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17 Oct, 2012 by Anonymous
Ms. Levels represented me for multiple family law issues and I found her to be knowledgeable, helpful, hard working and fair. She is very understanding and her rates are reasonable. I highly recommend her.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Gary julien
I am very unsatisfied with this company, I should have went off reviews I read from up front, nothing they promise u happens, i could have represented myself and gotten this same outcome, yet i took them off my case after being told charges would stop by Leslie, they are still trying to charge me for doing nothing except putting me in the hole 🚨🚨🚨🚨🚨🚨🚨
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04 Aug, 2024 by Noah gilleland
Great staff. Friendly and professional service.
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24 Apr, 2024 by Zane gifford
Asked general questions on a difficult situation. Was fully willing to pay whatever price was needed to get the job done. Tony proceeded to basically treat my questions as if I was a child and told me not to contact them anymore. Quite rude. Not the person that I had talked to less than a month ago.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Gary julien
I am very unsatisfied with this company, I should have went off reviews I read from up front, nothing they promise u happens, i could have represented myself and gotten this same outcome, yet i took them off my case after being told charges would stop by Leslie, they are still trying to charge me for doing nothing except putting me in the hole 🚨🚨🚨🚨🚨🚨🚨
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04 Aug, 2024 by Noah gilleland
Great staff. Friendly and professional service.
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24 Apr, 2024 by Zane gifford
Asked general questions on a difficult situation. Was fully willing to pay whatever price was needed to get the job done. Tony proceeded to basically treat my questions as if I was a child and told me not to contact them anymore. Quite rude. Not the person that I had talked to less than a month ago.
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25 Aug, 2024 by Polly crawford
Rocky was chosen by the court to represent my daughter Lauren when she was only 15, several years ago by her dad and his wife. I had met the wife briefly only a few times during an exchange so she did not know at all. This had been an ongoing attempt by her dad to alienate my daughter from me just like his own mother did to him and his sisters when they were young from their own father. The only accusation against me was I did not help my daughter with her Type 1 diabetes when in fact within a couple of years of her diagnosis I went back to college to become a Registered Nurse to better care for my daughter. My RN specialty is Diabetes and Hemodialysis which is the end result of patients non-compliance with taking care of their diabetes. Many sleepless nights of having to do 2am-3am blood glucose readings. My daughter’s Child psychologist asked me if she could contact her Pediatrician for a conference which I agreed to not knowing what it was about. The Child psychologist and Pediatrician called me into a meeting to advise me to get a restraining order against her dad because he was causing mental health issues which was directly affecting her health. As a college student single mother I had no way to afford court. I had been in counseling from the mental and emotional abuse from this man for 2 years but I was told I could not bring up the past. Her child psychologist told me I needed to protect because he is a Narcissistic Sociopath. That really blew my mind because as Dr. Phil says, ‘ a good indicator or future behavior is past behavior’. Since my daughter was 3-4 years old and would come home from visits, she would exhibit out-of-control behavior and her daycare or pre-school teachers would always say, she must have seen dad this weekend. He dragged us into court frivolously several times which I always won because I had done nothing wrong. Her dad would call my mother and attack me relentlessly. My dad and brother both had to intervene and tell the dad to stop calling and harassing my mom. The office manager where my mom worked for my dad then my brother intercepted his calls but he still managed to get through. During one court case the Judge had to ask for a chair to be brought in for my mother because she was obviously ill, which we found out later she had a heart attack.
After court my mom told me she overheard the dad’s wife tell him, ‘ I guess she will have to learn the hard way. Fast forward a few years and I was served papers at my dialysis job with a restraining order to not contact my child who was in Texas for a visit. After several months of back and forth to Houston for hearings my mother on Christmas Ever had a massive heart attack and passed away. My mom had told me that my girls gave her a reason to live which is another story.
I lost my job in January after my mom’s funeral and having no money left to fight I gave in. It has now been 7 years since I spoke to my daughter. She refuses to speak to me. We just buried my dad in May and she showed up and when I approached her to talk to her she told me DON’T. Wi to all the court ordered counseling meetings and court ordered parental alienation conferences my daughter never gave a reason for her Alienating me, just it had to be this way. I have missed high school dances, high school graduation, college and sorority functions. Her younger sister was so distraught losing her Nana and sister she attempted to take her own life. She now has 2 baby boys and her sister is not in her life. Thanks Rocky. Maybe study parental alienation and open your eyes to who the real person is alienating the other parent. All because I refused to take him back. I always told people he and I might not get along but he is good to Lauren. Look what that got me.
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22 Feb, 2024 by Dancemonkey2
Rocky is a very neat lawyer, I am happy I was recommended to her, she Has helped me through my child Custody, Divorce, and all the issues that are going on, including, family violence, harassing, etc etc. She does great and she handles the cases well, and has gotten everything we have asked for..... I want to thank Her very much because she gave me something I didn't think I would get back after being with my ex and the things that happened, my pride and joy... I would 100% reccomend her to anyone!!!!!!
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23 Jun, 2021 by Diego b
Some time ago Rocky helped me out writing an amazing contract for a business transaction. I recently called for a similar service and got rejected by the receptionist in less than 1 minute. Whoever picked up the phone had the power to decide whether my business was worth it or not. She made an express legal assessment of her own and said, " Sorry, we don't do that, we do family law "
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27 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
I found myself in some legal trouble and I was nervous about the outcome. Mr. Davis talked me through the options I had available and he laid out a plan of action that was going to get my case resolved and possibly removed from my record. Needless to say, Mr. Davis delivered! My case was dismissed. Mr. Davis came highly recommended to me by a close friend and I, in turn, highly recommend him to you or anyone you know.
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22 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
Very poor client communication. Did NOT keep me informed, did NOT send me copies of documents even though his "contract" said he would. Did NOT meet a court deadline and my entire case was dismissed because of his negligence. I'm still trying to get copies of MY file so I can deal with my bills and he will not respond and will not send me MY file. Does NOT return phone calls, emails, or mail requests.
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06 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
I used Ralph Shepherd. He was extremely short tempered and I was belittle, and felt isolated as he would not allow any in the office with me, my daughter, mother, or my now husband. The day of my court case, he screamed at me in the lobby of the court house in front of my soon to be ex-husband, and his girlfriend and a few others that were listening. I was mortified and humiliate. I spent 4 hours on the stand, being drilled by the other attorney, while Ralph just sat there. When time came for cross examine, Mr. Shepherd used non of the evidence I gave him, phone records, photo's, including an eye witness, to prove my ex-husban was lying on the stand. He used nothing, he was unprepared with his questions, unlike the other attorney, who questioned me for 4 hours! The judge disliked me so much I only was award 40% of retirement, when I should have gotten 50%. Ralph Shepherd did nothing for me. He is the worst attorney in town! I do not recommend Ralph Shepherd.
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26 Feb, 2013 by David
Very unprofessional. Required cash payment up front (refused to provide a receipt). After 3.5 months of no progress, I hired a professional lawyer and my case was taken care of in less than three weeks. Avoid this guy.
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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.
