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17 May, 2023 by Robert
Stands up for the lil man,does the work needed to stop unjust law that hurts everyday people,I hope if I ever need a lawyer again he would take my case
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12 Feb, 2023 by Diane
. hes arrogant unprofessional and doesn't want to do his job .. He is out for money and himself and thats it he cares nothing about others and does as little as possible ..
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09 Feb, 2023 by Ronnie
We hired this man with a cut and dried case with our property .He showed up not once but EVERY time unprepared no paperwork. He is arrogant to the client and rolls up in a ball when in front of a lawyer who actually cares enough to show up in court with the proper documents. He went to a hearing without us ! We lost our home of 34 years .He is a great attorney for the defense! His colleagues seem to talk over him in a court room and have little to no respect fir him or his capacity to present or defend a case .We filed a complaint with a higher court and hope this man is is given proper discipline.Dont do it! He us not better than nothing.
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21 Sep, 2021 by Anonymous
I want to start by saying Mr. Milazo is a great conversationalist. He was easy to speak with and encouraging when I felt rather distraught over my situation. However, Mr. Milazo was just that, "all talk." He charged for services never rendered and continued to drive my bill up until I finally dismiss him. I eventually hired another attorney that did a fantastic job. Sadly, Mr. Milazo is, like most, a small fish in a large pond trying to make a name for himself. If he does not show you results early on in your case, move on to someone that can genuinely help you.
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08 Dec, 2020 by Mary
John is a great attorney. He gets the job done and gets you the best possible outcome. I would highly recommend him to my friends and family.
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11 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
I was in a crisis and trying to get a restraining order against my boyfriend and he agreed to meet with me at the spur of the moment the same day, which was much appreciated. But first thing i noticed walking in was that he had his assistant and then one other girl just lingering around the door listening to everything i had to say about my very private and high profile case. I didnt appreciate extra ears being in the room doing nothing but wanting to hear all the details of my horrible situation for her own curiosity. I was very distraught and didnt have the mind to tell this chick to get lost. Secondly, as i started to talk about obtaining palimony, this lawyer starts letting out sarcastic "ha's" and then saying, "i hate to break it to you but there is no law that will give you palimony." I already know this, but palimony IS recognized in the courts of california even though it is not a law there either. I was trying to ask him if it was recognized in court system here in TN, but he kept repetitively saying the same thing as though I was "missinformed." He obviously didn't understand what I was asking and kept on with his know-it-all, "youve been missinformed" and "somebodys been pullin your leg" attitude when he is completely ignorant to the way CA courts work. I was only asking if the system is the same in TN; I wasn't trying to have a debate about "the law." Then, he starts urging me to go to a battered womens shelter where they will "help me." I was upset, i wasnt beat up so wtf? The only help i wanted was a preventative restraining order and turned out That since I didnt have a black eye, my story of past abuse wasnt really enough to warrent a restraining order. I was insulted when he kept pushing the womens shelter pamphlet to me saying i should probably go there. For what? Thats not what i came to his office for. I have money, why would i go to a womems shelter and sleep on a cott when I can get a hotel room? Anyways thats my opinion. The extra ears in the room was very unprofessional, not to mention that they all three stepped out of the doorway to proceed to loudly wisper as though i cant here what they are saying. Idiots. This is a private matter Milazo, extra ears should not be in the room. If you have something to say u say it in front of me. You dont take the details of my case and proceed to gossip in the doorway. I really feel like I should not have gone there and should have made them sign a privacy contract before telling them my case. All felt very elementary and gossipy... Which my case was very juicy i admit, but i wish i didnt tell these people anything.
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07 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
Lies to her clients when she screws up. Lies for her clients in the court room and to cause delays. Horrible at communicating with her clients as well as with opposing counsel.
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27 Apr, 2023 by Rafael
very professional and is one of the best lawyer in town I am very happy help me in my case . 100% recommend. Five stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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10 Feb, 2023 by Wade tidwell
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10 Jan, 2024 by Janice menard
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14 Sep, 2019 by Promise phillips
Janet mynatt is an amazing attorney. She really listens and goes over your case extensively. She really knows what she is doing, is informative and calming when it comes to hearings. I highly recommend her.
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19 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
Vay-Smith agreed to represent me for medical conservatorship of my disabled daughter. Not only did I do ALL the leg work myself, arranging for medical assessments to provide medical records adn documentation, Vay-Smith treated me with hostility and disrespect throughout the legal process. She knew I was in a vulnerable position. I was poor and trying to save my daughter's life. Smith-Vay was a free Legal Aid attorney. Beggars can't be choosers, so I put up with her offensive behavior even when her actions became legally questionable, such as when she asked me on behalf of Lakeshore Mental Health Institute for their permission to use my son's medical records to defend one of their male nurses who had molested my disabled son. My experience with Theresa Vay Smith was a nightmare. As soon as the judge signed off on my conservatorship, I filed a complaint against her with the Board of Professional Responsibility. That was 14 years ago. To this day, Theresa Vay Smith has blacklisted me and even my disabled son from receiving legal services from Oak Ridge Legal Aid and even Knoxville Legal Aid. My disabled son has been denied legal help on three separate occasions for issues that fall within the scope of Legal Aid services. I have requested legal help on four or five separate occasions and have always been turned down. If you enjoy being treated like garbage by an attorney who goes out of her way to offend you and then retaliates against you for the rest of your life if you dare to complain, then by all means take advantage of Theresa Vay Smith and Oak Ridge Legal Aid.
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17 Jan, 2023 by Mareka stewart
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18 May, 2019 by Tim
I hired attorney Corletra Mance on February 1 2019 as my attorney . She is Very unprofessional she doesn’t deserve a 1 star rating. I am disabled and hired her to help me get split custody and to save my son’s life. She stated 1,500 dollars retainer fee that she allowed me to break down to three payments. I started first payment on February 1 2019 and finished payment plan on April 5 2019. I filed the petition on my own also she didn’t show up to court didn’t send someone else from her firm I had to speak for myself. Since I felt like she wasn’t doing anything to help me so I fired her and now she stated that I still owe her $1,500 dollars for the retainer fee. Thank God I kept copies of my receipts. I wouldn’t recommend her at all to anyone!
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17 Jan, 2023 by Mareka stewart
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26 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
David king is very unprofessional. His attorney Corletra Mance and him will lie to win cases.
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20 Sep, 2024 by Amanda hawk
Harold Rushton and The Rushton Law Firm were truly amazing to work with and would use them again for any advise or legal issues in the future. Harold was extremely responsive to answering any of my questions, gave wonderful advise and his expertise was invaluable.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Jeremy anderson
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26 Jul, 2024 by Bianca h.
I have been working with this firm for more than a year now. They have been flexible, courteous, and very communicative and responsive via email. Tara and Stacey have been a great help and provide excellent customer service!
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15 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous
Very disappointed in this legal console which cost me over $20,000 a few years ago. I felt she fought more for my ex than she did for me. She caved in the mediation which cost me over $250,000. Not to mention all follow-up advise that was given started off positive, then when it came down to action, she caved again. I wouldn't recommend hiring her.
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24 Apr, 2020 by Anonymous
Spent over $7000 in 3 months, just to have her quit our case. When told that we didn’t feel she was representing us she became angered. Save your money.
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16 Jul, 2019 by Anonymous
Our daughter went through a divorce a few years ago, which means it affects the whole family as well. We found Ms Story to know exactly what to do and when to do it. Since her focus is on the client, we were able to sit back and observe her in action. She was professional and thorough and kind. When anything has come up afterwards for our daughter she has been there immediately and effectively. She is very good!
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02 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
The worst attorney you could hire I wouldn't even consider him an attorney. He's a con artist using the attorney privilege to take money from clients and never having any intentions of actually doing anything for them. His license was suspended in TN in 2023 for misappropriation of funds (stealing) and license in VA was suspended in 2024 for misconduct ( failure to not provide any services and lying about it) . He has another complaint against hin in TN that is pending.
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08 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
Will not call you back and never answered phone messages. Been in jail for almost a year and he hasn’t made a plea to judge for dismissal after three years .
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25 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
This attorney represented me during my case. I was very dissatisfied with his service. Specifically the fact that he would not return phone calls (for weeks at a time) and made false promises. I also found his assistant to be very rude and dishonest. At one point, I witnessed his assistant pick-up and hang-up the phone on other clients to avoid taking their call. I also witnessed Samuel White's assistant advising other clients that Mr. White was out of the office despite the fact he was sitting right beside her. I assume he uses this tactic as well to avoid clients. Overall I was very dissatisfied and I would not recommend this attorney to anyone.
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14 Oct, 2023 by Elaine
Over the years, Mr. Habenicht has helped our family in several different matters. It is always a pleasure dealing with him. Not only is he knowledgeable in a variety of legal matters, he is kind and always explains things to us. He returns calls and makes himself available when we need him. I have and will continue to highly recommend him!!!
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04 Apr, 2019 by Amie
My experience with Mr. Habenicht bears no resemblance to the other reviewers. I've engaged him for services several times in the last two decades--everything from civil suits to will preparation to estate probate. I have found him to be professional, knowledgeable, ethical and reasonably priced. His services have been invaluable to me.
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22 Aug, 2016 by John laffrey
I had a very complicated divorce situation. Mr. Habenicht did the best he could to represent me. However, my wife's attorney misrepresented the facts and provided inaccurate and incomplete information to the Hamilton County Court. The Hamilton County Court based their ruling on the opposing attorney's material false statement and my case was dismissed in Tennessee. I'm disappointed in the Hamilton County Judge that dismissed my case because he listened to fabricated lies rather than the truth.
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12 Aug, 2024 by Bruce
I posted a negative review on Google reviews back in May but I deleted it thinking I was being hasty. Now I realize my initial assessment of Mr. Deakins was correct after all. After leaving messages for 3 weeks now I still haven't gotten a return call - but it has been like this from the start. This firm's business practices, to me, are horrible. Either his receptionist fails to give him messages or he simply ignores them. The only thing he seemed to be in a hurry about was taking the money, then you are pushed to the side. He may be a good attorney and he may get results but he leaves a paying client in the dark and that is a pretty helpless feeling.
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13 Oct, 2023 by Ken
Will not return calls and after being paid for services will not refund money for services not rendered. Drive to Knoxville or Chattanooga before using this guy
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05 Apr, 2022 by Zachary
It is difficult to put into words and accurately convey all the great qualities of Mr. Deakins as an attorney!! He is extremely hard working and has a vast knowledge of the law. He is very understanding and was always available to answer any of my many questions as quickly as possible. His character both as an attorney and person is outstanding! He fiercely represented me with skill and professionalism. I would highly recommend Mr. Deakins for your legal needs. Not only will he treat you and your case with dedication and focus, but he will sincerely fight for you and your innocence.
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19 Dec, 2022 by Naya
Jefre s Goldtrap is one of the most incompetent lawyers I ever seen. This man left me to defend myself after I paid him in full. He motioned to remove himself off my case because I contacted the Bar association against. Because I have tried to contact him for several months and he wouldn't pick up the phone for me. I asked him to retrieve records and other things a lawyer is supposed to do and he didn't. Instead he closed his practice in Nashville Tennessee and became a public defender. Mr. Goldtrap has not given me an invoice or anything showing where my $2,500.00 went to. Please don't let this man rob you. Learn the law and fight for yourself that's what I did. He is a thief.
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10 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
I have nothing but positive things to say about Goldtrap, He fought to get my son a lighter sentence and came more than prepared and did not back down from the DA one bit, He had the law book with him and would bring it out and show the rights every time they tried to argue. Would hire him in a minute if I had to again!
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03 Apr, 2013 by Anonymous
Attorney got me a better deal for a Class A misdemeanor than what I expected. He and his office manager were helpful and prompt.
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08 Mar, 2015 by Patricia
Kimberly is a fantastic lawyer DHS was giving me the run around with my grandson that had been put in their custody due to a tragic family matter. Mrs. Lentz took charge and help me retain custody of my grandson on our first court hearing , she is truly a blessing .
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07 Jan, 2013 by Anonymous
She was very hard to talk to, and often raises her voice, causing me to feel belittled. It was hard to get in a word edge wise with her, she talked over me. She also made me think she had this great case then as soon as she got the money it went downhill. I would not recommend her to anyone.
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11 Aug, 2011 by Anonymous
She was spectacular she got back to us in no time. She was extremely profesional and was willing to help with whatever we needed. She made everything so smooth. I highly reccomend her.
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08 Dec, 2020 by Ethan
At the lowest point of my life, Mr. Stansell Helped me pick up the pieces. He was always communicative, answering calls or emails from me well outside regular hours. He offered wonderful advice and truly helped make this divorce and child custody process bearable. I cannot recommend enough.
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02 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
Talked a good talk, but did very little. I never received communication, documents, returned phone calls. Was not informed of a court date, nor was the opposing counsel! Billed several thousand dollars for nothing. Left firm abruptly (I assume he was fired) which was the only positive thing that happened.
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13 Jun, 2017 by Tyler
Being faced with a divorce while on deployment, Mr. Stansell took excellent care and represented me throughout the process. He was attentive, responsive, and a calming force during a very hard time in my life. He answered all my questions and helped me to make sense of divorce proceedings when I wasn't even in the country. He helped me find contractors to do work on my home so it could be put on the market, appraisers for cars and jewelry - he really was an outstanding attorney. I highly recommend Zachariah to anyone who is looking for someone who knows their stuff, is aggressive when necessary and will represent you and your interests well, and also give honest feedback throughout the process. He is a five star attorney and worth every penny. Cannot thank him enough for what he did for me and my family.
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25 Feb, 2022 by Anonymous
I met him first when I had a small criminal issue. Very professional, kept me updated, and got the BS charges dismissed. When my divorce came up this past year I remembered him. He does those cases too! I cannot recommend him enough. He has saved me twice now. I cannot thank him enough. The best money I ever spent and the nicest, friendliest lawyer you could imagine. Not that expensive either. I talked to two others in town before I knew Wes did divorce cases. One of them made me pay to even talk to him and acted like he didn’t want me there. The other didn’t charge me to talk to her, but she talked the whole time. I was so happy when I thought to call Wes. He was really good about explaining everything and answering questions when I would call. And his assistant (Brittany, I think) was so sweet. I really loved her. I just could not be happier with the services I got. And I didn’t have to go to Knoxville. I highly recommend Wes out of the very body in tazewell
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01 Mar, 2019 by Anonymous
this was a waste of money he was useless. had to fire him and hire another lawyer. All he done was take my money!!! BEWARE DONT HIRE HIM!!
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28 Sep, 2021 by Brad
Helped me with a DUI and Simple possession x2 charge. Was able to get everything thrown out besides the DUI due to the bloodwork. Was a little high but not bad and will use him anytime I need a lawyer. He can come across a bit of a d*ck but you want that in a lawyer! He knew the rules and was smart where it mattered most!!. 9.5/10!
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14 Oct, 2018 by Anonymous
when i first talked to Mr Dicus on the phone briefly told him about what was going on and the first thing he told me was and i quote....i get 750.00 dollars to walk across the street to the court house.....there is much more i can say...like not returning my phone calls...and his people skills leaves a lot to be desired
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06 Nov, 2023 by Dana
We have hired Jason multiple times, he's always available when we need him . Very friendly and personable. Has always got us the best outcome possible . Would highly recommend this attorney.
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13 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
In my opinion the worst attorney I have ever used was Attorney Jason Nawlin at this office. He did not return phone calls or emails in a professional timely manner. Would not explain documents I was to complete from the opposing attorney. Sent me a 30 page Discovery Document with instructions to complete and return. No help or explanation how. I had 30 days to complete but could not reach him for over a week for help. Told me he sent me other documents to review, that needed to be sent to opposing attorney, but he never sent me the documents. Was told a letter was mailed to opposing attorney but when I informed his assistant the letter was incorrect, I was then told they could correct it because it wasn’t mailed after all. This associate attorney gives a bad representation to the law firm he works for!
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06 Jun, 2023 by Barb
Mr. Sharp worked with us and quickly filed the paperwork to get my husband and I custody of a young relative. He was communicative and helped us with any concerns. He explained the process in a way that we felt like we understood what our options were and could make the best decisions. I would hire him again but hope I won't have to.
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28 Jan, 2023 by Amanda
Mr. Matthew Sharp has been fired. He took money for both his personal fee and filing fee to take someone to court, but he never did. He was hired for about two years to do this simple job instead all he did was file with the court after a year when he was about to be dismissed and assume his resignation for not doing his job and not communicating for months at a time...he pocked the serv papers money and never served the papers...I gave him several more months to give him a chance...but he showed me he was just pulling my leg. So he has been fired and stole my funds. He also never gave me my file or showed what work he performed.
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30 Dec, 2019 by Anonymous
Mr. LaPorte was hired to protect two minor children in state custody. Mr. LaPorte failed to check on the minor children, investigate alligations that put the children's lives in danger. He did not have the children's best interest at hand. His services were mediocre at best.
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13 Oct, 2018 by Kathryn
He helped me so much with my case in getting my children back. He let me know everytime something happened and made sure I understood everything. Will be using him again soon.
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01 Apr, 2022 by Anonymous
We retained Mrs Ogle for an important matter and was extremely disappointed in her representation. There were several times I reached out to find out the status on certain topics to no reply, ever. There were several things that she did not follow through with. I had several questions during our meeting and also the day of court and she literally told me “not now” or basically gave me a look that said shut up. She did not fight for the needs of our situation. The only time I felt confident in Mrs Ogle was when she was selling herself during the consultation. I regret hiring Mrs Ogle, she is not an aggressive attorney at all. Anyone looking to hire Mrs Ogle, I would look elsewhere. I have never written a review of any kind in my life but felt the need to save someone else from wasting their money.
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27 Jan, 2017 by Linde
I recently retained Mrs. Ogle to file divorce papers for me. She was a pleasure to work with. She did everything I asked in a timely and professional manner. Her rates were reasonable and I left satisfied with the time that it took and the end result. If you want someone on your side that doesn't make you feel like just another billable hour you would be remiss not to at least consult with her on your situation.
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23 Oct, 2018 by Eduardo
She got me divorce , i was not easy and it took long but she make it happened very nice lady , i get to spend time with my daughters that was my biggest concern because my ex did not let me spend time with my daughters and child support is fair , thanks rebecca
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19 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
We hired her because of her reputation for providing the best work for making sure children's best intrests always came 1st. She failed to contact eye witnesses, did not keep us updated on court dates, and became hostile to us in the middle of a hearing. These failures caused a child to be separated from her family for a minimum of 14 weeks. Upon hiring a new lawyer, we discovered paperwork she had never given us and undisclosed meetings with opposing counsel.
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27 Sep, 2021 by Susan
Randall Morrison was excellent in helping my son gaining full custody of our grand children. It’s often hard to gain custody of children when you are the male parent. He worked with my son and us (the grandparents) to make sure we had all the info we needed to gain full custody. He got to the facts during court and proved the mother’s neglect. Courts may lean toward a mother getting custody, but after gathering the information needed with his guidance and assistance, the mother lost her parental rights as she should due to her neglect and several other factors. I highly recommend Randall Morrison. Our grandchildren would have been in a terrible and unsafe situation. We are so thankful they are now thriving as responsible kind children that were honestly saved by the result of our court case under his expert guidance and interrogation during court. We are so thankful.
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13 Sep, 2021 by Anonymous
Do not use Randall Morrison!! We hired him for a custody case over a year and a half ago, paid him in full up front which was our first mistake..He drug his feet because of “Covid” and couldn’t even get us a court date until a year after he was hired. He waited so long they moved the case to a different county 4 hours away and he doesn’t travel that far! Which is understandable but he would not return any of our money so we could hire someone who would. He literally did NOTHING for us but kept all of our money and now we still have nothing and are out almost $4,000. Worst Lawyer I’ve ever had. Highly recommend going elsewhere.
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28 Jan, 2013 by Anonymous
Did my divorce. Jamie is very knowledgable when it comes to the legal system. Even though the office is always extremely busy, I always felt he made time to answer my questions, or he made a point to call me at the end of the business day. He got me everything I wanted in my divorce settlement.
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05 Dec, 2009 by Pat
Jamie took the time to hear my case and the surrounding facts. He was late to the second meeting and after that he was a virutal no show. I would not recommend him to anyone. I lost my kids and my home. I took my husband to court a second time and was awarded alamony. My husband had cheated on me and I had done nothing wrong, yet he still got custody. Thank goodness for my second lawyer or else my kids would be living with their daddy. Thanks Patricia
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08 Nov, 2022 by The mighty muse
I have used John 5 times and he has worked so hard each time. He has gotten me everything I have asked for and has honestly changed my life completely. John is absolutely amazing and I wouldn't ever think of using anyone else. 10 stars if I could.
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31 Jan, 2020 by J m
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26 Aug, 2019 by Curt
I recently obtained Mr. Meadows in a domestic dispute. I had consulted him early on in my case and he failed to inform me of my legal options and dismissed my grievances. This lack of action would lead to an arrest and Mr Meadows was hired to defend. He never looked at none of my information and based on information from the prosecution deemed me not credible. I never got to tell my side of the story. I was discouraged by Mr Meadows from making a statement to the court and discouraged from reporting crimes committed against me . I signed a plea deal after I became fearful of his motives. He did a very good job of telling me what my charges were. He had nothing to say for my defense other than 2 things that public record. It was the most helpless feeling being in another state, hearing lies and misinformed judgements of my intent by the plaintiff and the judge and my lawyer does nothing to defend me against them. I had lived my entire life being a good man and left that state ashamed and $21000 in the hole with weeks of time lost that could have been avoided. I dont like reviews and dont do them often. He didnt even bother to learn my name.
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10 May, 2018 by Dora
John resolved a frivolous and fraudulent claim filed by a step son. He knows the law, personable and hard working to defend his client. Continuous email updates, resulted in a Court Hearing that we won. Highly Recommend John - he will win your case!
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15 Jun, 2023 by Cindy
This lawyer tried to take me to jail because I would not sign an unfair settlement. My own lawyer said I would go to jail. I said ok. I had to give $3,000 to this lawyer so I would not go to jail. I only WONDER what would have happened if I had not had my tax returns. He would ask a judge to send me to jail. He took the judges decision first and said I would go to jail. This is trickery. It caused the divorce to stretch out for another whole year. He wanted to do a lot of mean things and he did. The judge said I did not have to pay my husband's legal fees but yet he was able to garnish money from my bank account. Money that I needed to support myself. He did not care he wanted all the money he could squeeze out of me. Why not one of his more afluent clients. Does he have afluent clients? He is financialy driven and iif you cannot pay he is going to deny representation to clients if they lose the ability to pay when they need him most.
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19 Apr, 2021 by Rudy
Mark is a great attorney to have. He was very professional, knowledgeable, and helped make my situation that was very complicated and painful into the best interest of me and my daughter. I appreciated the quick responses and efforts made to make this all a less stressful situation for all involved. All my questions were always answered and I felt like someone had my back the whole time. I really appreciate Mark and I would highly recommend him.
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11 Jan, 2017 by Anonymous
Irwin Cantor Is Not His Best At Dealing With Cases Such As Child Support (Current Client) He Seems A Little Lost On His Cases I Highly Don't Recommend You Hiring Him He's Lazy N Hard To Keep In Touch With
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25 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
Highly vested in his clients and highly versed in his field. He has been doing this for over 20 years and he knows his profession and those involved in it very well. He has seen me through 2 divorces and an adoption....he is amazing!!!!
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23 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
Melissa was my divorce attorney for a very short time. She failed to jealousy represent my case in the court room. This lead me to fire her as my attorney.
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28 Jun, 2012 by Shawn
Ms. Blevins is the best attorney I've ever worked with. She is very passionate about her job and very careing about her clients. She helped me though what was the hardest time of my life, actually she helped carry me through this time. I would have to say she is very straight and to the point but she gets the point across clearly. Highly recommended!
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26 Jan, 2012 by Anonymous
Larry Dillow is an outstanding attorney. He was willing to fight for my rights every step of the way and gained a positive outcome. He showed care and concern and always made time to listen to me. He was always available to me for questions and concerns. He treats his clients with respect and kindness. I can't thank him enough for his knowledge and compassion to my situation. Today I consider him a very respectful member of the legal community and a true friend.
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10 Dec, 2009 by Anonymous
When entered court he had no knowledge of my case. Was not willing to fight for me, just wanted to plea it out, with victim there willing to admit to lying.
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23 Sep, 2021 by Anonymous
Rachel Sanders Hurley is a kind and empathetic person however she is extremely unresponsive possibly due to too much work and made a royal mess out of my legal case. She recommended that I change from visitation to family therapy and because of this recommendation I have nearly lost all contact with my children. She withdrew from my case without my permission as well. She made zero progress in my case when she was my attorney. I do not recommend Rachel Sanders Hurley.
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20 Sep, 2018 by Vicki
Our family had a custody matter we were dealing with and Rachel stepped in and helped my family tremendously. She was professional, compassionate and listened to every detail. She worked with us to understand the process and approach the situation with only the best interest of the child in mind. She will work hard for you and walk you through every step. She worked her schedule around ours and worked hard for the best possible out come. A might warrior for her clients.
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What a Family Law Lawyer Can Do for You

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

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

When Should I Hire a Family Law Lawyer?

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

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

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

What Does a Family Law Lawyer Do?

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

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

How Are Family Law Lawyers Paid?

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

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

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

How Much Does a Family Law Lawyer Cost?

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

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

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

Top Questions to Ask a Family Law Lawyer

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

  1. What experience do you have with family law cases like mine?
    Make sure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it's a contested divorce, child custody dispute, or adoption.
  2. How will you charge for your services?
    Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, a flat fee, or requires a retainer. Ask for an estimate of the total costs involved.
  3. What are the possible outcomes of my case?
    An experienced lawyer should be able to give you a general idea of what to expect based on the facts of your case.
  4. What is your approach to resolving disputes?
    Ask whether the lawyer tends to favor negotiation and mediation or whether they prefer to take cases to court. This can help you determine if their style matches your goals.
  5. How long do you expect my case to take?
    While it’s difficult to predict, the lawyer should give you an estimate based on similar cases.
  6. Who will be handling my case?
    In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may do much of the work, so make sure you understand who will be your main point of contact.

How to Check the Credibility of a Family Law Lawyer

To ensure you're hiring a reputable family law lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and reputation:

  • Check state bar association records: Verify that the lawyer is licensed to practice in your state and is in good standing with no disciplinary actions.
  • Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on websites like Avvo, Google, or Martindale-Hubbell. Previous clients can give you insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and success in family law cases.
  • Request references: Ask the lawyer for references from past clients who can speak to their experience with the lawyer.
  • Review their website or professional profile: Look at the lawyer’s background, case history, and areas of focus to ensure they have substantial experience in family law.
  • Look for professional memberships: Membership in reputable organizations, such as the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), can indicate a lawyer's expertise and dedication to family law.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To get the most out of your first consultation with a family law lawyer, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what you should bring:

  • Relevant documents: Bring any documents related to your case, such as marriage certificates, prenuptial agreements, financial records, custody agreements, or court orders.
  • List of assets and debts: For divorce cases, prepare a detailed list of all assets (e.g., homes, bank accounts, retirement funds) and debts (e.g., mortgages, loans, credit card balances).
  • Details of the family issue: Provide a written summary of the situation, including key dates and facts related to your divorce, custody dispute, or support issue.
  • Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions you have about the legal process, costs, and potential outcomes.
  • Your goals: Be prepared to discuss your objectives, such as custody arrangements, property division, or spousal support, so the lawyer understands your priorities.

Being organized and clear about your situation will help the lawyer evaluate your case more effectively and offer the best advice for moving forward.

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