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11 Oct, 2024 by Lucie p
Terrible place! The staff was unhelpful and inattentive to the needs of their clients.
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25 Sep, 2024 by Lucero vargas
Great place! Great people! Really helpful and attentive to the needs of their clients.
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06 Sep, 2024 by Meryem boumzough
Very good law firm! I recommend! Nicole was very kind and efficient! God bless!
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26 Feb, 2025 by Jaylyn walker
I would recommend this law firm to anyone who has suffered in a car accident. They worked hard for a great outcome. They kept my family updated as soon as they found out information. They were very understanding and very pleasant!
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12 Dec, 2024 by Eddie garcia
Was a great pleasure to have ryan nelson representing me through my car accident case. He made sure all injuries were taken care of and was on top of everything. He went above and beyond representing me and my wife with this case and was always honest throughout the entire case. Would highly recommend nelson to represent anyone in there case.
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05 Dec, 2024 by Christina hernandez
Clayton Christenson took our dyer situation and worked a miracle for our family. He was able to get all of our injuries taken care of and even walk away with extra in our pockets . What seemed impossible became possible with his professionalism and dedication to solving our case in a timely manner .
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10 Jul, 2018 by Mercedes
I was very happy Nichole was such a sweet nice person. helped me and walked me through everything and did not leave me wondering what certain things meant. i was very pleased with her representing for me.
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06 Jul, 2018 by Angelica serna
When I contacted Christopher Martens law firm they seem so sure that we had a case worth fighting for, so I was convinced that we stood a chance against the system. We went in for our consultation and they made us feel very comfortable, then a few days later i spoke to Ms Verville and she was able to answer my questions and concerns . She never let her gaurd down and she wasn't hesitant to speak up against the meanest District Attorney I've ever seen , we we're so pleased with the final results she would be my no.1 preference of any future criminal cases not for myself but for my peers I would refer her any time thanks Ms Nicole Michele Verville u did an awesome job!!!!!!! ;)
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31 May, 2018 by Luisa
Very well satisfied with the outcome from My husbands case he was being charged with Misdemeanor domesic violence and Attorney Nicole did a great job in getting a great offer for him as getting it reduced to an infraction she worked hard into trying to get this offer and she didn’t stop trying until it was accomplished, she did an awesome job very well recommended her !!! Thank You
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15 Jan, 2025 by Danessa fox
Micheal Hatherley, I am a caregiver in this community and Mr Hatherley practically threw me out of their office just for wanting to see my kids. Heartless.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Monica garcia
We went in for a consultation which was $375.00. He spent 10 minutes with us and told is he couldn’t help us. I asked for a partial refund. Never heard a word.
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30 Jul, 2024 by Xavier perez
Because of Mr.Hatherley I went from having 0% custody to now having 50/50 custody of my daughter. I was at a point in my life where I was not able to see my daughter at all and because of Mr. Hatherley that is no longer the case. Mr. Hatherley changed my life in so many ways. He was honest with me, re assured me that if I did everything he told me to do that we would be successful and because of him my daughter is able to share equal time with me and her mom. While in court I have witnessed Mr. Hatherley embarrass other respected lawyers because of his knowledge of the law. I don’t understand how other lawyers think they have a chance against Mr. Hatherley in the court room.
My life has changed in so many ways because of the Hatherley family. Thank you guys so much for everything.
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08 Feb, 2019 by Anonymous
Michelle has always been upfront and honest with us. She’s a straight shooter and the bulldog in a fight. I believe she had my family’s best interest and i am so grateful we used her. Highly recommend using Michelle if we ever need too again
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29 Sep, 2017 by Chuck
I hired Michelle almost 2 years age for my custody and divorce case. She has been doing the best job possible for me and my case. She has never led me wrong or played any games with me or the courts. She is very knowledgeable within the judicial system and has many of contacts and mentors within the community. Her resources are unlimited, for which she used to do the best job possible. She took a personal interest in my case and personal life. Could not have picked a better person to represent me.
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28 Sep, 2017 by Katie
I was very impressed with Michelle when I contacted her to have a consultation. When I met her in person she was very professional and knowledgeable. I feel like she will be on my side and ready to work towards the outcome that I am hoping for.
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25 Sep, 2023 by Lena
I have used services of attorney Victoria Vertner on multiple occasions. She is resourceful and knowledgeable. She knows how to listen and support me. She always made it about my best interest, explained and navigated me. She knows industry and helped with additional resources when I needed it. I highly recommend her.
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22 Feb, 2018 by Tanaya
My entire experience with Victoria Vertner was wonderful. Durning a difficult time in my life, she made the situation as easy and efficient as possible. She has a kind heart and yet will represent you with a strength that is incomparable. I would highly recommend Victoria to all who seek legal representation.
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20 Feb, 2018 by Sam
I was facing a charges for what was basically something I wasn't even a part of, (Needless to say I'm no longer friends with the person who put me into that whole situation in the first place). Another friend of mine suggested that I use her attorney Victoria. I was hesitant at first, because trusting trusting a friends judgement was what got me into this situation in the first place, but I decided to just speak to her first, and if I didn't like her I could always find someone else. Thank God I listened to this friend and met with Victoria! She was very knowledgeable and explained to me that I had a very good chance of beating my case, which was a huge weight off of my shoulders. Victoria was with me through every step of my case and she eventually got my charges dropped! I would and absolutely will recommend her to anyone who needs an attorney.
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19 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
Tiffany was highly recommended to me from an acquaintance. In a time when everything is new and uncertain she and Amalia have both been very helpful.
Tiffany really looks out for you and your best interests, even when you yourself might want to rush through something or give in too quickly just to get to the end result faster. I cannot say enough how happy I am that I had her representation.
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07 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
I hired Tiffany as my lawyer and have not lost a case with her, she is an amazing lawyer both in and out of court. She cares and is very compassionate. She keeps me informed and lays down facts regarding my case. She is very experienced with mediation and her advise is spot on. my cases are haldled so well I never have to worry about court even after false allegations, I won Custody for my son thanks to Tiffany. I also got spouse and child support that My son and I really needed. She stands up and defends her clients. I can never thank her and her staff enough for what they have done for me . I would recommend her to anyone I need of legal assistance. She gets the job done, she knows how to handle difficult situations.
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30 Jan, 2024 by Esmeralda
Mr. Green is one of the best family attorneys around. He understood my concerns from the start and helped me fight for my child. Throughout the entire process, he kept me informed and truly cared for what I was going through. Truly recommend him, you will not regret it!
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29 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
We made a consultation appointment paid 100$. We start off with him constantly burping and slurring his words. Something felt off when he kept asking the same questions. He wouldn’t write notes of anything we would tell him then would ask us the same question we just answered literally seconds ago. We ended up walking out. We got frustrated that he was not listening to any information we were giving him. This is the worst especially when you come for help and you get someone who does the opposite
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27 Oct, 2023 by Melinda
I could never have found a more honest, caring, knowledgeable and best of all someone who cares about helping his clients and not about money as some attorneys do. He is affordable at best and explains any questions or concerns you have you never will feel like you are asking stupid questions thank you Matt Green for helping get me through this journey we call life you are an Angel in disguise.
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13 Dec, 2010 by Jeanette
As I look back, things could have went another way to my advantage. However, in court Broadman was knowledeable, agressive, an
eat em alive kinda guy. Got the job done. I had 100% confidence in him. When he walks into court, you know you're going to battle and gonna win.
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31 Mar, 2024 by Shawn kilgore
The best of the best. Harold is extremely hard working, honest, knowledgeable, and down to earth. There is no one else I would rather have in my corner.
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06 Jul, 2023 by Rubith hernandez
Very informative and genuine in his advice and discussion of cost base outcomes and best use if resources for litigation. I hired him on the spot
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17 Jun, 2024 by Jose garcia
08 Jun, 2024 by Yeimi espinoza
17 May, 2024 by Veronica lemus
14 Nov, 2024 by Dean jackson
Doug and his office made a difficult and unfortunate situation easier to deal with. They helped ensure I had little to no upfront out of pocket costs for treatments that I needed after the car accident. The process was easy, straight forward, and completed in a reasonable amount of time while also prioritizing my health and recovery. He also negotiated a settlement that exceeded my expectations. Thank you!
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20 May, 2024 by Anonymous
He wants a simple case for $4,000-$5,000. If the case gets difficult he will continue the case till the 4 to 5 thousand is exhausted then send you packing!
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03 May, 2024 by Anonymous
Just like Albert Garcia out of Visalia Jason takes your $4,000 and just shows up to continue every court date. Then when it comes to judgement time from the judge he wants another $10,000!!!! When he didn’t do anything with the original $4,000!
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09 Jan, 2025 by Tobi farley
Mr. Hamilton was honest, yet kind throughout our entire process. He is able to work with diverse groups and won our case for us!
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06 Dec, 2024 by Stephanie lopez
26 Nov, 2024 by Mark fung
15 Jan, 2025 by Danessa fox
Micheal Hatherley, I am a caregiver in this community and Mr Hatherley practically threw me out of their office just for wanting to see my kids. Heartless.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Monica garcia
We went in for a consultation which was $375.00. He spent 10 minutes with us and told is he couldn’t help us. I asked for a partial refund. Never heard a word.
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30 Jul, 2024 by Xavier perez
Because of Mr.Hatherley I went from having 0% custody to now having 50/50 custody of my daughter. I was at a point in my life where I was not able to see my daughter at all and because of Mr. Hatherley that is no longer the case. Mr. Hatherley changed my life in so many ways. He was honest with me, re assured me that if I did everything he told me to do that we would be successful and because of him my daughter is able to share equal time with me and her mom. While in court I have witnessed Mr. Hatherley embarrass other respected lawyers because of his knowledge of the law. I don’t understand how other lawyers think they have a chance against Mr. Hatherley in the court room.
My life has changed in so many ways because of the Hatherley family. Thank you guys so much for everything.
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15 Jan, 2025 by Danessa fox
Micheal Hatherley, I am a caregiver in this community and Mr Hatherley practically threw me out of their office just for wanting to see my kids. Heartless.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Monica garcia
We went in for a consultation which was $375.00. He spent 10 minutes with us and told is he couldn’t help us. I asked for a partial refund. Never heard a word.
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30 Jul, 2024 by Xavier perez
Because of Mr.Hatherley I went from having 0% custody to now having 50/50 custody of my daughter. I was at a point in my life where I was not able to see my daughter at all and because of Mr. Hatherley that is no longer the case. Mr. Hatherley changed my life in so many ways. He was honest with me, re assured me that if I did everything he told me to do that we would be successful and because of him my daughter is able to share equal time with me and her mom. While in court I have witnessed Mr. Hatherley embarrass other respected lawyers because of his knowledge of the law. I don’t understand how other lawyers think they have a chance against Mr. Hatherley in the court room.
My life has changed in so many ways because of the Hatherley family. Thank you guys so much for everything.
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20 Nov, 2024 by George rivello
I recently submitted a straightforward legal inquiry through their online form, only to be met with an unexpectedly dismissive and unprofessional response from Donna Desantos, who I assume is a legal secretary. While I understand that the firm may not provide the specific services I requested, I would have appreciated a more courteous and constructive response, perhaps with a referral to another attorney who could assist me. Professionalism and basic politeness should be standard in client interactions, even when unable to accommodate a request. Unfortunately, this experience has left a poor impression of their office, and I cannot recommend their services.
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27 Dec, 2023 by Luther khachigian ii
Our family has been doing business with these folks for 40+ years. Great service, great staff, great lawyers.
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13 Jul, 2022 by Omar jimenez
22 Nov, 2024 by Daniel pulido
06 Aug, 2024 by Cuqui tafolla
I can always count on Perez. He really does fight for you and your family. He was able to get charges dismissed and get me home sooner.
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02 May, 2024 by Linda chaves
This is amazing attorney!! I highly recommend him to everyone. I was recommended to him and was glad I did. He is straight forward and isn’t going to lie to you about what he can help you with. I’m happy with my results and would hire him again 100%. He’s an A+ attorney and would definitely contact him if you need one!!
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09 Sep, 2024 by Jose soria
I had the best legal advice I could and very friendly customer oriented services.
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22 Aug, 2024 by Sarkis davidian iii
Ryan Sullivan was referred to me by another attorney. This guy is the exact type of attorney that I was looking for. It was clear to me by the way he spoke that he knows his stuff and communicates his knowledge effectively and efficiently. Just a consultation, but when I do have to begin litigation I know where I'm going and I am feeling as confident as one can feel. Very reasonable pricing as well.
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22 Feb, 2024 by Russell lunsford
29 Jan, 2025 by Ludmila moraes
Honest, direct, and highly knowledgeable. Daniel and Mary have helped me in countless ways and he always fights for justice while staying true to the law. His straightforward approach not only saves time but also helps you save money. With his deep expertise and up-to-date knowledge of legal matters, you can trust that you're in capable hands.
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15 Nov, 2024 by Sara redmon
Had less than an hour consultation with this man because he was so rude and condescending I just literally hung up on him. He talked to me like I was mentally retarded and kept telling me to shut my mouth. Even after I told him I have massive PTSD from
Abuse he continued to berate me. If you need help this guy is NOT the one. I feel like I should get my money refunded.
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28 Oct, 2024 by Jeff sailors
Veteran attorney that made sure I was treated fairly. Represented me well. He won’t sugar coat anything. When it came to final court day he showed how much better he was than our opposition. I cannot overstate that if you need a family law attorney I recommend Dan Bern.
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25 Jul, 2024 by Darryl smith
Worst lawyer in the California took our money but sat on case for over a year before doing anything. No Suprise he lost our case which was a slam dunk probate case he eventually lost to the State because he took to damn long to process.
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23 Aug, 2023 by Larry cabibi
First class people very helpful
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13 Jan, 2023 by April treona lancaster
It is always a pleasure to do business with Bill Hannah here at Houk & Hornburg.
He is excellent in analyzing contracts, disseminating the aspects of a scenario & advising best course of action and next moves.
I LOVE that he is on my team in the chess game that is life.
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25 Jul, 2024 by Darryl smith
Worst lawyer in the California took our money but sat on case for over a year before doing anything. No Suprise he lost our case which was a slam dunk probate case he eventually lost to the State because he took to damn long to process.
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23 Aug, 2023 by Larry cabibi
First class people very helpful
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13 Jan, 2023 by April treona lancaster
It is always a pleasure to do business with Bill Hannah here at Houk & Hornburg.
He is excellent in analyzing contracts, disseminating the aspects of a scenario & advising best course of action and next moves.
I LOVE that he is on my team in the chess game that is life.
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09 Jan, 2025 by Tobi farley
Mr. Hamilton was honest, yet kind throughout our entire process. He is able to work with diverse groups and won our case for us!
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06 Dec, 2024 by Stephanie lopez
26 Nov, 2024 by Mark fung
27 Dec, 2024 by Athlete highlights sl ii
Excellent professional service.
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04 Mar, 2024 by Jesse lira
😍🙏🏼
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17 Feb, 2024 by R gilbert
Why bother? They never answer the phone, so appointments can be set. Spent hours on numerous days, and not once did they answer or call back. Go figure, another broken California program.
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03 Mar, 2025 by David skelton
This guy doesn't do his job unless he's paid!!!! He was appointed for my juvenile court case and didn't do nothing to defend my rights as a father to a unfit mother
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05 Jul, 2024 by Cynthia jewett
I contacted Mr. Bragg for advice concerning elder care. He contacted me in a timely manner. We discussed my questions via phone. He was very polite and knowledgeable. He took time to discuss the situation with me and answered all my questions. He gave me some further recommendations. Overall, I was pleased with his advice and concern for my situation.
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08 Aug, 2023 by Lorenzo creswell
Great people very polite and respectful
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28 Jan, 2025 by Jessica madrigal
19 Sep, 2024 by Kimberly gutierrez
I’ve used Mr Minyard for the last five years for multiple cases. He’s extremely knowledgeable. I have not yet been disappointed ever and always got my anxiety set at ease and cases straight forward done the way they should by him and his team. He tells you like it is and he knows what he’s talking about when it comes to the law. As a mom who struggles with anxiety having mr Minyard with en through these things and so knowledgeable of the law and helpful I could not recommend him more.
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11 Apr, 2024 by Jennifer rutledge-bozenbury
Straight forward and knowledgeable! Would definitely recommend.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Sarkis
Do you want somebody who will tell you what the Outlook of your situation is based on the courts history or do you want somebody to agree with everything you say and waste your money? Ryan is the lawyer to get if you don't want to waste time/money and you want to win.
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27 Apr, 2023 by Anonymous
In my opinion Horrible experience with Ryan I am really concerned for ryan he just blew up over the phone out of nowhere started shouting at me and making cocky and wild claims about what happened when I knew what happened because I was party to the conversation he wasn't there but wanted to tell me what happened. he talked over me the entire time and was condescending and extremely uncomfortable professionally and almost cussed at me 2x he caught himself mid swear. I don't know how this guy hasn't lost his bar license or been force Todo anger management. if he will just snap and get aggressive and angry to a random stranger over nothing what does he do behind closed doors with the people he's close to. I have seen other reviews on other sites and it seems that's this is not the first allegations of him snapping on people Google his name .
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14 Mar, 2020 by Chad clark
When I called for my INITIAL CONSULTATION, I found Ryan to be rude, aggressive and unprofessional. Whilst explaining the intricacies of my niche case, he continued to bark aggressively to "get to the point". Now, while consultation was to assist the students involved, I needed to get their accounts conveyed to him so he could understand the claims being made. Instead, due to his attitude, apathy and aggressiveness, I decided NOT to proceed with him. I would not recommend Ryan, their are plenty of experienced lawyers in Visalia, without anger issues and aggression.
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01 Mar, 2024 by Susan marvin
Wrote our estate planning and since in 2019 and have not been able to find her since. No return phone call and not at address listed. If you get her, don't use here.
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21 Dec, 2022 by Ruby hernandez
Joan is a straight forward attorney well versed in estate planning
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11 Aug, 2022 by Scott larsen
Retired, I guess, can't contact her, mother in law's estate plan never got filed with the courts so after all that, still have to go thru probate. What a disaster.
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26 Feb, 2023 by Sandra venables
01 Feb, 2023 by Maria_ mury
Violet Valdez asked for your help and you ignore her plead?!!!!
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14 May, 2020 by Cj porter
08 May, 2021 by Anonymous
terrible lawyer. incompetent and ignorant would not recommend. stay away. does not represent at all
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07 Aug, 2009 by Anonymous
Ms. Jarvis represented me in a contenious divorce proceeding. After nearly a year of working with her, my former husband seemed to be the only one getting anything done. He has paid very little child support, although he's been ordered to, almost none of the household bills, again, court ordered, has unlimited access to our children, and won a request to have the children assessed by a counselor to determine who they should live with. All Ms. Jarvis seemed to care about was being liked by the Judge and my former husband's attorney. My former husband refused to pay her bill, even though ordered to, so she contacted me to demand money. I was told that "Mary doesn't work for free" and assured that either I would pay up, or she'd drop me. I had ONE more hearing. I was floored, and when I contacted other Attorney's and Paralegals, I was told this is unheard of.
I feel like I've been trampled on, at a very terrible time of my life. I feel stupid for not listening to others who warned me she didn't get results and was unresponsive, so I've vowed I will try and warn others. There are just too many other professional and good Attorneys out there to allow someone who is obviously dealing with more than she can handle to continue to take business from them.
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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.
