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23 Sep, 2019 by Antonio
Zarina is by far the best she helped me with my custody and child support case. I was recommended to Zarina by a co-worker who used her on her case. She was up front and honest with me about everything. When I first meet her and her assistant, they were both very professional and courteous. My ex-wife had been fighting me for years to get full custody of our child and wanting more child support. Zarina fought for me to maintain our joint custody order and was even able to get me more vacation time and lower my current child support as my ex-wife had been hiding and lying about her income. My previous attorney would keep telling me that I had no way of proving her extra income and that it was best for me to just settle... This would always screw me over! Zarina did what needed to be done from the beginning, my only regret is not having her from the start.
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04 Sep, 2015 by Anonymous
Over the last 10 years I have used Ricardo 3 times. Each time Ricardo has exhibited top notch aggressive representation. Not only is he an amazing lawyer he is an awesome person. When I was completely beside myself with panic, Ricardo always put me greatly at ease.
He was there for ME not just my case! Most of our meeting time he was focused on my well being telling me to ‘Breathe’ and it would be okay. Not only did I believe him but he was rite!
I would recommend Ricardo to anyone!
Sincerely,
Peter G
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13 Nov, 2017 by Rav
A year ago I thought I was going to prison and lose my daughter based on false allegations from my ex. One year later and I have 50/50 parenting time, no more child support, and I was awarded a significant amount of money from my ex for attorney fees. Maggie is the best lawyer I could possibly of had!
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30 Dec, 2016 by Lou
No better lawyer in Arizona. Has been my divorce lawyer and costs less than half the cost of my soon to be ex. Cares about you and family. Very reasonable in decision making and tore up their witnesses at hearing and trial. Excellent staff. Great criminal defense and DUI attorney too - was a cop. Only draw back is you have to pay your own parking in downtown but it keeps his costs low as they just pass on their cost to you with profit.
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30 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
We are very pleased with the services Mr. Sylvester provided. He is very professional and knowledgeable. Rates were very reasonable. We could not have been happier. We plan to use Thomas for many other transactions in the future.
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25 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
We hired Mr. McFadden for a child court case. We reside out of state, so finding an attorney to represent us was initially very difficult. The first time I spoke with Mr. McFadden, I knew he was the attorney for us. He was always very responsive and readily available to talk to. He helped ease our anxiety and concern and knew the law extremely well. He was knowledgeable and fought hard for us. He made suggestions and helped us understand Arizona law. He was wonderful in court and we are so very happy with the outcome. We now have much more parenting time with our children and the other parent is now more cooperative. We have Mr. McFadden and the judge to thank for that. If we need a lawyer in Arizona in the future, we will definitely be going back to Mr. McFadden. He can be very blunt at times, but in my opinion, that was what was needed. He holds nothing back and is aggressive in the courtroom. He is exactly what we needed.
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18 Jun, 2020 by Steven
Renee has facilitated the best interest for me in an ongoing case that cannot specifically be discussed. He is very focused, direct, and effective. The terrain of my case is treacherous and complicated, facing many pieces of evidence based off of preponderance and hearsay. He's avidly spoken out against the speculation and here say that is pitted against me. His approach has been concise and direct. I have enjoyed him as my attorney foresee reasons and foresee success in clearing all of the slanderous allegations. His expert advice and direction in the case is helping to turn things around in many ways. I potentially damaged my own case with a very defensive stance and allegations against those that would support the hearsay it against me. This Council has been invaluable. Thank you, Renee.
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23 May, 2014 by Maria
When I needed to fight for custody of my own children, after dismissing several lawyers who didn't know how to put on their legal boxing gloves, John Bolt REALLY came through. He won custody for me and I was able to raise my amazing children. (I have 2 sons in college and a daughter on her way to college.) Thank you John Bolt! You are wise and tough as nails. YOU were there for us when we needed you and changed our lives for the better.
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19 Apr, 2015 by Mike
Mr. Barrasso was retained for child custody. Bob listens very carefully to exactly what you tell him. He in return wants you to be specific with answers to his questions. Bob is quick to cut you off if he believes you are getting off course with the specifics of your case. This may turn someone off if they think their attorney is cutting them off during discussions. Remember that most every time you speak with your attorney, it is costing you money. Bob purposely keeps conversation specific so the facts are discussed, and your money is best spent helping your case. My case involved a mother who was doing as she pleased, and was not the least bit interested in father/child relations. Basically she wanted as much child support as she could get, and to do as she pleased raisng our child. Painfully I bided my time until I believed I had enough evidence to go after her for change of custody. My childs mother wasn't a drunken, drug using, or physically abusive parent. Mom was an arrogant, self centered person who made poor choices that created an unstable environment for our child. She believed she could never lose custody no matter what. Well in many cases she was right. Generally speaking moms have primary custody and the courts give them many chances to correct mistakes. This is exactly why I knew I needed an excellent attorney like Bob to fight for both me and my child. Bob always encourages both parents to try and be civilized, communicate, and discuss the key issues related to raising their children. Bob is a proven trial lawyer who is not affraid to go to trial if nessesary. My case ended up going to trial. Bob and his staff made me feel at ease with the entire process, start to finish. At trial, Bob performed exactly as I would expect of an excellent trial attorney. He was extremely well prepared for my trial. He was relentless when it came to exposing the facts of my case, and cross examination of witnesses. Going to trial is a very stressful experience, and is never guaranteed as far as the outcome. Bob never gave me false assurances as to a guaranteed outcome of my case. Bob always explained what he believed the realistic chances were for a positive outcome. I am happy to say that Bob helped me win my case, and gain primary custody of my child. Dads getting custody of their children is still pretty rare in this day and age. Bob's professional and efficient work ethic helped to keep the overall cost reasonable, and far less than what I thought it might cost. Bob has a reputation as a fathers rights attorney, but the fact is that he represents either party for what he believes is in the best interest of the child. I cant say enough about the pleasant experience I have had since retaining Bob as my family law attorney.
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24 Apr, 2015 by Ks
Jennifer is one of the several lawyers I worked with over the case of moving between different states. She is definitely the best one I have had - full of energy, ideas, and initiatives, she doesn't treat it as just a job, but she is truly on your side.
There are many in legal profession who prefer status-quo, and kind of see where things go and go with the flow; Jennifer is the opposite - she brings in the energy, the knowledge, the professionalism, and she will fight tirelessly with all of that by your side.
She has my absolute highest recommendation, you will not be disappointed.
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22 Aug, 2024 by Joe hoffman
13 Aug, 2024 by Susan garcia
Alison was a complete partner in my dad's estate. She guided me and helped me through the whole process. She is very knowledgeable and pleasant to work with.
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02 Aug, 2024 by Arthur murray doan
This Paralegal was on point, prompt and Trustworthy
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10 Sep, 2024 by Shyron
Stephanie is not only an amazing attorney, she’s an amazing person. I feel she did more than she had to in bringing my children home. She was very instrumental in providing my family with one of the happiest times in our lives.
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07 Aug, 2024 by Howard
Mrs Rascher. First off, she did a phenomenal job on My case with my daughter, 3.5 yrs, and she stayed in contact with me through everything between the ups and downs of our case. Today it was dismissed 100% Thank you
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05 Mar, 2024 by Annette hasten
Awesome folks. So very helpful and very concerned for their customers. I will continue to use them until the day one of us is dead.
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23 Sep, 2024 by Meaghan
My case was badly damaged by a prior attorney. Susan reviewed my very complex and comprehensive case and was able to understand the history and dynamics and the damage that was done. She strategized how to go forward, all while focused completely on the best interests of the children. The final outcome was favorable and Susan’s approach and diligence was key.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Steve
I am extremely grateful to have hired Michael to handle my case. Him and Lety were very professional and went above and beyond to represent me. They always made we feel at ease despite the complexity of the situation. I cannot be happier with the outcome of my case! Highly recommended.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Amy aa
Mr. Medina fell short on all fronts.
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27 Sep, 2024 by Grace
Mr. Harwin is the first attorney I’ve had to sit down face to face, and he made me feel so comfortable immediately after introduction. He explained things in a way even the average human can understand. I have a lot of respect for the help and opportunity he gave me, even just for the conversion. Letty, who has been with Mr. Harwin for a number or years, calmed my nerves and anxiety from the get go and I am grateful to have met the both of them. Both are very nice, wholesome, and respectable professionals.
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20 Aug, 2024 by N f
Zac went above and beyond to help me with my divorce case. It was a complicated case that had several components to it. I’m so thankful that I had his help during a difficult time in my life. He is patient and listens to your concerns. He is very responsive and takes the time to explain things to you . He is extremely knowledgeable in law and was able to get me everything I deserved and more . I would highly recommend him to anyone needing his services. I’m thankful for everything he did for me.
Thank you Zac you are the best!!!
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14 Aug, 2024 by Hamza touhami
Mr. Sapier has provided me with excellent feedback and advice without even retaining him. He has shown extreme professionalism and compassion to a difficult matter concerning my child. I wholeheartadly recommend him for anyone looking for an attorney that puts his clients first. A+
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24 Jul, 2024 by Katgamer 17
I would give zero stars if I could but Zach spanier is an absolute moron, refuses to do any record research with clients, refuses to follow court orders, keeps harassing the other party about following court orders when he himself has done nothing. He is nothing but a judgmental, rude, a moron and possibly performing illegal activities due to his behavior with clients and other parties. I suggest he do better and grow up.
Edit : defamatory and false? This is all my experience as a client. Zach spanier is nothing but a liar and will not admit when he has lost. I wouldn’t trust unless you’re a scumbag like himself
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14 May, 2024 by Ted burke
I cannot recommend Heather enough. She is thoughtful, patient, and knowledgeable. She made our adoption process extremely easy and smooth. Her staff is also incredible. Would give more than five stars if I could!
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13 Nov, 2022 by Megan hymers
We met Heather and her staff in 2019 when adopting our first child from the foster care system. Now we are back for a 2nd adoption in 2022 with a biological sibling to our adopted kiddo. We have not had any worries or concerns about either adoption process. Heather explains everything and takes the time to answer all questions. Her staff responds quickly to emails and phone calls. We highly recommend contacting MyersStrickland for any adoption legal needs!
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25 Mar, 2021 by Tiffany keith
Heather made our adoption process so seamless! She was professional, sweet, and walked us through every step. Her receptionist is also phenomenal! We were informed on every step they took and always kept us updated. When heather called me telling us that my husband could finally adopt my son I heard her smile through the phone. These women are truly the best. Would recommend them to anyone and everyone!!
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15 Oct, 2024 by Steve
I am extremely grateful to have hired Michael to handle my case. Him and Lety were very professional and went above and beyond to represent me. They always made we feel at ease despite the complexity of the situation. I cannot be happier with the outcome of my case! Highly recommended.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Amy aa
Mr. Medina fell short on all fronts.
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27 Sep, 2024 by Grace
Mr. Harwin is the first attorney I’ve had to sit down face to face, and he made me feel so comfortable immediately after introduction. He explained things in a way even the average human can understand. I have a lot of respect for the help and opportunity he gave me, even just for the conversion. Letty, who has been with Mr. Harwin for a number or years, calmed my nerves and anxiety from the get go and I am grateful to have met the both of them. Both are very nice, wholesome, and respectable professionals.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Steve
I am extremely grateful to have hired Michael to handle my case. Him and Lety were very professional and went above and beyond to represent me. They always made we feel at ease despite the complexity of the situation. I cannot be happier with the outcome of my case! Highly recommended.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Amy aa
Mr. Medina fell short on all fronts.
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27 Sep, 2024 by Grace
Mr. Harwin is the first attorney I’ve had to sit down face to face, and he made me feel so comfortable immediately after introduction. He explained things in a way even the average human can understand. I have a lot of respect for the help and opportunity he gave me, even just for the conversion. Letty, who has been with Mr. Harwin for a number or years, calmed my nerves and anxiety from the get go and I am grateful to have met the both of them. Both are very nice, wholesome, and respectable professionals.
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20 Aug, 2024 by N f
Zac went above and beyond to help me with my divorce case. It was a complicated case that had several components to it. I’m so thankful that I had his help during a difficult time in my life. He is patient and listens to your concerns. He is very responsive and takes the time to explain things to you . He is extremely knowledgeable in law and was able to get me everything I deserved and more . I would highly recommend him to anyone needing his services. I’m thankful for everything he did for me.
Thank you Zac you are the best!!!
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14 Aug, 2024 by Hamza touhami
Mr. Sapier has provided me with excellent feedback and advice without even retaining him. He has shown extreme professionalism and compassion to a difficult matter concerning my child. I wholeheartadly recommend him for anyone looking for an attorney that puts his clients first. A+
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24 Jul, 2024 by Katgamer 17
I would give zero stars if I could but Zach spanier is an absolute moron, refuses to do any record research with clients, refuses to follow court orders, keeps harassing the other party about following court orders when he himself has done nothing. He is nothing but a judgmental, rude, a moron and possibly performing illegal activities due to his behavior with clients and other parties. I suggest he do better and grow up.
Edit : defamatory and false? This is all my experience as a client. Zach spanier is nothing but a liar and will not admit when he has lost. I wouldn’t trust unless you’re a scumbag like himself
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20 Aug, 2024 by N f
Zac went above and beyond to help me with my divorce case. It was a complicated case that had several components to it. I’m so thankful that I had his help during a difficult time in my life. He is patient and listens to your concerns. He is very responsive and takes the time to explain things to you . He is extremely knowledgeable in law and was able to get me everything I deserved and more . I would highly recommend him to anyone needing his services. I’m thankful for everything he did for me.
Thank you Zac you are the best!!!
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14 Aug, 2024 by Hamza touhami
Mr. Sapier has provided me with excellent feedback and advice without even retaining him. He has shown extreme professionalism and compassion to a difficult matter concerning my child. I wholeheartadly recommend him for anyone looking for an attorney that puts his clients first. A+
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24 Jul, 2024 by Katgamer 17
I would give zero stars if I could but Zach spanier is an absolute moron, refuses to do any record research with clients, refuses to follow court orders, keeps harassing the other party about following court orders when he himself has done nothing. He is nothing but a judgmental, rude, a moron and possibly performing illegal activities due to his behavior with clients and other parties. I suggest he do better and grow up.
Edit : defamatory and false? This is all my experience as a client. Zach spanier is nothing but a liar and will not admit when he has lost. I wouldn’t trust unless you’re a scumbag like himself
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14 Oct, 2024 by Selena m lua
07 Oct, 2024 by Ruben betancourt
Robert Fee was very helpful, clear and informative in the consultation provided. We left feeling comfortable with the advise given to us.
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07 Oct, 2024 by Charles johnson
Very helpful. Seriously considering hiring.
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14 Oct, 2024 by Selena m lua
07 Oct, 2024 by Ruben betancourt
Robert Fee was very helpful, clear and informative in the consultation provided. We left feeling comfortable with the advise given to us.
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07 Oct, 2024 by Charles johnson
Very helpful. Seriously considering hiring.
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14 Oct, 2024 by Selena m lua
07 Oct, 2024 by Ruben betancourt
Robert Fee was very helpful, clear and informative in the consultation provided. We left feeling comfortable with the advise given to us.
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07 Oct, 2024 by Charles johnson
Very helpful. Seriously considering hiring.
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10 Sep, 2024 by Amie
I was catapulted into divorce, and blindsided by my (then) husband. From the moment I walked into Matt’s office, I was welcomed with kindness, empathy, strength, lots of tissues and I left with a plan. Matt and Jen took their time to hear “my story” and really listened to my hopes for my marriage as well as my worries about divorce.
Matt and Jen were there EVERY STEP of the way from start to finish, 2.5 years of false accusations, malicious and fabricated statements that attacked my role as a mum, my integrity and could have significantly impacted my career. I genuinely thought I was going crazy.
Matt and Jen never wavered in their continued support and belief in me and the truth despite the oppositional fabrications. They never once believed I was what was being said.
They plowed through many ( and I mean many) emotional and some times erratic emails filled with 100’s of pictures, videos and screenshots of messages/emails, in response to receiving statements that were personal attacks and untrue.
Matt and Jen took this all within their stride, they never once made me feel I was too much or a burden. They were my backbone at the most crushing time of my life. I felt that this wasn’t just a “job” for them they genuinely cared about what was best for me and my children.
My case was complex for many reasons but was further complicated by an international move, yet Matt and Jen continued to support me from afar continuing to validate my story and their belief in me never changed regardless of my geographical location.
This was evident in our recent trial, my then husband continued their fabrications on the stand, yet this did not phase Matt in the slightest, he was more than prepared and presented evidence after evidence to disprove my then husband right there on the stand. It was extremely hard and sad to witness, yet my story and my truth was finally being told and It finally hit me, I was not crazy!!
I cannot thank Matt and Jen enough. Whether you are scared, worried, an emotional mess, crushed and suffocating or not, Matt and Jen will be your backbone and hold that emotional weight until you can breathe again.
Matt and Jen, I can finally breathe and begin to heal so from the bottom of my heart, THANK YOU.
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16 Apr, 2024 by Ashley smith
Matt and his team helped me through my divorce. I appreciate all there hard work.
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11 Apr, 2024 by Matthew green
Uri Palmer has established himself as an absolutely gold standard family lawyer in Tucson. I've known Uri for many years, and as a fellow attorney in Tucson, I can attest that he enjoys a well-earned reputation in the legal community as being one of the most talented lawyers in his practice area. I wholeheartedly recommend Uri and his partners at Randle, Palmer and associates.
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5.0
21 Reviews
4.7
74 Reviews
08 Oct, 2024 by Brianna
Me and my husband hired Uri a while back but any time I can I recommend his law group because I know they are the best. He was very attentive and well prepared. I had a case involving termination of parental rights and he offered me the best services. He explained everything and understood my concerns and worries. And even though this all took place during Covid time he got everything done in a timely manner! The whole team was very caring and also kept me well informed throughout the whole process. Couldn’t be more pleased with them even after so many years!
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16 Apr, 2024 by Ashley smith
Matt and his team helped me through my divorce. I appreciate all there hard work.
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11 Apr, 2024 by Matthew green
Uri Palmer has established himself as an absolutely gold standard family lawyer in Tucson. I've known Uri for many years, and as a fellow attorney in Tucson, I can attest that he enjoys a well-earned reputation in the legal community as being one of the most talented lawyers in his practice area. I wholeheartedly recommend Uri and his partners at Randle, Palmer and associates.
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06 Oct, 2024 by Liz
Thabet represented me in a lawsuit against a restaurant in which I fell off an unlit corner of an outdoor stage and broke my leg. He quickly gained my trust (no easy feat) and never complained at the amount of times I called with questions or a need for reassurance. He took the time to get to know me as someone more than just a client with a broken leg, and always surprised me with his patience and empathy (I've heard too many lawyer jokes). He was always straightforward with me, and was well-versed in the laws of the county in which I live, even though at a distance from Tucson. He never pressured me, and he let me take all the time I needed to make all the hard decisions these cases seem to entail. Best of all, he made it possible for me to settle with the restaurant in a way that satisfied both the owner and me.
I recommend Thabet without reservation to anybody looking for excellent help with a legal problem.
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23 Sep, 2024 by Tim
Thabet N. Khalidi of Khalidi Law Firm, PLLC is my neighbor and was recommended to me by a lawyer friend in September of 2021. I found Mr. Khalidi to be duplicitous, perfidious, unorganized and lacking knowledge of the financial aspects required in dividing community property. Additionally, Mr. Khalidi and the opposing council Mr. Robert Lewis III erroneously tried to utilize 2005 superseded case law Biddulph v. Biddulph (1985) to massively overvalue community property in favor of the petitioner.
My goal was to settle as quickly as possible, and Mr. Khalidi made this process very difficult for them. I provided Mr. Khalidi with evidence and expert witnesses, which he dismissed. I also tried to hire a different attorney, but Mr. Khalidis peers refused to take over my case or were busy. I gave Mr. Khalidi one star because I couldn’t give him a lower evaluation.
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10 Dec, 2023 by Brian kreimendahl
I interviewed a number of attorneys in my home to handle my case. I found Thabet both professional and personable. During our initial meeting, he demonstrated a thorough understanding of the legal issues involved in the facts and circumstances of my case. I hired him and was very glad I did based on his performance and the performance of his staff. The result in my case was far greater than I had initially anticipated. I would easily and enthusiastically hire Thabet again. I highly recommend Thabet for those seeking excellent legal representation.
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17 May, 2024 by Nichol
Attorney went above and beyond to resolve our situation. Met with us on numerous occasions. handled the matter in a professional manner. Recommendation 100%.
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03 Apr, 2024 by Thomas collister
15 Sep, 2023 by Jacob ryan
Riisa and her entire staff are top notch, very professional and take every case very seriously.. Riisa did an amazing job in my case and comes highly recommended
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01 Dec, 2023 by Donna d
26 Nov, 2023 by Celia reeves
He has great knowledge
.very personal
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03 Oct, 2023 by Blair torchick
My stepfather passed over a month ago and I have not heard a single word from Mr. Davenport. I call and leave messages and he has not returned any of may calls. I don't understand why Mr. Davenport can't make one simple phone call and explain what is happening with my stepfathers will. Is he waiting for a time period to expire so no one can contest the outcome of the will. Remember you took an oath and you have had more than enough time to do what you were paid to do. I now will be sealing legal counsel of my own to further direct me in this sad situation. Thank you Mr. Davenport for caring about your clients and their family's.
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14 Oct, 2024 by Selena m lua
07 Oct, 2024 by Ruben betancourt
Robert Fee was very helpful, clear and informative in the consultation provided. We left feeling comfortable with the advise given to us.
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07 Oct, 2024 by Charles johnson
Very helpful. Seriously considering hiring.
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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.
