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23 Jan, 2025 by Jasmine jackson
I spoke with John C. today & he answered all my questions. He was a big help.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Chanel brown
23 Jan, 2025 by Blizz4everwow
Eric was very helpful. Thank you!
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19 Sep, 2024 by Salil sahu
04 Aug, 2024 by Fatima nahhal
He’s a great lawyer. He handled my case great will definitely recommend to other people.
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22 Jul, 2024 by Jb
Todd did a great job for me. Very responsive, kept me informed, on-time, easy to talk to and explained everything clearly. He got a misdemeanor reduced to a civil infraction which was a double parking, so really appreciated his help on the matter. Great Lawyer and highly recommend!
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19 Sep, 2024 by Salil sahu
04 Aug, 2024 by Fatima nahhal
He’s a great lawyer. He handled my case great will definitely recommend to other people.
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16 May, 2024 by Shawn hamilton
I hired Todd for a very serious charge pertaining to operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol. This was a Felony matter and the possibility of an extend jail sentence was real and highly probable. From the first visit with him in Oakland county Jail he was honest and upfront with me on what he felt he could bring to the table. I couldn’t be happier with his services from the day of retention all the way through to sentencing. He was always very responsive and fought hard against the prosecutor when they tried to make a case for a harsher punishment. Todd was also very fairly priced for the experience and knowledge of the Judges and Prosecutors in Oakland county. I truly believe he got me the best possible outcome in a situation that could have turned out very ugly. Great guy and a great lawyer – worth every penny!!
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16 Nov, 2024 by Rania nicholas
Absolutely and phenomenally easy to work with David. He made the impossible; very possible. Zero pts and nothing on record! He was kind, friendly and very professional. Very highly recommend him to all seeking someone with knowledge and expertise!!
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14 Nov, 2024 by Alex ujeniuc
The only thing I did was send him a picture of the ticket and from a speeding got me down to impeding, he took care of everything and made me stress free and kept my driving record clean
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24 Oct, 2024 by Alina zalischi
I was very satisfied with the service ,I would recommend David to anyone very kind and helpful . I will definitely do businesses with him again !
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19 Nov, 2024 by Christian mcduffie
Matt Van Steenkiste and Elyse Victor are amazing lawyers who always who felt more like caring family and also trusted experts while they worked on my divorce and custody case. They always kept me updated on what is going on and give me personal attention during my divorce and custody case. They helped me on short notice during a very chaotic, stressful, scary process in my divorce and custody case. It really helped knowing what is going on and that I wasn't alone in this.
I recommend them highly for anyone going through a divorce and custody and would hire them again for any legal needs in the future.
Christian
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23 Oct, 2024 by Raechel klein
We came to Matt at Garmo & Kiste per the recommendation of a friend. We were not disappointed. Matt was incredibly responsive and forthright with all our communications. He understood that we wanted to maintain integrity and honesty throughout our case (timeshare/fraud issue). He also treated our relatively small case as though it were just as important as any other. It meant the world to us; especially with all the stress of just having our second baby.
Matt was organized, thorough, and kind. We would highly recommend this firm and Matt!
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22 Oct, 2024 by Michael pope
garmo&kiste I highly recommend matt was great in helping me out with my issues very professional and polite and I want him to know that he really really help me out I will always greatly appreciate him
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23 Jan, 2025 by Jasmine jackson
I spoke with John C. today & he answered all my questions. He was a big help.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Chanel brown
23 Jan, 2025 by Blizz4everwow
Eric was very helpful. Thank you!
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23 Jan, 2025 by Jasmine jackson
I spoke with John C. today & he answered all my questions. He was a big help.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Chanel brown
23 Jan, 2025 by Blizz4everwow
Eric was very helpful. Thank you!
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06 Jan, 2025 by Chris ygay
Excellent customer service! Top notch communication and professionalism. Pratheep and his team have shown a deep knowledge of the law. I'd highly recommend them for any personal injury legal needs.
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03 Jan, 2025 by Satyam talati
31 Dec, 2024 by Shaju jacob
07 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
I hired Don for a custody case. He walked me through the whole process and always made me feel that my child’s well-being was top priority! This is a busy practice but I never felt like a number. I also want to say that his paralegal Tammy is the best! ~ Stellar team, grateful.
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06 Apr, 2021 by Sophia
Don picked up my case mid way through a less than pleasant mediation. He eased my nerves, answered all my questions and always had my best interest in mind. He was upfront, honest and open with me at all times. He was always available, even during the holiday season and made getting a divorce during a pandemic the easiest process I could imagine. He was even available the day I was moving out of my home to make sure everything went smoothly and I always knew he had my back no matter what decision I made. I came out on top in more ways than I can even have imagined. Not that I want to go through a divorce again, but if I do, Don will be right there with me every step of the way. Don McGinnis is a phenominal lawyer! He makes himself available at all hours and makes you feel like you are the only client he has.
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01 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
Don McGinnis was my divorce attorney for a very complicated case during the pandemic. My case involved many other issues in other courts and Don kept up with everything and gave me counsel.
Don is a wealth of knowledge in all areas of divorce and family law and he was always well respected in court by the Judges and the Mediator.
Don and his office staff treated me with kindness and respect at all times and they were always available to assist me. I would recommend Don McGinnis to anyone looking for a strong divorce attorney.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Jasmine jackson
I spoke with John C. today & he answered all my questions. He was a big help.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Chanel brown
23 Jan, 2025 by Blizz4everwow
Eric was very helpful. Thank you!
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23 Jan, 2025 by Jasmine jackson
I spoke with John C. today & he answered all my questions. He was a big help.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Chanel brown
23 Jan, 2025 by Blizz4everwow
Eric was very helpful. Thank you!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Fannie craft
Poor communication. He rarely returned calls. Was retained for a post conviction case (appeal) and this attorney presented the same evidence as the trial attorney… no new evidence nor error was presented in the appellate brief….he was not prepared nor did he research the case. Very disappointed.. would not recommend.
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25 Jun, 2024 by Vaibhav patel
I hired Peter Bissett to handle my divorce proceedings with regards to immigration issues, and I couldn't be more satisfied with the service provided. From the initial consultation to the final resolution, Peter demonstrated professionalism, expertise, and a deep understanding of both divorce and immigration law.
Peter's communication was exceptional; he promptly responded to my emails and calls, keeping me updated on any developments in my case. Their commitment to advocating for my best interests was evident in every interaction.
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03 Jun, 2024 by Gerald mcnair
23 Jan, 2025 by Jasmine jackson
I spoke with John C. today & he answered all my questions. He was a big help.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Chanel brown
23 Jan, 2025 by Blizz4everwow
Eric was very helpful. Thank you!
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22 Sep, 2023 by Nicole
I am immensely grateful to Ms. Ferrick; words fall short in conveying my thanks and appreciation. Without Conner, I'm uncertain how I would have managed. She embodies honesty, ethics, kindness, humility, intelligence, and professionalism. Conner's dedication to aiding both myself and my son goes beyond words, moving me to tears as I write this.
Conner's toughness and high esteem among her colleagues are remarkable. Navigating custody and parenting time is a deeply challenging and emotional journey, and Conner has been my guide and kept me strong. As an exceptional attorney and an extraordinary individual, she is without question the very best. Trust me, this process is grueling, but having the right person by your side is critical and makes all the difference. If anyone wishes to discuss my experience personally, I invite you to reach out to Conner and request my contact information.
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25 Jun, 2019 by Joanne
I am so grateful to Connor Ferrick for her negotiation skills in my divorce, January, 2019.
I am 80 years old with a small s.s. check and limited savings. I was married for 17 years to a very selfish and greedy man who thought he could divorce me, take everything and move on. He seemed determined to hurt me emotionally and financially which I did not deserve. Connor was having none of this. She negotiated a settlement that leaves me able to live out my life peacefully. Thank you so much, Connor.
P.S. The girls in the office are great!!!!
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22 Feb, 2018 by Jacqueline
I had a very high conflict divorce. Connor was always available to me, even at night. She was very prepared for every court appearance we had and was a fierce advocate for me. She is not only an amazing lawyer who is clearly respected by her peers but she is also an amazing person. She truly cared about my children and I. I consider her and her amazing staff as friends now. She fought very hard for me and I am very happy with the end results. I highly recommend her. She put me at ease and gave me great piece of mind. She is very good in court, negotiations, and in her motions. A divorce is a very unpleasant experience but having the right lawyer can make all the difference.
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07 Feb, 2022 by Selina
Attorney Hohauser puts the children first while navigating the tumultuous times of divorce. While keeping fairness in the forefront, Mrs. Hohauser will work tirelessly until truths are discovered and does not leave a stone unturned to make sure her client receives an unprejudiced settlement necessary to move on with life as a divorced parent. Elizabeth Hohauser is highly recommended.
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03 Feb, 2022 by Anonymous
I have hired and have been working with her for over a year and it has been a breath of fresh air.
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03 Feb, 2022 by Vince
When our first attorney didn't match our needs and didn't see a winning path forward, we turned to Liz's expert counsel. My husband and I have been so pleased with the decision to work with Liz. She is extremely thoughtful, kind, a great listener, and brings winning strategy to the table. Liz will be your fiercest ally. We can't thank her enough for guiding us through not one, but two, complex settlements. Liz got us the justice we deserved.
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01 Aug, 2024 by Francis
She helped me when everything felt like nothing was working thank u so much Reema accidents misdemeanors felonies whatever it is I know I found my lawyer
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07 Oct, 2016 by Anonymous
Reema was awesome!!!! She came to my house after my accident and always kept me informed! Great communication! I can't say enough about her. She fought for me like no one else. To say she was competent is an understatement.
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12 Mar, 2010 by Pete
I highly recommend Reema to any one,I met so many attornies before and they all were irrigants,Reema treated me with respect,honesty,and the best part that she listened and gav good and honest advise,my problem got solved and I ended up paying less than what others wanted to charge.
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06 Sep, 2024 by Rob
A divorce is something that nobody wants to experience but sometimes it is the only way out of a bad situation. Driven by emotions and stress, unrealistic expectations of all parties can lengthen the divorce and harm everybody.
Kristen Robinson explained the process in detail and led me with her experience through this process fast and efficiently and kept my expectations realistic.
I’m very thankful that she answered all my questions at any time, for her moral support and help during my divorce and her support in the months after it.
Thank you, Kristen,
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21 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
Kristen was amazing during my multi-state court battle. She jumped into it with extremely short notice (1 week). She crossed all the t's and dotted all the i's. She made sure that I was ok for the long run, and that wording wouldn't be a factor in the future. I am truly grateful to her. I highly recommend her to anyone needing an attorney.
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13 Apr, 2015 by Liz
Ms. Robinson handled my divorce with integrity and professionalism. She was responsive to questions and explained everything in a clear, knowledgeable, and timely manner. Ms. Robinson was very helpful in anticipating challenges through the process and working hard to resolve issues. Her experience and advice made a very difficult journey better than it would have been with a less conscientious attorney. I would fully recommend Ms. Robinson.
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23 Jul, 2015 by Saurabh
Brian Garmo…..
What to say about Brian! He is not even a great lawyer but, he is an awesome magician who just does some type of magic there in court and everything will come to him in his favor.
What he has done for me, it’s unbelievable. He handles his all the cases in a very professional manner and he is very soft talking.
Because of his overall effort, all my charges were dismissed simply and for this, I think, a single word “THANK” will not be enough.
But as we don’t have much words to say Thanks. I would like to say
“Thanks a lot Brian to make me proud that you were my lawyer and to make my life on track….”
Please keep it up with your awesome services! You have a very great future!!
For others, I would highly recommend Brian. You can have a blindly trust on Brian to make a good decision, what I did!
Saurabh
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15 Apr, 2013 by Tom
I contacted Brian back in December 2012 regarding a debt situation in which I had no available means to pay back in full. I was quite nervous, upset, and depressed over this entire situation. But once I sat down with Brian, he assured me that he would do everything he could to help. He really put my mind at ease by explaining the many options that were available in dealing with this problem, and always kept me abreast of what was happening. Brian was able negotiate a settlement of my $30k+ debt for $3k. Simply outstanding!!!! I cannot thank Brian enough for the great work he performed in handling my case. I would absolutely recommend him to anyone seeking the services of a great lawyer.
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24 Jan, 2009 by Anita
Brian took the time to listen and handled my matter with great care and got me great results.
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12 Jun, 2015 by Kathy
I used Ken , when i was in my 20's and have recommended him to my father who passed away in 1981 and many friends too many to count and I heard my friends passed his name to their friends and family members. In 2012 my husband and I had 2 family members who died and Ken did all the work for both of them . He is very fair and reasonable in his prices, so I highly recommend him for all your needs. Can't go wrong. I will also be using his services again for myself very shortly. The date today is June 12, 2015.
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20 Sep, 2011 by Gregory
He is the man! Just started with him, did a lot back ground infro. This is the third time on the dance floor for me and so far HE IS THE BEST! Thx for coming through when I really needed it!
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03 Nov, 2008 by Anonymous
Mr. Kalls helped me keep my house and my car! Gave me a lot of information so I knew what I was getting into. But he made the hole process real easy, one flat fee (reasonable) and it was over in a couple of months. Plus, he was really understanding, which was nice, since deciding to file for bankruptcy was such a hard decision. Would definitely recommend him to a friend.
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04 Nov, 2021 by Anonymous
Kristyn helped me with a matter several years ago and was excellent. She knows the law inside and out and clearly has a lot of respect from other lawyers and judges. On top of that, since then, over the years I’ve had to consult her on other issues and she continually does a great job. I’ve referred her services to many others and would do so again without reservation!
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07 Jun, 2017 by Cathy
I hired Ms. Recchia to help with getting my divorce judgment enforced because my ex-husband was ignoring everything the court had previously ordered. She was able to get everything handled in a relatively short time and was very easy to talk to and work with.
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02 Feb, 2016 by Anonymous
Lynn Sirich is a professional, compassionate, intelligent lawyer that has had my best inrpterest at heart throughout the process of my 2 year divorce. In the courtroom she continued in the same manner. Lynn put my mind at ease during this horrific process, always fighting for the security I needed. I would highly recommend Lynn Sirich for a divorce attorney.
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31 Jul, 2015 by Jason
Dan Cieslak will always come highly recommended by me. I was faced with a legal problem, and desperately searching for guidance and advice as I had been treated unfairly in a legal matter. Dan listened to what I had to say during each of our encounters and went above and beyond to assist me. I had very little knowledge in how the legal system worked, and Dan took the time to explain everything to me. He was available each and every time I had a question or concern. Dan tells it like it is and does his absolute best to give you all your potential options and then work with you (while still giving you the option of the route you want to take) on what he feels is in your best interest. There are no surprises, he kept me informed on the progress of my case at all times. He was not simply an "attorney" to me. He fought hard for what he believes is fair and right. He was available even for reassurance and guidance anytime I needed it. I'm not sure where I would be or what I would have done had I not decided to put my faith and trust into Dan. I have the utmost respect for him both as a person and as my attorney. Any legal matter I may ever encounter in the future my very first phone call would be to Dan. Anyone looking for an Attorney I would give my highest recommendation to consider Dan Cieslak. His honesty and integrity are just 2 of his greatest qualities.
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03 Aug, 2024 by Mike p
You could ask for no one better to be in your corner. Great communication, smart, thorough, and tough. Liz is an amazing attorney and human being.
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10 Jul, 2024 by Lion heart
Liz is sharp and attentive and very caring. She is willing to help her clients and go above and beyond the call of duty.
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08 Jun, 2024 by Emily ogilvie
If you are looking for someone who will give you honest, heartfelt advice and guidance, look no further. Elizabeth is professional and direct while getting to the root of the issue and guiding you through it. Cannot recommend enough.
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16 Aug, 2024 by Stephen burke
Elite group of attorneys
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18 Jan, 2024 by Mendel goldstein
09 May, 2022 by Michael davis
Thanks for the quick response
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19 Oct, 2020 by R s
I simply cannot speak highly enough of Mr. Tomaszycki. He helped me and my husband (who was also an attorney) at the end of my husband's life with some complex issues. He is not just a consummate professional, he is a compassionate and honorable man.
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19 Jun, 2018 by Rose oliveira
“I had a very complicated divorce case. As an immigrant married to an abusive American, was hard to find someone that will take my case. What I can say is that I was represented better than I could have ever imagined for Mr. Christopher Tomaszicky. His office was highly professional and responsive. My needs were put first and were treated as a friend rather than just a client. My opinions were valued and my doubts were always reassured. My emails always answered in no time and I can't remember any occasion that I called him and he could not talk to me. My nerves were calmed and the process was always explained. He did walk me through depositions, questionnaires and everything else.
Sometimes little people that don't have money don't receive so much attention from their attorneys, but in my case (and I am sure this happens with each of his customers) Mr. Christopher Tomaszicky and his team fought hard for me.
He always took a pragmatic approach to law and don't over complicate things unnecessarily. With that said, if a matter is complex they are very capable of handling it with success. He went above and beyond with very good strategies and did everything he could to ensure a great outcome. I couldn't have asked for a better law firm or attorney.
If you ever need someone that has decades of experience and can handle your case with maximum competence I will say call Mr. Christopher Tomaszicky office and schedule a consultation.
Thank you so much, guys. You are the best!!!”
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20 Feb, 2017 by Jonatan davi
04 Dec, 2024 by Keith
I sent emails twice to Crofton Legal and no one ever bothered to contact me. Certainly not what I want in a legal service.
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24 Sep, 2024 by C. kitt
After unknowingly signing on to work with the single most INCOMPETENT AND ANTAGONISTIC realtor in all of Detroit, we had to hire Madana to come in and take over our house purchase deal. She was not only thorough and communicative, but she handled every aspect of the negotiation to protect us from a shady deal. You won't be disappointed working with her.
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08 Sep, 2024 by Jordan gallo
Very helpful and dealt w my legal issues in a professional way. Made it a super easy process
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23 Jan, 2025 by Jasmine jackson
I spoke with John C. today & he answered all my questions. He was a big help.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Chanel brown
23 Jan, 2025 by Blizz4everwow
Eric was very helpful. Thank you!
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23 Jan, 2025 by Jasmine jackson
I spoke with John C. today & he answered all my questions. He was a big help.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Chanel brown
23 Jan, 2025 by Blizz4everwow
Eric was very helpful. Thank you!
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23 Jan, 2025 by Jasmine jackson
I spoke with John C. today & he answered all my questions. He was a big help.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Chanel brown
23 Jan, 2025 by Blizz4everwow
Eric was very helpful. Thank you!
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23 Jan, 2025 by Jasmine jackson
I spoke with John C. today & he answered all my questions. He was a big help.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Chanel brown
23 Jan, 2025 by Blizz4everwow
Eric was very helpful. Thank you!
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Discover the ideal lawyer
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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.
