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15 Jan, 2024 by Jason brager
Cynthia was great to work with. She helped us cover everything we would never have thought of on our own, made a difficult process as painless as possible, and pricing was very reasonable. Much better experience than what I know others go through when lawyers get involved and make everything highly contentious.
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14 Dec, 2023 by Danielle crawford
08 Nov, 2023 by Linda keely
I so appreciated Cindy's skills, experience, and approach to mediation. The process was easy to navigate, incredibly less expensive than hiring lawyers, and as pain free as I could ever expect!
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23 Jan, 2024 by Rachel bridgeman
28 Jul, 2020 by William goode
09 May, 2020 by Shereé tilley
08 May, 2021 by Lancy cash
13 Oct, 2020 by Kev mc
Mr. Hamburger is an awesome Attorney. I been going here for years. Tammy is the best to work with. She takes care of all your issues and concerns. Highly recommended, thanks!
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08 May, 2021 by Lancy cash
13 Oct, 2020 by Kev mc
Mr. Hamburger is an awesome Attorney. I been going here for years. Tammy is the best to work with. She takes care of all your issues and concerns. Highly recommended, thanks!
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08 May, 2021 by Lancy cash
13 Oct, 2020 by Kev mc
Mr. Hamburger is an awesome Attorney. I been going here for years. Tammy is the best to work with. She takes care of all your issues and concerns. Highly recommended, thanks!
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17 Feb, 2025 by Towanda gladden
I Towanda Gladden want to take time out to personally say thank you for taking my case supported my decision to wait if my heart
wasn't ready it's been a long time coming. But I gained a friend in my darkest time .you never made me feel like I was a burden with my back and forth I seen the passion you had when I would be in tear and asking questions that's something I'll never forget. Thanks to Josh always willing to answer my thousands of questions making sure it was explained to me. So again I say thanks if anyone I come across I would highly recommend your firm. Towanda Gladden
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17 Feb, 2025 by Laneatria tolbert
Tom Mallon was awesome. Very professional and found things that my first lawyer didn't. Definitely a good choice for me...❤️
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18 Nov, 2024 by B serdula
09 Jan, 2025 by Nic kamau
09 Jan, 2025 by Jaci gachukia
Attorney Scott was able to help us where we needed a lawyer for traffic offense that was punishable by jail term. He was available and knowledgeable when we needed him. I recommend him.
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24 Dec, 2024 by Stephen johnson
God blesses people in different ways. These guys were my blessings. They're very caring and dependable in every way. They took care of everything from start to finish with me and ended with great results. I would recommend them to anyone and everyone. I pray for their future endeavors. God bless them.
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09 Jan, 2025 by Nic kamau
09 Jan, 2025 by Jaci gachukia
Attorney Scott was able to help us where we needed a lawyer for traffic offense that was punishable by jail term. He was available and knowledgeable when we needed him. I recommend him.
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24 Dec, 2024 by Stephen johnson
God blesses people in different ways. These guys were my blessings. They're very caring and dependable in every way. They took care of everything from start to finish with me and ended with great results. I would recommend them to anyone and everyone. I pray for their future endeavors. God bless them.
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13 Feb, 2025 by Timothy williams
Kevin Carr ,Esq.I would like to express my sincere gratitude for the exceptional legal services you provided during my personal injury case. Your thorough approach and clear communication helped me feel confident and supported throughout the entire process. Thank you for your outstanding representation. It was a pleasure working with you,and I will not hesitate to recommend your services to others who may need legal assistance in the future. Warn regards, Timothy williams.
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09 Feb, 2025 by T roy
Mr. Kafka really cares and does diligent research on your case. He’s very honest. He also is knowledgeable of States Attorney Office, having been a former public defender. He is resourceful and quick in getting needed records, body cams and files. He knows what motions need to be filed. He does a great job of communicating and keeping you informed.
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31 Jan, 2025 by Latoya jackson-taylor
Tell all your family and friends. This lawfirm is honest, dedicated, responsive and comforting during a very complicated and stressful situation. 5 stars all the way down to the people who answer the phones. Arian was my attorney and Grace was my case manager. 5 Star Service. God bless you all
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23 Jan, 2025 by Jessica bailey
Julius was very informative, so helpful in getting me divorced. It was quick and easy. If you have limited childcare he does consultations over video chat, and his office is right in town for meetings, to discuss the simplest way to get your needs taken care of. Julius is friendly, knowledgeable, and I am so happy he took the time to represent me, and help me get my divorce taken care of! Give him a call, you will not be disappointed!!!
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22 Jan, 2025 by Sanjol basel
I highly recommend Blattner Family Law Group! Mr. Julius, Ms. Autumn, and Ms. Reagan were incredibly supportive, professional, and compassionate throughout my case. They took the time to understand my situation, kept me informed every step of the way, and always made me feel heard. Their expertise and dedication led to a favorable outcome, and I couldn’t be more grateful. If you need a legal team that truly cares about you, look no further!
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07 Jan, 2025 by Dennis bullock-bey
They were very professional at a good price. I really enjoyed my experience with this Law Firm.
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3.7
3 Reviews
4.9
154 Reviews
23 Jan, 2025 by Jessica bailey
Julius was very informative, so helpful in getting me divorced. It was quick and easy. If you have limited childcare he does consultations over video chat, and his office is right in town for meetings, to discuss the simplest way to get your needs taken care of. Julius is friendly, knowledgeable, and I am so happy he took the time to represent me, and help me get my divorce taken care of! Give him a call, you will not be disappointed!!!
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22 Jan, 2025 by Sanjol basel
I highly recommend Blattner Family Law Group! Mr. Julius, Ms. Autumn, and Ms. Reagan were incredibly supportive, professional, and compassionate throughout my case. They took the time to understand my situation, kept me informed every step of the way, and always made me feel heard. Their expertise and dedication led to a favorable outcome, and I couldn’t be more grateful. If you need a legal team that truly cares about you, look no further!
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07 Jan, 2025 by Dennis bullock-bey
They were very professional at a good price. I really enjoyed my experience with this Law Firm.
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08 Oct, 2024 by Sterling hardy
Great service
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29 Aug, 2024 by Ayanna martin
Received a great accident refund for my son and I from Mr. Peter McDowell! Thank you!
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16 May, 2024 by Christina mantzouris
I would recommend anyone to the law office of Peter T. McDowell. He's a consummate professional, who will go above and beyond to listen to your story and help you seek the justice and compensation you deserve. He and his office were prompt and professional every step of the way and went out of their way to make my injury case as easy as possible and to make sure I got proper and justified compensation. I would give 6 stars if I could!
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22 Jan, 2020 by Roy b
Not sure where to begin attempting to find the right words for Erika; coming from a dad that didn’t know one thing that was involved with gaining full physical & legal custody of my oldest daughter! By far my case was not the easiest, it lingered for years after the win, but she was amazingly remarkable! One thing is for sure I learned a lot from her super knowledge of the ins and outs of the law, and court proceedings! If I needed her she was there! My family and myself always recommend Erika for her diligent service. Erika you rock, and we thank you, RB
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13 Jan, 2020 by Jennifer williams
I first contacted Mrs.Dannemann Slater back in 2004 for child custody case after meeting with her and getting to know a little more about her I hired her right away to represent myself and my son in this case. Erica fought very hard in this case she put her best foot forward and the outcome was Grand! Fast forward a little I reach out to her again and also hired her for a new case in 2016 for an adoption. She not only won that case as well but she also made us feel like family. She had retained all information from our previous case and also was willing and dedicated to help. Erika jumped right in with details and documents needed for this new case without taking a second guess she jumped out there and begin building this case all while of course making sure she kept the best interest of the child in the Forefront I can never thank her enough for the way she molded and shaped our family into something great. If you are looking for someone willing to fight and stay by your side no matter what hardships come upon you she is the best attorney for the job
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09 Jan, 2020 by Eva
Mrs. Slater is the best lawyer in MD, by far!
She has handled 3 cases for my family. Mrs. Slater is extremely passionate about her clients and the services that she provides. She was highly recommended to me by a coworker, who's family she represented. I trusts not only Mrs. Slater's experience and education, I completely trust her opinion. She has always displayed that she had my children's best interest at heart. She is extremely organized and confident during trials. She always ensured that I was educated during the process, which eased my anxiety around the trial. I have recommended multiple clients to Mrs Slater, who were all MORE than pleased with her representation. I was even asked for her information by my ex-husband (whom was a defendant in a trial she represented me in) because he wanted to pass her information along for a friend of his. (SHE IS THAT GOOD!!!!!) She is my family lawyer and has been for almost 11 years. I need more stars for this rating.
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5.0
1 Reviews
4.6
147 Reviews
10 Dec, 2024 by Jason cellars
I don't think they told me the truth one time during my entire case. After my case is over and I received almost No medical treatment and almost no money, now I am talking to other attorneys. They are all telling me Seigel and Rouhana scammed me and lied to me. If only I had called other attorneys earlier, everything would be different. Do not fall for Seigel and Rouhana's lies. They want to get you as little money as possible. All of their clients say they have been taken advantage of but they don't find out until it's too late. They have a class action being filed against them soon by their former clients. They are thieves.
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19 Oct, 2024 by Gg charities
Since retaining this firm, it has been great, responsive, and dedicated to making me comfortable and resourceful with waiting for my weekly wages from the insurance company . So far, great!
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26 Sep, 2024 by Timesha johnson
Jason mansmann went above and beyond to make sure I got decent settlement I will definitely use law firm of Sigel & Rouhana again. I will refer this law firm to my family and friends Thank you again Jason mansmann
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11 Dec, 2024 by Ray mcgowan
Wasserman White Family Law provided excellent insight and advice throughout a challenging experience! I felt prepared at every step of the process!
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24 Jul, 2024 by The prolific maryland kid
12 Jul, 2024 by Shelley-rose moghrabi
That won't happen to me, I said. I am not of that race, nationality, or ethnicity, and so I did not speak out. That won’t happen to me, I said, I don’t practice that religion, and so I did not speak out. That won’t happen to me, I said, I’m not of that sexual orientation, and so I did not speak out. That won’t happen to me, I said, I’m not part of that income bracket, and so I did not speak out. That won’t happen to me, I said, I don’t have that disability, and so I did not speak out. That won’t happen to me, I said, until it was physically in my face, had me backed into a corner, and was spewing utter vitriol at me. That won't happen to me, I said, he'd never lay a hand on me, until one day the physical aggression caused me physical pain and injury. That won’t happen to me, I said, until thirteen months ago, when I found myself on the phone with a domestic violence hotline. That won’t happen to me, I said, until thirteen months ago, when I found myself hurriedly packing a bag and fleeing my home, and boarding an aircraft out of state, because I feared for my life and safety. Fifty years ago, when my mother and her family escaped their war-torn country with nothing but the clothes on their backs and one bag per person due to religious persecution, I never imagined that one day, fifty years into the future, that I too would one day find myself following in her footsteps, quite literally.
I never imagined that I would one day find myself fleeing my home with nothing but the clothes on my back and one small carry-on bag, and boarding a same-day aircraft bound for 1,000+ miles away, because I too feared for my life and safety. Thirteen months ago, when I found myself on the phone with a local domestic violence agency in my state, I never imagined that the proverbial door would get slammed in my face, on the basis that I earned too much money to qualify for any help or support. Since I was born and raised abroad, and with my own family still living halfway around the world, it was in that moment that I truly realized, and that it genuinely sunk in, that I was going to be completely and entirely alone in the process of escaping the cycle of violence.
In 1848, divorce was practically unheard of. Most states had fault-based divorce laws outlining the requirements and criteria permitting divorce: lunacy, adultery, desertion, or cruelty. This meant that couples could only pursue divorce IF they could prove, in a court of law, that one or the other had committed one of these offenses. However, given the laws (or lack thereof) governing women's rights and freedoms at the time, divorce was far more complex for women, as they remained at risk of being unable to regain their last names, unable to retain property acquired prior to their marriage, or unable to obtain custody of their children. These fault-based grounds are in stark contrast to the no-fault system that exists across most states today. Today, after decades of tireless advocacy, and thanks to incredible attorneys like Laurie Wasserman and Virginia Yeoman, people are no longer required to remain shackled to their spouses, and have the freedom to escape the cycle of violence. Thanks to the fabulous support of Laurie and Virginia, I've not only been able to survive, but I am slowly on my way to thriving again. The words "happiness" and "divorce" are the last two words you'd expect to see in the same sentence, but that is exactly what Virginia and Laurie have facilitated for me.
For anyone considering engaging the services of Laurie Wasserman and her team, from the bottom of my heart, I wholeheartedly recommend them and their entire office. They'll not only save your life, but they will also help re-unlock your door to freedom, health, independence, and joy again.
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10 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
As a divorcee on the search for a replacement lawyer, Craig stood out tremendously. By all accounts in the Baltimore, family law community, Craig is a known, authentic, caring human that is extremely good at his job. Now, having been through a settlement with him, I can tell you, he listens to you and gets results that you didn't even think of. Craig is creative and well connected. He understands the full 360 of the situation his clients are in and he helps you manage. I couldn't be happier with the results he got for me.
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23 May, 2019 by Anonymous
Craig Ward handled my challenging case about 6 months ago. I was fortunate to have Mr. Ward. He’s not afraid to fight for you and he seemed determined to make things work in my favor. Craig is smart, proactive, and extremely knowledgeable about a wide array of issues. The outcome he achieved for me was far better than I had expected. I had consulted with several lawyers prior to finding Craig and they were all discouraging. But Craig was thoughtful from day one, he knew about many complexities, and wasn’t afraid to tackle the problems head on in a savvy way. He was also well connected and seemed to be respected in his field. I’m glad he was on my side and not the other way around!
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17 Mar, 2009 by Anonymous
I can tell you I was extremely worried about my case, but knowing that I had Craig Ward for a lawyer truly made a huge difference. He developed a plan for me to follow, called me to keep me informed about what he thought and I fully trusted him and listened to everything he instructed me to do. I can't even tell you how great of an outcome I had in court today, I received something even better than what I thought was the best possible scenario. I noticed other lawyers sitting around and waiting their turn to be heard in front of the judge, but my lawyer was constantly talking to the states attorney throughout the entire period I was in the courtroom. He made everything convenient for me as a client, showed a high degree of professionalism, and defended me perfectly when I gave him a tough case to take on. Mr. Ward will take the time to study your case and put the time in to represent you well in court. He's represented me twice and both times have yielded great results.
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26 Nov, 2024 by Christie kelly
The best experience with a Lawyer I have ever had. Mr. Rogyom was extremely knowledgeable, personable, compassionate and kind when I needed assistance after the passing of my mom. I cannot give a high enough raving review. Thank you so much for your council, and walking me through this process. It was a pleasure working with you. Sincerely, and with gratitude. Mrs. Kelly
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03 Oct, 2024 by Nina xu
Jeff was an absolute pleasure to work with on setting up our wills and advance directives. From our introductory call to the signing of the final documents, Jeff walked us through the process efficiently and thoroughly. He answered all of our questions throughout and gave us all the guidance we needed. We appreciate that Jeff traveled to our home to complete the signing and filed the documents on our behalves. It was a straightforward process from beginning to end and we are thankful to Jeff for his legal knowhow and client focus.
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18 Jul, 2024 by Daniel ayoub
I called Jeff for a question that I had after being referred to him by someone else. Jeff was able to get with me on the phone me quickly and gave me his time quite readily. He listened to me in full and talked me through the situation and some options that I had, even referring me to someone with different expertise who could also be of help to me. At no point, did he cut me off or try to sell me on his services, which I appreciated. Rather, he told me his opinion honestly and with good intent. I appreciated Jeff's professionalism and willingness to promptly talk to me and for his time. Thanks Jeff!
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26 Nov, 2024 by Christie kelly
The best experience with a Lawyer I have ever had. Mr. Rogyom was extremely knowledgeable, personable, compassionate and kind when I needed assistance after the passing of my mom. I cannot give a high enough raving review. Thank you so much for your council, and walking me through this process. It was a pleasure working with you. Sincerely, and with gratitude. Mrs. Kelly
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03 Oct, 2024 by Nina xu
Jeff was an absolute pleasure to work with on setting up our wills and advance directives. From our introductory call to the signing of the final documents, Jeff walked us through the process efficiently and thoroughly. He answered all of our questions throughout and gave us all the guidance we needed. We appreciate that Jeff traveled to our home to complete the signing and filed the documents on our behalves. It was a straightforward process from beginning to end and we are thankful to Jeff for his legal knowhow and client focus.
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18 Jul, 2024 by Daniel ayoub
I called Jeff for a question that I had after being referred to him by someone else. Jeff was able to get with me on the phone me quickly and gave me his time quite readily. He listened to me in full and talked me through the situation and some options that I had, even referring me to someone with different expertise who could also be of help to me. At no point, did he cut me off or try to sell me on his services, which I appreciated. Rather, he told me his opinion honestly and with good intent. I appreciated Jeff's professionalism and willingness to promptly talk to me and for his time. Thanks Jeff!
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31 Jul, 2024 by Jessica louque
Garrett Brierly was professional, communicative, and thorough. Highly recommend Mr. Brierly and his firm.
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14 Mar, 2024 by Henry
Adam Spence helped me with an elder abuse claim. Adam is an experienced, knowledgeable attorney. He is passionate about his work helping elderly and disabled people. He is a leader in our Bar Association. I strongly recommend Adam to anybody looking for an attorney for help with an elder abuse matter.
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13 Mar, 2024 by Mckenna dallmeyer
Garrett and his team are the best of the best. Garrett was fantastic to work with and really helped us with our situation. Thanks to his expertise and guidance we got the outcome we wanted with our case. Can’t recommend enough!
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06 Oct, 2016 by Jason
I had been charged with a d.u.i. and kon explained everything to me thoroughly and gave me an idea of what to expect throughout the process. Everything he told me happened exactly how he explained it would. He was comfortable to speak with and i felt that he took a personal attachment to my case. I would and will recommend him to anyone who needs professional counsel.
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16 Feb, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr. Kim is a great attorney. He is intelligent, respectful, and understanding. He timely returns calls and takes the time to explain things to you. I would definitely recommend him to anyone.
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06 Jun, 2023 by David
Would like to thank David for quickly resolving my legal issue. David fully understood the nuances of my case and resolved the matter quickly before the noted court date. David's professional skills were very thorough which was the driving factor in bringing quick resolution to my legal matter.
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04 Apr, 2014 by Martin
Mr. Boozer has represented me on two different instances,divorce and drug charge,I feel he achieved the best results that I wanted. He appeared at court and settled the one case there,the other case of divorce also ended with the results that I wanted, he kept me informed of the ligitation going on any was thoughtful of my financial status as well. Mr. Boozer is somebody that I felt very comfortable with and always spoke to me and explained things so I would understand both in lawyer terms and in my terms as well. Mr. Boozer is very knowledgeable and informed of the laws and represented me with the utmost professional work and was also very caring about my issues. If I had any issue where I would need a lawyer I would not think twice about contacting him for his thoughts and if he would handle it himself or would refer me to someone else.He is a credit to his profession.
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11 Dec, 2018 by Anonymous
Conventional wisdom states never change attorneys in the middle of a trial. After watching our first representative fail to plan, miss deadlines, not take advantage of opportunities and complain about how difficult our case was, we decided we needed to change. Steve Caplan came to our rescue. In a few weeks he was able to review hundreds of pages of transcripts and evidentiary documents. He is the consummate professional - knowledgeable, totally prepared at trial, fearless in representing his clients, a superb litigator in every respect. I can not say enough positive things about him.
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23 Jan, 2024 by Rachel bridgeman
28 Jul, 2020 by William goode
09 May, 2020 by Shereé tilley
23 Jan, 2024 by Rachel bridgeman
28 Jul, 2020 by William goode
09 May, 2020 by Shereé tilley
29 Aug, 2023 by R sauers
21 Mar, 2016 by Richard kaminski
I have used Jeff Charlow for several real estate transactions. Highly Recommend.
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13 Feb, 2025 by Timothy williams
Kevin Carr ,Esq.I would like to express my sincere gratitude for the exceptional legal services you provided during my personal injury case. Your thorough approach and clear communication helped me feel confident and supported throughout the entire process. Thank you for your outstanding representation. It was a pleasure working with you,and I will not hesitate to recommend your services to others who may need legal assistance in the future. Warn regards, Timothy williams.
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09 Feb, 2025 by T roy
Mr. Kafka really cares and does diligent research on your case. He’s very honest. He also is knowledgeable of States Attorney Office, having been a former public defender. He is resourceful and quick in getting needed records, body cams and files. He knows what motions need to be filed. He does a great job of communicating and keeping you informed.
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31 Jan, 2025 by Latoya jackson-taylor
Tell all your family and friends. This lawfirm is honest, dedicated, responsive and comforting during a very complicated and stressful situation. 5 stars all the way down to the people who answer the phones. Arian was my attorney and Grace was my case manager. 5 Star Service. God bless you all
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13 Feb, 2025 by Timothy williams
Kevin Carr ,Esq.I would like to express my sincere gratitude for the exceptional legal services you provided during my personal injury case. Your thorough approach and clear communication helped me feel confident and supported throughout the entire process. Thank you for your outstanding representation. It was a pleasure working with you,and I will not hesitate to recommend your services to others who may need legal assistance in the future. Warn regards, Timothy williams.
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09 Feb, 2025 by T roy
Mr. Kafka really cares and does diligent research on your case. He’s very honest. He also is knowledgeable of States Attorney Office, having been a former public defender. He is resourceful and quick in getting needed records, body cams and files. He knows what motions need to be filed. He does a great job of communicating and keeping you informed.
Read more
31 Jan, 2025 by Latoya jackson-taylor
Tell all your family and friends. This lawfirm is honest, dedicated, responsive and comforting during a very complicated and stressful situation. 5 stars all the way down to the people who answer the phones. Arian was my attorney and Grace was my case manager. 5 Star Service. God bless you all
Read more
13 Feb, 2025 by Timothy williams
Kevin Carr ,Esq.I would like to express my sincere gratitude for the exceptional legal services you provided during my personal injury case. Your thorough approach and clear communication helped me feel confident and supported throughout the entire process. Thank you for your outstanding representation. It was a pleasure working with you,and I will not hesitate to recommend your services to others who may need legal assistance in the future. Warn regards, Timothy williams.
Read more
09 Feb, 2025 by T roy
Mr. Kafka really cares and does diligent research on your case. He’s very honest. He also is knowledgeable of States Attorney Office, having been a former public defender. He is resourceful and quick in getting needed records, body cams and files. He knows what motions need to be filed. He does a great job of communicating and keeping you informed.
Read more
31 Jan, 2025 by Latoya jackson-taylor
Tell all your family and friends. This lawfirm is honest, dedicated, responsive and comforting during a very complicated and stressful situation. 5 stars all the way down to the people who answer the phones. Arian was my attorney and Grace was my case manager. 5 Star Service. God bless you all
Read more
13 Feb, 2025 by Timothy williams
Kevin Carr ,Esq.I would like to express my sincere gratitude for the exceptional legal services you provided during my personal injury case. Your thorough approach and clear communication helped me feel confident and supported throughout the entire process. Thank you for your outstanding representation. It was a pleasure working with you,and I will not hesitate to recommend your services to others who may need legal assistance in the future. Warn regards, Timothy williams.
Read more
09 Feb, 2025 by T roy
Mr. Kafka really cares and does diligent research on your case. He’s very honest. He also is knowledgeable of States Attorney Office, having been a former public defender. He is resourceful and quick in getting needed records, body cams and files. He knows what motions need to be filed. He does a great job of communicating and keeping you informed.
Read more
31 Jan, 2025 by Latoya jackson-taylor
Tell all your family and friends. This lawfirm is honest, dedicated, responsive and comforting during a very complicated and stressful situation. 5 stars all the way down to the people who answer the phones. Arian was my attorney and Grace was my case manager. 5 Star Service. God bless you all
Read more
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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:
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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.
