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20 Mar, 2022 by Jesus bermea
Excellent lawyer, great person, highly recommend! I'm a very happy customer.
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14 Jan, 2018 by Sherrie
When deciding to advertise that I had a small house ready for renters, many friends advised me to have a legal arrangement. They told me horror stories of how their renters destroyed their property and how renters collected damages when various unforeseen events damaged their property. I heard that it was hard to evict a renter if a legal agreement was not made. Jake was a life saver. I had no idea where to begin. He covered all the basics and things I would never have thought about but could become a big problem if Jake had not included the possibilities. My friends wished they had made a legal agreement when deciding to have renters on their property. Jake was knowledgeable and had my best interest his top priority. I will no doubt be contacting Jake next time I have legal implications.
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14 Jan, 2018 by Robert
I was recently referred to Mr. Horn for legal advice regarding contractual work done on my house. Jake was very professional, knowledgeable and helpful. His advice and assistance helped us resolve our situation successfully. I would highly recommend Mr. Horn to anyone that is need of an excellent attorney.
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08 Apr, 2020 by Cheri
MR Frakes represented me over a 4 yr period,his determination for fairness and decency are Commendable.I would not hesitate ever to have him represent me if the case came up
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25 Apr, 2018 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. Frakes to help me pursue an order of protection against my ex. Mr. Frakes came to court very well prepared and presented my case in a clear and convincing manner to the court. He was very thorough in his questions and was highly persuasive to the court. I would highly recommend Mr. Frakes to anyone.
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24 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
Brad really knows his stuff and will fight for you! I love the fact that his clients have ALL of his contact info (including cell number) and are free to contact him DAY or NIGHT. He really gave me peace of mind and did an amazing job for me! His prices are so much better than other attorneys that I talked to as well !
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07 May, 2024 by Melissa
I hired Mr.Partain to do a couple of wills for me. I also had him settle a land issue for me. I later needed an attorney with another issue for a family member and I knew that I wouldn't call anyone else!! He is affordable, respectful of your needs and listens to your concerns. I would highly recommend him for any of your needs.
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25 Jul, 2019 by Anonymous
Shane is absolutely a genuine attorney. He follows through and is extremely thorough. I hired him for an order of protection situation and he came through. He was compassionate and understanding and treated me like I was his only client (even though I wasn’t). He handles a lot of domestic issues from my understanding and I will use him from here on out if the need should arise (which I hope it doesn’t). Thank you Shane Partain!
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14 Dec, 2023 by Teresa
I can say that I am very pleased with Chris and my experience in the two different case's I acquired from Him. He explained everything in detail and made sure I understood the processing and costs, which is very much the best price for each. Very professional with great integrity and great quality of service. Refer Him for and to other's.
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23 May, 2014 by Don
Attorney Capps has helped me in several instances, each different, each one civil. In every case he seemed to be well informed and fully advised me of my several choices. In all cases where there was a win/lose opportunity he was able to come out with a win.
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22 Feb, 2017 by Shawn
I have used John Evans as an attorney on several occasions, and I highly recommend him to anyone seeking legal counseling. John is always the first person I call when I have a question or situation that requires and attorney's advice. One of the things that I appreciate about John the most is that if he does not know the answer or feel confident about his subject expertise on the matter, he states that up front. He then works diligently to help find the people that do. This standard that he holds for the service that he provides to his clients makes it the choice easy for me to call him first on all matters. John is personable and extremely trustworthy, and will make everyone that hires him both comfortable and confident with their decision.
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15 Feb, 2017 by Tisha and brett
We hired John to legally help us protect and then later adopt two children that were placed in our home. John Evans lead us down a curvy legal path with a knowledgeable mind and patient heart. We were charged a fair price for an above average legal representation. We respect and are so thankful to have been lead to John's office. Would and have recommended him.
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28 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
We met with Mr. Dorris and found him to be profesional, honest, knowledgeable and extremely helpful.
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30 Aug, 2019 by Robert
Mr. Dorris was very helpful with my case. He is a very nice guy, worked with me on my payment for his service and the results of his work got me better outcome than i intisapated.
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30 Aug, 2019 by Brad
Emily handled a divorce matter in which I never thought I'd see myself embroiled. She was incredibly competent, listened well and counseled me through the evolving options and nuances of my case. When the matters became contentious, she maintained calm compassion and focused her efforts to bring the case to closure with great effectiveness and timeliness. This was legal representation at its finest!
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12 May, 2016 by Anonymous
She took over the case and handled it with dedication, follow through ,and exceptional customer service. She went above and beyond in a short period of time. Highly recommend her.
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06 Mar, 2019 by Keith
I have known Amelia for years and had to use Conner & Roberts recently. Amelia is a pleasure to deal with and I highly recommend her and the law firm Conner and Roberts.
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15 Nov, 2011 by Michael
Mrs.Roberts was a blessing to me.She had answers when I needed them.She had compation towards my case and very responsive to all my needs.Thanks Mrs.Roberts!
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22 Oct, 2021 by Kevin
Corrin handled my divorce. She is very responsive, usually returning my emails and calls the same day. She gave me great tips on what to ask for and what might damage my case. During the back and forth with the paperwork, Corrin went on vacation, but she got one of her associates to step in for her in case anything came up when she was not available. I wholeheartedly recommend her.
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19 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
Corrin has stayed on top of my court case. She has been able to find and prove the truth when it was not apparent to others. I am very pleased with her services.
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12 Oct, 2016 by Quatonya
Ms. Massey is an extremely insightful, strategic, ground paving attorney. Complexity is without challenge for Ms. Massey as she carefully approaches each case with a subject matter expertise that's noteworthy. Her demeanor and personality enable her to set tremedious strides inside of the courtroom. She offers a helping hand, prideful professionalism, that's appreciated by myself as well as, every client to whom she represents. It's with great pride to have been represented by a premier attorney that has a keen expertise that's consistent. Ms. Massey provides an honest assessment which is invaluable.
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14 Mar, 2014 by Mechelle
Awesome Attorney. We retain her for all our family needs, she s helped us with adoptions and more. She s a very personable person. I can t say enough good things about her. She will tell you like it is and everything s she has told us to this date had come true in all our cases-if she doesn t think you will win a case, she tells you instead of telling you lies and taking money just to get your business as some attorneys do. If you want the best attorney in the area, call Sharon Massey! I recommend her to all my friends and family!!!!
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06 Jun, 2019 by Nedra
Mr. Wilson is a knowledgeable attorney. He represented my case with zealousness and kept me informed with every aspect of the litigation to achieve a satisfactory outcome.
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31 May, 2013 by Jennifer
As a client of Mr. Wilson, I learned about the type of man he was. While working on my case against my former employer, Mr. Wilson represent me, kept me abreast of all the laws pertaining to my case. His knowledge of Employment laws, and disability laws under the American disability Act were exceptional. With this knowledge he had of these laws help me to win a settlement against my former employer. If you find yourself in need of legal advice, Mr. Wilson is the Lawyer you need. Forever grateful Jennifer?????
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06 Dec, 2013 by Anonymous
Drew was very helpful in processing my case. I had been charged with a DUI, substance, and reckless driving. He was very informative on the possible outcomes and predictions of where the case would go. After receiving the results Drew quickly knew the best method for a beneficial result. He got them initially to drop all charges except for reckless driving. He recommended we not plead on that charge. Within an hour of the initial deal Drew returned with a full dismissal. All charges were dropped and there will be no history of this on my record. I highly recommend his services.
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27 Sep, 2013 by Grateful
Attorney Plunk came into what should have been a slam dunk case dismissal and ran into a different DA that seemed to be unwilling to go by what had been stated by previous DA. Not only did Mr. Plunk keep me informed but he also tracked down the original DA and got all my charges dropped. Thank you for going the extra mile and going and finding the original DA and get this taken care of for me in one day. I was facing some pretty serious charges and I am so thankful to the entire firm!!
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23 May, 2015 by Faye
I have used Ms. Johnson twice, for my divorce and to set visitation for my children. I must say, I was very pleased with the out come of both.
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29 Jan, 2014 by Karen
Handle my divorce; got a great price and everything I wanted in the settlement... My ex-husband and I were very please with the agreed upon terms, and my children did not suffer through the process. Attorney Johnson even helped us set visitation with no additional cost.
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31 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. Jackson for a divorce case a few months ago. He did everything in his power to make sure I received all that I asked for and in a timely matter. From day one, him and his staff went above and beyond to show that they cared and would work hard to get my case finalized. I was so impressed by Mr. Jackson, his hard work, and his communication throughout the entire process. I HIGHLY recommend him and his staff. I couldn't have asked for a better attorney to represent me and my case. I am forever grateful!
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20 Feb, 2017 by Jill a.
I hired Mr. Jackson to represent me during my divorce that was already underway and had taken a very very bad turn. He was able to pick up my case midstream and overcome so many obstacles on my behalf. Looking back I am sure I was a most difficult client. I had no idea what a stellar attorney I had at the time. I will say this. I have been to court with Mr. Jackson and I have been to court without Mr. Jackson. You don't want to go without him and I can only imagine you don't want to go against him. Hire him. You will be in great hands. He is a stellar attorney and person.
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06 Jul, 2012 by Carissa
I live in Ohio and my case was through Tennessee. He worked with me and my situation to get the best results. Thanks Tom!
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09 Apr, 2011 by Anonymous
Tom West was very courteous and did not make me feel like I was ignorant for the questions I asked. He also was very thorough in his approach to the matter at hand, not leaving any areas to worry about.
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06 Aug, 2018 by Anonymous
I just recently hired Bradley and couldn't be more pleased with his representation. He is on top of all issues and shows great interest in my case. Giving him 5 stars!!
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10 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
Brad Sherman went above and beyond when he represented me about 2 years ago. He dug deep to get any and all information that helped my case. He came to my house personally and contacted me every day. He was a very professional and powerful force in the courtroom and it made a huge difference in how my case went in front of the judge. I would strongly recommend him before anyone else.
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16 Jul, 2015 by Anissa
Mr. Terral has handled both of my divorces and both were done in a very timely manner. He is very knowledgeable about the law and kept me well informed on each step taken and an approximate time line of completion throughout the process. He was always willing to answer questions to make sure I had a clear understanding of what was going on at all times. He made me feel at ease and confident in his ability. After checking around with other attorneys, I found that Mr. Terral also offers reasonable rates which is definitely a plus. I would highly reccommend Mr. Terral if you are looking for an attorney. I trust him and his work and will definitely be calling him in the future should legal need arise.
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18 Oct, 2014 by Michael
Mr.Terral did an excellent job arguing my case. He was well prepared and knew the law inside out. If I ever need an attorney again I will call him
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15 Dec, 2015 by Michael b
Judge Penny Harrington was in control of my mothers probate and legal matters before and after her passing. Excellent knowledge and timing in all matters. Wonderful, compationate lady who actually cares about her clients and clients families. Wont let you down or leave you guessing. A++++++
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23 Sep, 2015 by Doug
I have used Judge Penny Harrington over the past seven years for several very difficult cases important to my family. She handled one over a four year period involving me obtaining Temporary Custody, Guardianship and then the Permanent Guardianship of two of my young grandchildren. Even more difficult, we were later able to terminate Parental Rights and I was then able to adopt them as my own children. More recently, she has again proven her expertise as these same children were step-parent adopted by my same-sex husband, the first case of its kind in the state of TN. I have always found Penny to be highly professional, an expert legal mind who thinks very strategically about how every case is positioned and have nothing but high praise of her. It is obvious to me that she is highly respected by both the many judges and lawyers we have dealt with in two different counties. She will also be preparing my estate planning documents in the next few months as I continue to use her services. I would highly recommend Penny Harrington to anyone who asked.
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09 Feb, 2022 by Monica
I hired Ms. Jackie Dixon in a partition lawsuit and she did an excellent job representing me. Partition lawsuits are becoming more and more common across the U.S. in large part because Millennials and Gen Zers (aka "Zoomers") are simply not getting married but buying homes with their significant others (or buying property together before they get married). This was the case for me, and Ms. Dixon knew what she was doing. Ms. Dixon was calm, detail-oriented, responsive, and extremely organized. Most importantly, she was compassionate. Ms. Dixon is knowledgable about various areas of family law, and knows her way across the courts in Davidson County. If you are looking for an attorney to represent you in a family law matter or a partition lawsuit, I highly recommend you give her office a call!
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09 Feb, 2012 by Anonymous
I was one of her recent Clients and must express my satisfaction with the overall handling of my case. Very confident and handled my case excellently. Has no reservative to recommend her.
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30 Aug, 2016 by Ericjon
Less than a year ago how is facing some pretty serious charges in two separate counties simultaneously. Joshua was referred to me through a mutual colleague. Several court appearances I was tardy, tired and less than holding up my end of the deal yet still he prevailed. Found a way to get this entire mess, for lack of a better word, dismissed and expunged. Never once thought my outcome would be this amazing. Although I have no desire to be a career criminal, I would retain Joshua Brands services again and again. Thanks Josh A+
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11 Sep, 2013 by Nanook
Mr. Brand is one of the most astute attorneys that I have had the pleasure of dealing with. He is extremely knowledgeable and is expert in sharing his knowledge with his clients. I would gladly refer any and all people to him.
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23 Sep, 2015 by Anonymous
Lisa was absolutely awesome helping us finalize my familys estate. Lisa also helped us out with dome legal matters in another county and did a great job on a personal injury matter. Lisa is intelligent and professional. I would definetly recommend hiring her for all your legal matters.
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17 Sep, 2015 by Craig
Lisa handled a complicated divorce for me with excellent results. When we initially went to court after being sued Lisa Eischeid was very well prepared, identified the key issues in dispute, the evidence and the weaknesses in the plaintiff's case. In a venue which almost always favors the plaintiff, she was great for the defense and the results were extremely favorable. The plaintiff fired her lawyer finally and her new lawyer apparently knew better than to face Lisa Eischeid in court. Because getting results in the court room, in the end this resulted in a fair and very reasonable settlement for the defense. It was a very stressful life event that took almost a year to resolve but Lisa Eischeid is all business, she took care of all the details for me. I was very pleased with the results. A very competent attorney. Highly recommended.
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27 May, 2014 by Mike
Mr. Judkins assisted me in winning a case in 6 months where a previous attorney that had had my case for over 2 years had failed and refused to carry on any further. He was very knowledgeable, thorough and communicated well with me. His entire staff was very professional and seemed glad to assist me at every turn. As this was a social security disability case he didn't stand to make a ton of money off his labors yet he worked as if he did. I would HIGHLY recommend him for whatever matters you may be needing assistance in.
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26 Feb, 2014 by Anonymous
Joe is an excellent attorney. He always kept us informed on all matters and did not nickel and dime us with costs. He is professional, understanding and fights for you. I would highly recommend Mr. Judkins. The entire staff is friendly and professional. All calls are either taken immediately or returned quickly. You know you are not just a client but partner.
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09 Sep, 2022 by Jodi
Unfortunately I had an incredibly prolonged divorce. I hired more than one attorney to represent me. My biggest regret is that I did not call MS Jesse Morris first. She did an amazing job correcting the mess my previous attorneys created, and she literally pulled opposing counsel across the finish line. Do not waste time looking anywhere else, Jesse Morris should be your first call.
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07 Feb, 2018 by Anonymous
Jesse did an excellent job with my pre-nuptial agreement. She is smart, diligent, and extremely professional. Very happy I chose her!
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06 May, 2015 by Jonathan
Kathryn has been representing me for about two years now and a custody battle. I was not referred to her by a friend or anyone. When my son's mother took my son the next day I was trying to find a lawyer that could see me immediately. Kathryn was the first lawyer I could find that was able to immediately start the paperwork. I was not sure if I was going to use her in the long run but after the first couple court sessions I was so satisfied with her and trusted her I kept her as my lawyer. She is very honest and won't tell you she will give you the world just to disappoint you. She is very knowledgeable when it comes to child custody and the laws. When it comes to my son and court I get very nervous but having her as my lawyer gives me a lot of comfort. I would definitely recommend her to any of my friends or family.
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17 Nov, 2014 by Anonymous
Mrs. Stamey is highly intelligent, savvy, enthusiastic, and a real go getter. I am lucky to have met her and her representation is beyond exceptional.
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08 Nov, 2013 by Toni
we hired Lisa after someone referred her. Being tired of attorneys that were in our town, they all were in each others pockets. Lisa was fresh and went straight in and took care of the problem. She's not cheap but worth every penny. I will never hire another attorney but her if I need one again.
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17 Jul, 2013 by Melissa
Ms. Houston is and was very informative, and addressed all my concerns in the proceeding of my divorce; she fought for everything I wanted out of the marriage and I got everything I wanted from the marriage. This was a divorce between two military individuals, so with-that-said she is a go to Lawyer for a military divorce. Good luck with yours, but if you have her in your corner you will be getting one of the best in her field…
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07 Jul, 2017 by Samantha
Ms. Howard was timely, efficient, respectful, considerate, confidential, and had my best interest in mind. I will use her again and have already recommended her to others.
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29 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
Amanda Howard is an intelligent, caring, and knowledgeable Attorney who did an outstanding job on the Estate case she handled for our family. She was so thoughtful during this emotional time but, most importantly she zealously represented our family. She took the time to listen, the time to explain the law, and how the law applied to the facts of our case. We were thrilled with her aggressiveness in Court towards those who sought to do us harm. We could not be happier with her legal representation. We highly recommend her and cannot "thank" her enough for all she did for our family!
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11 Aug, 2016 by Elly
Jill is extremely educated and trained she has worked with the best she is very well versed in her profession of the law. She did the impossible for me. The state of Tennessee does not give annulments normally but Jill was able to convince the court that I had grounds under the law and my annulment was granted. Jill was always available and returned my calls and emails in a very timely manner.
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18 Jun, 2015 by Martymcfly
I have used Mrs. Baxter on three or four different occasions for family law issues. What you get is REAL answers. Some lawyers tell you what you want to hear, just to get you into court and run your costs up. What I received from Mrs. Baxter was real expiations of what my chances were of gaining what I was looking for. She has worked in the court system for so many years she can tell you what the judge typically does, or she sometimes will tell you that you would just be wasting your money if you perused something. WHAT a lawyer that tells you that you don't need to spend money! Real life means that all issues are not clear cut, that's why you need someone like Mrs. Baxter that you can trust. I also appreciated that Mrs. Baxter is a mother and has handled split family issues within her own family. Give me someone who has dealt with the same issues that I'm going through and that opens up a whole new avenue of trust. I also have to say that her prices were very fair for her work. I'm no longer dealing with any issues and have moved past that stage of life, but if anyone came to me for advice, I would have no problems sending them to Mrs. Baxter.
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26 Dec, 2018 by Kathy chiavola
Nick Bailey has counseled me in numerous cases and has always been spot on! I don’t know what I would do without him!
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18 Jun, 2016 by James
We don't know what we'd ever do had we not known Nick Bailey. He put away 3 vicious parasites including one that pointed a weapon at my two children, and shot me. 22 years later we needed him again when one of the criminals came up for parole. He came to our aid once again. I was a stranger to Nick, never lived in TN, and he treated us like family. GOD bless this great man. Jim W.S, PA.
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28 Jun, 2015 by Bridges
Ms. Johnson is a compassionate, competent, dependable, and persistent attorney that will make you feel as if your business is sincerely appreciated. I have never known a lawyer that would communicate with me as well as she did. I was never in the dark and she was tenacious when it came to getting what we were after. I would HIGHLY recommend Ms. Johnson to anyone in need of a quality defense attorney.
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10 Aug, 2014 by Harry b. paile
Ms. Johnson is in my opinion one of the best lawyers I have ever had. I was involved in a horrific car accident that was initially deemed my fault. I was the victim of a "stopping short" scam. Without any witnesses to support this claim I thought there would be no way i could prove it. Ms. Johnson was able to bring in the right people that could prove my case. She was extremely thorough and sympathetic to my situation. When I realized she had only been a lawyer for just over a year, I couldn't believe it. She was a complete professional and I would recommend her for ANY case. Not to mention she has Bryan Lewis as her mentor, who is one of the best known Criminal and personal injury lawyers in the area. Ms. Johnson will soon be a household name her self if she represents future clients the way she did me.
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24 Oct, 2016 by Anonymous
I've had an embarrassing number of times dealing with attorneys. Geoffrey was a breath of fresh air. He had integrity unlike the other attorney's I've encountered. He was profession, honest, compassionate, and understanding concerning my divorce, as well as the results were better for me than I had expected. I would highly recommend Geoffrey to represent anyone needing quality legal counsel.
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01 Oct, 2014 by Troy
I called many lawyers and left many messages in regards to a workers comp. for my elderly mom and none of them had bothered to call me back over a week. I then called Mr. Coston's office and spoke with a very nice lady by the name of Lisa who then put me directly thru to Mr. Coston who introduced himself just as Geoff and not Mr. Coston. He seemed really "down to earth" and did not come off as an arogant attorney like others I have dealt with. I explained my situation to Geoff and he listened carefully and told me he would give me free advice to possibly avoid having to even get an attorney. He then took the time to explain everything and answered all my questions. He took time and never rushed me. He gave a lot of free advice. I have never had an attorney do that. And he had a great since of humor too. If I can't get my situation resolved in the next few days on my own then I will definitely be calling Mr. Geoff Coston. He is very personable, polite, smart and tries to save you time and money right from the start.
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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:

  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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