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05 Jul, 2022 by Bobby c
Megan Rush Walstrom successfully finalized my divorce a few weeks ago. Initially I was really hoping that my ex and I could complete our divorce by filing for an 'uncontested divorce' and avoid having to hire attorneys to represent us. However we unfortunately we could not reach an agreement when it came to a custody schedule for our two minor children. So I begrudgingly began my online search for an experience family law attorney in my area. I was able to speak to a handful of lawyers, but Megan was the unequivocally the person that I felt most comfortable with and had the most confidence in. Throughout my divorce proceedings, I was so impressed with Megan's compassion, courtesy, attention to detail and prompt replies to any questions that I had. Megan is also blessed to have an incredibly hard working and dedicated support team that I would regularly communicate with through email regarding my case. In the end, the terms that Megan was able to successfully achieve for me in my divorce settlement agreement far exceeded what I had hoped for. The legal expenses were worth every penny because I view it as an 'investment' - an investment in my relationship with my two sons, which is priceless.
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05 Apr, 2022 by Ms. rhayne
Maybe I got the wrong lawyer at the firm but I was not happy with the representation in court.
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23 Nov, 2021 by Anonymous
Although Ms. Kelly was not our attorney and actually the attorney for the opposing party; we are grateful for her work in dealing with a difficult and unreasonable client.
She eventually convinced her client to let rational justice prevail.
Except for not getting back to us, as promised (which was most likely at the direction of her client) she was fair, professional and understanding.
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25 Jun, 2024 by Lydia diaz
29 Apr, 2024 by Sasha miller
06 Aug, 2023 by Brenda stewart
I am glad Dana’s office responded and helped you all. I read her profile and thought the same as what others have posted. I called the office waited 3 weeks for an appointment and the week before my appt they cancelled with just an excuse of she is too busy knowing I have a case management coming up.
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07 Sep, 2023 by Fred smith
Mark handled a case for me…smooth as silk!
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05 May, 2023 by B b
17 Apr, 2021 by Deborah anderson
The strawberry salad w chicken is the best
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05 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
I hired Kara Swasey for a high conflict custody case.
I don’t even know where to begin to thank Kara and her team for advocating for my son and I. She had hard shoes to fill as my previous attorney retired, but she surpassed all expectations.
She has an organized, professional, and honest approach at trial. She can problem solve quickly and always keeps her composure. Her examinations have a way of painting a picture and prove the point she is trying to make. She is strategic and it is obvious she puts tons of effort into her outlines and preparation for trial.
These skill sets are most important to me for my high conflict custody case as it was unlikely we could come to any agreement during mediation.
Thank you so much!!
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02 Apr, 2024 by Mark
Despite accepting my retainer information and assuring me of her capability to handle my matter, this attorney unexpectedly withdrew, citing a lack of time and resources—after I had provided all necessary documentation and information. This abrupt change of course, with no prior indication of potential issues, was not only unprofessional but also left me in a difficult position. I had expected a level of professional commitment and transparency that was not met.
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10 Jan, 2024 by Felicita
I met with Kara Swasey, late last year after having dealt with a very sensitive family situation for several months, before consulting with her. I was all of a sudden facing a situation that involved the safety and wellbeing of my children, and needless to say, it was an emotional and stressful time for my family and I. Due to the circumstances, I found myself needing to file paperwork with the family court, and because I was navigating through unchartered territory, I did not feel comfortable doing so without the guidance of an attorney. After looking over numerous attorneys' information, something about Kara Swasey stood out to me, and I was at that point just praying that I had chosen the right attorney, that could provide the information and guidance that I needed during such a difficult time. From the assistant who took my information over the phone, to the gentleman who greeted me when I came in for my appointment, to the meeting I had with Ms. Swasey, I could not have asked for a better experience. Ms. Swasey was empathetic to my situation, took note of all the details regarding my case, and was very patient in explaining the process to me. She reassured me she would be happy to represent me, should I decide to take that route, but at the same time expressed that as far as filing the paperwork, she felt confident this was something I would be able to handle on my own. She gave me an idea of what the court proceeding would probably look like, and when the day came, the process and the outcome, were just as she'd described. I did not feel like I was just another case. She is an exceptional attorney who I can tell is passionate about her profession, genuinely helping others, and going the extra mile. I would recommend her to anyone needing an exceptional family attorney.
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10 Jan, 2025 by Frank
I was looking for help but I guess they didn't want to felt they just blew me off
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04 Jan, 2025 by Adrianne vigueras
Wilson Gualpa and Melissa Hetman were professional and communicated at an exceptional level. I was very pleased.
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31 Dec, 2024 by Stephen rexroth
Very communicative and helpful through the entire process. Would recommend to anyone.
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06 Jul, 2024 by David heiser
25 Jun, 2024 by Michelle aloi moran
There are Angels that walk this earth and her name is Cheryl Jordan🙏Cheryl helped me with every detail with patience and kindness. Cheryl’s Compassion was comforting during such a sad time. Thank you Ms. Jordan for your professional support and your Kindness during such a tragic time. Sincerely Michelle Bouton
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18 May, 2024 by Kathy karthaeuser
I miss living in Delaware! This is the most resident friendly state. Anicia Kramer was extremely helpful and guided me through with what I needed to in order to obtain documents. Anicia followed up with an email. Thank you, Kathy
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16 May, 2024 by Shana colamesta
I highly recommend David! He is very personable and the best attorney in my experience for all his knowledge! You can absolutely trust this guy! A plus attorney!! Hire him you will not be disappointed.
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22 Nov, 2022 by Adam “a” adam
Knowledgeable and was able to give me incredibly helpful guidance in my case. Thank you!
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18 Apr, 2022 by Chrissy wilkinson
Michael DegliObizzi -- you deserve this 5 Star review! This past year has been a difficult year for a close friend of mine, who you represented. You did an excellent job servicing your client, very informative, communicated quickly and kept me in the loop as well. I sure hope I never need your services myself but wanted to make others know that they can count on you.
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17 Dec, 2024 by Gina skaw
16 Dec, 2024 by Tonya elliott
16 Dec, 2024 by Daniel garten
Called to get help with my SSI Disability. Are very helpful and took my case.
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11 Sep, 2024 by Michael
Laura is extremely knowledgeable and answered every question I had concerning my case no matter how dumb or insignificant I thought it was. She responds promptly even though she has many other cases she's working on. Honestly she treated me as a friend and not like a client. Her prices are extremely reasonable. I shopped around for family court lawyers and they wanted triple the price of her retainer fee. She was Highly recommended from other lawyers that were not available to take my case. I was not paid for this review or have any other incentives to write this review. I Honestly want any potential clients who wants a caring, competent, reasonably priced lawyer to know she is the cream of the crop. If I could give her one hundred stars I would!!!!!
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26 Apr, 2024 by Tonya
Laura is the best Divorce Attorney EVER. She is compassionate, kind, honest, and she will fight for your rights. Laura kept me calm throughout the process. She totally understood my situation and she FOUGHT for me. Thank you, Laura, for helping me get what was rightfully mine. God places people in your life for a reason and I thank God for Laura. She is stuck with me for life.
If you want a Divorce Attorney who will fight for you, look no further.
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22 Jun, 2023 by Jeff m
Laura represented me years ago. My sons mother could be summed up in one word. Evil. Laura helped my son and I when I had no hope. I am forever grateful, and recommend her regarding family court issues any chance I get. Thank you Laura!
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29 Jan, 2024 by Jessica tomb
09 Apr, 2022 by Sebastian zeidler
22 Feb, 2020 by John kaiser
24 Jun, 2024 by Maria
Dana is the best attorney in the state. She is very effective and genuine. Dana and her staff treated me like family. If, u need a divorce attorney without a doubt she's the best. I was blessed to have her represent me. She will stand by u 150%... Very patient and extremely intelligent. Definitely ,will get the job and make u feel secure and safe.. I love her and her awesome staff.
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20 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
Ms. Reynolds does not like to represent certain clients, which is her prerogative; however, she basically robbed us of the $400 consultation fee. She requested documentation several weeks before but gave us the excuse that her assistant failed to print them out. She was completely unprepared! If she was prepared she could have spared us the $400 fee, by being honest and upfront beforehand. She was so disrespectful and shaming. We would have went elsewhere. I’m disgusted. Please go elsewhere unless you want to be judged, shamed and out of money. I agree with every other negative post. No response necessary Ms. Reynolds. Please spare me any more insult.
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28 Aug, 2022 by Katie
Dana and her team are simply amazing. I used her services for my divorce. Though the situation is inherently frustrating and stressful, many times it did not feel that way because the team handled everything. Dana is an excellent communicator, timely, understanding, and very knowledgeable. She’s very comprehensive and transparent in her approach, no question goes unanswered and no strategy is left unexplored. I was completely confident in her services and would highly recommend her
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17 Dec, 2024 by Gina skaw
16 Dec, 2024 by Tonya elliott
16 Dec, 2024 by Daniel garten
Called to get help with my SSI Disability. Are very helpful and took my case.
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24 May, 2024 by You know who i am shauna
I paid her a $10,000 retainer and she proceeded to burn through it like it was toilet paper. She provided zero representation. Her complete advice was, "Just do what the court and DFS tells you to do." Every other lawyer I've talked to has told me I should have had my children back long ago. She even talks about her clients behind her back and disrespects them. Run from this person...FAST.
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19 Feb, 2024 by Cheryl claudio
The only lawyer we will use! Tom is awesome! We are always very confident when we walk in the courtroom knowing Tom is by our side!
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09 Sep, 2023 by Robert
Excellent man helped me many years ago
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21 Jan, 2025 by Nba slams
18 Dec, 2024 by Shannon quinn
I consulted with and hired Mr. Jay Owens to draft and finalize my will, POA and advanced medical directive. He made this extremely important decision incredibly easy for me and I highly recommend him along with his staff! Five stars are not enough!
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22 Nov, 2024 by Pam iaconi
I interviewed ferry Joseph 5 years ago. I was asking questions at that time.
Shortly after I needed an attorney I could trust and was willing to help with several legal matters. They are one of the best law firms around. Since the guardianship they have offered other legal advice and services, for my best interest. The office is friendly and very helpful and respectful .
Tim Ferry has guided me with my best interest first. I will continue working with this team as we are in need of our personal Will and trust accounts.
Thank you to everyone at Ferry Joseph and sons I truly appreciate your honesty and integrity. Pamela Iaconi
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07 Nov, 2024 by Diarah
I had to constantly call or reach out as much as I could to get an update of my case or else they won’t reach out. Most times I find it very difficult to get in touch with Peter or someone from the office. I would call day by day and no one would get back to me it felt like I was being ignored or avoided. I felt less important. From my point of view Peter was not honest and helpful. Not exactly satisfied with their work. Experienced discrimination. I couldn’t go back to work since my accident. My accident attorney did not help me for the financial hardship or any medical assistance. Not even a referral for other specialists that could help or anything. I asked him to help me with pain and suffering due to the complications, constant ER visits and going through a long difficult recovery. Peter told me he doesn’t work with pain and suffering cases. I asked other attorneys for assistance they told me to confront Peter for help since he was actively working on my case. To hear that he has helped other clients with pain and suffering and other compensations would mean to me that I was lied to as a client. Due to my injuries and financial hardship I had to get special therapy done that was needed for my treatment that was very expensive. I was told I could add it to my settlement and Peter told me no. He told me he “ doesn’t do anything of that or there isn’t no money. “ I never meant the attorney of my case. It felt like it was all a scam. At the beginning of the case, Peter seemed so confident and assuring that he would fight for me. I’m so disappointed. All concerns I had would not be explained in simple or favorable terms. After a long difficult recovery I found out I have a personal permanent injury. I asked Peter if I could re-sue and get pain and suffering and he told me no because he told me he doesn’t work with personal injury cases. I have a traumatic brain injury and other injuries from my car accident. But I most definitely feel like I was being taken advantage of because I have a head injury and I’m very young. If I were you I would look for other places that absolutely care to get the best outcome and care for their clients as possible throughout their time of need. I was so scared and I thought I was going to die from all I’ve been through. This was a terrible experience.
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24 Jun, 2024 by Mark lillard
25 Apr, 2024 by Prateek gupta
07 Nov, 2024 by Diarah
I had to constantly call or reach out as much as I could to get an update of my case or else they won’t reach out. Most times I find it very difficult to get in touch with Peter or someone from the office. I would call day by day and no one would get back to me it felt like I was being ignored or avoided. I felt less important. From my point of view Peter was not honest and helpful. Not exactly satisfied with their work. Experienced discrimination. I couldn’t go back to work since my accident. My accident attorney did not help me for the financial hardship or any medical assistance. Not even a referral for other specialists that could help or anything. I asked him to help me with pain and suffering due to the complications, constant ER visits and going through a long difficult recovery. Peter told me he doesn’t work with pain and suffering cases. I asked other attorneys for assistance they told me to confront Peter for help since he was actively working on my case. To hear that he has helped other clients with pain and suffering and other compensations would mean to me that I was lied to as a client. Due to my injuries and financial hardship I had to get special therapy done that was needed for my treatment that was very expensive. I was told I could add it to my settlement and Peter told me no. He told me he “ doesn’t do anything of that or there isn’t no money. “ I never meant the attorney of my case. It felt like it was all a scam. At the beginning of the case, Peter seemed so confident and assuring that he would fight for me. I’m so disappointed. All concerns I had would not be explained in simple or favorable terms. After a long difficult recovery I found out I have a personal permanent injury. I asked Peter if I could re-sue and get pain and suffering and he told me no because he told me he doesn’t work with personal injury cases. I have a traumatic brain injury and other injuries from my car accident. But I most definitely feel like I was being taken advantage of because I have a head injury and I’m very young. If I were you I would look for other places that absolutely care to get the best outcome and care for their clients as possible throughout their time of need. I was so scared and I thought I was going to die from all I’ve been through. This was a terrible experience.
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24 Jun, 2024 by Mark lillard
25 Apr, 2024 by Prateek gupta
04 Apr, 2024 by Richard ghione
Very helpful and understanding
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04 Apr, 2024 by Linda franks
I would NOT recommend this law firm. Lawyer was unprepared for trial. Spent hours on the phone padding his bill to do trial readiness than didn't ask 80% of the question talked about; even asked the wrong questions to us. He was not vocal in the trial and barely payed attention to our answers. The other lawyer mopped the floor with him. Never got our case across. Than received an enormous bill...travel & expenses. I would rate him in the negatives if I could.
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08 Feb, 2024 by B bo
On my recent closing I found the attorney to be very competent and friendly. My complaint is about how I couldn’t get the attorney to call me when I found out I, the buyer, was paying some of the broker commission. I wanted to know how common that practice was in Delaware. Instead I had a paralegal tell me how great my broker was and how many deals they do with him. I also wanted to know when the language about my new found obligation had appeared in the CD. Nothing, just crickets from this law firm.
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09 Dec, 2024 by Yuda osorio
14 Oct, 2024 by Uri ortega
09 Apr, 2024 by Andrew gasaway
In my opinion RLF is one of the nations best law firms for corporate and trust issues. They really understand how to make things work.
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09 Dec, 2024 by Latacha rodriguez-gist
Gary is an awesome attorney
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19 Nov, 2024 by Jose banderas35
If I could get him zero stars, I would he is a horrible lawyer. He is a liar He would tell you some promised to you and he doesn’t even keep his promise.. I will not recommend him to nobody in Delaware or anywhere. He has a smart mouth, very sarcastic and he would take his time to give you the check When is there .I had Geico offer me way more money I told him he said don’t take it, but of course he gives me less He act like he did not care. I do not know how he’s getting five stars He deserves zero stars I feel like he did not care about our case.
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18 Nov, 2024 by N
Horrible lawyer do not be fooled this lawyer is one of the worst in Delaware
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27 Jan, 2025 by Robyn dawson
Absolute, worst lawyer ever !
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04 Feb, 2024 by Robin delaney
21 Nov, 2023 by John baxter
When it was only mccann and wall I use them for Workers And the attorney I had screwed me for a whole year. Did nothing at all had to go to different law firm? Stay clear of that person.
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27 Jan, 2025 by Robyn dawson
Absolute, worst lawyer ever !
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04 Feb, 2024 by Robin delaney
21 Nov, 2023 by John baxter
When it was only mccann and wall I use them for Workers And the attorney I had screwed me for a whole year. Did nothing at all had to go to different law firm? Stay clear of that person.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
I paid an initial consult fee and large retainer fee.
Had an in-depth discussion with her in early Sep to outline what would be included in draft letter to dissolve a domestic partnership . She seemed to be clear on the law and my rights and indicated she would provide a draft letter for my review; 3 weeks passed with no letter. Also, followed up several times with her secretary and received no response regarding an estimated timeline. I decided it was not in my best interest to move forward with an attorney who was clearly unresponsive regarding my important legal matter. Of course, a portion of my retainer fee was returned due to the work she supposedly did (i.e. draft letter) .
Absolutely terrible and frustrating experience and cannot recommend.
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22 Nov, 2018 by William
I have retained Leslie as my counsel for over 4 years. She has handled all matters and proceedings judiciously, diligently al the while looking out for my interests. I recommend her without reservation.
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13 Nov, 2018 by Mark
I was referred by a friend who was an attorney for different legal representation himself to contact 3 attorneys that I was to meet and decide on who to hire for my divorce. When I met Leslie as the first of 3, we sat across the table from each other and I immediately knew that I could trust her to help get me through my divorce as well as other protective avenues that were being presented to me. I knew she had my best interest in getting a resolution as fast as possible but with her due diligence to make sure I was covering all needed aspects about my case. Leslie listened to my story at the initial meeting and continued to build on my story as the meetings progressed. She knew every aspect with details from her findings with me. Leslie knew every detail to each state and each legal defense that was needed to be discussed and the findings. Her organization of documents and findings were always perfect and presented in the most professional manner. She knew or had the answer to all my needs of defense.There are many traits that people in the legal world have both negative and Positive. Negatives, there honestly are not any negative aspects of the professional lawyer that Leslie is for clients. Positive traits about Leslie include a strong trust for her clients. She is a very good communicator to her client regarding every aspect of the job. Leslie never made me feel that she was doing the job for money, however she learned and understood the full dynamics of what and who she was presenting and she delivered it to the judge as if she was the one defending herself. Leslie had never made the job of being a lawyer un comfortable for me or when my kids were involved. My family knew that Leslie B. Spoltore had my best interest while knowing she was representing a client. Overall, Leslie would receive a grade of A plus if you graded her for how she is as a professional in the legal world. I would hire Leslie again if the situation occurred again. Both Leslie and myself hope that this does not happen which shows what type of lawyer she is to her clients. Leslie is truly a great Lawyer and I would recommend her highly.
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27 Jul, 2020 by Anonymous
I hired Kathy about 5 years ago to help with my divorce. She was able to help guide me with split custody and filing for help with child support. After many years of custody issues and lack of support issues she would then help guide me with those as well. Eventually I would need Kathy to help me with an emergency full custody order that would in turn lead into a termination of rights and adoption of my daughter by her step father. During the entire process Kathy was professional and supportive of the emotional battle we would endure. She always answered my questions and made sure I understood each step. I can’t thank her enough for all she has done for my family.
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18 Jul, 2020 by Tracy
Kathy was my lawyer during an incredibly contentious divorce and dissolution. She came highly recommended, and I'm so glad I chose her to represent me. I live out of state but for the Delaware divorce, Kathy was happy to work with me far away, and was superb at keeping in touch with me. She went to bat for me over and over. We only met face to face a few times including a grueling hearing, but we had a good connection and I always felt I could trust her expertise and knowledge, combined with her quiet and confident, yet tough demeanor. I consider Kathy a friend, and I would recommend her absolutely.
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28 May, 2019 by Francis
Kathryn was very empathetic and knowledgeable in explaining my rights and helping me resolve what I thought would be a real battle for custody of my kids.
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12 Dec, 2024 by Debra powell
06 Feb, 2024 by Jesse nguyen
EJ is a class act and a consummate professional whom I trust implicitly with my business affairs. I have conducted numerous settlements at his office, and without fail, they have all proceeded extraordinarily smoothly. EJ consistently goes above and beyond in his practice, demonstrating a level of dedication and expertise that sets him apart. Without hesitation, I can say there is nobody else I would prefer to do business with.
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12 Jan, 2024 by Danielle jusino
When you see google reviews, please actually take them to heart. My mother turned to Ej when we needed help after my step-father passed away. Long story short, EJ was under the assumption that my mother had no money and sat with our paper work for over 6 months. His assistant or whoever she is Diana also did the same thing. We would call constantly and leave messages with no return call. Finally this week when we called he literally said word for word " Its a lot of work and i would have to charge you a bunch of money and im assuming you don't have any money" . Thank god I have this on transcript. Im not sure what kind of lawyer practices this way but i never trusted him from day 1 and i should have gone with my gut. He is nasty, he is rude and he has no patience. AGAIN please take this as a warning and DO NOT waste your time. Thanks for leaving the mess i now have to clean up
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01 Aug, 2024 by Alisa
I am very grateful to Bonnie Copeland for her extremely professional and compassionate representation. This unmatched level of professionalism and care is especially important in the cases involving custody, and Bonnie and her firm handles my case with discretion and extreme care. Excellent planning, handling o the paperwork, timely filing and response, great rapport with the court and the support system. You'd be in great hands with Bonnie.
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02 Apr, 2024 by Mark
A disappointing experience. Complete lack of engagement or assistance without explanation. Appears the individual has lost their feel for the position. Put your capital to use somewhere else.
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05 Jan, 2021 by Jeanette
My husband and I were EXTREMELY satisfied with Bonnie. Our case involved my husband's pension. His ex-wife received her share of his pension but thought she deserved more. Most attorneys are not well-educated in this area of the law. Fortunately for us, Bonnie's expertise resulted in a positive outcome for my husband's case. She was very professional during all of our encounters. She was very thorough in preparing for the case and uncovered professional misconduct by the opposing counsel's main expert witness and then disclosed a major discrepancy in the defendant's main reason for filing her case. She gave my husband excellent advice about how to prepare to take the stand. Over the years, my husband and I have experienced circumstances with attorneys and were always left feeling short-changed. We were pleasantly surprised at the results we had with Bonnie. We would use Bonnie Copeland again and would highly recommend her to anyone needing her legal advice or representation.
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30 Apr, 2022 by Anonymous
Alfred Lindh has significant memory loss and didn't remember anything in my child custody case.Alfred Lindh didn't show up to handle my mediation,He never filed for custody ever in which I had paid him to do.Alfred Lindh forgot to turn in all my evidence at the trial due date!!This lawyer didnt show the judge key evidence that I presented and I was defenseless because of his lack of memory.In trial we had important documents right on the table that debunked the judges claims but Alfred Lindh sat their like we had nothing never defending me.I loss my son because of this Lawyers incompetence due to his loss of memory,he should not be in practice!!You will lose your case!!
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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.
