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5.0
19 Reviews
5.0
7 Reviews
05 Apr, 2023 by Justin robare
Frugal Legal Services should be the staple for how all parents are represented in custody cases. Ms. Burroughs worked hard and diligently on my case and set realistic expectations. My case had a ton of unrelated issues to custody and Ms. Burroughs was completely understanding and worked through our nearly 9 month case. Ms. Burroughs is a magical and enlightening person who gets results. I went from having no contact with my children to now everything is 50/50 and I get to see my sons every other week and have the assurance that no one should be able to change that. The only shame here is that I can only give Ms. Burroughs and Frugal Legal Services 5 stars because it doesn’t let you show off the absolute brilliance of the firm or Ms. Burroughs. Ms. Burroughs and Frugal Legal Services are the prime and top option of any family matters should anyone require those services. I will recommend them for my entire life because of the amazing work that was done.
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05 Apr, 2023 by Justin
Ms. Burroughs is the staple and prime example of what a top notch family law attorney is. Extremely professional, focused, and prepared these are only some of the accolades Ms. Burroughs deserves. I wish I could give Ms. Burroughs more stars because I feel it is a great injustice to only be able to give a single digit. I will be recommending her for the rest of my life and everyone I speak to will know and. Burroughs is a hard working and driven attorney who you will never doubt have her all in any and every case she works!
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06 Jul, 2022 by Eric
Lawren and Jennifer were very helpful throughout the process, answering lots of questions. I think Frugal is an outstanding choice for couples pursuing a collaborative and amicable divorce. If the couple can agree on the major issues, Frugal makes the actual filing process easy at a very reasonable price.
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24 Sep, 2024 by Yaser atiyeh
Mr John m Barrett. one of the best lawyer in virginia .
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21 Aug, 2024 by Lee
I was impressed with Marcus even from the initial telephone conversation. I was pleasantly pleased by his professionalism and genuine concern he displayed.
During the consultation, Marcus handled my issues with diligence and compassion. He is extremely thorough and even uncovered other items of importance that I was not previously aware of.
His commitment to doing what is best for his client displays the type of integrity you would want in your attorney. I truly appreciated his advice and direction he gave me and would highly recommend him to handle your legal matters as well.
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03 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. Mitchell to assist with the very sad but necessary eviction of a family member from a townhouse. Mr. Mitchell was always prompt, courteous and professional in all our communication, which was made more challenging due to me living out of state. He informed me thoroughly of my legal rights and responsibilities and of legal actions to be taken in various circumstances. He coached me well in how to communicate with the family member tenant in order to comply with the law and get the best outcome. He took care of serving the tenant the written notice. And because of this, we a had the best outcome considering the very difficult and unfortunate circumstances. Should I need a lawyer in VA Beach again, I will definitely reach out to him.
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19 Dec, 2024 by Ramel barrett
Cooper Hurley did an exceptional job with handling my case. My legal assistant Kristina Parker and paralegal Monique Collins delivered the best customer experience. They would check on me constantly and ensured the process would not be stressful. I am grateful for their hard work and commitment in handling my case as a whole.
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19 Dec, 2024 by Darnell boykins
Great people to work with and it’s worth it
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11 Dec, 2024 by De-otis speller
Amazing place. Excellent customer service from Kristina Parker and Monique Collins. They kept me in the know on everything that was going on with my case. They called and checked up on me routinely to make sure I was good. It's very hard to get my approval with customer service and these wonderful people went above and beyond. I am extremely pleased.
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07 Feb, 2023 by Francis shields
Jim is extremely knowledgeable, and if you have concerns about your VA waterfront property, I'd recommend you give him a call.
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23 Aug, 2022 by Masonry design
I am a business owner who uses attorneys from time to time. Jim Lang is the best. He helped me fix a big problem
I had at the VMRC on a matter of great importance to me. This was not a simple case so it turned into a 4 year journey. Over that entire time Jim was always smart, tenacious, experienced, a great listener, and (most importantly) caring. A lot of road blocks popped up over the life of my case. Jim figured out a way over, around or through each one. Jim's deep contacts at the agency, and the credibility he has built up over his many years representing clients before the VMRC, turned out to be a resource that was very helpful in getting my case resolved in highly favorable terms. Another thing that I liked about Jim is that he kept me informed all along the way. I always knew exactly what was going on with my case. This attorney is a quality human being who is very good at what he does. Highly recommended!
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03 Feb, 2022 by Deondre
Thanks so much for being efficient and helping with this long going case you were excellent
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02 Aug, 2024 by Camelitha parrilla
18 Mar, 2024 by Lauren fletcher daugherty
Have been working with Debbie and her team since the end of 2021.
Nothing but great things and would/will recommend her to anyone! ðŸ˜
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01 Mar, 2024 by Ashley brown
5.0
1 Reviews
4.7
144 Reviews
08 Nov, 2024 by Eric turner
K. PAGE KISTLER and her team ensured everything with my case went smoothly. Following their advice gave me a fantastic outcome.
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07 Nov, 2024 by Emliy rod
It's quite disgusting and sad when you call to try and get a consultation. The receptionist who answered the call has an attitude, a disgusting tone of voice. Just makes you're not even when I talk to talk to anyone in this firm it's like what just happened to me. I don't even want to know about the firm just because of the nasty attitude. Of this front desk clerk.
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06 Nov, 2024 by Mercedes paland
This law office is incredible! Very personable and straight to the point. I had my consultation and once i paid my retainer everything was done in a timely manner. Only took me 3 weeks to be officially divorced. Mine was uncontested and i didnt have to go to court or anything to add onto such a stressful situation.
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5.0
20 Reviews
4.4
54 Reviews
12 Dec, 2024 by Caleb chilldres
They have been helping me work through my case and have been very helpful explaining and helping me with everything.
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30 Oct, 2024 by Francisco
22 Oct, 2024 by Melinda amidon
03 Dec, 2024 by Chan s
Awesome Team!!Mr Jerell is Amazing i Highly recommend his law firm
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03 Dec, 2024 by Ceci pancho
My husband and I were very impressed and pleased with attorney Johnson services and the good results. I 100% recommend his services not only very knowledgeable but very professional 👏 👌
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19 Oct, 2024 by Coffeecuppie
Had a child custody case and he was very helpful and helped our case to go smoothly! Would recommend him! He has a great flat rate and is very dependable! So happy to be with my daughter!
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08 Jul, 2020 by Kentyida
Through the 2 year process of my husband case, Mr Leckie kept us informed, very professional, and great customer service. I would definitely recommend his law firm. Awesome!!!!
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23 Sep, 2019 by Diane
Mr. Leckie and his staff are exceptional! Very competent, quickly responsive and most compassionate. Mr. Leckie was able to have my son’s charges reduced on a difficult case. We were extremely pleased with the outcome. I highly recommend Invictus Law!
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21 Jun, 2019 by Dixie
Through 18 months pre-trial preparation, Eric Leckie consistently demonstrated his knowledge of Virginia law and thoroughly researched the many nuances of my particular case. He skillfully coordinated his defense by meeting with many people in the various offices instrumental in ensuring a fair trial for a very unusual and difficult case. He worked tirelessly and effectively with the Sheriff’s office, doctors and medical specialists, and prosecutor ‘s office to make the outcome of our situation as good as it could possibly be. Both he and the entire Invictus Law staff were supportive, responsive and understanding during this difficult time. I can unconditionally recommend him to anyone needing legal assistance.
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16 Sep, 2023 by Anthony vargas jr
They took me by the hand and explain the process in detail and they actually gave you a game plan to follow throughout the whole process. Good job
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28 Jul, 2022 by Waverly phillips
12 Dec, 2020 by Freddie daniels
06 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
Kind, caring and compassionate. He's doesn't see you as a dollar figure, he sees you as a person. It makes all the difference. He knows the DUI laws and helped me go from a felony DUI 3rd offense to a 2nd, 2nd offense and no felony. Again, makes all the difference. Highly recommend him when your future is on the line.
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04 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
He cares to help, not just about getting money! He does his best to get us where we want, not guilty!
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04 Apr, 2017 by John
Lee is a very good negotiater, and savy with the judges as he has served as an ADA with the City of Virginia Beach. He knows the law and is easy to converse with, he takes his time with you. I'm glad Mr Devendorf was my choice.
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24 Oct, 2024 by Gloria lacey
Very professional. I enjoyed working with Lauren and the team. May God bless them all.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Don l.
After my accident I reached out the them, worked with Tara R and Stacey B. Everyone there was friendly and cheerful attitude throughout everything. They were quick to answer any questions and help out through the process. Would use them again.
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30 Sep, 2024 by Maurice brown
My experience was good overall.
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11 Sep, 2018 by Gina
We hired Tory for a second time to help us with some custody and child support issues. She was thorough and kept us in the loop on our case. We loved her down to earth personality and that she always kept it real and honest with us. If an issue ever arises again, we will hire her.
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24 Aug, 2018 by Edward
Tory is an excellent attorney she really cares about your case and will do whatever it takes on her clients' behalf. She is very transparent, approachable and extremely patient when explaining the legal process. I have been extremely pleased with her services.
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30 Mar, 2018 by Tonya
I was doing my paralegal internship with Tori and she was amazing. She supervised my work as a paralegal to include legal research, client files and organization, initial client information, court procedure, and with her professionalism, set an outstanding example of how an attorney presents themselves and represents a law firm. I would be lucky to work for her or another attorney with her knowledge base, skill set, and legal professionalism.
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30 Dec, 2024 by Keiyon tyler
Jennifer Beagle was extremely helpful and efficient during the process. Highly recommend!
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20 Dec, 2024 by Jesse hall
They were very friendly and helpful in the whole process
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16 Dec, 2024 by Jennifer goss
Both buying and selling was a breeze and they really made the process easy and communicated thoroughly with us throughout the process.
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03 Dec, 2024 by Chan s
Awesome Team!!Mr Jerell is Amazing i Highly recommend his law firm
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03 Dec, 2024 by Ceci pancho
My husband and I were very impressed and pleased with attorney Johnson services and the good results. I 100% recommend his services not only very knowledgeable but very professional 👏 👌
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19 Oct, 2024 by Coffeecuppie
Had a child custody case and he was very helpful and helped our case to go smoothly! Would recommend him! He has a great flat rate and is very dependable! So happy to be with my daughter!
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5.0
2 Reviews
4.8
150 Reviews
30 Dec, 2024 by Keiyon tyler
Jennifer Beagle was extremely helpful and efficient during the process. Highly recommend!
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20 Dec, 2024 by Jesse hall
They were very friendly and helpful in the whole process
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16 Dec, 2024 by Jennifer goss
Both buying and selling was a breeze and they really made the process easy and communicated thoroughly with us throughout the process.
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16 Oct, 2024 by Chamroeun ciballos
I gave them 1 star because I called to get my remaining balance to pay off. Their accounting person was awful and rude. She did not know what the fees are being charged for nor the remaining balance that I would had to speak to the lawyer handling the case to get the final balance. That was fine but why be nasty and rude if clients are asking. They really need to train their front office or accounting staff better customer service or how to properly talk to clients better. My husband called a second time and asked to speak to a specific paralegal or lawyer involved in the case to get the final balance and they mistakenly transferred him to this accounting person they had again. She was soo rude and spoke to us both slowly like you are talking to a 1st grader like we did not speak any English. I do not know if it’s because of our last name but we both were born in the states so there was no need to belittle people that are trying to pay off their remaining balance. Makes me think she speaks to all foreigners this way and everybody should be spoken with respect regardless what race, former or current client. We will not be using them ever again for any services knowing they have rude and nasty accounting or front office staff that are not properly trained. I will also be telling others I know about this awful experience.
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01 Aug, 2024 by Abdel agami
22 Jul, 2024 by Patrick hayes
4.3
17 Reviews
4.8
150 Reviews
30 Dec, 2024 by Keiyon tyler
Jennifer Beagle was extremely helpful and efficient during the process. Highly recommend!
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20 Dec, 2024 by Jesse hall
They were very friendly and helpful in the whole process
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16 Dec, 2024 by Jennifer goss
Both buying and selling was a breeze and they really made the process easy and communicated thoroughly with us throughout the process.
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5.0
20 Reviews
4.5
46 Reviews
27 Dec, 2024 by Amber rodgers-bey
Samuel Small represented me and he handle the case very well and I was pleased with the outcome. Thank you so much Samuel :)
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03 Dec, 2024 by La yetter
Mr. Byler is a great man and a wonderful lawyer. He’s taking excellent care of my son’s lawsuit while making his health wellness and recovery a priority. My son suffered a brain injury during a car accident and Mr. BYLER is very mindful of how to speak with him and approach things so that he understands and doesn’t feel pressured.
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02 Dec, 2024 by Ashley ward
Mr small is AMAZING. He listened to me throughly and stayed in contact. Even with a full caseload he updated me frequently about my case. Hopefully I don’t need an attorney again but if I do he will be my first call.
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5.0
20 Reviews
4.5
46 Reviews
27 Dec, 2024 by Amber rodgers-bey
Samuel Small represented me and he handle the case very well and I was pleased with the outcome. Thank you so much Samuel :)
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03 Dec, 2024 by La yetter
Mr. Byler is a great man and a wonderful lawyer. He’s taking excellent care of my son’s lawsuit while making his health wellness and recovery a priority. My son suffered a brain injury during a car accident and Mr. BYLER is very mindful of how to speak with him and approach things so that he understands and doesn’t feel pressured.
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02 Dec, 2024 by Ashley ward
Mr small is AMAZING. He listened to me throughly and stayed in contact. Even with a full caseload he updated me frequently about my case. Hopefully I don’t need an attorney again but if I do he will be my first call.
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12 Dec, 2024 by Darren
Mrs. Wood Hanna guided me through a recent family law issue.
Her advice was direct and to the point. She provided plenty of context to help me set expectations and weigh my options. For my relatively minor issue, her pricing was reasonable and straightforward.
I highly recommend her for your family law legal needs.
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27 Nov, 2024 by Kendria marshall
Liz was incredibly helpful and just wonderful to work with. I am so thankful for her and her team.
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20 Nov, 2024 by Luis cortes
Great attorney.
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12 Dec, 2024 by Darren
Mrs. Wood Hanna guided me through a recent family law issue.
Her advice was direct and to the point. She provided plenty of context to help me set expectations and weigh my options. For my relatively minor issue, her pricing was reasonable and straightforward.
I highly recommend her for your family law legal needs.
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27 Nov, 2024 by Kendria marshall
Liz was incredibly helpful and just wonderful to work with. I am so thankful for her and her team.
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20 Nov, 2024 by Luis cortes
Great attorney.
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16 Oct, 2024 by Chamroeun ciballos
I gave them 1 star because I called to get my remaining balance to pay off. Their accounting person was awful and rude. She did not know what the fees are being charged for nor the remaining balance that I would had to speak to the lawyer handling the case to get the final balance. That was fine but why be nasty and rude if clients are asking. They really need to train their front office or accounting staff better customer service or how to properly talk to clients better. My husband called a second time and asked to speak to a specific paralegal or lawyer involved in the case to get the final balance and they mistakenly transferred him to this accounting person they had again. She was soo rude and spoke to us both slowly like you are talking to a 1st grader like we did not speak any English. I do not know if it’s because of our last name but we both were born in the states so there was no need to belittle people that are trying to pay off their remaining balance. Makes me think she speaks to all foreigners this way and everybody should be spoken with respect regardless what race, former or current client. We will not be using them ever again for any services knowing they have rude and nasty accounting or front office staff that are not properly trained. I will also be telling others I know about this awful experience.
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01 Aug, 2024 by Abdel agami
22 Jul, 2024 by Patrick hayes
14 Jan, 2025 by Wallace
I had Mrs. Lychelle and Nyah working on removing conditions on residence case and i am pretty sure i couldn’t find a better team to help me up!
Always answering questions and requesting documentation for a fast paced process! i got my 10 year green card a lot earlier than what i expected! highly recommend this law firm!
I was not just treated like a client, but also as a friend.
Lychelle and Nyah are a dream team that helped me when i needed the most.
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11 Oct, 2024 by Nana (laudmarcus)
Impeccable Service and dedication to see you through the journey of receiving your immigration benefit. Much appreciation from Nana and Janet.
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09 Oct, 2024 by Deisy
From the moment I met Lychelle she did everything to ensure I had everything I needed for my case and then some. She and her team went above and beyond for my case. She is the best lawyer I’ve ever had the pleasure to work with.
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16 Oct, 2024 by Chamroeun ciballos
I gave them 1 star because I called to get my remaining balance to pay off. Their accounting person was awful and rude. She did not know what the fees are being charged for nor the remaining balance that I would had to speak to the lawyer handling the case to get the final balance. That was fine but why be nasty and rude if clients are asking. They really need to train their front office or accounting staff better customer service or how to properly talk to clients better. My husband called a second time and asked to speak to a specific paralegal or lawyer involved in the case to get the final balance and they mistakenly transferred him to this accounting person they had again. She was soo rude and spoke to us both slowly like you are talking to a 1st grader like we did not speak any English. I do not know if it’s because of our last name but we both were born in the states so there was no need to belittle people that are trying to pay off their remaining balance. Makes me think she speaks to all foreigners this way and everybody should be spoken with respect regardless what race, former or current client. We will not be using them ever again for any services knowing they have rude and nasty accounting or front office staff that are not properly trained. I will also be telling others I know about this awful experience.
Read more
01 Aug, 2024 by Abdel agami
22 Jul, 2024 by Patrick hayes
27 Dec, 2024 by Amber rodgers-bey
Samuel Small represented me and he handle the case very well and I was pleased with the outcome. Thank you so much Samuel :)
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03 Dec, 2024 by La yetter
Mr. Byler is a great man and a wonderful lawyer. He’s taking excellent care of my son’s lawsuit while making his health wellness and recovery a priority. My son suffered a brain injury during a car accident and Mr. BYLER is very mindful of how to speak with him and approach things so that he understands and doesn’t feel pressured.
Read more
02 Dec, 2024 by Ashley ward
Mr small is AMAZING. He listened to me throughly and stayed in contact. Even with a full caseload he updated me frequently about my case. Hopefully I don’t need an attorney again but if I do he will be my first call.
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07 Nov, 2024 by Anonymous
Amy Holland has always been very forthcoming with information I needed to handle any transaction that I was involved with. She is brilliant at her job and a definite go to person! She will explain every facet of your transaction. She is a pleasure to work with and very approachable.
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02 Dec, 2022 by Anonymous
She was quick to respond, answered all my divorce questions and made it as smooth of a process as possible.
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18 Oct, 2022 by Anonymous
Amy Holland is simply the BEST!!! Words can not describe how grateful I am. Outstanding job.
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01 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
I had my first consultation (Zoom) with Attorney Pfeiffer yesterday, and our meeting went very well! Attorney Pfeiffer appeared to be very knowledgeable, experienced, and especially thorough about the entire process of filing bankruptcy, which helped to put me at ease.
During our consultation (which I was given a choice of face-to-face or online), Attorney Pfeiffer gave me a step-by-step rundown of the bankruptcy process, which covered everything from filing a Chapter 13 or a Chapter 7, a rundown of cost and payment options, the documents that would be needed, as well as available services offered (once bankruptcy completed) that would help rebuild my credit/credit score...
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13 May, 2020 by Anonymous
I consulted with Edrie about a family matter concerning my kids. I am a divorced dad with twins and Edrie gave me the direction and honesty I was looking for with the situation I am now dealing with. My situation will have to be dealt with in a different geographic location, but nonetheless she gave me a straightforward opinion on how to immediately proceed and a great referral to another lawyer in that location that will help me. I am now speaking with her referral on the matter and I am grateful for her guidance. Thank you!
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31 Jan, 2020 by Trina
When I arrived at my appointment, I was nervous and didn't really know what to expect, but I have to say, I was treated with kindness and Edria Pfeiffer was very nice and very knowledgeable, she answered my questions and I feel real comfortable with her handling my case, I would recommend her services with great pleasure.
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21 Jun, 2020 by Glen
I contracted Ben Hamlet in the hopes of resolving a four year divorce nightmare. Mission accomplished! Ben is calm under pressure and his integrity is second to none. He never sugar coated issues and was very passionate and dedicated in representing me and obtaining my goals. I would highly recommend him especially with any difficult divorce cases. Thank You!
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10 Mar, 2020 by Dalton
Ben Hamlet helped me out of a pretty tough ticket and did it so smoothly and was extremely helpful. He was very thorough with what he was looking for and getting all the details. I would most defiantly suggest Ben Hamlet as an attorney you should hire.
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24 Jan, 2020 by David
Always there for me when I need help in hard times. He cares about his clients and fights for you. He's my go to guy when I need help. I cannot thank him enough for his help over the years.
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02 Jan, 2025 by David perez
My experience at J S Burton was absolutely phenomenal! From the first meeting to the last, ensuring that I was aware of all the necessary information and explaining any items I was unsure of. The professionalism, dedication and attention to details from John and his staff was impeccable. I’d refer anyone and everyone I know to him and his staff. Thank you again from bringing peace of mind to my family and I.
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30 Dec, 2024 by Jen serra
My Father and I had a wonderful experience with J.S. Burton updating our wills and trusts after my Mother had passed away. We've done this 4 different times so far with 4 different attorneys (different states), and Mr. Burton was by far the most thorough and asked the most thoughtful questions that helped us make the best adjustments. His team created an impressive binder to house all of the documents, with instructions on what to add at later dates so it's a one-stop guide when needed. Great experience, highly recommend!
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30 Dec, 2024 by T of the serras (elders s.)
Best Estate Plan we have ever had. We’ve done Estate Plans in four different states, and J.S.Burton was by far the most thorough, efficient, and effective plan that has ever been done for us. Anthony T. Serra
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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.
