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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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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
09 Apr, 2021 by Gary davis
Matt helped set up a Trust. He did an excellent job.
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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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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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08 Jul, 2024 by Evangelist peggy smith
I wished I could see him again. To let him know he really helped us in a time of crisis. We really needed his help. We had no more trouble and the boys lived with us brother as brothers until this day.
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08 Jul, 2024 by April shipman
Good lawyer
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23 Jan, 2022 by Kashiachia xiong
This law firm will be worth every Penny. In my case, I needed a prenuptial contract review. They were very honest and caring. I am so thankful to have found them. They really helped gave me value guidance to my decision.
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5.0
6 Reviews
4.7
87 Reviews
08 Aug, 2024 by Holli lawrence
Tammy was a huge help! We live out of state and needed to get some documents filed. She worked with us to make sure we had everything we needed. She was very kind and professional. Highly recommend!
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11 Mar, 2024 by Steven hensley
Greg was polite, courteous, and professional in understanding my situation. He did an excellent job in helping me with the expungement in my case. My record is now clear thanks to Hagopian and Associates. I can now move on and have a bright future with no limitations holding me back preventing me from achieving success in my professional pursuits in life. I would highly recommend Greg Hagopian to anyone seeking legal counsel.
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31 Jan, 2024 by Jennifer orozco
I highly recommend The Law Office of Curtis Daugherty. He handled my husband’s case professionally and was aggressive when he needed to be. He was able to help my husband with custody and child support issues and overall the outcome was better than what we could have asked for. He cares about his clients and knows exactly what he is doing. Although, it was a long stressful process in the beginning it was worth it in the end and we could not have asked for a better attorney and his paralegal Jackie. We most definitely trust him and his team for any future issues that may arrise to represent my husband again. Thank you.
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08 Jul, 2024 by April shipman
Good lawyer
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08 Jul, 2024 by Evangelist peggy smith
I wished I could see him again. To let him know he really helped us in a time of crisis. We really needed his help. We had no more trouble and the boys lived with us brother as brothers until this day.
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23 Jan, 2022 by Kashiachia xiong
This law firm will be worth every Penny. In my case, I needed a prenuptial contract review. They were very honest and caring. I am so thankful to have found them. They really helped gave me value guidance to my decision.
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19 Oct, 2024 by Curtis tillery
Clayton Christenson was very helpful and professional with my case. This was a first time going through this process and he helped me the whole way through with questions I had and helped guided me along the way. His assistant was also great with keeping me updated through the whole process. He did everything to get me all the help I needed to get better and was able to settle the case. I Highly recommend him if anyone is in need of a Personal injury attorney.
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17 Oct, 2024 by Trish dickinson
Clayton Christenson was a great personal injury attorney. He fought for my son and got a great outcome. I’ll refer to him to anyone.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Euler torres
08 Jul, 2024 by April shipman
Good lawyer
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08 Jul, 2024 by Evangelist peggy smith
I wished I could see him again. To let him know he really helped us in a time of crisis. We really needed his help. We had no more trouble and the boys lived with us brother as brothers until this day.
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23 Jan, 2022 by Kashiachia xiong
This law firm will be worth every Penny. In my case, I needed a prenuptial contract review. They were very honest and caring. I am so thankful to have found them. They really helped gave me value guidance to my decision.
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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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17 Jun, 2024 by Jose garcia
08 Jun, 2024 by Yeimi espinoza
17 May, 2024 by Veronica lemus
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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08 Jan, 2024 by Elizabeth castaneda
Great, is an understatement. Douglas and his staff are awesome I've had 3 cases and they have done awesome. I highly recommend if you need a lawyer for accidents. My reason for having them represent me is due to car accidents. They will not disappoint you.
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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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27 Apr, 2024 by Malissa solorio
25 Jul, 2024 by Valerie ortega
literally the best lawyer ever. his team is so sweet and will do everything and anything they can do for you. Dan does not sugarcoat things and tells you how it is and how he can truly help you. definitely recommend everything pays off at the end.
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12 Jun, 2024 by Charlie mesa
If your looking for a Lawyer that works with precision and calculation Mr. Dan Bern is your guy.... He definitely knows what he is doing in the court room and what he needs to do to get the job done right by the information you give him and his team. Let them handle the rest. His preparation for your court days are undeniable, in the way he executes your case from beginning to the end is astounding. Dan is a brilliant Lawyer and trial Lawyer, he is like a surgeon in his own operating room... I have had to use his expertise twice and if I needed a Lawyer again he would definitely be my choice once more...Thank you Mr. Bern and team for a job well done .....
May 2024
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01 Jun, 2024 by Mauricio sandoval
Horrible
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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
31 Jan, 2024 by Victoria serrano
Ryan will give it to you as real as it gets.. It won't always be pretty, however it will be honest and that's what you really need in people.. To say exactly what they mean so there is no misunderstanding. Thank you for your insight.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Benjamin higgen
Erik was our family law lawyer, was very helpful, and got us the reasonable terms of custody we were asking for.
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19 Aug, 2024 by Whitney smith
Mr. Hamilton was a great lawyer. He always returned my calls quickly and answered all of my questions. He made sure to speak up for me in the court room and today he helped me get everything I was asking for in my child custody case. I am very satisfied.
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01 Aug, 2024 by Oluluann501
When I called seeking assistance with a complicated case. I was upset and trying to explain what happened. Mr. Hamilton didn't like that I had forgot to mention 1 fact out of 100 that were relevent and he interrupted me and then hung up on me. He was very rude and not an understanding person at all. If you have trouble keeping your thoughts straight when you're really upset because of your situation, don't call this guy. He doesn't have patience or empathy at all. Very rude, unprofessional and uncaring.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Benjamin higgen
Erik was our family law lawyer, was very helpful, and got us the reasonable terms of custody we were asking for.
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19 Aug, 2024 by Whitney smith
Mr. Hamilton was a great lawyer. He always returned my calls quickly and answered all of my questions. He made sure to speak up for me in the court room and today he helped me get everything I was asking for in my child custody case. I am very satisfied.
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01 Aug, 2024 by Oluluann501
When I called seeking assistance with a complicated case. I was upset and trying to explain what happened. Mr. Hamilton didn't like that I had forgot to mention 1 fact out of 100 that were relevent and he interrupted me and then hung up on me. He was very rude and not an understanding person at all. If you have trouble keeping your thoughts straight when you're really upset because of your situation, don't call this guy. He doesn't have patience or empathy at all. Very rude, unprofessional and uncaring.
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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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18 Jan, 2024 by Mary bryant
Never answer the phone
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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
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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25 Aug, 2014 by Yajaida gutierrez
My lawyer Patrick is a awesome strong free will man. He has been so great in helping me with my case. Even though was a last min booking with him. He is also sexxxy and good looking too ladies ! Watch out don't fall in love with him while he helps you with your case. Thanks Hiders
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03 Oct, 2022 by Lina garcia
Horrible Attorney very rude. David Minyard is nice when you first meet him, because he wants your money to retain him. Don't waste your money or time. Look at all his reviews. You tell him what you want and he doesn't do anything lazy attorney, no communication with his client. David Minyard has been an attorney for over 20 years pretty close to retirement. He is not trying to make a good name for himself anymore. When you are going through your divorce. It's already hard and stressful. Then to have to look for another attorney once you retain him. His customer service is awful. I came to a point that my kids are more important then for me to settle with David Minyard. I had to find another attorney. Remember attorney works for you. You want the best attorney go see Michael Weatherly in Visalia.
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08 May, 2021 by Anonymous
horrible lawyer. does not know his job. dishonest ,deplorable and pathetic. shouldn't be a lawyer. would not recommend. stay away
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22 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
Paid for consultation, consisted of him requesting i printed and provided all initial paperwork next time paid for another consultation and brought prints of everything filed, he said he would review it and contact me....2 days before hearing i called to make sure he had a plan, was told to have consultation, paid a third time and asked what to do, how do we proceed to get ideally 50/50 joint custody? He informed me that he was declining to represent me....days before vital hearing, without time to seek other counsel...he SERIOUSLY wouldn't even give any hint to why, literally
Said " hes not legally required to share why he declined" ....not a hint or a warning, nothing .i tried to file a statement with the court myself, categorically refuting the absured string of purely fictional, condemning and wholly unfounded demonization with documented and logical evidence as well as written letters of reference/testimony of all of our closest friend's and neighbors l.......i don't think the judge even looked at it, nor did the "impartial mediation" which felt like being interrogated by bad cop and same bad cop. To whom the judge just rubberstamped their ",suggestions" and deemed them orders.....made me pay him 3 times, left me thinking i had representation until i paid to doublecheck and learn i didn't, and was rude about telling me why he didnt HAVE to tell me why. Didnt even allude to it . And frankly was kinda a turd by acting annoyed that i was confused and requested clarification. Things like, why not represent? Why choose not to explain? Why not let me know in advance? Why took my money with zero attempt to contribute? What should i do myself to at least try......not a shred of advice, and in my opinion completely bereft of integrity.
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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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02 Jan, 2018 by Melissa
I used Ms. Butler's services through Tulare County Family Services Legal Aid that was supposed to protect victims of domestic violence in my child custody case. I was informed that because I was not homeless or a certain color that she could not help me based on my "demographics". After pleading for help, she ended up representing me for one hearing and I have regretted it ever since.
Ms. Butler failed to help keep my children safe. The very next weekend after the hearing she represented me in, that she failed and gave my ex visitation, my daughter ended up with a bruise to her face, police being called and CPS investigation. Yet my children still have to visit this man.
Her grant funded services to help women of DV is a joke. Hire a real attorney with real experience or represent yourself.
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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.
