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21 Jan, 2025 by Joseph harper
Life can throw unexpected challenges our way, leaving us feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. During such a difficult time, I turned to the Miliam & Fanning team Mr. Cade, Mrs. Dianne, and Mrs. Bobbi and they truly lifted a tremendous weight off my shoulders. They addressed all my concerns physically, mentally, emotionally, and financially with such care and compassion.
Cade Bradberry, my attorney, approached my case with unwavering dedication, treating it as if it were his own. He took the time to ensure that all my needs were met, and because of his effort, I walked out of the courtroom with a renewed sense of peace. I am sincerely grateful for his expertise and commitment to my case. Cade, you are an incredible person, and I hope that life continues to bless you and the entire law firm. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart!
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16 Jan, 2025 by David polinsky
I am very grateful for Attorney Jason Milam. I opted to use his services instead of the court appointed lawyer. I could not be happier, because not only did I get very desirable results in my case, but he was extremely effective and quick to act when any complications occured. He is easy to get a hold of and his staff is excellent. He is well versed in his practice of law, and I would trust him every time.
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10 Jan, 2025 by Matt garretson
Jason, Laura and the whole team were absolutely fantastic in helping me to navigate my case. Very kind, understanding and attentive. If you need help...they're your team!!!
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21 Jan, 2025 by Joseph harper
Life can throw unexpected challenges our way, leaving us feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. During such a difficult time, I turned to the Miliam & Fanning team Mr. Cade, Mrs. Dianne, and Mrs. Bobbi and they truly lifted a tremendous weight off my shoulders. They addressed all my concerns physically, mentally, emotionally, and financially with such care and compassion.
Cade Bradberry, my attorney, approached my case with unwavering dedication, treating it as if it were his own. He took the time to ensure that all my needs were met, and because of his effort, I walked out of the courtroom with a renewed sense of peace. I am sincerely grateful for his expertise and commitment to my case. Cade, you are an incredible person, and I hope that life continues to bless you and the entire law firm. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart!
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16 Jan, 2025 by David polinsky
I am very grateful for Attorney Jason Milam. I opted to use his services instead of the court appointed lawyer. I could not be happier, because not only did I get very desirable results in my case, but he was extremely effective and quick to act when any complications occured. He is easy to get a hold of and his staff is excellent. He is well versed in his practice of law, and I would trust him every time.
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10 Jan, 2025 by Matt garretson
Jason, Laura and the whole team were absolutely fantastic in helping me to navigate my case. Very kind, understanding and attentive. If you need help...they're your team!!!
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21 Jan, 2025 by Joseph harper
Life can throw unexpected challenges our way, leaving us feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. During such a difficult time, I turned to the Miliam & Fanning team Mr. Cade, Mrs. Dianne, and Mrs. Bobbi and they truly lifted a tremendous weight off my shoulders. They addressed all my concerns physically, mentally, emotionally, and financially with such care and compassion.
Cade Bradberry, my attorney, approached my case with unwavering dedication, treating it as if it were his own. He took the time to ensure that all my needs were met, and because of his effort, I walked out of the courtroom with a renewed sense of peace. I am sincerely grateful for his expertise and commitment to my case. Cade, you are an incredible person, and I hope that life continues to bless you and the entire law firm. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart!
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16 Jan, 2025 by David polinsky
I am very grateful for Attorney Jason Milam. I opted to use his services instead of the court appointed lawyer. I could not be happier, because not only did I get very desirable results in my case, but he was extremely effective and quick to act when any complications occured. He is easy to get a hold of and his staff is excellent. He is well versed in his practice of law, and I would trust him every time.
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10 Jan, 2025 by Matt garretson
Jason, Laura and the whole team were absolutely fantastic in helping me to navigate my case. Very kind, understanding and attentive. If you need help...they're your team!!!
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24 Jul, 2024 by Casey ricks
You cannot go wrong with these guys. They are the best.
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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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24 Oct, 2024 by Del schulz
10 Oct, 2024 by Dianna ward
Bruce and his wife Carlene Perryman with Law Office of Bruce Perryman was so nice to work with Thank You for assisting me with my Disability Case.
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26 Sep, 2024 by Lisa alvarado
Johnny was very professional, prompt and informative on some very complicated issues. I recommend his service.
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24 Oct, 2024 by Del schulz
10 Oct, 2024 by Dianna ward
Bruce and his wife Carlene Perryman with Law Office of Bruce Perryman was so nice to work with Thank You for assisting me with my Disability Case.
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26 Sep, 2024 by Lisa alvarado
Johnny was very professional, prompt and informative on some very complicated issues. I recommend his service.
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24 Oct, 2024 by Del schulz
10 Oct, 2024 by Dianna ward
Bruce and his wife Carlene Perryman with Law Office of Bruce Perryman was so nice to work with Thank You for assisting me with my Disability Case.
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25 Sep, 2024 by Lori hayes
Mr. Perryman helped me so much with the appeal for my disability case. My brother called SSA to start my case because I was in the hospital, but ultimately, SSA denied my case. I called Mr. Perryman, and he started the appeal. He helped and was there for every step.
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18 Sep, 2024 by Jhocelyn rangel
Very professional and understanding with clients! J.R. Vicha shows immense care for all his clients, he took a last minute call and canceled my court date I had the next day!
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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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07 Sep, 2024 by Lorie knicks21
10/10 law firm who win cases and are friendly to their clients
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20 Feb, 2024 by Juan rios
I recommend this firm 100% everyone was friendly and most of all the professionalism
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20 Feb, 2024 by Takeshia kirksey
Very good service and fast response time.
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5.0
6 Reviews
4.4
72 Reviews
30 Dec, 2024 by Aaron thomas
5 stars isn't enough! Barrett represented me through my divorce and I don't think I could have found a better team. Their communication, knowledge and professionalism were all top-notch.
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21 Oct, 2024 by Jordon johnson
I had a long drawn out family law case that Kristen Kaye wrapped up for me and my children. Thank you for your patience and hard work! You're very appreciated!
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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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30 Nov, 2024 by Kk morris
Callahan and king office is very responsive and I feel like I’m in good hands.
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25 Nov, 2024 by Selena gonzalez
YES ! With confidence YES. If you're scrolling through reviews for confirmation YES. Go With Callahan &Kings Team ! They embody The Word BUSINESS. From the first phone call I made for our accident, not once did I personally have to reach out to see what is going on. When our gma passed away and we missed some appointments because of it. Chris&His Team Sent Us The Sweetest Card. I was never confused never disappointed never left out in the dark. So grateful for Chris and his team they work tirelessly and fought for my family When our world was crumbled. 🕺VOTE FOR CALLAHAN &KING !!!
if you don't, you might end up like my husband who filed a claim with saniel dark who's investigation is still going 1yr and 1/2 later who got thrown around to several different law firms and when his 5th lawyer finally called him he couldn't even tell my husband who he was. Forgotten hospital bills, lost medical info, tried to give my husband a "loan" while they gather things." Didn't acknowledge his broken foot. Said they'd get it right.
Just a mess ! My husband had deep regrets listening to his friends recommendation of them
there is a Very black and white difference compared to the experience myself and our children had with CALLAHAN KING !
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30 Oct, 2024 by Kelly calame
My husband and I had a great experience with Callahan and King! Their staff was very knowledgeable and they always kept us informed on our case. I really appreciate all the work they did to ensure us the best outcome. Thank you so much!!
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30 Nov, 2024 by Kk morris
Callahan and king office is very responsive and I feel like I’m in good hands.
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25 Nov, 2024 by Selena gonzalez
YES ! With confidence YES. If you're scrolling through reviews for confirmation YES. Go With Callahan &Kings Team ! They embody The Word BUSINESS. From the first phone call I made for our accident, not once did I personally have to reach out to see what is going on. When our gma passed away and we missed some appointments because of it. Chris&His Team Sent Us The Sweetest Card. I was never confused never disappointed never left out in the dark. So grateful for Chris and his team they work tirelessly and fought for my family When our world was crumbled. 🕺VOTE FOR CALLAHAN &KING !!!
if you don't, you might end up like my husband who filed a claim with saniel dark who's investigation is still going 1yr and 1/2 later who got thrown around to several different law firms and when his 5th lawyer finally called him he couldn't even tell my husband who he was. Forgotten hospital bills, lost medical info, tried to give my husband a "loan" while they gather things." Didn't acknowledge his broken foot. Said they'd get it right.
Just a mess ! My husband had deep regrets listening to his friends recommendation of them
there is a Very black and white difference compared to the experience myself and our children had with CALLAHAN KING !
Read more
30 Oct, 2024 by Kelly calame
My husband and I had a great experience with Callahan and King! Their staff was very knowledgeable and they always kept us informed on our case. I really appreciate all the work they did to ensure us the best outcome. Thank you so much!!
Read more
07 Feb, 2025 by Agustin flores
24 Jan, 2025 by Esiquel delacruz
Rj Ammons and Gerald are the best lawyers around Waco tx best lawyers to have on your side !!!
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14 Jan, 2025 by Michelle bravo
Mr Villarreal and Mrs Rhonda with Dunman & Dunman did GREAT for my family
Highly recommend
Thanks again
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07 Feb, 2025 by Agustin flores
24 Jan, 2025 by Esiquel delacruz
Rj Ammons and Gerald are the best lawyers around Waco tx best lawyers to have on your side !!!
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14 Jan, 2025 by Michelle bravo
Mr Villarreal and Mrs Rhonda with Dunman & Dunman did GREAT for my family
Highly recommend
Thanks again
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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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04 Feb, 2023 by Delfido cavazos
A few decades ago, Russ fought tooth and nail for me, and I am free this day because I chose to have him represent me. He continues to hold his standards of representing people the same as he did when he started his practice, and he is the best courtroom brawler that I have seen in a jury trial. I highly recommend Russ Sr. in the Waco area and his son, Russ Jr. in the Williamson County area. Thank you Russ Sr. for never giving up on fighting my cases.
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02 Sep, 2022 by Layton marrs
17 May, 2022 by Mikah robertson
30 Nov, 2024 by Kk morris
Callahan and king office is very responsive and I feel like I’m in good hands.
Read more
25 Nov, 2024 by Selena gonzalez
YES ! With confidence YES. If you're scrolling through reviews for confirmation YES. Go With Callahan &Kings Team ! They embody The Word BUSINESS. From the first phone call I made for our accident, not once did I personally have to reach out to see what is going on. When our gma passed away and we missed some appointments because of it. Chris&His Team Sent Us The Sweetest Card. I was never confused never disappointed never left out in the dark. So grateful for Chris and his team they work tirelessly and fought for my family When our world was crumbled. 🕺VOTE FOR CALLAHAN &KING !!!
if you don't, you might end up like my husband who filed a claim with saniel dark who's investigation is still going 1yr and 1/2 later who got thrown around to several different law firms and when his 5th lawyer finally called him he couldn't even tell my husband who he was. Forgotten hospital bills, lost medical info, tried to give my husband a "loan" while they gather things." Didn't acknowledge his broken foot. Said they'd get it right.
Just a mess ! My husband had deep regrets listening to his friends recommendation of them
there is a Very black and white difference compared to the experience myself and our children had with CALLAHAN KING !
Read more
30 Oct, 2024 by Kelly calame
My husband and I had a great experience with Callahan and King! Their staff was very knowledgeable and they always kept us informed on our case. I really appreciate all the work they did to ensure us the best outcome. Thank you so much!!
Read more
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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.
