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12 Feb, 2025 by Alex sauceda
I got a $800 quote from one place so I called this place up. Catherine Meham gave me a quote for "15 Grand" I thought she meant hundred but nope she said grand! I'm still kind of in shock haha
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10 Jan, 2025 by Joy kruse
Patituce & Associates truly saved my bacon! They were competent, and I appreciated that they kept me informed at every stage. Having a team that actually cared about my situation was nice.
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20 Nov, 2024 by Joyce beatty
It was such a relief to work with Patituce & Associates! They made me feel supported and truly took the time to explain everything. The outcome was better than I expected, and I'm so glad I chose them!
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12 Dec, 2024 by Martin hamernik
Yeah, I had some issues with my child support at one point in time and I had to use them. He gave me my retainer all the way back thank you, David.
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15 Oct, 2024 by De ke
09 Oct, 2024 by Walt s
Excellent communication and service! Very helpful and ready with the information I needed.
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09 Nov, 2024 by Lynn johnson
Rude. Don't waste your time or money.
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22 Mar, 2024 by Tracy jo runyan cole
08 Mar, 2024 by Michael harden
They did a great job on our will but asked for referrals for other matters and never got a call back.
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16 Nov, 2024 by Fame less
I only have experience with Bill Goseline, and I am shocked by his inability to deliver what he promises. Bill Goseline has yet to keep his word and produce documents requested of him, despite more than a month having past since he agreed to share them. Bill Goseline avoided answering me for nearly a year before that, and only responded when asked by a fellow attorney. He treated me like I didn't exist, and still can't keep his promise to a fellow counselor. I believe his conduct is in violation of the ABA Model Rules of Professional Conduct. I do not know if the firm of Schumaker is aware of his defiance of repeated requests for documents, I only know of my communication with Bill. He has failed to fulfill his obligations in direct opposition to proper ethics, with no regard for the people he is impacting.
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17 May, 2024 by Thomas gio
John Siciliano lied to me several times, saying he would help me get a refund because the situation was not normal. He proposed me to write a letter with my engagement (even though it was illegal and will deny it as always), only to later claim he never requested this ans refuse my engagement. He was saying contradictory things during our communication... He trusts his team, who lied to me multiple times and had no proof over my countless evidence. As always, they will deny and say it was not true or I didn't understand, despite my having all the proof.
I do not recommend working with this law firm: Shumaker. They are liars, the managers validate the lies of their team (even when they have no proof), and they don't answer to the clients. If I could give 0/5, I would. Please don't waste your money and go work with real professionals! They are the worst business I have ever worked with.
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26 Mar, 2024 by Ashley m. nonnenman
Excellent firm full of excellent attorneys, paralegals, and assistants! Highly recommend Rebecca or Tre if you’re in the Toledo, OH area!
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02 May, 2024 by Sean spradlin
She is really, really good. Attorney very nice and so is her paralegaloval. The best ladies I've ever worked with.
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13 Oct, 2023 by J perkins
05 Oct, 2022 by Anonymous
I just don’t understand how you take full custody from a mother that has never not provided for her children and give custody too the father that has open sexual abuse allegations against him with a Child he raised since 6 and baffles me even more that the 6 year old daughter witnessed her sister getting touched and is in his custody full time now. and the saddest thing and I pray for those kids and I pray for how you could even think this is okay. Shame!!!
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26 Mar, 2024 by Shortleggs358
Great lawyer, listen to you, and get the job done. He is the best
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18 Mar, 2024 by Adam golday
18 Mar, 2024 by Aric salyers
A+++++
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21 Oct, 2024 by Jaclyn palmer
I chose the Kalniz firm, because my mother worked for one of its predecessor firms, decades ago. I met with attorney Epstein, last week, to review needed changes to my will, due to changes in my family circumstances, and I gave him written notes regarding the changes I wanted to make. The initial draft I received back from attorney Epstein had a section that was inconsistent with my notes and inconsistent with what I was trying to effectuate. I sent him a marked-up version of the draft, correcting that section, correcting one typo, and crossing out one word in another section that didn’t make sense to me, in context. I came in, today, to sign what I thought would be the final document. The problematic section had been partially revised, but it retained the word “neither,” where it should have said “either,” which was a meaningful difference. In addition, the one word I had crossed out in a different section had not been deleted. When I pointed those two items out to attorney Epstein, (which could have easily been addressed), he responded by telling me he was right and I was wrong, but that I should do whatever I wanted. When I asked him to explain, he told me the word I crossed out shouldn’t have been crossed out, because he meant for the reference to be there. When I tried to explain why I had crossed the word out, he reiterated that I was wrong, but should do whatever I wanted. I told him I was trying to understand and that it was unacceptable for him to just tell me that I’m wrong but to go ahead and do whatever I wanted. He told me he didn’t care what was unacceptable and that maybe I should take my will elsewhere to have it done. I told him I would. After today’s interaction, one thing I know, for certain, is that I came to the wrong place.
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11 Jan, 2023 by Roxanne collum-snider
I called and spoke with Mr. Kalnix. He was so nice and understanding. We will be picking up this week hopefully because of the holidays and my case is very odd so I understand how difficult it will be to start getting things going. I'm looking forward to working with him and his staff
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18 Sep, 2019 by Lisa blake
Strong advocate
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11 Sep, 2024 by Oren morton
Jill handled our adoption process and we were highly pleased. Thank you.
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29 Jul, 2024 by Jackie rasmussen
Beautiful building inside, very nice people, only a few minutes wait to be seen. Attorneys very nice. I guess we will just have to let it play out and see what happens.
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02 Oct, 2023 by Debby maras
20 Nov, 2024 by Morgan s
I was never married to my child's father, but pursuing a custody agreement through the courts proved to be the best approach. Working with Sarah was an exceptional experience. She is highly compassionate, knowledgeable, and genuinely dedicated to advocating for the rights and best interests of the child or children involved, while also providing tailored support based on individual circumstances.
Sarah communicates openly and provides constructive guidance, helping clients stay accountable when necessary. Her compassionate and non-judgmental approach is truly commendable.
Overall, my experience with her was outstanding, and I would not hesitate to use her again in the future.
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20 Nov, 2024 by Morgan
I was never married to my child's father, but pursuing a custody agreement through the courts proved to be the best approach. Working with Sarah was an exceptional experience. She is highly compassionate, knowledgeable, and genuinely dedicated to advocating for the rights and best interests of the child or children involved, while also providing tailored support based on individual circumstances.
Sarah communicates openly and provides constructive guidance, helping clients stay accountable when necessary. Her compassionate and non-judgmental approach is truly commendable.
Overall, my experience with her was outstanding, and I would not hesitate to use her services again in the future.
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13 Sep, 2024 by Chuck hainy
Mr. Simpson is the best is not one of. He is clear concise and gets to the point. Definitely a no B S. kinda of atty and I'm glad he doesn't give off a feeling of him being better than his clients
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29 May, 2024 by Sk young
Laurie Kendall is very nice and understanding. She's not a "bulldog" lawyer and certainly does not have an aggressive approach, however I found that her approach to my situation was probably the best approach there was. She seemed to genuinely want to help, and her prices are fairly reasonable.
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08 Mar, 2024 by Jessica resnick
Do not recommend. Happy to be done working with her.
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09 Jan, 2024 by Addison o'neil
08 Jul, 2024 by Curtis green
08 Jul, 2024 by Daniel gearing
I wouldn't use him again told me it would cost 5000$ to go to trial for full custody of my daughter . 2 court dates"1-2hr" and a hearing over phone"1 hr" settled for joint custody and all 5000$ is gone.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Jennifer eitniear
if your looking for the absolute best attorney , that is well renown in all courtrooms as well as highly favored by our judges and magistrates , you have found "The Best" in the area and arena...
remember though , you get what you pay for and really his retainers are on par with other attorneys with less experience, and not so favored in courtrooms.
do yourself a favor and retain this guy!
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09 Jan, 2024 by Addison o'neil
15 Dec, 2023 by Anthony rowan
I can’t believe nobody has given her a review yet. Julie is amazing I got in a bit of trouble over the last few years and she helped me get record sealed. I feel like she has a fairly healthy relationship with the courts as well which of course makes things easier. Thank you for everything again.
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13 Oct, 2023 by Jeff camp
710 days thanks to this evil person I have not got to spend with my daughter. I can't wait to sue you for everything you have.
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13 Jul, 2024 by Michael smith
Linda Jones is a very caring individual who won my disability case for me I'm extremely pleased with her services and I would highly recommend her.
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22 May, 2024 by Cheri fisher
04 May, 2024 by Jerry hackett
it was good 👍😊
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03 Nov, 2021 by Darlene ernsberger
Mr. Shook WAS kind, caring and patient. I would have recommended him to anyone needing help. Now I've been asking him for over 2 mos to help me follow up with my previous case, (I believe it is simple) and for 6 mos to help to help to finish [my Final Wishes paperwork, DNR orders and my WILL which we began together, when I need help, and he just disappeared !i CANNOT GET A RETURN call or even a text when I really need his assistance with a previous case, and he has my MOST IIMPORTANT paper work! I will respond to this positively WHENEVER HE DOES!! I do not know Why I am being ignored my bill was paid at the time in full. And as good and helpful as he once was, Now I am feeling neglected and unimportant on 2 issues. I even delivered personally a hand written hand delivered letter to his office in Toledo begging him to PLEASE contact me because of the urgency and still no reply. WHY????
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15 Feb, 2018 by Albert
David is a amazing lawyer and he truly cares about his clients. He helps us get our daughter out of a harmful environment. We are beyond grateful to him.
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11 Nov, 2017 by Anonymous
He is a good attorney. He tends to not be much on the aggressive side. I would still recommend him. I have paid him good money, and offering to pay more for a divorce. He tends to buy into the opposition's games.
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17 Aug, 2024 by Chucky barto
Only gave them a 2 star because I used Amanda Coyle and she was Amazing in my first child support case. Mr. Restivo on the other hand laid an egg! We came up with a game plan in court and completely ignored it and argued everything he said wouldn’t make a difference. Couldn’t even get me an 10% deviation with an 210 day overnight custody order. Amanda Coyle or no one in my opinion at this firm.
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01 Jun, 2024 by Douglas sturt
16 May, 2024 by Andrew price
Food was really good, good service and a clean place.
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17 Aug, 2024 by Chucky barto
Only gave them a 2 star because I used Amanda Coyle and she was Amazing in my first child support case. Mr. Restivo on the other hand laid an egg! We came up with a game plan in court and completely ignored it and argued everything he said wouldn’t make a difference. Couldn’t even get me an 10% deviation with an 210 day overnight custody order. Amanda Coyle or no one in my opinion at this firm.
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01 Jun, 2024 by Douglas sturt
16 May, 2024 by Andrew price
Food was really good, good service and a clean place.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Jean billops
The best lawyer in Toledo
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08 Jul, 2024 by Mousa baker
08 Jul, 2024 by Kevin
Great lawyers and staff
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09 Jan, 2024 by Addison o'neil
15 Dec, 2023 by Anthony rowan
I can’t believe nobody has given her a review yet. Julie is amazing I got in a bit of trouble over the last few years and she helped me get record sealed. I feel like she has a fairly healthy relationship with the courts as well which of course makes things easier. Thank you for everything again.
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13 Oct, 2023 by Jeff camp
710 days thanks to this evil person I have not got to spend with my daughter. I can't wait to sue you for everything you have.
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26 Sep, 2024 by Marcos ortiz
he is one of the best there in Toledo.....
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27 Aug, 2024 by John berry
Larry very helpful and great don't hesitate and call him great guy to work with
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01 Mar, 2024 by Chris
Gretchen was 100 percent on my side from the minute we met! I was wrongfully accused of 2 major felonies and could have been put in prison for a long time! Gretchen went above and beyond what a public defender would ever do! She stayed in contact with my family and friends to keep me updated while I was behind bars! She is awesome and when my charges were dismissed I felt the right of the world was off my shoulders she is excellent lawyer and I appreciate her hard work and I think she should get a medal for what she did for me!
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11 Sep, 2024 by Oren morton
Jill handled our adoption process and we were highly pleased. Thank you.
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29 Jul, 2024 by Jackie rasmussen
Beautiful building inside, very nice people, only a few minutes wait to be seen. Attorneys very nice. I guess we will just have to let it play out and see what happens.
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02 Oct, 2023 by Debby maras
23 Oct, 2024 by J king
I called and left my number so someone could reach out. About 10 minutes ago someone called me back. She listened to 2 minutes of my situation and said we don't take employment cases very rudely and hung up. She wasn't willing to listen to my entire story. I guess that's what's available when you're broke.
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13 Sep, 2024 by T balla
THE WOMAN THAT AMSWER THE PHONE ARE COMPLETELY RUDE JUST KEPT TALKING OVER ME AND THE 1ST LADY HUNG THE PHONE UP ON ME I WILL GO THERE TO HANDLE MY BUSINESS YOU DONT LIKE YOUR JOB QUIT STOP BEING MISERABLE 💯
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14 Aug, 2024 by Tamela barringer
The legal aid lawyer ( Sarah) performance was unsatisfactory. She did not carefully examine the documentation and information shared with her via email. In court, she displayed inadequate preparation and initially seemed to represent me, but later switched allegiances. Had I known she would not provide adequate representation, I could have handled the matter personally, using the information at my disposal. The lawyer did not work in favor of my family's interests.
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20 Nov, 2024 by Morgan s
I was never married to my child's father, but pursuing a custody agreement through the courts proved to be the best approach. Working with Sarah was an exceptional experience. She is highly compassionate, knowledgeable, and genuinely dedicated to advocating for the rights and best interests of the child or children involved, while also providing tailored support based on individual circumstances.
Sarah communicates openly and provides constructive guidance, helping clients stay accountable when necessary. Her compassionate and non-judgmental approach is truly commendable.
Overall, my experience with her was outstanding, and I would not hesitate to use her again in the future.
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13 Sep, 2024 by Chuck hainy
Mr. Simpson is the best is not one of. He is clear concise and gets to the point. Definitely a no B S. kinda of atty and I'm glad he doesn't give off a feeling of him being better than his clients
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03 Jul, 2024 by Anthony c.
Mrs. Haberland went above and beyond to help me in a Child Support case. She was very honest and very professional and because of her expertise, everything came out fair and square the way it should have. I highly recommend her to anybody, especially your fathers out there who have struggled with an unbalanced system.
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20 Nov, 2024 by Morgan s
I was never married to my child's father, but pursuing a custody agreement through the courts proved to be the best approach. Working with Sarah was an exceptional experience. She is highly compassionate, knowledgeable, and genuinely dedicated to advocating for the rights and best interests of the child or children involved, while also providing tailored support based on individual circumstances.
Sarah communicates openly and provides constructive guidance, helping clients stay accountable when necessary. Her compassionate and non-judgmental approach is truly commendable.
Overall, my experience with her was outstanding, and I would not hesitate to use her again in the future.
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13 Sep, 2024 by Chuck hainy
Mr. Simpson is the best is not one of. He is clear concise and gets to the point. Definitely a no B S. kinda of atty and I'm glad he doesn't give off a feeling of him being better than his clients
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03 Jul, 2024 by Anthony c.
Mrs. Haberland went above and beyond to help me in a Child Support case. She was very honest and very professional and because of her expertise, everything came out fair and square the way it should have. I highly recommend her to anybody, especially your fathers out there who have struggled with an unbalanced system.
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20 Nov, 2024 by Morgan s
I was never married to my child's father, but pursuing a custody agreement through the courts proved to be the best approach. Working with Sarah was an exceptional experience. She is highly compassionate, knowledgeable, and genuinely dedicated to advocating for the rights and best interests of the child or children involved, while also providing tailored support based on individual circumstances.
Sarah communicates openly and provides constructive guidance, helping clients stay accountable when necessary. Her compassionate and non-judgmental approach is truly commendable.
Overall, my experience with her was outstanding, and I would not hesitate to use her again in the future.
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13 Sep, 2024 by Chuck hainy
Mr. Simpson is the best is not one of. He is clear concise and gets to the point. Definitely a no B S. kinda of atty and I'm glad he doesn't give off a feeling of him being better than his clients
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03 Jul, 2024 by Anthony c.
Mrs. Haberland went above and beyond to help me in a Child Support case. She was very honest and very professional and because of her expertise, everything came out fair and square the way it should have. I highly recommend her to anybody, especially your fathers out there who have struggled with an unbalanced system.
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26 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
I contacted this attorney in regards to Social Security via her website. She did call me at the number I provided while I was away. However, when I returned her phone she did not answer the phone and then when I left a message on her voicemail she did not return the voicemail.
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12 Jan, 2024 by Jeffrey
I had the privilege of having an extraordinary child custody lawyer who surpassed all expectations. Her impeccable professionalism and unwavering commitment to my case were truly commendable. From being consistently punctual to keeping me informed every step of the way, she ensured that I felt supported and well-informed throughout the entire process. Her expertise and dedication made the entire experience not only bearable but surprisingly wonderful. I couldn't be happier with the outstanding job she did, and I am grateful for the positive impact she had on such a crucial aspect of my life.
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22 Feb, 2020 by Anonymous
Thank you so much. You are amazing. I had a divorce case. She fought for me and got me exactly what I wanted after his lawyer was being a jerk.
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20 Nov, 2024 by Morgan s
I was never married to my child's father, but pursuing a custody agreement through the courts proved to be the best approach. Working with Sarah was an exceptional experience. She is highly compassionate, knowledgeable, and genuinely dedicated to advocating for the rights and best interests of the child or children involved, while also providing tailored support based on individual circumstances.
Sarah communicates openly and provides constructive guidance, helping clients stay accountable when necessary. Her compassionate and non-judgmental approach is truly commendable.
Overall, my experience with her was outstanding, and I would not hesitate to use her again in the future.
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13 Sep, 2024 by Chuck hainy
Mr. Simpson is the best is not one of. He is clear concise and gets to the point. Definitely a no B S. kinda of atty and I'm glad he doesn't give off a feeling of him being better than his clients
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03 Jul, 2024 by Anthony c.
Mrs. Haberland went above and beyond to help me in a Child Support case. She was very honest and very professional and because of her expertise, everything came out fair and square the way it should have. I highly recommend her to anybody, especially your fathers out there who have struggled with an unbalanced system.
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18 Mar, 2024 by Steven
Stevin Groth is a great experienced lawyer. He is easy to talk to and always got back to me about my questions in a timely manner. I give him and his team 5/5 stars and would definitely recommend hiring him as your defense attorney. I was very happy with my outcome for my case. 👍👍
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10 Oct, 2023 by Brandon
Don’t waste your time with Tammy Harmon at Lawrence law office or that office. Tammy charges outrageous rates and for NOTHING! Went to court for us talked a big game at the “consultation” that’s was supposed to be FREE. Went to court Tammy showed up like she just rolled outta bed also. Then when we get into the court room Tammy doesn’t barely speak lost the case straight off even the judge new that it was a lie Tammy had ALL the proof but sat there and looked like a puppy along with the owner Rod Lawrence at Lawrence law. Also we won’t talk about where Tammy thought it was her job to call the defendant on your own time and turn around and CHARGE ME 75$! Get a grip that’s not her job to contact them! Do yourself a favor and don’t hire her or Lawrence law.
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18 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
If you find yourself in a legal situation and are asking yourself, what do I do now? The answer is call and hire Mark Davis for legal representation. I was arrested with 10 Percocet pills in Toledo, interrogated by a detective and was facing a felony drug charge. For weeks I was nervous, scared, frantic about what would happen, until I contacted Mark Davis who was willing to meet with me on a Saturday afternoon. Thanks to Mark I somehow walked out of the courtroom a few months later with a $150 fine and was done. Mark explains and communicates your case to you with his best knowledge of the legal facts associated. He does not just tell you everything will be OK but explains using his best legal knowledge, possible outcomes in a way that keeps your stress level low. I see people talk about Marks ego. I put my trust in the Law office of Mark Davis for an OVI charge as well. I had two priors, and was offered a minor misdemeanor from the prosecutor which I thought hard about taking. I wouldn't say Mark used his ego in recommending I take my case to trial, but instead used his legal knowledge of helping me make the best decision based on legal FACTS. Due to the trust I have in Mark I was found NOT GUILTY through a trial by jury in Maumee. I have never seen such professional conduct. Mark is a very well respected attorney throughout the court systems in Maumee and Toledo. The Law Office of Mark Davis is the best there is, and he is the only attorney I would recommend to any close friends or family needing legal representation.
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10 Jul, 2017 by Scott geiger
He unforfeited my car and kept me out. He answered his phone with all of my many questions. He's out to do the very best for all of his clients.
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07 Dec, 2016 by Matthew
Knowledge of the law and constitution, caring to your specific needs ,know his way around the court, I would definitely use his skills again,Great service from Mark Davis! 5 Stars!!!@!
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12 Aug, 2021 by Desiree
This firm was a joke, started out with Attorny and was passed off to Patty. What was supposed to be a simple cut and dry average 10,000$ divorce turned into a circus show and 30,000$ dollars. When I try and negotiate a settlement that she said they would do, I am never given a settlement price option. Absolutely rediculous that I was even charged 30,000 dollars for a basic divorce to begin with!!
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07 Apr, 2020 by Sarah
I had a phone consultation with Patricia that was very helpful. I appreciated her knowledge of my situation, her sound guidance, and her timely reply to my call for advice.
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26 Mar, 2018 by Melyssa
Patricia Kurt is nothing less than a professional. She was very attentive to the uniqueness of my case. Would recommend her for any of your family court needs. She and her team did an excellent job keeping all things pertaining to my case organized and timely. Could not have asked for better representation!
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22 Jan, 2025 by Lore whiteside
My legal aid attorney told me that even though the park refused my rent which broke the court ordered injunction to move . She should have filed the park broke the law. If I could give negative 100 I would. Thanks to her I lost my home I owned.
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11 Nov, 2024 by Tobi
Very rude operators and not inclined to help at all, I've been trying to contact this office everyday for 2 weeks to finish a completed application
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25 Jul, 2024 by Richard wooley
No help at all
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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.
