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05 Nov, 2020 by Da. thunder
26 Oct, 2020 by John greco
16 Oct, 2020 by Dean filippi
05 Nov, 2020 by Da. thunder
26 Oct, 2020 by John greco
16 Oct, 2020 by Dean filippi
20 Sep, 2018 by Tanya byrd
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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15 Oct, 2024 by Anthony burnley
With the charges I had I didn’t know when I was going to go home. All I kept hearing was prison but Mr. Baptise wasn’t going for that. 23 years old catching 2 cases in 2 different counties he made sure he did his best to bring me home. With his skills, determination, and dedication I received the best deal I least expected. On behalf of me and my family we want to thank you for bringing me home to my family and love ones.
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14 Oct, 2024 by Alex digo
Webster and baptist attorney represented me to finalize my lawsuit, jean baptist is truly an amazing attorney, he is professional and one of the best lawyers out there, so guys i encourage you all to hire him to represent you with your case. He is very experienced.
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08 Mar, 2024 by Lucas r.
Stephen and Louis are very knowledgeable and professional. They're very diligent and truly have your best interest in mind. I absolutely trust these men with my life.
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5.0
7 Reviews
4.4
44 Reviews
14 Dec, 2024 by Kathleen mayes
Gena is not just an excellent family law attorney who is very attentive and always keeps you in the loop, but more than that she is a great person in general, kind heart and really cares about her clients.
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09 Nov, 2024 by Young gook
Gena has a "win it all" mentality, which is good unless you have nothing you're trying to win other than a fair settlement. If you have a simple case, Gena is gonna blow it out of proportions and cost you thousands more than what's needed. Even the judge during the child custody case said Gena needs to figure this case out because she is dragging it on too long for 2 young individuals that do not have much to their names
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07 Jul, 2024 by Donna burnsed
04 Dec, 2024 by Donna johnson
The best practice in Tallahassee.
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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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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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09 Sep, 2024 by Penelope
I wasted thousands of dollars on Adam Cowhey. I fired him and hired new council immediately, the same day. If you're going through a divorce with children- I would stay away from Adam Cowhey.
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22 May, 2024 by Carlton kellett
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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05 Sep, 2015 by Steven
I would highly recommend Ms. McCall to anyone looking for an attorney in the Family, Adoption, Child Custody area of law. Unlike my previous attorney Ms. McCall is your number 1 advocate, listens to what you have to say, makes you feel like you are part of a team, gives you sound legal advice and keeps you informed every step of the way. She is everything my previous attorney wasn't, and because of Ms. McCall I now have custody of my 14 year old daughter.
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20 Sep, 2018 by Tanya byrd
04 Nov, 2024 by Chris lewis
Victoria and Mallory were great to work with and were able to address all our questions on our family's estate planning documents. I highly recommend using them!
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15 Oct, 2024 by P p
Alyssa Silva is the slowest lawyer and slowest reader I've ever met. I didn’t personally pick and hire her as my lawyer, she assisted me during a divorce. She wasn’t kind or welcoming at all. II would not recommend Alyssa for any family law unless you want your simple case to take almost an entire year and still not be proofread correctly.. I had to personally point out so many simple mistakes she made ! She is very new at this job and very slow. I even had another lawyer say she was so slow in mediation in their experience with her !
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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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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
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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31 Aug, 2024 by Lisa parker
Trudy and Lily have been my rock for many years. Extremely professional, knowledgeable and friendly staff!
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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
16 Nov, 2024 by Glondetra arnold
Here’s a positive review template for a divorce attorney:
I can’t thank Diana Cohn enough for the exceptional support and guidance I received during a very challenging time in my life. She demonstrated professionalism, empathy, and expertise throughout the entire process.
Diana took the time to listen to my concerns, explain my options, and ensure I understood every step. Her skills were impressive, and she worked tirelessly to secure the best possible outcome for me.
What stood out the most was her genuine care and attention to detail, which made me feel supported and confident in every decision. I highly recommend Diana Cohn to anyone in need of a skilled and compassionate divorce attorney.
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07 Nov, 2024 by Marcos ramirez
Muy responsable y rápida en su trabajo.
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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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18 Nov, 2024 by Julie smith
06 Nov, 2024 by Shelby gregory
I'm disheartened to give a 1-star rating due to my positive experience with attorney Stephanie Johnson during my childhood in Foster Care. However, as a parent seeking assistance, I've been assigned to Abigail, who neglected to contact me despite detailed voicemails with my name and number. Having applied for services in June/July, it's now November with no update from Abigail. While acknowledging potential case load demands, neglecting client communication is unjustified. Consequently, I must seek pro-bono representation for my custody battle, which is unacceptable.
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13 Sep, 2024 by Becky avrett
Alex and Heber in the Quincy office went above and beyond to assist me on a matter that they had never personally filed before. They made sure to research and get all the answers we needed and that all my paperwork was filed accurately for a smooth process and a positive outcome for my family. They kept in constant contact with me, answered my numerous questions promptly, and always made me feel like I was a top priority. I was extremely comfortable and confident in their abilities throughout the entire process. I am so grateful they were able to help me!
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14 Feb, 2025 by Samuel pyne
A lawyer's lawyer.
Attorney Roberts have assisted me on a few occasions and he has always delivered more than I expected. He has an uncanny ability to get to the root of the issue and apply his extensive legal knowledge to maximize results in your favor. Strongly recommended!
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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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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 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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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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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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05 Jan, 2025 by Charlotte bouie
12 Dec, 2024 by Amy larsen
Katherine Viker’s keen legal knowledge and experience is profound. Katherine Viker is focused possessing an amazingly quick, flexible mind. She was always available to me and helped me overcome my serious fears of confronting my employers. Katherine Viker gave me courage to stand up for myself in a Workman’s Comp Discrimination case. My case was successfully settled.
The entire support team of Marie Mattox Law are outstandingly compassionate and responsive in every way. Her team also worked with me through Florida hurricanes and storms. I highly recommend Marie Mattox and her legal and administrative team. Thank you.
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27 Nov, 2024 by Jon w
I got a speeding ticket in VA, the lawyers and staff at Mattox law were knowledgeable and reasonably priced. They told me what the reasonable expectations where and everything worked out as they predicted. I hope to never need them again but if I do Mattox Law is who I would call
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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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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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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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30 Sep, 2022 by Morton horn
Got great advice. Thanks Tom.
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30 Oct, 2020 by Sara becnel
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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27 Dec, 2019 by Ymx caden
Our family hired Attorney Olivia Brooks (of Smith Brooks & Masterson Law Firm) through a recommendation from Attorney Dana Brooks (of Fasig & Brooks Law firm). We had the opportunity to use her in a recent court case. We were very please with how she handled our case and how quickly she got up to speed. She is knowledgeable, efficient, and personable. Her staff is equally as accommodating and genuinely listened to our concerns. Once we gave her the background information concerning our legal situation, she took it over immediately, giving us her personal phone number, and put us at ease from that point on. We trust her and would highly recommend her.
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03 Nov, 2024 by Kaniya johnson
Dismissed my case about S/A when the person lied about knowing me, lied about where he stayed at where the S/A happen and had the proof of him lying. Showed the state attorney that and they still dismissed my case. Is it because I’m BLACK and a FEMALE. Yall are so corrupt it doesn’t make sense letting a rapist walk around freely. Everyone finna know how corrupt yall is just watch.
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09 Jun, 2024 by Rosa charles
01 May, 2024 by Dimitria mitchell
03 Nov, 2024 by Kaniya johnson
Dismissed my case about S/A when the person lied about knowing me, lied about where he stayed at where the S/A happen and had the proof of him lying. Showed the state attorney that and they still dismissed my case. Is it because I’m BLACK and a FEMALE. Yall are so corrupt it doesn’t make sense letting a rapist walk around freely. Everyone finna know how corrupt yall is just watch.
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09 Jun, 2024 by Rosa charles
01 May, 2024 by Dimitria mitchell
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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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.
