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5.0
12 Reviews
4.6
19 Reviews
14 Aug, 2024 by Marshall pippion
15 Feb, 2024 by Blaze cardwell
I believe the woman I talk to her name was Karen. She was absolutely amazing at helping me figure out stuff with my name change. She made it aware that they don’t do adult name changes, but helps me in the right direction.
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07 Feb, 2024 by Tanex reacts
I had to get a custody order written up with the mother of my child, he understood everything I wanted and made recommendations. Smart guy, he knows his stuff. Pays attention to every detail. Answered all my questions effortlessly and took care of all my concerns. 10/10 everyone told me I’d be selling my life away to go to a lawyer. He was very thoughtful with my money and refunded what he didn’t use.
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24 Jan, 2025 by Jesse stevens
I contacted this number for help with a DMV hearing. I was told it was going to be 200$ to get started with pulling records and going over them. All pretty standard except how little I actually got for the 200$. Spent maybe an hour on the phone for 3 minutes of information. Then I was quoted 2k for the hearing help. I would look down the street.
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17 Jan, 2025 by Courtney warner
09 Jan, 2025 by Gene figuereoa
I am very pleased with the attentiveness to date with this law firm. Everyone is polite and caring. I tried using a different form but they were very unorganized and not very responsive. Thank you
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24 Jan, 2025 by Jesse stevens
I contacted this number for help with a DMV hearing. I was told it was going to be 200$ to get started with pulling records and going over them. All pretty standard except how little I actually got for the 200$. Spent maybe an hour on the phone for 3 minutes of information. Then I was quoted 2k for the hearing help. I would look down the street.
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17 Jan, 2025 by Courtney warner
09 Jan, 2025 by Gene figuereoa
I am very pleased with the attentiveness to date with this law firm. Everyone is polite and caring. I tried using a different form but they were very unorganized and not very responsive. Thank you
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19 Dec, 2024 by Amanda baity
Had a consultation with Tyler. He was very friendly, honest, and helpful. I appreciate a law group that is honest. He gave me direct answers and helped me so much.
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15 Dec, 2024 by Towfik shehata
Great job, very professional
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21 Nov, 2024 by Richard b
We are incredibly grateful for the exceptional legal and professional abilities of Attorney Anastasia Tramontozzi. Her impeccable judgment and thorough preparation were instrumental in achieving a favorable outcome that can only be described as miraculous. Anastasia’s dedication to her clients and her profound expertise in the legal field are truly commendable. I highly recommend her services to anyone in need of a skilled and reliable attorney.
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19 Dec, 2024 by Amanda baity
Had a consultation with Tyler. He was very friendly, honest, and helpful. I appreciate a law group that is honest. He gave me direct answers and helped me so much.
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15 Dec, 2024 by Towfik shehata
Great job, very professional
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21 Nov, 2024 by Richard b
We are incredibly grateful for the exceptional legal and professional abilities of Attorney Anastasia Tramontozzi. Her impeccable judgment and thorough preparation were instrumental in achieving a favorable outcome that can only be described as miraculous. Anastasia’s dedication to her clients and her profound expertise in the legal field are truly commendable. I highly recommend her services to anyone in need of a skilled and reliable attorney.
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5.0
22 Reviews
4.8
25 Reviews
24 Feb, 2025 by Reynaldo perez
My family worked with Mr. Jacob Beeson on a property matter. Mr. Beeson was able to help us resolve this complicated and emotional circumstance. We came to Mr. Beeson with a specific goal in mind and he went above and beyond our expectation. He was very diligent with communications and logistics with setting expectations. We will always use Jacob and his team at Kirk Sanders Law.
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20 Feb, 2025 by Adam
First off let me start by saying Mr. Bennett is an absolute amazing person and attorney, as well as his paralegal Mrs. Kimberly. She is just as hard working as he is. My situation was really crazy with the way that it happened. When I first contacted Mr. Bennett and explained everything, he was super honest and told me exactly what I needed to do because of how things unfolded these last few years. Once he got the lay of the situation, he dove straight in and got to work doing what he does best, representing his clients to his full potential. I've have been using him since August of 2024 and his dedication and understanding of my situation this whole time shows that he isn't just a lawyer who wants your money. He has gone out of his way, even on his off time to call and check in with me. If you honestly want someone who is honest, and will be honest with you from the start, I highly recommend Mr. Bennett. I appreciate all you have done for me sir.
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02 Jan, 2025 by Jenn heath
24 Jan, 2025 by Jesse stevens
I contacted this number for help with a DMV hearing. I was told it was going to be 200$ to get started with pulling records and going over them. All pretty standard except how little I actually got for the 200$. Spent maybe an hour on the phone for 3 minutes of information. Then I was quoted 2k for the hearing help. I would look down the street.
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17 Jan, 2025 by Courtney warner
13 Jan, 2025 by Anonymous
I recently became a single father of two amazing & beautiful children. I was %100 devoted to being in their lives and Erica Jackson went above and beyond to ensure just that. She, along with her team made the process very easy and comfortable to navigate. I couldn’t ask for a better listener and clear communicator who was able to explain the laws, rules and regulations as it related to my situation.
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25 Feb, 2025 by William hoffman
Quick service.
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24 Feb, 2025 by Holly sofley
Great experience
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24 Feb, 2025 by Mack
Way to expensive
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4.4
14 Reviews
4.8
953 Reviews
24 Jan, 2025 by Jesse stevens
I contacted this number for help with a DMV hearing. I was told it was going to be 200$ to get started with pulling records and going over them. All pretty standard except how little I actually got for the 200$. Spent maybe an hour on the phone for 3 minutes of information. Then I was quoted 2k for the hearing help. I would look down the street.
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17 Jan, 2025 by Courtney warner
09 Jan, 2025 by Gene figuereoa
I am very pleased with the attentiveness to date with this law firm. Everyone is polite and caring. I tried using a different form but they were very unorganized and not very responsive. Thank you
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24 Feb, 2025 by Reynaldo perez
My family worked with Mr. Jacob Beeson on a property matter. Mr. Beeson was able to help us resolve this complicated and emotional circumstance. We came to Mr. Beeson with a specific goal in mind and he went above and beyond our expectation. He was very diligent with communications and logistics with setting expectations. We will always use Jacob and his team at Kirk Sanders Law.
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02 Jan, 2025 by Jenn heath
20 Nov, 2024 by Whitney mchenry
He is like our family lawyer…anytime a family member needs a lawyer, we always say call Mr Long! He’s wonderful! Does a great job!
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19 Jun, 2023 by Stephanie
There are no words to describe Whitney Taylor & her whole Team except True Professionals & the BEST in their field! Whitney & her Team helped navigate the complex process of Child Custody Laws with our Grandchildren. Without Whitney’s exceptional knowledge of the law, we would have been “lost” in the Court System: Gabrielle is without a doubt a VERY Valuable asset to Whitney’s Team! We will be forever grateful to Whitney & her Team!!
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25 May, 2020 by Anonymous
Ms. Taylor was recommended to me by another attorney because she specializes in family and domestic law. In brief I will say that she is efficient and knowledgeable. I didn't have any questions she couldn't answer; she had all the information in her head. In addition to all this she was very empathetic about my/our situation, and I felt good about hiring her. It was obvious very quickly into our first conversation that I was not just another payday for her. That meant a lot. I highly recommend her.
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03 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous
Whitney is amazing! She answered all of my questions, got me on track and helped with making sure everything was handled properly. I am so grateful for her help with my legal needs for my divorce.
Thank you
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5.0
9 Reviews
4.5
175 Reviews
19 Dec, 2024 by Dwayne stafford
The Worst!!!!!
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23 Oct, 2024 by Cori caggiano
Writing this review because of the unacceptable and costly administrative errors made during the handling of my case. Egregious errors include the attorney failing to prepare any argument points for negotiation, blaming his performance on his failing memory, double billing for hours already paid for, and ultimately *losing my settlement check* within his own office. He billed me for time he spent looking for the check he had misplaced, and withdrew funds from my settlement check without permission or providing a bill for services. I know these administrative errors are atypical for law firms. Unfortunately, I made a poor choice in choosing this firm to represent me.
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18 Sep, 2024 by Brett leasure
4.1
18 Reviews
4.8
953 Reviews
24 Jan, 2025 by Jesse stevens
I contacted this number for help with a DMV hearing. I was told it was going to be 200$ to get started with pulling records and going over them. All pretty standard except how little I actually got for the 200$. Spent maybe an hour on the phone for 3 minutes of information. Then I was quoted 2k for the hearing help. I would look down the street.
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17 Jan, 2025 by Courtney warner
09 Jan, 2025 by Gene figuereoa
I am very pleased with the attentiveness to date with this law firm. Everyone is polite and caring. I tried using a different form but they were very unorganized and not very responsive. Thank you
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02 Jan, 2025 by Jenn heath
19 Oct, 2024 by Graham wyche
I was referred to Jon Kurtz by my estate attorney. Jon enlisted partner Elise Whitley for perspective and backup. While no one enjoys a divorce, Jon and Elise made it understandable for me, a first timer. As we worked through the process, I gained confidence in their knowledge and capabilities. While researching divorce opinions, I found case law that Jon had argued (successfully). Good to have that experience in your corner. Not to mention an adjunct professor at Wake Forest and a Legal Elite.
We were stymied by foot-dragging opposing counsel, and the added burden of ending Covid, but Jon keep the momentum going, with steady reminders and requests for responses, getting commitments.
Ultimately we did get a settlement I felt was reasonable.
My take-away is that the Kurtz firm brings a sense of dignity and respect for the law, exceptional experience and knowledge, and the competency needed for successful family practice.
I have no hesitation recommending Jon and company, without question one will receive services of the highest order.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Helen pierce
Elise is a highly competent, diligent worker who puts her clients first. Since she took my case, I have been able to fully relax knowing that I have transferred my concerns to the most capable of hands. I highly recommend her without hesitation.
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24 Feb, 2025 by Reynaldo perez
My family worked with Mr. Jacob Beeson on a property matter. Mr. Beeson was able to help us resolve this complicated and emotional circumstance. We came to Mr. Beeson with a specific goal in mind and he went above and beyond our expectation. He was very diligent with communications and logistics with setting expectations. We will always use Jacob and his team at Kirk Sanders Law.
Read more
02 Jan, 2025 by Jenn heath
20 Nov, 2024 by Whitney mchenry
He is like our family lawyer…anytime a family member needs a lawyer, we always say call Mr Long! He’s wonderful! Does a great job!
Read more
02 Jan, 2025 by Jenn heath
19 Oct, 2024 by Graham wyche
I was referred to Jon Kurtz by my estate attorney. Jon enlisted partner Elise Whitley for perspective and backup. While no one enjoys a divorce, Jon and Elise made it understandable for me, a first timer. As we worked through the process, I gained confidence in their knowledge and capabilities. While researching divorce opinions, I found case law that Jon had argued (successfully). Good to have that experience in your corner. Not to mention an adjunct professor at Wake Forest and a Legal Elite.
We were stymied by foot-dragging opposing counsel, and the added burden of ending Covid, but Jon keep the momentum going, with steady reminders and requests for responses, getting commitments.
Ultimately we did get a settlement I felt was reasonable.
My take-away is that the Kurtz firm brings a sense of dignity and respect for the law, exceptional experience and knowledge, and the competency needed for successful family practice.
I have no hesitation recommending Jon and company, without question one will receive services of the highest order.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Helen pierce
Elise is a highly competent, diligent worker who puts her clients first. Since she took my case, I have been able to fully relax knowing that I have transferred my concerns to the most capable of hands. I highly recommend her without hesitation.
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28 May, 2024 by Kirby
I hired Mr. Kline to defend me in a 50 b violation. He was very precise and to the point. He was very hopeful that we would get a community service conviction but instead we got the best, a total dismissal. The court realized that my ex was misusing the courtroom and judicial system. I could not be more happy with outcome. Do not hesitate to hire Tyler!
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13 Oct, 2022 by Anonymous
I highly recommend Tyler Kline to anyone looking for an attorney to represent them in a family law situation. He is ethical and thorough and will work hard to resolve your problem.
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23 Jul, 2022 by Mitch
Tyler Klein took care of my traffic violation quickly and efficiently. I was amazed. I didn't have to do anything. I highly recommend Tyler . He w as professional and courteous and gets the job done!
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24 Jan, 2025 by Jesse stevens
I contacted this number for help with a DMV hearing. I was told it was going to be 200$ to get started with pulling records and going over them. All pretty standard except how little I actually got for the 200$. Spent maybe an hour on the phone for 3 minutes of information. Then I was quoted 2k for the hearing help. I would look down the street.
Read more
17 Jan, 2025 by Courtney warner
09 Jan, 2025 by Gene figuereoa
I am very pleased with the attentiveness to date with this law firm. Everyone is polite and caring. I tried using a different form but they were very unorganized and not very responsive. Thank you
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27 Oct, 2019 by Joseph
Mr. Smith made a stressful situation, less complicated while representing me. He explained we and made the prices very simple for me, and got me a resolution on my case, that was greatly appreciated. Very professional and reassuring during the process.
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26 May, 2018 by Robert
We were represented by J. Patrick Ellington with The Law Offices of J. Scott Smith. Our minor child was in the wrong place at the wrong time and was facing some serious charges. Patrick worked patiently with the DA and was able to reach a resolution that resulted in the charges being dropped. It was the best possible outcome for our family. We are grateful for their representation.
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07 Sep, 2017 by Douglas
Mr. J. Scott Smith made the court room experience simple and stress free. I was amazed how little time was spent in court!
J. Scott Smith is an excellent lawyer who is honest and moral
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03 Feb, 2020 by Kimberly
It was a year ago my husband and I both frantic and emotionally fragile made an appointment with Kristin after finding her profile in superlawyers. Our situation we knew was going to be challenging because we are Grandparents and our daughter had left her husband for another man and took the children. The story also involved a few other pieces of drama just like most cases involving custody, divorce, visitation etc. We met with Kristin for a consultation and she listened to our story, took notes and spent time explaining things along the way. We knew we wanted to hire her immediately however she had a commitment during the timeframe we needed. She asked us to wait and she made a phone call to another lawyer that she said she uses as a mentor. She arranged for us to connect with the lawyer she spoke with. My husband and I were just so impressed with her sincerity and going above and beyond by finding us someone she trusted to help us with our case. Bottom line, if you are lucky enough to retain this wonderful person and dedicated lawyer do it!
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26 Apr, 2018 by Montel
Attorney Kelly Broyles helped me with an emergency domestic matter in 2017. When I went to my consult with her I knew she was the lawyer for me. She is knowledgeable, professional and fought for my rights as a parent. I was ecstatic about the outcome of my case. Again, thank you Attorney Kelly Broyles.
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10 Apr, 2018 by Anonymous
Her rates were reasonable and her advice and help was paramount to the success of my child support case!
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19 Oct, 2024 by Pankaj
Great law firm! 5 out of 5 stars. I had a consultation for employment contract review with Mr. Hartsoe. It was very easy to schedule by admin. Mr. Hartsoe was very thorough and gave very good advise on how to address several conflicting points on the contract. As a result of his analysis I was more confident to take the next steps for the contract. I would highly recommend Mr. Hartsoe and his law firm for employment/contract related concerns. Thank you!
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16 Sep, 2024 by Douglas williams
Very friendly team, approachable and knowledgeable. They helped get our small business on track by gently correcting many things we had started blindly.
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16 Sep, 2024 by Vivek varadara
Nothing against this firm in terms of expenses, Divorce is an expensive ordeal and does take significant research and work to formalize a proper agreement based on special situations and individual situations. While one must be prepared for such legal costs over all the experience with Hartsoe and Associates was amazing. Specially, me being in the US Army, I was not always available for reaching out to, but despite they handled my case exceptionally well and came out with an amicable out of court settlement ! which is something I wanted from the start. Thank you Steven Grainger in particular for your legal representation and also the staff in connection.
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20 Dec, 2020 by Steve, ellen
Ms. Gondring represented us throughout an evolving custody environment with our grandson. She was very empathetic and patient during initial consultations. Due to her extensive knowledge of family law, she is responsive to the urgency of what is in the best interest of the child. She is a team player, maintaining communication with the client. During this process, we not only retained excellent legal counsel but gained a friend. We recommend Ms. Gondring with unhesitating endorsement.
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18 Dec, 2020 by Reynolds
Kelley was great to work with. Hard working while compassionate and understanding. A true professional in every sense of the word. I was extremely happy with my results and couldn't have asked for better counsel.
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06 Oct, 2020 by Katy
From the first consultation, Kelley was engaged and focused on the issues that were most relevant to my legal case (divorce, custody negotiation). I never felt like she was in it for the money, rather, my best interest. She is warm and approachable, yet very professional and firm. She is exceptionally detail-oriented and knowledgeable. Quick to respond and even comfort, I respect and like her very much both professionally and personally. I would seek her again as counsel should I need it and will recommend her to anyone trying to navigate all things family.
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29 Dec, 2016 by Effie
Nestoras Katsoudas was our lawyer for immigration services. My husband is from another country and he helped us with all my husbands paperwork. He was on top of things and got the job done within the time he told us! We are very satisfied and appreciative of what he did for us. We highly recommend Mr. Katsoudas!
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27 Dec, 2016 by Roberto
I walked in with Nestoras D. with a lot of questions and concerns about my situation. I had gone with other lawyers and my time was running out. At first I was surprise I was able to speak to Nestor face to face on my first visit. Nestoras was very professional from the beginning to the end.The way he greeted me and my wife made us feel like a very important clients, he took his time to explain every question we had, everything since then has been smooth and it's great to have all that stress alleviated off our shoulders. I am very pleased with Nestoras D. as my lawyer, he never fails to let me know how the case is going. If we ever have need of a legal matter in the future, it will be Nestoras D. Katsoudas that we call. Thank you Nestor !!
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17 Dec, 2016 by Kostas
Used him for my Green card coming from Greece. Fast and easy, Nestor took care of everything.
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27 Feb, 2016 by Michael
My wife and I could not be happier with our experience with Joe. He is very knowledgeable and professional. Joe, was able to provide great support and insight to us in preparing a Will, Durable Power of Attorney, Healthcare Power of Attorney and Living Will.
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24 Jul, 2014 by John
I was a client of Joseph. He handled my case in a most professional way. He was prompt and always kept me informed. I was more than satisfied with the results.
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18 Dec, 2019 by Anonymous
Christian was extremely professional and trustworthy. He made me very prepared as to what would happen with my case and walked me through every step so there would be no confusion. I would definitely hire him if I ever need an attorney in the future.
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08 Jun, 2015 by Mackenzie
I was going to have to pay the court just because my tags were expired, and I have only been driving for a little over a year and a half. Christian Thomas was able to get things settled quickly for me, and the process was very easy on my part; all I had to do was provide my registration and citation.
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20 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
I have been a client of Ms Gold's since April of 2014. She has,in my mind, been very helpful and knowlegable explaining the law as regards to divorce. She has advised me and helped through this trying time. She has gone out of her way to be accomodating with my night shift schedule. Ms. Gold did a tremendous job in my first hearing for post sepperation, alimony, and lawyer fees, which I won. My divorce is still pending, but soon to be over. My only complaint is that on a couple occasions she was late for my appointments.
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14 Jun, 2024 by Julie
Raini Singleton is a knowledgeable domestic attorney with energy and compassion to counsel me when necessary and fight for me when the time is right. I highly recommend her.
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19 Sep, 2018 by Anonymous
My name is Tim, me and ms stowers had been working on a very long and tedious case. She hands down, had all the knowledge and experience. If she didn’t know an answer she would find it usually in the same day. Start to finish I would go back to her tommorow if I needed to. An amazing attorney. And thanks again for all your help.
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19 Dec, 2024 by Amanda baity
Had a consultation with Tyler. He was very friendly, honest, and helpful. I appreciate a law group that is honest. He gave me direct answers and helped me so much.
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15 Dec, 2024 by Towfik shehata
Great job, very professional
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21 Nov, 2024 by Richard b
We are incredibly grateful for the exceptional legal and professional abilities of Attorney Anastasia Tramontozzi. Her impeccable judgment and thorough preparation were instrumental in achieving a favorable outcome that can only be described as miraculous. Anastasia’s dedication to her clients and her profound expertise in the legal field are truly commendable. I highly recommend her services to anyone in need of a skilled and reliable attorney.
Read more
24 Jan, 2025 by Jesse stevens
I contacted this number for help with a DMV hearing. I was told it was going to be 200$ to get started with pulling records and going over them. All pretty standard except how little I actually got for the 200$. Spent maybe an hour on the phone for 3 minutes of information. Then I was quoted 2k for the hearing help. I would look down the street.
Read more
17 Jan, 2025 by Courtney warner
09 Jan, 2025 by Gene figuereoa
I am very pleased with the attentiveness to date with this law firm. Everyone is polite and caring. I tried using a different form but they were very unorganized and not very responsive. Thank you
Read more
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Family Law Lawyer Can Do for You
A family law lawyer provides legal services related to family relationships, including marriage, divorce, child custody, and adoption. Family lawyers help clients navigate emotionally charged legal issues, providing guidance and representation in disputes that affect spouses, children, and parents. Whether you're going through a divorce, seeking custody of your children, or drafting a prenuptial agreement, a family law lawyer ensures your rights are protected and your interests are represented.
Family law attorneys often handle sensitive matters and offer objective legal advice, helping clients reach fair outcomes either through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.
When Should I Hire a Family Law Lawyer?
Hiring a family law lawyer is beneficial in several situations, especially when legal matters involve close personal relationships. Common reasons to hire a family law lawyer include:
- Divorce or separation: When ending a marriage, a lawyer can help you navigate issues such as division of assets, spousal support, and child custody arrangements.
- Child custody and visitation disputes: If you and your co-parent can't agree on custody or visitation, a lawyer can represent your interests and work toward a solution that benefits your children.
- Child support: Whether you’re seeking child support or defending against a claim, a lawyer can help ensure the appropriate amount is calculated and enforced.
- Prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: A lawyer can help draft or review agreements that protect your assets in case of divorce.
- Adoption: Family law lawyers guide you through the legal process of adoption, ensuring that all requirements are met.
- Domestic violence or restraining orders: If you're a victim of domestic violence or being falsely accused, a lawyer can help you obtain or challenge protective orders.
- Paternity cases: If there are questions about the paternity of a child, a lawyer can help establish or dispute legal fatherhood.
Hiring a lawyer early can prevent issues from escalating, and they can offer you the best chance of achieving a favorable outcome in emotionally charged situations.
What Does a Family Law Lawyer Do?
A family law lawyer provides a wide range of services depending on your specific legal needs. Their responsibilities may include:
- Advising on legal rights and options: Helping you understand your legal rights regarding divorce, child custody, support, and other family law issues.
- Filing legal documents: Drafting and filing petitions, motions, and agreements with the court, such as divorce papers, custody agreements, or support orders.
- Representing clients in court: Arguing your case in front of a judge if a settlement can’t be reached through negotiation or mediation.
- Mediation and negotiation: Assisting with alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, to reach agreements on issues like custody, property division, and support without going to trial.
- Enforcing court orders: Helping you enforce court orders related to child support, alimony, or custody if the other party fails to comply.
- Drafting prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: Creating agreements that protect your assets in the event of a divorce.
- Handling adoption proceedings: Ensuring that the legal process of adoption is followed, from filing paperwork to finalizing the adoption in court.
How Are Family Law Lawyers Paid?
Family law lawyers typically charge clients in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Common payment arrangements include:
- Hourly rates: Most family lawyers charge by the hour, with rates varying based on experience and location. Clients are billed for the time spent working on their case, including consultations, court appearances, and document preparation.
- Flat fees: For more straightforward legal services, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, some lawyers offer flat-fee arrangements.
- Retainer fees: In cases that are expected to require significant time and attention, such as contentious custody battles, a lawyer may charge a retainer, which is an upfront payment that covers the initial costs of legal services. The lawyer then bills against the retainer as they work on your case.
The exact cost will depend on the complexity of your case and the lawyer’s fee structure, which should be discussed upfront.
How Much Does a Family Law Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a family law lawyer varies based on factors such as the lawyer's experience, the location, and the complexity of your case. Here are some general cost guidelines:
- Hourly rates: Family law lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour, depending on their experience and the complexity of the case.
- Flat fees: For simpler cases, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, fees may range from $1,000 to $5,000.
- Retainers: For more complex matters, such as contested divorces or custody battles, lawyers may charge a retainer ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 or more. The lawyer will bill against the retainer for the work they do on your case.
- Additional costs: You may also be responsible for additional costs, such as filing fees, mediation fees, or expert witness fees.
Always ask for a clear breakdown of the lawyer’s fees and any additional expenses during your consultation.
Top Questions to Ask a Family Law Lawyer
Before hiring a family law lawyer, it's important to ask questions to ensure they're the right fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:
-
What experience do you have with family law cases like mine?
Make sure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it's a contested divorce, child custody dispute, or adoption. -
How will you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, a flat fee, or requires a retainer. Ask for an estimate of the total costs involved. -
What are the possible outcomes of my case?
An experienced lawyer should be able to give you a general idea of what to expect based on the facts of your case. -
What is your approach to resolving disputes?
Ask whether the lawyer tends to favor negotiation and mediation or whether they prefer to take cases to court. This can help you determine if their style matches your goals. -
How long do you expect my case to take?
While it’s difficult to predict, the lawyer should give you an estimate based on similar cases. -
Who will be handling my case?
In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may do much of the work, so make sure you understand who will be your main point of contact.
How to Check the Credibility of a Family Law Lawyer
To ensure you're hiring a reputable family law lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and reputation:
- Check state bar association records: Verify that the lawyer is licensed to practice in your state and is in good standing with no disciplinary actions.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on websites like Avvo, Google, or Martindale-Hubbell. Previous clients can give you insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and success in family law cases.
- Request references: Ask the lawyer for references from past clients who can speak to their experience with the lawyer.
- Review their website or professional profile: Look at the lawyer’s background, case history, and areas of focus to ensure they have substantial experience in family law.
- Look for professional memberships: Membership in reputable organizations, such as the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), can indicate a lawyer's expertise and dedication to family law.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a family law lawyer, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what you should bring:
- Relevant documents: Bring any documents related to your case, such as marriage certificates, prenuptial agreements, financial records, custody agreements, or court orders.
- List of assets and debts: For divorce cases, prepare a detailed list of all assets (e.g., homes, bank accounts, retirement funds) and debts (e.g., mortgages, loans, credit card balances).
- Details of the family issue: Provide a written summary of the situation, including key dates and facts related to your divorce, custody dispute, or support issue.
- Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions you have about the legal process, costs, and potential outcomes.
- Your goals: Be prepared to discuss your objectives, such as custody arrangements, property division, or spousal support, so the lawyer understands your priorities.
Being organized and clear about your situation will help the lawyer evaluate your case more effectively and offer the best advice for moving forward.
