was doing all of the work, having to convince my own lawyer that is being paid by me, and also having to educate her on her own job, duty, and angles to approach. After finally having enough, i told her i would like to separate so that i can find another attorney that is actually going to advocate on my behalf and she sends me the most unprofessional separation\termination letter I've ever seen. it was essentially blaming me for everything and trying to make it seem as though my position is entirely unreasonable. Keep in mind, my position is that i am being denied the right to repair my driveway by my HOA's ARC committee for no reason what so ever but for unreasonable, seemingly retaliatory purposes. The HOA at the time was comprised of 3 people, it's since reduced from that due to this nonsense and the HOA president has gone to neighbor's within the community coercing them into signing paperwork to pass additional ARC requests despite not having actual ARC committee meetings or board quorum. I presume Gary is more professional and capable as i have not had the pleasure to work with him and reviews here seem to give praise, but Tiffani Brown is the one to avoid.
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30 May, 2024 by Maggie holloway
great attorney.
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08 Jul, 2020 by Dreams, prophecy and visions
As of June/ July 2020- So far, so good. I was recommended to him by a colleague. Others suggested that I go with a "well-known" law firm since their reputation is better ( tv commercials, reviews, more cases, etc).
My experience so far: He's personable, responds to emails and questions that may arise in a timely manner. He seems genuine. However, I will provide an update as my personal injury case (rear-ended by a habitual drunk driver who attempted to flee the scene and was arrested/ bodily injury/ etc.) moves forward as i was advised that the details are in the insurance of both parties. I'm thankful for my life which is priceless and precious, but I pray that he is able to use his 25+ years of experience to reach the maximum compensation.
***I will provide an update which is why I rated 3 stars at this time.
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18 Aug, 2023 by Marcus
I hired Shelly 6 years ago to handle my case for child support. In the beginning, she talked the talk. She told me I would get 50/50 custody of my child. Why not? I had 50/50 with my two other kids. She made it sound like I was going to get what I wanted.
Two years later, I got an email from her saying we were going to court that year, and she only needed to 1.5 hrs to wrapped things up. I was excited because I was going to get to have time with my daughter and my other kids were going to get to bond with their younger sister.
The time came and went. No emails and no response from Shelly. I reached out to her and still no response. COVID hit so I have her the benefit of the doubt. Cases were backed up because of COVID.
I reached out to Shelly by phone and email wanting to have my daughter with me some during Christmas last year so she could meet her sisters, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and me. I haven't been around my child since she was a baby and haven't been allowed to see her since.
My daughter has missed out on so much. She has a family she doesn't even know that loves her and would love to see her. You would have thought that matter to Shelly but no. No response from Shelly at all.
Fast forward to this year. I get a letter for m the Attorney General's Office stating that Shelly ask to remove herself from my case due to failure to prosecute. I received no email, text, nor phone call from Shelly telling me that she was going to drop my case. That's pretty unprofessional in my book.
So now, I am without a lawyer still with an open case. If you have been on the fence about hiring Shelly, don't bother. She will take your money and run. She shouldn't be allowed to practice law in the State of Florida. She talks the talk. She walks the walk like walking off with your money.
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12 Dec, 2022 by Jamal
Ms. Thomas was very straightforward and eager to me throughout my whole divorce/custody case. Communication was excellent.
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12 Dec, 2022 by Anonymous
There is no doubt Ms. Thomas has a high case load and lacks in communication. Although, she has represented me won multiple Family Law Cases and Criminal charges and when my time came around I was given her full attention and so were all of my cases. I understand how challenging juggling caseload and giving everyone and their Mama and update everyday, and managing several trials happening at the same time could be totally overwhelming. I know I never seen her take a day off, and I know my justice through her has been served.
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25 Sep, 2024 by Gernea mobley
My experience with this law firm was not the best. It started out rather smooth and then made a huge turn towards the end. My case was drawn out over five years when it could have been much less. Let me start by first addressing the customer service from most of the individuals who answer the phone. They have no phone etiquette when you call the office. It seems as if they are bothered or don't have the time to deal with anyone. I have encountered rudeness on several occasions which sets the tone for what this firm is all about. The people who answer the phones are not educated on general questions, you never get any help or answers and your always transferred so quickly or asked to leave a message. Secondly, the lack of communication this office has is diabolical. After sitting and waiting almost 4 years for any movement on my case, I begin to receive calls and emails from random people I never spoke to before requesting that I come to meetings with short notice. My time was not taken into consideration at all. I mean asking that someone attend a deposition or an online meeting one day before is unreasonable without advance notice or proper preparation. You will never speak to Ms. Mattox at all I gather that the firm is only named after her, I spoke to her one time on a 3 way call at the very end stage of my case for about five minutes. My case was passed over to multiple people throughout the entire process I was so confused and was never given any clarity as to who was actually handling my case until the very end. I was not given full and complete honesty about some information, I was told one thing and received the opposite. This firm has showed me that they are concerned with their own satisfaction instead of the clients. Without going into any specific details regarding my case I will say that I feel that the five years I wasted and waited for a resolution and outcome was totally unnecessary and those who handled my case know exactly what I am talking about. This review is more so for the potential clients of this firm. I would encourage you to ask as many questions as you can from the beginning and stay knowledgeable about your case to avoid what I went through.
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06 Sep, 2024 by Steve hogg
I called to try to get answers about my issues.Before I could explain they the receptionist basicly told me the same thing I been hearing for the past 4 years.
You mean to tell me lawyers go to school to only do accidents?
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06 Sep, 2024 by Tracy scarbary
The experience for me was horrible. They do send you a letter in the beginning explaining you will go long times with no communication, that's an understatement! I never even meet the attorney assigned to my case. Never had a one on one discussion with anyone. Took over 4years to resolve, can't blame that all on covid! The process is confusing, the receptionist is rude, and it always felt like I was bothering them when I would call and try to get updates. Very disappointing from start to finish. Once settled took forever for payout, and understand the 40% percent the firm gets comes off the top not after fees are paid, you may not realize it but it makes a difference in what you end up with!!
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10 Sep, 2024 by Jose
Needed an attorney after a death in the family and issues arose with the will and some property. Mr. Richardson took on the issue, kept me posted in all events, was very thorough, did very diligent and unremittingresearch and was able to conclude the case in a very favorable manner. His way of explaining the issues along the way was very helpful and kept me at ease.
I highly recommend Jeff if in need of an attorney.
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14 May, 2024 by Robert
Mr. Richardson believed in the merits of my case and agreed to take it on when nobody else would. He spent over a year working on the case and after his presentation the other side agreed to settle in my favor. I am forever grateful for his willingness to look beyond money and champion a just cause.
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19 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous
Do NOT hire this attorney. He has utterly destroyed my case with his incompetence. He has repeatedly failed to fulfill his contract as well as properly represent me. He makes no effort to properly communicate or respond to me. He has repeatedly conveyed information to opposing counsel without my knowledge that has helped the opposing party to avoid accountability. He has actively avoided providing me with court documents, communications from opposing counsel, filing court documents, and has gone so far as to fail to uphold my court ordered rights.
Do yourself a favor and run as far away from this attorney as you possibly can. He has no conscience.
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01 Apr, 2021 by Elizabeth
Had very positive experience with Mr Bucataru. Excellent outcome and felt taken care of throughout process. Hard to find these days. Highly recommend him!
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24 Aug, 2019 by James
Likes to file expensive appeals. Expensive plans that may not work. Some meetings at local restaurants with stories of his days in French foreign legion. Then no compunctions about dropping you as a client the day before a hearing.
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15 Mar, 2018 by Gabriella
Ian represented me over the course of 4 years in my divorce as well as my ex-husband's many attempts to modify visitation and child support. In every situation Ian dealt with my case fast and blocked all the tricks my ex tried to play. Everything Ian filed was approved by both the judge and the magistrate almost without change. I highly recommend Ian for any family law case.
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13 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
I used this attorney several years ago I was sitting in court and he never showed up and never called me to tell me he was not going to show I had to wait till court was over to find out what happen He told me that he spoke to the state attorney and on the last day at court he was ask if he spoke to the state attorney and she shook her head no. This put me in a bad situation and I did not know what to do.
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03 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr Arrowood helped a family member. From the first phone call made, in which he spoke with her and told her if he could help or not, to the final court case he did nothing but help. He was not just out for money and saved her money. He was very upfront and honest about the "what could happen". I was very impressed by him and would certainly recommend him.
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27 May, 2015 by Anonymous
I cannot say enough good things about Jeff Arrowood. I'm involved in a ridiculous family law case and he gives consistently strong, logical, clear advice and has carried me through several victories, big and small, against a very difficult opposing side. He also watches out for my billing, suggesting cost-effective ways for getting things done, while providing sound advice. It's to the point where I take his advice almost without question. He's smart, low-drama, takes no sh**, and knows what he's doing. Very highly recommended. You're in good hands with this guy.
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09 Jun, 2024 by Rosa charles
01 May, 2024 by Dimitria mitchell
10 Apr, 2024 by Agent snake plisskin
Officer Oliver out of Tallahassee PD was caught on her BWC planting evidence. She was also caught lying multiple times and yet they still allowed her to testify in court. Some how she is still employed with Tallahassee Police. Ag jack campbell, the judge, the prosecutor and the police are a disgrace to our great nation. That whole group needs to be investigated.
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09 Jun, 2024 by Rosa charles
01 May, 2024 by Dimitria mitchell
10 Apr, 2024 by Agent snake plisskin
Officer Oliver out of Tallahassee PD was caught on her BWC planting evidence. She was also caught lying multiple times and yet they still allowed her to testify in court. Some how she is still employed with Tallahassee Police. Ag jack campbell, the judge, the prosecutor and the police are a disgrace to our great nation. That whole group needs to be investigated.
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16 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
I hired John Williams for a divorce. He overcharged me and then sued me for fees. Avoid him at ALL COSTS.
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29 Mar, 2017 by Antonette
John Williams has represented me for several years, through multiple family law proceedings. I continue to have him represent me because I always feel that I am in good hands; he is an expert in the law and is also very wise when it comes to the personal aspect of the case. He is never afraid to fight for me, but he doesn’t pour fuel on the fire as some family lawyers do. His prices are very fair. And he looks out for me and my case. I highly recommend him!
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28 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
I hired Mr Williams to help me during a really bad divorce. He said he could help and because of my financial situation he would not charge me his regular fee. In short, I had to let him go because he charged more than he said and was not nice in the process. Find someone else if you can.
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14 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
She says she wants to help you. In truth, after quoting me a price for what was needed, she got creative and doubled her estimate. She knew what she was doing. She refused to take my calls to discuss. I do not recommend her.
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21 Feb, 2013 by Jill
William Wilhelm misrepresented me in my divorce settlement causing me to be destitute after his representation. William Wilhelm continues to lie about what he did to me and should have his license REVOKED for this blatant MISREPRESENTATION of my CIVIL RIGHTS. I have the paperwork to prove the breech of ethics.
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28 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous
Miss Bates was paid in full, and then stopped all communication with me. No response after placing several phone calls and text messages.
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29 Jun, 2021 by Patricia
I hired Mr. Karpinski on 11/26 to represent my grandson. He assured me he was well connected with the State Attorney and could resolve the case. In December by zoom meeting in 45 seconds he told the judge he had not received the case yet, understandable. January by zoom was a repeat of December. February he told the judge by zoom, again 45 seconds, he had just gotten the case and had not had a chance to review. In the meantime he did not interview my grandson and ignored all but one of his calls. My grandson's wife finally got in touch with him and gave him information in a 3 minute telephone call and Mr. Karpinski told the judge in that zoom meeting he was interviewing witnesses. I then wrote Mr. Karpinski a letter expressing my disatisfaction with his handling of the case. I did not hear from him. I then called him to discuss progress, he did not return my call. Finally on the morning of the April zoom meeting I contacted people involved with the case and found he had not tried to interview anyone and I texted Mr. Karpinski to say he was fired. THEN HE CALLED ME. He said he called an outside vendor and they might be willing to take my grandson as a client once again, but he had not gotten a definitive answer from them and oh well he hadn't talked to the State Attorney about it either yet. At that point I had paid him $2100.00. I amassed the telephone time he spent with me, my grandson, his wife, and estimated the time of the outside vendor at 15 min. to be generous. I have any emails I sent him. He never could associate my name, with my grandson's case so if he read over the case, I doubt he read it in depth. I am being generous to say he spent an hour and a half on the case in total. I told him I expected a refund of most of the money I paid him considering his hourly rate, I thought $1500 refund was fair. It has been two and a half months and he has not even called to offer an excuse why he hasn't repaid the money. It's pretty good to take on clients, take their money and do little for it. You could make a fairly good living at it.
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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:
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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.
