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21 Aug, 2024 by Sam
Ray, Winton, and Kelley took an estate challenge case for me (as plaintiff) in 2015 and after eight years failed to forward my case to trial. After paying them $250,000 they abandoned me as a client in January 2024 for “complaining about the firm.” In recent years they became disinterested and in the end, disloyal, placing their interests above mine, a longtime client.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Christopher chaffin
08 Jul, 2024 by Louie duncan
21 Aug, 2024 by Sam
Ray, Winton, and Kelley took an estate challenge case for me (as plaintiff) in 2015 and after eight years failed to forward my case to trial. After paying them $250,000 they abandoned me as a client in January 2024 for “complaining about the firm.” In recent years they became disinterested and in the end, disloyal, placing their interests above mine, a longtime client.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Christopher chaffin
08 Jul, 2024 by Louie duncan
10 Sep, 2021 by Mustafa
We are very pleased with Holly's excellent work. She is a very knowledgeable and passionate lawyer. Because of her help, we won a very difficult case. I highly recommend her and will reach out to her if we need any legal help.
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15 Dec, 2020 by Bob
I came to Holly after having experienced frustration with other attorneys. She listened to my issues, explained what needed to be done, and I hired her. She did everything I needed efficiently and with care, and and won my case. I highly recommend her, she is very smart, and gets things done.
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12 Dec, 2020 by Jacqui
This law office rocks! I have received consultation from Mrs. Turkey on a domestic issue involving custody of my son. Her advice was pivotal in the choices I made throughout my divorce process. I now have the bond with my son I had always wanted. The office staff is available and courteous any time I call. Definitely recommend this office for your family law needs. They get it done!
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16 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
Less than a star after being proving flat out lies. 1 meeting what she said would happen, however never was fully explained the process and what else could or would happen. I had trusted her and let me tell you she may have been a good attorney in past, but, this is a different person, as others had warned me also, but I didn't listen till too late. Please call around and pay someone who actually cares and listens and doesn't just tell you what you want to hea. This lady seems to have lost her client ethics and values, she gets money and runs on with her life. This attorney has no idea what she is done to a family that didn't deserve any of it.
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08 Mar, 2018 by Ed
I recently went through a child custody/support case. As you can imagine this is a very stressful time for everyone involved in the case. The case went on for over six months, and I can honestly say, I do not think I could have successfully gone through the experience without the assistant of Attorney McPhail. Throughout the entire process she was professional, supportive, empathetic, and extremely knowledgeable. Basically everything you would want in a lawyer representing you. The case was quite complex, but her legal expertise ensured a favorable outcome.
Attorney McPhail was always well prepared during our meetings and court hearings. She represented me with dignity, integrity, and confidence. She informed me every step of the way as to what to expect was able to explain complex legal matters into simple layman terms. She responded quickly to all of my phone calls, e-mails, and other correspondences. I truly felt like I was her most important client. She is incredibly detailed, organized, and focused. All I am sure where the key ingredients to the success of the case. Attorney McPhail listened closely to my concerns and desired outcomes. She then developed a plan of action and systematically executed her strategy.
As is obvious, I am completely satisfied with my decision to selection Attorney McPhail to represent me. Not only was I completely satisfied with the outcome of the case, but was equally satisfied with working closely with her every step of the way. I would without hesitation recommend her to anyone requiring legal counsel, and particularly anyone in need of assistance with child custody and support issues.
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12 Dec, 2016 by N. j. p.
I felt so lost, afraid, and overwhelmed when I made the decision to seek legal counsel. From the moment Shari's staff answered the phone, I knew I was making the right decision. That decision led me to a relationship with a professional, knowledgeable, and compassionate attorney. Shari is truly an advocate for her clients and their families. She didn't hesitate to make sure I understood my case and she provided the best legal representation in this area. Even though it was a very difficult time in my life, with Shari and her staff, I felt confident that I was not alone and in the very best hands.
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20 Jun, 2014 by Anonymous
Went to Rusty because he was referred through a program at work based on the type of problem I was having, custody of a grandchild. He is very knowledgeable about this area of the law and will not just go to court for nothing. Everything he has told me has come to happen. He will not instruct you to go to court just to make money, he really wants to be beneficial to you.
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16 Dec, 2015 by Anonymous
Daniel is right on the job right now. Just like I said a month ago he has my life in his hands and it's an up hill job. He has been at my place of living 2 times .The lawyer I had before Daniel would promise me he would see me, but he would not show up all he was thinking was the money and a fast trail. I ask you to say a prayer for Daniel.
Merry Christmas to you all
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13 Jun, 2023 by Tawna
My Mother about died 3 times due to hospital negligence and nursing home negligence... Well the only way to sue is if she would have died ... What a joke
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25 May, 2023 by Sandraella call
Nice firm to work with when your needing the Best! Very hospitable & informative. Professional team that allows their clients to see the pros and cons of scenarios. Local folks making a huge difference in the perception of Attorneys in the area! They care about their clients and their loved ones involved. Strongly recommend. Located conveniently off of interstate ramps. Small office-Big Results.
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02 May, 2023 by Bill naylor
Nice enough but not helpful
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29 Sep, 2024 by Giveness sheleni
17 Jan, 2024 by Jessica bennett
17 Jan, 2024 by Summer ramsey
10 Sep, 2024 by Daeshauna williams
I want to thank M Santa Barbara and Missy so much for helping me with my case they got it dismissed after working so hard. I just really want to thank them from the BOTTOM OF MY HEART ! A million thank you’s !!
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28 Aug, 2024 by Flawless
Michael & Missy really do there thing over at there law office. Supporting there clients one at a time & really digging deep to make sure they are taken care of fairly.
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08 Aug, 2024 by Brad reckert
After having 1 attorney appointed to me that was simply trying to bully me into taking a guilty plea so he didn't have to do the work, my Mother took a loan out to hire another attorney and he was even worse! After firing my 2nd attorney, I was again appointed an attorney and this time I had gotten Mr. Santa Barbara. He was able to get me help almost immediately and has done an AMAZING JOB working my case for me and it's a HUGE BLESSING having him work for me. The ladies in the office are very nice to work with and very knowledgeable also great at being able to communicate messages back and forth between Mr. Santa Barbara and his clients. Shout out to Mrs. M for being such an AWESOME PERSON! I'd recommend Mr. Santa Barbara and his team to anyone!
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27 Aug, 2024 by Gary 531
Vary quick and easy transfer of deed Thank you so much for the service you provided
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21 Mar, 2024 by Donna moore
Months worth of trying to reach him with not one return call. What kind of lawyer does that to someone he has chosen to represent! He is rude, makes assumptions that he has no clue about and just an all around horrible lawyer. Don't call this man for help, you 100% will not get it.
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29 Jan, 2024 by Samantha bolden
08 Nov, 2023 by Theodore “ted” masters
04 Mar, 2022 by Jesse wood
They refused to help. And cost me $1000.⁰⁰ and jail time
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18 Sep, 2021 by Rhett gump
Tom White is a pretty good lawyer. Not the best on the public defender's line up but he will actually do what you ask and work hard to get you the best outcome possible.
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02 Nov, 2023 by Nicole vlaiku
Sharon has been my attorney for the past 12 years, for many different cases. I could not imagine any other attorney putting the time and compassion into a case more than Sharon. She is highly educated and motivated. I’d recommend her over and over again
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11 Jun, 2023 by Holly jo bell
26 Oct, 2022 by Stacey angelo
My dad and I met with Sharon after the death of my grandmother. She spent time with us to review the will, answer all of our questions, and gave us the confidence to move forward fairly. I can't recommend her enough! She is knowledgeable, experienced, and compassionate. She deserves more than 5 stars!
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22 Sep, 2021 by Susan leight
Tiffany Durst is simply a phenomenal attorney. She is intelligent, persistent, intuitive, thoughtful, and respectful of clients and opposing counsel and the persons they represent. She also has excellent command of West Virginia law and along with colleagues, actively seeks needed case law precedents as necessary. I found Ms. Durst to be conscientious in her communication and in all case matters, and someone who did not shy away from a challenge. I give her my highest possible recommendation, wishing 10 starts were available to commend her excellent work and effort.
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09 Sep, 2021 by Tina straight
The attorney was professional, caring, and attentive to the client's needs. The attorney was honest and straightforward. The attorney provided continuous feedback and requested the client's input.
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11 Dec, 2019 by Crimson blot
04 Oct, 2023 by Frank sullivan
Absolute worst public defenders office in the country!
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18 Feb, 2023 by Robbie sterling
06 Nov, 2021 by Jean crouch
24 May, 2024 by Angela stotts
25 Apr, 2024 by Jessica & derek douglas
I have tried to reach out by phone and email for months with no reply. The first time her staff let my appeal time run out for ssi so I was forced to reapply after already waiting 2 years for first case I was supposed go before Judge with that appeal. Now facing same issue because I have paperwork that needs to be done and no reply. Going to look elsewhere and if I was you I'd do the same!
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25 Feb, 2024 by Melvin d marks (dale)
30 Jan, 2023 by Rob scott
15 Aug, 2022 by Holly wells
08 Mar, 2021 by Caleb
Excellent, very professional an down to earth. Mr Baum helped me with family court and helped with contracts to buy a house. I really couldn’t be more impressed.
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22 Apr, 2022 by Angel
Kristen has went above and beyond to assist in anyway that she could! Forever greatful to everything she has done to help me!
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15 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
Kristen Antolini presented to the court, blatant and intentional LIES..... In documents and testimony...... Just to get kids removed. She lied and committed perjury so she could achieve removing safe and happy kids!!! She is a monster..... I question her character, her integrity, her sanity and sobriety..... Bc normal ppl would never do such an evil and vile act!!! Using her title to over shadow her crimes and her relationships with prosecutors, judges etc to hide her dirty deeds!!
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13 Aug, 2019 by Jenny
I hired Kristen to represent my son in a misuse of a credit card case in Morgantown. She was very attentive, careful with using money given as a retainer, and - most important - really cared about my son and getting him an outcome that would allow him to deal with his drug problems. In the end, Kristen even returned what was left of my original retainer money that had not been used in dealing with several court appearances. She is a really good attorney!
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18 Jan, 2023 by Dan
Debbie let me talk. She was there for me and in listening helped me to formulate a plan to get the things that were right for my child. Debbie is savvy and she will fight for you. She’s honest and will not make promises she can’t keep. If it weren’t for her representing me, I honestly don’t know where I’d be.
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06 Jul, 2020 by Travis
Was given and paid for a consultation contingent upon if I desired to obtain her services she would be available for my hearing on the date discussed. I expressed my concern that I only wanted the consultation if she was available to represent me on my court date. She assured me she would be so long I could pay her which I explained was no problem. I paid 100 dollars to discuss my hearing and putting my case together. The next buisness day i was told Ms summers she couldn't be available for my hearing " I'm sorry some other case came up". Complete scam I,called it from the start and she mislead me the whole way. And never even offered another attorney complete waste of time and money.
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09 Apr, 2020 by S
My only experience so far, with Ms. Payne was for a consultation. Ms. Payne was professional and thorough in going over the loads of paperwork from previous divorce and custody issues. She made time for a lengthy consultation and did not make me feel rushed or like the problem I felt like my ex and his lawyer's miles of paperwork and nonsense was going to be to go over. The case is a very complicated one and was botched up by the previous lawyers, my ex, the judge, and other players, from the beginning. Ms. Payne has experience in Child a support, as she worked for the them, previously. She also has personal experience dealing with and winning with personality disorders, like my ex has. So I felt like she understood what I am up against, without me having to explain in great detail. Something invaluable to traumatized victims of manipulation in the family courts and all areas when dealing with this type of disordered personality. I would hire Ms. Payne to represent me and my children in family court. I believe she has the client's and the client's childrens' interest at heart. I can't say that I know her fees, as I did not have the opportunity to retain her services, as of yet.
I would definitely at least recommend her for q consultation to see if she would fit your family court needs!
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21 Apr, 2016 by Mark
Mrs. Snodgrass represented me in my custody case, in which I ultimately gained full custody of my children (which is rare for a father in WV). She was always available discuss issues as they arose and she never gave up on my case. Overall, she was very responsive and diligent. I only wish I had hired her in the beginning instead of trying to represent myself.
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21 Apr, 2016 by Kelley
Lora represented me in a civil matter involving my children and did an excellent job managing the case. She was very responsive to calls and e-mails, not matter how many questions I asked. She was always prepared for hearings, meetings and depositions. She was very supportive and understanding throughout the entire process.
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10 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
Mrs. Snodgrass was the guardian in my custody hearing. A guardian is suppose to be there for the children and do what is in their best interest and this was not the case. Mrs. Snodgrass barely talked with my children, came to court unprepared, and overlooked my children's concerns (both are teenagers) she basically just talked in circles in court. There was suspected violence by the other parent and it was never investigated (which was one of her jobs). I am very disappointed in Mrs. Snodgrass's performance, for someone who is suppose to represent children, I do not feel safe with her as a guardian.
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24 Sep, 2024 by Brenda moyer
Mrs Victor is very rude and she with cps and prosecuting attorney. She also got paid over $3000 for nothing. She not abt the children just money.
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05 Mar, 2024 by Kiwan bailey
I was court appointed Mr. Victor for a family court matter. Mr Victor never contacted me or filed any motions on my behalf. In fact Mr. Victor exclusively worked with the judge and prosecutor office to cover up and hide "judicial mis conduct" (. I LATER EXPRESSED MY DISSATISFACTION WITH HIS MISREPRENTATION AND ASKED IF HE COULD WITHDRAW AS COUNSEL. IN WHICH HE BECAME VERY RUDE CALLED ME VERIOUS DISREPECTFUL NAMES.) 8 months later out of retaliation he filed motions and court proceedings without my knowledge and imput..In short very disrespectful lawyer who works directly with the prosecutor office and judges so he can continue getting cases pro Bono threw the courts...
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29 Oct, 2023 by Tyler s.
23 Feb, 2024 by Jennifer bragg
If your smart. You definately will find another attorney. Ed did nothing for me but make my case worse
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10 Jun, 2022 by Hanah broadwater
29 Jul, 2021 by Donnie bradley
Can someone give me every detail about Sandra Bullman need to know ASAP
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04 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
I had a hearing which I wasn't notified of and michael was my lawyer and didnt tell me we had a court date and over 3 years later I have a capias against me for failure to appear. I've tried to call over 20 times and no answer. Cant leave a message because his voice mail is full. Lawyers like this need to be held accountable for ineffective counsel. I'm reporting him to the west Virginia bar association. And anyone who wasn't properly represented by Michael should report him to the bar. Lawyers will do their job correctly if you show them your not going to settle for what ever the state throws out for a guilty plea if your innocent.
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25 Jun, 2022 by Diane
I hired Mr. Safcsak to handle my legal issues in WV. He came highly recommended from numerous people and he definitely did not let me down. After getting me an even better result than I expected, I can see why he is so highly respected. I would highly recommend him to anybody needing an attorney!
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25 Jun, 2022 by Jenni
I had been through several attorneys when I finally hired Mike. Hands down the best decision I made in this whole process! He fought way harder than any other attorney I ever had. He always took the time to make sure I understood what was going on in my case and made sure I got what I wanted in this case. Great guy and a great lawyer.
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16 Mar, 2022 by Anonymous
Terrible Service, terrible attitude, very rude to people. Would not recommend to anyone.
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22 Jan, 2017 by Anonymous
I have used Shannon Thomas twice in the past for child custody related issues and she was wonderful. Very aggressive when she needs to be and able to devise a winning game plan. Very sharp with details and able to plan the proper guidance with minimal planning time. There are times when you think you aren't being heard or communications don't seem to be there, but when it counts you'll know you were heard loud and clear.
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30 May, 2024 by Anonymous
Seems like Frank made his own interests a top priority in my divorce. On more than one occasion, we had discussions (costing me $300 per hour) about what my settlement should be based on numbers that Frank made up off the top of his head. From the onset, Frank made up a document that suggested that Frank was not really hearing what I had to say. Therefore, it cost me more for him to make the corrections for the document to reflect MY wishes. It cost me an extra $500 every time I had to travel to attend court, yet by the second hearing, he was still unable to produce any factual numbers. I settled for far less than I should have- to get it over and to cut my losses- paying for an attorney who was just trying to make top dollar for himself. Then, to top it all off, the office sent me a duplicate final bill after I had already paid the final cost. So much for marital assets being split 50/50- My ex wound up with 3 times the amount I settled for. Does that sound fair?
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13 Aug, 2014 by Chris
Retained Mr Aliveto with Sutton & Janelle to handle our BK7, in Martinsburg, WV. We were more than impressed with the representation we received for the flat rate fee of $1500. Knowledgeable, quick to respond to Inquiries, made sure you understood the process every step of the way. Just got our Final Decree. Mr. aliveto and Amanda made the process smooth and easy. We kept everything including our home which we reaffirmed. 5 star. Would definitely recommend, and retain again.
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06 May, 2019 by James
I can state that Mr. Mosko helped me tremendously in my particular case. He was referred to me by a co-worker. I found him easy to talk with, very available, and he guided me through the maze of the criminal justice system. He was always early, and met with me as often as I needed to help me through paperwork and court preparations. I was naturally fearful at the beginning of my situation, but Mr. Mosko guided and advised me well. I cannot imagine the turns my case would have taken had I not found this attorney. I would recommend Mr. Mosko to anyone needing legal help.
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18 Aug, 2018 by Samantha
The lawyer was appointed to me in a cps case. The first time i met with him i was sitting in a court room chair. He came through that door and lied. He never sent me one piece of paper from court or tried to contact me about any, including court orders that Tim Meadows told me existed. I ask him on 3 different occasions to meet with me. I wouldve ask more. He never responded to anymore of my phone calls. He informed me to text him. That didnt work either. Now my children are living in filth, i hope your happy with yourself joe mosko. You name doesn't even deserve capital letters. Let alone the title of attorney.
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16 Apr, 2024 by Torch wood
WOULD NEVER EVER EVER tell anyone to ever hire her.
My advice. STAY AWAY!!!
One of the most disrectful people I ever met.
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10 Oct, 2017 by Jason griffin
24 Sep, 2024 by Brenda moyer
Mrs Victor is very rude and she with cps and prosecuting attorney. She also got paid over $3000 for nothing. She not abt the children just money.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Jim stamp
The poorest law year u ever seen in in the world he dose not do as he's told he dose not think he has to do what what he is told to do an provided no defence art all for u the worst lawyear in world you can have to deal with her not Werth having her a joke an dose not do his job ty
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08 Jul, 2024 by Jacob adkins
16 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
His office is mailing me unsolicited political garbage about "liberal agendas" and whatnot.
All in all just seems like a person who lacks respect, even for himself, if he didn't consider that the people he bothers with his political ignorance might look him up and call him out on it.
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24 Aug, 2023 by Jenifer bowles
27 Jul, 2023 by Tara reeves
20 Feb, 2019 by Ray
He represented me in a divorce. He was completely professional, though he does enjoy kidding around. He kept me up to date on what was going on behind the scenes. He was somewhat expensive, but he has plenty of experience, and that does not come cheap. I will not say that he made the experience enjoyable, but I definitely would hire him again.
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29 Oct, 2016 by Megan
My appointment was at 10:30, He walked in at 10:50, took me back a few minutes later… Talked to me for a few minutes and proceeded to show me a YouTube video on how men and women's brains are wired differently… The video was 8 1/2 minutes in when he got a call from his secretary reminding him that he had a dentist appointment in a few minutes. He stopped the video and talked to me for a couple more minutes before walking me out.... Let's just say I got what I paid for (it was a free consult).
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29 Nov, 2014 by Gary
over 6k to this man and every time he opened his mouth it was for more money! He got as much as the wife! No good in the courtroom at all. Would not return my calls.
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19 Feb, 2024 by Kendall patriacca
24 Jul, 2023 by Christen holliday
I have called her so many times I cannot count. I have begged for a call back because I needed emergency help with my kids and she is so UNRELIABLE! I drove all the way to her office from 3 counties over because she was recommended to me by someone I trust. Well that was my first mistake. I had ONE meeting with her. She told me she would help and get us in contact with whoever we needed to talk to regarding this emergency. I haven’t even received a call back once. This was MONTHS AGO! This so called lawyer is awful. Find someone else! You’re wasting your time! Very very unprofessional & unpredictable.
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19 Sep, 2022 by Angelina stout
Terrible lawyer!! She did nothing for me and I got railroaded all the way. Not to mention she ended up being great family friends with my ex which I didn't not know at the time I chose her. She didn't fight at all for me she just sat back and let me get destroyed.
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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:
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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.
