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14 Feb, 2022 by Glynn hackett
Needed help
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07 Mar, 2018 by Billy
Nikki Mundkowsky went above and beyond what you except from a attorney for me and my daughter, she got me joint custody and really stood up for me when my daughter's mom was taking advantage of me when I didn't have a lawyer!!!! I wish she was still my attorney today, highly recommend her to anybody, she's the best at what she does!!!! Thanks Nikki for all you did for me!!!
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17 Sep, 2013 by Phyllis b
I came across her by accident, and was trying to do a divorce myself. I needed a special form that only an attorney would have. I went to her office and she spoke with me personally about my situation. Her knowledge and professionalism kicked right in and I hired her. She helped me with a very difficult situation. If I had any questions, she always called me in to go over them. I was also in a financial bind, and she worked with me. She made things so much easier for me to help me get through everything. She always went in front of the judge and talked to my husband's attorney without me having to be there unless I felt the need to be. She presented my case and got me exactly what I needed most! I couldn't have found a better attorney to help and work with me in my very difficult divorce case. She fought for me unlike any other would have or has in the past. I Very Highly Recommend her to anyone! She was a Godsend to me. Just exactly what and who I needed, when I needed it. If I ever need another attorney, she will be the one I go to! Case Closed!
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20 Aug, 2018 by Veronica muerte
Jimmy, I am so glad I found you! You and your team treated me with the utmost importance, respect, and care. You promised me the best and that's exactly what I recieved.
Anyone looking for Personal Injury Representatives should stop here. Jimmy and his team are first-class!
Jimmy, thanks for everything!
-VERONICA ROSAS
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08 Aug, 2018 by Cristian beck
This law firm was amazing and super helpful. I will use them again if needed! Thank you for all your help!
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06 Jul, 2018 by Enrique chavira
Quickly response great personal attention
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08 Jul, 2020 by Javier
Thomas first helped me with an expungement and now he’s helping me with another case. He has a great team, Rhonda is super helpful and friendly. Would definitely recommend that you hire Thomas, he’s very straightforward and fair.
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19 May, 2017 by Skylar
Thomas West and his secretary, Rhonda Maher, were incredible! You never want to find yourself needing an attorney, but I'm glad they were there when I did! Nothing but professionalism, and always available to answer my questions. I'm more than pleased with the final verdict on my case, and I owe it all to Mr. West and his dedicated secretary. i highly recommend them to anyone needing help.
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18 May, 2017 by Anonymous
Thomas is very professional and very good at what he does. He was able to help me out of a DWI by getting me enrolled in a program that will eventually take it off my record. He was very helpful and very reasonably priced!
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13 Oct, 2016 by David cobb
Mr. Bennett is by far the best attorney I have dealt with. He made my trip to Waco very painless to say the least. I was looking at jail time on an MTR, and didn't really have anything as far as a defense goes... walked out of the courtroom with a best case scenario. Like I said, if you are looking for an attorney, or are unsure, just do yourself a favor and spend the money on this attorney. 110% satisfied, couldn't be happier. He definitely will not take the weight off your shoulders as far a worry goes, but then again, that's not his job. He doesn't make false promises but he ends up exceeding expectations. I cannot say this enough, if you are confused about who to go to, hire Bennett!
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18 Apr, 2011 by Lisa
Sam is a kind, concientious professional who made a very difficult time in the lives of me and my children much easier to handle. When I thought I had nowhere to turn, Sam explained it all in easy to understand language and aleviated my fears and represented the interests of my children and I in an excellent manner.
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09 Dec, 2010 by Kimi knight
I can remember that this was the most difficult and painful time of our lives. When we met Jeff he was so very kind, he made us feel safe,reasured. You could tell immediately how inteligent he was but with a humble down to earth attitude. We are eternally greatful for his help. He won our case hands down. He made the other much older lawyer look like an incapable idiot. He gave us and my mom peace of mind for the last few months we had her with us.We miss her more than words can say. We will never forget what Jeff did for us. In our opinion he is the best lawyer you will ever meet. Thank You Jeff Armstrong.
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14 Feb, 2022 by Glynn hackett
Needed help
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01 May, 2013 by Jessica
Julia is an angel in my book! She helped me with a custody case even though we were 1700 miles apart! She updated me every single time something new occurred, offered her shoulder to lean on when I needed some strength and became a good friend after my case was over. DO NOT HESITATE to call upon her. She is a wonderful attorney and I am forever grateful.
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20 Sep, 2018 by Kelly
We hired Sune for an child custody issue. She was professional and very well prepared at every stage of the process, so much so that the other parties lawyers were deferring to her recommendations.
We would highly recommend her to anyone with a legal concern!
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10 Mar, 2016 by Kevin
I first hired Mr. Raybold to represent me in a divorce case about 15 years ago when my 4 month old son was being kept from me. That long ago it was most unheard of for the soon to be single father to gain custody of such a young child. However, under Mr. Raybold's excellent leadership and planning I was able to gain immediate equal possession with NO CHILD SUPPORT paid in either direction until the divorce was finalized. There were a few other Hearings over disputes along the way where Mr. Raybold expertly established a pattern of behavior that would be used later. During the final Hearing, I was awarded primary custody of our child!
Some years later I referred a close friend to Mr. Raybold. He was a father who had lost custody of his daughter to the mother, which is normal. Again, with Mr. Raybold's expert understanding of the laws of Texas, he was able to establish that my friend was indeed the better parent and custody was changed from the mother to the father!
Both my friend and I still have primary custody of our children and a lasting appreciation for the Magic that Mr. Raybold was able to work in the Courtroom. His skills, knowledge of the laws, and aggressive attitude are more than a match for any opposing Counsel who often look like incompetent fools against his skills. If you want to be successful, go with the Best. Mr. Raybold is the Johnny Cochran of Family Law in the Waco, TX area. He is THE BEST!
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14 Feb, 2022 by Glynn hackett
Needed help
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09 Mar, 2024 by Monica rose
Ms. Thummel assisted us with the adoption of my daughter. She was so helpful, knowledgeable, and kind. She answered all of our questions and remained in contact throughout the process. I would definitely use her services in the future!
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18 Sep, 2024 by Misty votaw
Allen Streetman was so helpful and took the time to explain to me in great detail all that I needed to know. I would 100% recommend him and the firm and will definitely use them again if the need arises. 10/10. Thank you!
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18 Apr, 2024 by Griselda alvarez
Absolutely recommend, made the whole process hassle free would not recommend any other family law attorneys best in Waco. David was absolutely helpful will do exactly what he tell you. Once again thank you for all the help.
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17 Apr, 2024 by Jim h
In the past I've dealt with lawyers who were more expensive yet much less effective. Today my case was completed and the results were probably the best anyone could wish for. Jason and Laura did everything they could to help to get the best possible outcome. Excellent communication, strategy, and follow through.
I highly recommend Milam & Fanning. They will definitely be the firm I go to if I ever have any legal issues again here in Texas.
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18 Sep, 2024 by Misty votaw
Allen Streetman was so helpful and took the time to explain to me in great detail all that I needed to know. I would 100% recommend him and the firm and will definitely use them again if the need arises. 10/10. Thank you!
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18 Apr, 2024 by Griselda alvarez
Absolutely recommend, made the whole process hassle free would not recommend any other family law attorneys best in Waco. David was absolutely helpful will do exactly what he tell you. Once again thank you for all the help.
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17 Apr, 2024 by Jim h
In the past I've dealt with lawyers who were more expensive yet much less effective. Today my case was completed and the results were probably the best anyone could wish for. Jason and Laura did everything they could to help to get the best possible outcome. Excellent communication, strategy, and follow through.
I highly recommend Milam & Fanning. They will definitely be the firm I go to if I ever have any legal issues again here in Texas.
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18 Sep, 2024 by Misty votaw
Allen Streetman was so helpful and took the time to explain to me in great detail all that I needed to know. I would 100% recommend him and the firm and will definitely use them again if the need arises. 10/10. Thank you!
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18 Apr, 2024 by Griselda alvarez
Absolutely recommend, made the whole process hassle free would not recommend any other family law attorneys best in Waco. David was absolutely helpful will do exactly what he tell you. Once again thank you for all the help.
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17 Apr, 2024 by Jim h
In the past I've dealt with lawyers who were more expensive yet much less effective. Today my case was completed and the results were probably the best anyone could wish for. Jason and Laura did everything they could to help to get the best possible outcome. Excellent communication, strategy, and follow through.
I highly recommend Milam & Fanning. They will definitely be the firm I go to if I ever have any legal issues again here in Texas.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Sergio g.
Good lawyer
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15 Aug, 2024 by Leslie watkins
KLF helped me so much with a probate case. I was able to get responses and resolution in a timely manner. All the staff members were very professional and extremely experienced. I would definitely recommend them to friends, coworkers and family. In fact, two coworkers used their services for family matters and also expressed appreciation and respect for the firm and their work.
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02 Aug, 2024 by Lilliana watkins
These guys are great!!! Not only do they fight to have your story told, but they also make sure you know what is happening every step of the way. Absolutely recommend.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Sergio g.
Good lawyer
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15 Aug, 2024 by Leslie watkins
KLF helped me so much with a probate case. I was able to get responses and resolution in a timely manner. All the staff members were very professional and extremely experienced. I would definitely recommend them to friends, coworkers and family. In fact, two coworkers used their services for family matters and also expressed appreciation and respect for the firm and their work.
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02 Aug, 2024 by Lilliana watkins
These guys are great!!! Not only do they fight to have your story told, but they also make sure you know what is happening every step of the way. Absolutely recommend.
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27 Sep, 2023 by Jessica hurst
Incredible staff!!! Very friendly and knowledgeable attorneys! Highly recommend!!!
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20 Nov, 2022 by Tracey kratochvil
Looking for a winning firm who truly care about what they do contact Biggs and Greenslade today!!
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18 Nov, 2022 by Matthew ramthun
Amazing attorney!!!!!
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21 Aug, 2024 by Pam hill
Bruce Perryman and Carlene are both wonderful people who work very hard for good results their clients. I was kept well informed through the whole process. This gave me peace of mind and I trusted Mr. Peryman completely. They are so caring and compassionate. I was very pleased with the outcome of my case.
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10 Jul, 2024 by Laura sanchez
Pablo Martinez was very attentive when I hire his services, after a while I didn’t hear much from him. I just think that since I'm not from Waco, TX. I would called to get any updates on my case and for some reason he never had anything new on the case, or I guess he was just not interested in my case. I also hear that he was doing criminal cases. Good luck to everyone.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Linnie evans
I used them to help me get Social Security Disability. They would not have been able to help me if I had not have deserved it. But their compassion and dedication to my case made this process go quicker and not be such a nightmare.
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21 Aug, 2024 by Pam hill
Bruce Perryman and Carlene are both wonderful people who work very hard for good results their clients. I was kept well informed through the whole process. This gave me peace of mind and I trusted Mr. Peryman completely. They are so caring and compassionate. I was very pleased with the outcome of my case.
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10 Jul, 2024 by Laura sanchez
Pablo Martinez was very attentive when I hire his services, after a while I didn’t hear much from him. I just think that since I'm not from Waco, TX. I would called to get any updates on my case and for some reason he never had anything new on the case, or I guess he was just not interested in my case. I also hear that he was doing criminal cases. Good luck to everyone.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Rebecca coffey
So glad I choose Perryman Law Office to help with my disability claim. Very professional but not intimidating. Very responsive to any questions and concerns I had. Great people and very compassionate. Would highly recommend.
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21 Aug, 2024 by Pam hill
Bruce Perryman and Carlene are both wonderful people who work very hard for good results their clients. I was kept well informed through the whole process. This gave me peace of mind and I trusted Mr. Peryman completely. They are so caring and compassionate. I was very pleased with the outcome of my case.
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10 Jul, 2024 by Laura sanchez
Pablo Martinez was very attentive when I hire his services, after a while I didn’t hear much from him. I just think that since I'm not from Waco, TX. I would called to get any updates on my case and for some reason he never had anything new on the case, or I guess he was just not interested in my case. I also hear that he was doing criminal cases. Good luck to everyone.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Linnie evans
I used them to help me get Social Security Disability. They would not have been able to help me if I had not have deserved it. But their compassion and dedication to my case made this process go quicker and not be such a nightmare.
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01 Aug, 2024 by Ryan muszynski
Made the process super easy and fair pricing. Got several other quotes and others were gouging me.
Very quick to respond when I had dozens of questions throughout the process.
Highly recommend.
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31 Jul, 2024 by Tokki murdoch
BEST LAWYER! Mr Vicha was straight forward and honest with the whole situation I was dealing with. Communication was great and he did exactly what he said he could do!
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30 Jul, 2024 by Michael fiorello
J.R. Law performed all services that needed to satisfy the court. Also, processed extra paperwork on my behalf to expedite closure.
Would use them in the future.
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5.0
6 Reviews
4.4
68 Reviews
04 Sep, 2024 by Shubro biswas
Teresa Schiller and Summer Bowen were absolutely excellent in helping my case get over the line!
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19 Aug, 2024 by Tanjena payton
This law firm made a bad situation so easy and smooth.They were all so helpful and welcoming.I went in and they explained everything thoroughly to ensure I understood what I had going on. Any questions, comments, or concerns I had were answered and accommodated to and I greatly appreciate that. If any other legal situations come along Lighthouse Legal Services will be the first place I call
Thank you guys for Everything
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13 Aug, 2024 by Daniel mcdonald
This law firm is horrible they just keep collecting money and spending it it just disappears and when you ask for a expenditure list they refuse to give it or communicate the paralegal that I had is very unprofessional I was promised that they were going to do certain things with money and they didn’t do it they would use up thousands of dollars not even telling me until it was gone with no progress being made in the case and then send me emails threatening to withdraw if i didn’t give them money immediately I do not recommend them to anyone unless you want to flush your money down the toilet Melissa reed laughed at me when she was reading the way I was being talked to by my sons mother during the custody battle and told me that she supported that kind of behavior worst experience I have ever had with a law firm who has such high reviews the reviews have to be a joke because they are not professional and want you to do everything through a app that never works I did everything on my own from the process server all the way to getting all the evidence and they didn’t lift one finger to help but wanted thousands of dollars to do nothing do yourself a favor and hire a lawyer and stay away from this firm and this is the first ever review I have ever left on anything I give zero stars
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29 Mar, 2024 by David winfrey
The lawyers and their team are very professional. They did an awesome job. They did EXACTLY WHAT THEY SAID THEY WOULD DO! I am grateful for all they did for me and my family! I will be using Callahan & King for now on.
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16 Feb, 2024 by Rebecca browder
I recently had the opportunity to work with Chris and his law firm on a very lengthy and complicated case. My experience with the Law Firm was very pleasant, and the attorneys were great to work with on all counts.
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09 Feb, 2024 by Galaxy note michael kasten
The experience was a fine one.
I was facing a very serious situation.
1 phone call from the lawyer, letting me know he was representing
.2 short conversations with paralegal
1 follow up conversation ,from ,lawyer letting me
know of "The most desirable outcome". Top notch.
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10 Sep, 2024 by Jasmine howard
I highly recommend using Dunnam & Dunnam with the help of Gerald Villarreal, Hunter, & Rhonda I won my case that I was battling with. The care and urgency that they put into helping me win my case was just so spectacular, Im so blessed to have them help me through this process. Did I forget to say I WON MY CASE with them having my back! I don’t regret going through them at all and wouldn’t have wanted it any other way. If you need any help with legal services Dunham & Dunham is the route to go!
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25 Jul, 2024 by Dovie coleman
Mason Dunnam is AMAZING..Very respectful and Professional..If you need a lawyer Mason is your man..He may be expensive but worth every penny you spend .Mason will get the job done..Keep up the Awesome work you do..God bless
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17 Jul, 2024 by Frank alexander
What a great group of folks to work with! Jim Dunnam and Merrilee Harmon are truly professional in the practice of law and very understanding and patient in dealing with the emotions of handling a divorce. Thank you to their support staff as well. Nicole and Renae are outstanding.
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29 Mar, 2024 by David winfrey
The lawyers and their team are very professional. They did an awesome job. They did EXACTLY WHAT THEY SAID THEY WOULD DO! I am grateful for all they did for me and my family! I will be using Callahan & King for now on.
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16 Feb, 2024 by Rebecca browder
I recently had the opportunity to work with Chris and his law firm on a very lengthy and complicated case. My experience with the Law Firm was very pleasant, and the attorneys were great to work with on all counts.
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09 Feb, 2024 by Galaxy note michael kasten
The experience was a fine one.
I was facing a very serious situation.
1 phone call from the lawyer, letting me know he was representing
.2 short conversations with paralegal
1 follow up conversation ,from ,lawyer letting me
know of "The most desirable outcome". Top notch.
Read more
10 Sep, 2024 by Jasmine howard
I highly recommend using Dunnam & Dunnam with the help of Gerald Villarreal, Hunter, & Rhonda I won my case that I was battling with. The care and urgency that they put into helping me win my case was just so spectacular, Im so blessed to have them help me through this process. Did I forget to say I WON MY CASE with them having my back! I don’t regret going through them at all and wouldn’t have wanted it any other way. If you need any help with legal services Dunham & Dunham is the route to go!
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25 Jul, 2024 by Dovie coleman
Mason Dunnam is AMAZING..Very respectful and Professional..If you need a lawyer Mason is your man..He may be expensive but worth every penny you spend .Mason will get the job done..Keep up the Awesome work you do..God bless
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17 Jul, 2024 by Frank alexander
What a great group of folks to work with! Jim Dunnam and Merrilee Harmon are truly professional in the practice of law and very understanding and patient in dealing with the emotions of handling a divorce. Thank you to their support staff as well. Nicole and Renae are outstanding.
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05 Oct, 2024 by Kurt crunk
Very Happy with Ryan law. Thank you for helping me through a difficult time, and would like to send a big Thank You to Yazmin. Great Firm. Christie Ryan is Awesome..
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29 Jul, 2024 by Stephen s.
15 May, 2024 by Jonathan gutierrez
I was recommended to Ryan Law by a friend of mine. I 10 out of 10 recommend, and have recommended Christie and her team to friends of mine in need or possibly in need of representation. From the very first consultation, I knew I was in great hands. Everyone I’ve interacted with at Ryan Law has listened to me attentively, asked insightful questions, and clearly explained my options. Throughout my case Ryan Law was truly professionals who were knowledgeable, responsive, and truly committed to achieving the best outcome for my family.
Their legal expertise is top-notch, but what sets this firm apart is their genuine compassion. During an incredibly stressful time, they provided reassurance and guidance every step of the way. I always felt like more than just another client.
If you’re looking for the best legal representation, I highly recommend Ryan Law. Their combination of brilliant legal minds and exceptional client care is unmatched. I'm forever grateful for their hard work and dedication. Thanks to this incredible team, I was able to resolve my case favorably. They are simply the best!
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22 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
We hired him for my wife's custody case. We were served papers a week before court. We had already given him 1200 dollars, but he absolutely refused to shift an ass cheek until we got him ANOTHER 1200 dollars. But he only left himself 4 days to prepare. He was not prepared, to say the least. He couldn't get simple motions granted, didn't prevail in court, and appeared ready to surrender from the start.
He rolls over at the suggestion of resistance. He doesn't communicate with you, except to send a bill. For work he apparently did, but for which there is no evidence.
Please don't put your trust in this man. We made a terrible mistake in hiring him. We absolutely would not do it again.
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14 Aug, 2012 by Veta
Lewis is awesome I have been using him for my CPS case. He is always a phone call away. He like others have said will make sure you understand everything that is said in court. He makes sure he is a step ahead of CPS. He wants to get the kids back because I deserve to have them back. You have to do what he says and you have a better chance of getting your kids back.
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30 May, 2012 by Sandy
Lewis Giles is a very wonderful lawyer. He has been working with CPS and my self to get my grandchildren back from them. We won our case and the girls are comning home due his will not to just take what they say. He is very careing and when you leave court room if you dont understand what just happend in court he will explain over till you get it.
Lewis is all ways looking ahead to the next thing that might come up.
I have known Lewis Giles for a long time and he has all ways been very smart and kind. We ( my family ) would recommend Lewis for any kind of case you may have. He is a very good person and Attorney.
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22 Aug, 2024 by Rodrigo gomez
12 Aug, 2024 by Karina martinez
04 Jul, 2024 by Skylar heiner
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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.
