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26 Oct, 2011 by Sary
In my experience, Mrs. Morgan OVER bills and does not get the job done. Was not a good experience. Would not recommond. Hire someone that knows the law. Had to hire a different attorney to handle my case.
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13 May, 2022 by Curtis
I was going through a divorce and hired Woehrle Dahlberg Jones Yao PLLC, specially Mr. Dahlberg to help me with my divorce. I thought it was great that the initial consult was FREE, cause they usually range from $150-$400 for a 1 hour consult. He did a great job selling me on the phone, but in the 2 months he was on my case, this was 1 of the 2 times we talked, the other time was for 37 minutes, however - I would end up paying over $6,000 in legal fees for actions I did not request or approve. He has 3 paralegals, some of which whom work from home cause of COVID, abuse their rights and will file motions on your behalf without you knowing, without consulting with the apposing consult, whatever they can do to run up your bill. They charge for every single email, text, phone call (answered or un-answered, seriously!!) $52.50 to file any document into their E file system, which they want to file EVERYTHING and after they file it will charge another $52.50 to organize it, (upkeep). It took weeks to book an appointment with my attorney, honestly which I only got through to him one time after our consult, while he represented me for over 2 months and got absolutely no further in my case and charged, after nearly being charged for 20 hours of work, I only talked to my attorney 1 time for 37 minutes in these charges, "37 Minutes", charged for nearly 20 hours of work, I didn't approve any motions to be filed, these paralegals that work for Mr. Dahlberg, will run you dry without even asking for you consent. Highly recommend you choose a different attorney.
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07 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
I think this lawyer is a lowlife. He doesn't do what's in the best interest of children in custody cases he only cares about winning his cases not whats good for the child. He is a piss poor lawyer and should not be one.
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23 Mar, 2015 by Mark
This guy is a terrible lawyer. He took my shoplifting case, it was my very first one and pleaded a felony for me that's the best he can do? This lawyer barely asked me any questions about what happened. Stay far away from this lawyer.
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28 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
This lawyer will eat up your retainer fees so fast and charge enormous fees,some you'll question the validity of cost and the lack of court preparation and neglecting your case. My advice is to investigate this attorney further and don't hire her!
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06 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
Julie Cillo didn’t care about me, my case or my children. After a year, 50K in lawyers fees, not even a separation agreement, I was asked to replenish my retainer in the sum of 15K. When I wasn’t able to come up with the money, she dumped me. I had to declare bankruptcy because of her over billing and failure to represent.
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19 Feb, 2020 by Anonymous
I hired Ms. Maccormac for a couple of different legal matters involving family law. She did no trial preparation or investigating in order to prepare the case. If you want to lose custody of your children this is the attorney to hire. She doesn't really seem to care about your life or your children, just the bottom line. If you are looking for an attorney to just show up to court without putting in any of the work then this is who you should hire! I know in the legal field there are no guarantees as to the outcome, however in this case there wan no effort put forth to protect myself or my children. And if you do hire her pray that you do not have a trial as in my case she was not prepared or put in any of the work in order to have myself or her prepared to walk into court.
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08 Mar, 2018 by Philip
Had am assault and battery case. It was a simple 1st time offense which I was supposed to get the 1st time offenders program. Instead Mr..Cormier now was so unprepared and did no homework o. The case and landed me 21 days in in jail. He's No good! Selfish and arrogant. I strongly advise to stay away from this attorney.
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06 Mar, 2024 by Kia
This was the worst experience ever. I retained this lawyer in hopes of helping my loved one in Dec. I spoke to this man once and he wanted my payment and assured he could help. I made that payment and never spoke to him again! His receptionist Angie was super unprofessional and never passed any message to the lawyer at my request. I was passed off to an associate who lied and then got upset that I brought the lies to their attention. Once i voiced the complaint, communication was none!! I never heard from them again. They never called to say outcome of the case! They made false promises and didn't help me at all!! They took my money then told me the lawyer was on vacation!!! Which he should have told me to begin with!! Beware of this place!!! $750 wasted and I never got any return calls or messages or the outcome!! I guess because I live in NC they think they can tell you anything!! Please avoid the office at all costs! Do your research!
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10 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
I met with Elizabeth twice to finalize some personal documents. Our first two meetings were great and she was very helpful and professional. One last meeting was required with Elizabeth to finalize my documents. Not only has Elizabeth been unresponsive to my multiple attempts to schedule my last meeting but she will not send my file so I can pick up where we left off with a new attorney. To top it off, I was a referral from one of her colleagues. Not only has she been extremely unprofessional to me, but she doesn't seem to mind losing the respect of someone who went out of their way to send her business.
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12 Nov, 2021 by Anonymous
Mr. Raines set up a consultation a while back and he was so nice while I walked back. Then, he started cutting me off, raising his hand to motion me to stop talking and talked over me the entire time to make me feel helpless and stupid. So, after that consultation, I decided not to hire him and found a really awesome attorney to represent me. This attorney is a real jerk! Remember your hiring him so he works for you. Dont waste your money!
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07 Jul, 2011 by Curt
Did not handle my case very well. When my ex made wild allegation of impropriety with my child, Miss. Owen's folded and took a plea deal. Not much of a fighter. There was ample evidence that it was just an angry ex-wife trying to get custody, but she didn't apparently have the stomach for a fight and encouraged me to take a very bad plea deal.
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24 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
Timothy was the closing attorney when my then husband and I purchased a home in 2017. He was an amazing closing attorney and I trusted him to the point that I returned to him a few years later asking him to help me in the fight for said home. He demanded a $500 retainer which I paid that day (I still have the receipt). A week or two later he called stating he couldn't represent me as it was a conflict of interest. I asked for my $500 to be returned. He refused stating he'd earned that money. I called his office several times to argue this and the last time he stated I should have received an itemized bill for his services. I NEVER received this and my understanding is he shouldn't have accepted money from me knowing this was a conflict of interest the day I came into his office. I never hid the fact he was the original closing attorney! So he took my money (a single mom trying to make ends meet at the time and trying to save my home! and refused to repay this!) I find this crook like behavior. Send me your itemized report showing how you used my $500 when it was a conflict of interest or return my money! I've thought of small claims court as I HAVE my receipt still but I'd be battling an attorney! A crooked one at that!
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16 Sep, 2015 by Anonymous
I hired Dawn Deboer to handle my divorce. At the time, she was a Partner at a firm that was recommended to me. She was quick to ask for a retainer, and then did very little for me. My experience with her was very similar to the client who posted on Feb. 14, 2014; like that client, I experienced many delays, broken promises, as well as a lack of returned phone calls and follow-up. I eventually received a letter from the firm stating that she was no longer with the firm. Through much back and forth, I eventually had an Associate Lawyer at the firm finish the job that Dawn had started. (And yes, the Associate Lawyer handled the case in a timely and efficient manner.)
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04 Jun, 2018 by Anonymous
I was his client. He missed a very important filing deadline and then proceeded to bill me extra to try to correct his own mistake, that he ultimately was unable to correct himself. Would not recommend
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26 Jun, 2014 by Anonymous
Tried to use him for child custody matters and it was a horrible experience. He has a lot of book knowledge with legal matters, but his advice was horrible and he seemed distant and uncaring about my matter. Upon going to hire him, he told me I had no leg to stand on (which is false) and turned me down as a client and just gave me my money back. I still don't understand why he did that to this day and it was very uncomfortable. This turned out to be a blessing though, as I went to hire a fantastic (and more affordable and compassionate) lawyer than Mr. Luck ever would have been. My current lawyer was very successful with all of my needs and things turned out great for myself and my child. I am so glad I didn't listen to his advice, because it was false. One of the least caring attorneys I have ever spoken to without question. He may do good things for others, but my experience was depressing.
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15 May, 2017 by Anonymous
I hired wade for a custody case where I was seeking custody of my daughter from her mentally ill mother. I paid Wade in full up front. I was given a time line of 6 weeks to move the case through the courts. I emailed him over several weeks to get an update and attempted to call his office as well and no response. Finally by chance he answered one day about 2 months out and said he would call me within 24 yours with a court date. 4 weeks later no court date. After a total of 6 emails and the same amount of phone calls and voice messages I get an email apologizing and giving me a court date 1 week from the date he emails me. How inconsiderate is that of an attorney. I am not sure of how he is in court because we didn't make it that far but he is horrible at communication and follow-up.
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02 Jan, 2023 by Anonymous
I Retained Mr Kokerelis For a Contested Divorce and He Failed in all Phases of the Divorce, Including His Poor Prep and Circuit Court Litigation. In the Initial Consultation He Talked a Good Game But Failed To Deliver As An Experienced Attorney. He was more interested in trying to collect Attorney Fees rather than Prepare, Fight, Litigate and Provide a good outcome for me as his Client. He Also wasn't Forthcoming with with Information that he knew and also made Decisions without Consulting me as a Client. Dont Make the Same mistake I did. you will Regret it! He is Old and Not a Competent Attorney. Look Elsewhere 0 Star Attorney!
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24 Feb, 2008 by Anonymous
Jeff was unresponsive, missed a crucial deadline, and ran my bill 5x over what he estimated. He claims he's in the golden years of his practice, which led me to believe he has a lot of experience. Turns out, he never practiced family law until recently. Horrible waste of money for a matter that had only minor issues.
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02 Jun, 2022 by Feven christopher
IF I COULD GIVE NO STAR, I WOULD As a woman who suffered DOMESTIC VIOLENCE with 4 children whom two are special needs at the hands of my soon to be ex-husband, I sought an attorney who would care to fight for me and my children through out my contentious divorce case. Pilar was referred to me so I contacted, consulted and hired her to represent me. Not only was she unprofessional not responding to calls/emails from me but Pilar, without my permission, turned my case over to Garret who is incompetent. My Pendente Lite hearing in October 2021 was continued because forgot to serve my soon to be ex husband.WHO FORGETS TO SERVE DIVORCE PAPERS AND REALIZES A WEEK BEFORE TRIAL??? I have contacted PIlar numerous times saying I did not want Garrett handling my case anymore after this major ball drop. Pilar continued to ignore me and allowed Garret to screw up my case. The PL hearing was rescheduled to December 3,2021 giving my ex husband the opportunity to hide assets. Once we got to DEC 3, 2021, Opposite Counsel asked for the case not to be heard because Garrett FAILED to respond to their offer with a counter offer. ANOTHER MAJOR BALL DROPPED BY GARRETT. The judge granted the request to opposite council and then, it was rescheduled to the 17th of Dec 2021. The worst part....My ex husband was not served with discovery nor did they draft one prior to the hearing. My ex/abuser whom has a law degree took this as an opportunity to lie about losing contracts from his business and got away with lying about not having income. As a result of Garret not being prepared to court, the Judge, had no choice to believe my ex didn't have money...because there was no proof from our end to support that he did...since GARRET AND PILAR FAILED. I ended up getting below the guideline support for the kids and I since my ex "had no money." Garret filed the discovery after the PL hearing. By this time, it was little too late...especially I was depending on being awarded legal fees since I was a stay at home mom and primary care giver to my four children. I finally FIRED them at this point. Had Garret not missed serving him in OCT 2021, my ex would not have had the time to get away lying to the court about his income since we had his financial docs at that time.I emailed PILAR many times that I did not want him on my case but she ignored me. There are google review where people have complained the same issue where Pilar turned their cases without permission to Garret. I should have taken those into account. Also during the PL hearing, I got to learn that he was NOT attentive as he misrepresented and said the wrong things to the judge despite me emailing him and correcting him. That's how bad of a lawyer he is...can't even pay attention to details.
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10 Feb, 2020 by Patricia
I was left standing in front of a judge, and several attorneys for the state, alone, because my attorney failed to show up or answer anyone's calls ( not mine or the other attorneys involved in my case). I have placed several calls to Mrs. Piper, and her receptionist (who has informed me that my messages were given to Mrs. Piper) about my $5000.00 retainer, the remaining balance, and an itemized billing statement. My questions have remained unanswered, for months. To abandon families at possibly the worst and most terrifying time of their lives is appalling, and Mrs. Piper should be ashamed. Unless you want to pay a sizable retainer to an attorney that leaves you unrepresented, and will not return calls concerning your money, I highly recommend finding a different firm.
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17 Aug, 2020 by Anonymous
I hired Archer Jones to fight a custody case for me as well as review my divorce paperwork. Initially he was upbeat about my case and I paid the retainer . A week later, his attitude completely changed. No longer upbeat, he accused me of doing the same things my ex-wife was alleging. I fired him and found a lawyer who fairly represented me and my child instead of believing my ex-wife and her lawyer. Those false allegations fell apart in court and I was able to increase my time with my daughter to 50/50. After letting him know I was going to have someone else represent me, Archer charged me an exorbitant fee to review legal paperwork that he did not author and was standard language for divorce decrees, and refused to return the retainer. I cannot express the pain of hiring someone only to have them accuse you of the same garbage your ex-wife is spreading about you. I recommend him to no one except my ex-wife. Please don't put your children's future in his hands.
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24 Jan, 2019 by Bob
Hired to resolve a business problem and she fumbled royally; just let it fester and the whole issue got worse. No plan of action, takes no positive action. Hides out, does not return calls or emails when you try to get an update on your case. Ms. Callaway does know how to send bills.
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12 Jan, 2024 by Miranda goolsby
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27 Jul, 2013 by Anonymous
I employed Craig and I felt that he was more concerned about his relationship with the opposing Counsel than representing me as the client. After terminating my retainer and employing a new attorney I learned that he had not processed or handled many of the documents related to the case. I would not recommend retaining Craig as an attorney.
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27 Sep, 2024 by S.
If I could give Mr. Danieli zero stars, I would. He dragged my divorce case on for over a year and a half, claiming he couldn’t do anything. After I switched to a new lawyer, my case was resolved in just one week—and completely in my favor. During his time representing me, Mr. Danieli didn’t listen to my requests and consistently took steps against my wishes. He seemed more focused on sending bills for every little detail than actually helping me. His office was just as bad—ignoring emails, making numerous mistakes, and still charging me for them. I’m so relieved I finally switched lawyers. I would never recommend Mr. Danieli to anyone because it was clear he doesn’t know how to do his job or care about his clients.
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08 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Beware. This attorney is very deceptive. She presents well but once you hire her it is near impossible to get her to act on your behalf. She will take as much money as she can get from you but do nothing to help you prevail in court. Very unprepared and very dishonest. Hopefully this will help someone make a better choice. There are too many other reputable attorneys out there that have integrity. She is just looking for people who are vulnerable that she can take advantage of for financial gain. Completely disheveled and disorganized.
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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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

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