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Sarah Caroline Thomas, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Wilmington, NC with 77 reviews
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34,59
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4.5/5
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5.0
7 Reviews
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4.4
70 Reviews
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17 Dec, 2024 by Jose perez
They did an amazing job everything went smoothly didn’t have to show up it was great thank you.
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17 Dec, 2024 by Melissa moran
Gray Smith helped me with a speeding ticket. Easy to talk to and made the process seamless especially for someone who was out of town.
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01 Nov, 2024 by Kimberly parsons
My daughter is getting set to be released from prison. We as her family have no idea what is going on and where she will be released. We have called Mr Smith several times and left several messages. He will not return our calls. He has been most unhelpful.
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Tyler Wade Williams, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Wilmington, NC with 32 reviews
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34,42
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4.6/5
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4.6
32 Reviews
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03 Nov, 2024 by Christy mcdonough
Excellent law firm that was able to resolve my legal questions and issue quickly and efficiently. I recommend the team.
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13 Aug, 2024 by Cody hurst
Erin is compassionate to the issues with her clients and is a strong and powerful woman in helping them! She does what needs to be done that is in our best interest! Her and her staff are kind and professional, responding in timely manners. They were a strength for me in going through my divorce and encouraged me to do the tough thing when it was necessary to help get me through it while still staying true to my values. And when everything was said and done they all were my cheerleaders in moving forward! I highly recommend this team for your family law needs! Like they reminded me, this process is a marathon, not a sprint, so be patient and they will do everything they can to help you! Thank you to Erin, Alyssa, Kenna, and everyone on the team for helping me through this tough situation!
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30 Apr, 2024 by Janet holt
There are no words to express the level of confidence I have in Erin and her team. Having to hire an attorney during such a stressful time rips the soul out of you. Erin knows how to take you from beginning to end in the least painful way! I cannot explain the strength and support I was given along with a successful outcome.
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Richard Forrest Kern, experienced Appeals, Debt Collection attorney in Wilmington, NC with 69 reviews
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33,40
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4.3/5
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5.0
4 Reviews
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4.3
65 Reviews
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12 Jan, 2025 by L b
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14 Nov, 2024 by Beverly gillette
Mr hosford is the best at what he does very kind man do all he can for people thank you Mr Hosford for your help
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18 Oct, 2024 by Hayley braswell
He is beyond the best! Goes hard for his clients and his office staffs stands strong as well. They always do as they say in a fast timely manner.
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LeeAnne Quattrucci, experienced Estate Planning, Family Law attorney in Wilmington, NC with 71 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
32,86
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4.3/5
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4.3
6 Reviews
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4.3
65 Reviews
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12 Jan, 2025 by L b
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14 Nov, 2024 by Beverly gillette
Mr hosford is the best at what he does very kind man do all he can for people thank you Mr Hosford for your help
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18 Oct, 2024 by Hayley braswell
He is beyond the best! Goes hard for his clients and his office staffs stands strong as well. They always do as they say in a fast timely manner.
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Ashton Paige Overholt, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Wilmington, NC with 65 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
29,04
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4.3/5
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4.3
65 Reviews
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12 Jan, 2025 by L b
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14 Nov, 2024 by Beverly gillette
Mr hosford is the best at what he does very kind man do all he can for people thank you Mr Hosford for your help
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18 Oct, 2024 by Hayley braswell
He is beyond the best! Goes hard for his clients and his office staffs stands strong as well. They always do as they say in a fast timely manner.
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Brandon Pettijohn, experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in Wilmington, NC with 5 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
28,52
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4.2/5
Avvo
4.2
5 Reviews
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26 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
He is representing a woman that allows her children to be abused, wished death on a Marine Vet & also her husband k!lled their puppy. Be careful if this is who he works for.
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03 Apr, 2020 by Bryan
I reached out to Brandon about a traffic ticket. We had a quick chat over the phone and he was friendly and honest about what he could do for me. He came through and met the expectations. I would use him and his firm again.
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02 Apr, 2020 by Shayne
Brandon’s GREAT!! Not sure why but I must stick out like a sore toe on the roads. 80 is legal isn’t it?? 62 in a 35 isn’t speeding, it’s getting there faster. Brandon definitely saved my A*#!!!!
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William Bowman Green, experienced Appeals, Child Custody attorney in Wilmington, NC with 65 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
25,64
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4.3/5
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4.3
65 Reviews
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12 Jan, 2025 by L b
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14 Nov, 2024 by Beverly gillette
Mr hosford is the best at what he does very kind man do all he can for people thank you Mr Hosford for your help
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18 Oct, 2024 by Hayley braswell
He is beyond the best! Goes hard for his clients and his office staffs stands strong as well. They always do as they say in a fast timely manner.
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James W. Lea III, experienced Adoption, Family Law attorney in Wilmington, NC with 4 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
24,00
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4.0/5
Google Maps
4.0
4 Reviews
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01 Apr, 2024 by Kriste s
Jim is an outstanding attorney who exceeded my expectations and got me the best outcome possible. I consulted multiple attorneys prior to finding Jim; no one came close to his level of professionalism and experience. Jim was an invaluable resource during a very difficult time and he truly has his clients' best interests in mind. I cannot recommend Jim more highly.
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07 Mar, 2024 by Kurt elkins
Had to find new law firm because this one lied to us and here is the last email I sent to their office after finally getting my documents back along with half retainer due to the non refundable clause in the contact. Even though they breached the contract with dishonesty and poor standard of care. Placing my grievance with the state for our wasted time and funds. email from me to office manager: Is it a breach of contract to lie to your client or just a breach of ethics? We have honored our side of the contract with the expectation to get honest representation and a standard of care. Now we have a huge waste of time and money because of the professional performance of your firm. I will attach the email communication that proves that we have been told two different statements. First being an email labeled (receipts), In which I provided Mrs. Frey with the receipts she requested. In her response, "I have reviewed the discovery served upon you and have made my objections; I'll scan over to you once I return to the office. Along with it, I'll send you a tip sheet to make the process less daunting".. Document was never sent. A week later, I asked through email for an update on our CS case since I have heard nothing since the last email stating that she would scan and send documents. Her reply was "how's it going with the discovery?". Which is ridiculous to ask seeing as she had the discovery and never sent it back with the corrected questionnaire. I responded, informing her that she has the discovery and was reviewing it last week. Her response was " just double checked, looks pretty straight forward!"..... This is completely opposite of what was said the week before. Both cannot be true and can only conclude that one statement is a lie. This is a complete abandonment of trust along with the lackadaisical update on our case, especially when I am asking on a Friday evening whether we are showing up for court Monday morning because I have gotten no word from my paid attorney. I believe this is gross negligence of standard of care from your firm. I will leave a detailed review of my experience with your firm and place my grievance with the state. This is a very important matter to my family and I. I hope that other cases you have, that you treat them with more respect and care than we have received.
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02 Jan, 2024 by Tommy sullivan
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Ashley N. Michael, experienced Adoption, Estate Planning attorney in Wilmington, NC with 2 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
14,02
star star star star star
2.5/5
Avvo
2.5
2 Reviews
star star star star star
08 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
I hired Ashley Michaels to represent me during my separation, it involved a prenup and children. A retainer was paid for my legal fees in the amount of 5000.00 and put into an ILOTA for my legal fees and my use. I told her that I no longer needed her services and I wanted to formally end my separation to my wife. She refused to write up my request. Accusing me of doing things under duress. I wanted to have my attorney write this up because it was what I wanted and I wanted to make sure no one could say my request was done for any other reason then because it was what I wanted. Just because it was not what she thought was best LEGALLY does not mean that it was not the right thing to do for my family. I stated that I wanted a refund of my remaining retainer and I was ending our business together. She then stated that they would cut the check and mail it to a THIRD PARTY and refused to give me my retainer so that I could hire a different attorney to assist in ending my separation with my wife. Her representation of me was terrible. She caused more issues than she resolved. She was unable to make any headway with my wife who was Pro Se. Meaning she had NO attorney. The fact that her office originally lied and stated they had sent the check and then told me that they had not and would send my retainer to someone else and refused to cut me a check for the remaining balance has to be illegal in some way. I have filed formal complaints with NC STATE Bar. I would not do business with her and I question the partners only because they hired her to work in their firm. She has more loyalty to a non client than her actual clients. She is more interested in the money and draining a retainer because once you no longer need her legal services and she cannot bill you she is unhelpful and dishonest.
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02 Apr, 2019 by Christina
She has communicated every step of child custody process. Very professional and maintains contact with me and very responsive.
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Paul Mediratta, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Wilmington, NC with 2 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
13,69
star star star star star
3.0/5
Avvo
3.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
03 May, 2021 by Jock
We engaged Paul after our first lawyer, who did nothing for us and even suggested we get another lawyer (thanks for that idea). We were scheduled to be in the Bahamas for my wife’s 60th birthday the same week as the court date. Paul told us not to worry, he would take care of it, go on your trip and enjoy. While we were in the Bahamas he called to say the case was dismissed. It was the best outcome we could have hoped for.
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14 Dec, 2018 by Anonymous
Hired him to represent me in a matter involving my mother's estate. He did absolutely nothing to earn his money. Basically disappeared on me after about 18 months, and getting nothing achieved. If you're looking to become a victim of highway robbery, Paul Mediratta is the guy you were looking for!
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Christopher Dean Johnson, experienced Child Custody, Family Law attorney in Wilmington, NC with 2 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
11,42
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2.5/5
Avvo
2.5
2 Reviews
star star star star star
20 Mar, 2017 by Laurel
Advised me to file a lawsuit but did not provide any information as to what would happen. I had to file for dismissal to protect my children from further emotional damage that would caused from the lawsuit. He failed to inform me as his client of all possibilities . He charged me $1970 just to file papers that contained misspelling and incorrect information. We never went to court. He only wants your money.
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28 Mar, 2016 by Steven
Mr. Johnson worked hard to get me what I deserved in my divorce. My ex tried to take almost everything from me and was very uncooperative. My attorney was always willing to offer advice concerning situations as I navigated the divorce. Overall I am very grateful to Mr. Johnson for the work he did and the one thing I have against his office is that it was usually difficult to get ahold of them.
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James A. Clyburn, experienced Family Law attorney in Wilmington, NC with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
9,12
star star star star star
2.0/5
Avvo
2.0
1 Reviews
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18 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
Very unresponsive and doesn't really seem interested in helping you get relief. Does just enough to get by but not a real advocate for you
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Amanda B. Mason, experienced Divorce, Family Law attorney in Wilmington, NC with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
8,00
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0.0/5
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Melissa Gott, experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in Wilmington, NC with 0 reviews
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8,00
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0.0/5
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Ana-Cristina Jimenez, experienced Criminal Defense, Domestic Violence attorney in Wilmington, NC with  reviews
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8,00
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L. Bryan Smith, experienced Criminal Defense, Divorce attorney in Wilmington, NC with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
6,00
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Geannine M. Boyette, experienced Adoption, Child Custody attorney in Wilmington, NC with 2 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,59
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1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
2 Reviews
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16 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
she is first and foremost a liar and second to none in lost and confused person in her life. After paying a retainer in excess of her childish demands for representation, along with changing schedules for court hearings and then finding out she instead needed a “nose job” thus resulting in no preparation for proper representation during hearings. this woman needs to shunned and then invested by 1) IRS 2) Bar Stay away from this fugazzi lawyer
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16 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
I paid a retainer to pursue child support, 10 months later nothing had happened. She did not return emails or calls. I fired her and handled the court preceding myself
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William Wright, experienced Family Law, Lawsuit / Dispute attorney in Wilmington, NC with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Nicholas Brookes Mendez, experienced Admiralty / Maritime, Business attorney in Wilmington, NC with 0 reviews
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4,00
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0.0/5
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Christian James William Jones, experienced Business, Consumer Protection attorney in Wilmington, NC with 0 reviews
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4,00
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Haywood "Woody" White III, experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in Wilmington, NC with 0 reviews
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4,00
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Allison Ann Somuk, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Wilmington, NC with 0 reviews
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4,00
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Meredith Rochelle Roberts, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Wilmington, NC with 0 reviews
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4,00
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Susie Elizabeth Sewell, experienced Business, Family Law attorney in Wilmington, NC with 0 reviews
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4,00
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Summer Nettleman, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Wilmington, NC with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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Jessica Molly Mckenzie Arthur, experienced Family Law attorney in Wilmington, NC with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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Sydney Lynn Reynolds, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Wilmington, NC with 0 reviews
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Jeffery Wayne Austin, experienced Business, Family Law attorney in Wilmington, NC with 0 reviews
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Emily Adele McNamara, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Wilmington, NC with 0 reviews
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Jaime Renee Kunce, experienced Family Law attorney in Wilmington, NC with 0 reviews
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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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

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