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11 Oct, 2024 by Melanee bruntjen
Kelly Was amazing! She was a force to be reckoned with in court! She succeeded getting the ruling we needed. Kelly and Her team held our hands through a very Complex process. Thank you Justice Law!
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17 Aug, 2024 by Victor ayala
Great service and amazing helpful staff, special thanks to Shawlee, who was patient and answered all the questions I had!!
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16 Aug, 2024 by Gali zuniga
Great office, I respect there professionalism and keen eye on detail. Shawlee was very helpful with all our questions.
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24 Sep, 2024 by Maria vazquez
My experience with Van law Firm was great
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26 Jun, 2024 by Margarita mendoza
17 May, 2024 by Ashley faulkner
I Highly recommend Van Law firm as your Accident Attorney, there very professional and go above and beyond to answer your questions and get you the amount your case deserves.
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11 Oct, 2024 by Melanee bruntjen
Kelly Was amazing! She was a force to be reckoned with in court! She succeeded getting the ruling we needed. Kelly and Her team held our hands through a very Complex process. Thank you Justice Law!
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17 Aug, 2024 by Victor ayala
Great service and amazing helpful staff, special thanks to Shawlee, who was patient and answered all the questions I had!!
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16 Aug, 2024 by Gali zuniga
Great office, I respect there professionalism and keen eye on detail. Shawlee was very helpful with all our questions.
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11 Oct, 2022 by Alejandra
I wanna thank both Mathew Kaminski and Nina Rodriguez for restoring my life and helping me regain full custody of my children. I had been struggling for 2 years with different law firms who misguided me and took my money. Not Mathew as soon as I hired him within 2 months Nina and him were very responsive and immediately took very good care of me. I really recommend anyone out there, especially single mothers please go with Mathew Kaminski and Nina Rodriguez. They will change you life!!! Can't thank them enough.
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24 Mar, 2022 by Anonymous
This has been my second time that I have hired this lawyer Matt Kaminski along with his paralegal Nina Rodriguez. My experience with them has truly been a blessing and I can honestly say they are loyal and really care for their customers. Matt and Nina go beyond expectations and truly try to be honest as they can on situations and reply as fast as they can when something unexpected happens. I have not had one bad experience with them and my outcomes have been amazing and I will continue coming back for any other needs. Thanks Matt and Nina for loving what you do and being a big help for one such as myself.
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30 Jan, 2022 by Sierra
Matthew and Nina made my son's adoption so much easier!! I waited 2 years to get it finalized with a different lawyers office. But with them within six months they made it happen! Nina helped make it easy for me to understand what my steps were. I highly recommend Matthew and Nina! Thank you guys so much.
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08 Jan, 2022 by Jeremy
Great lawyer. Got everything I wanted at trial in my custody battle. Highly recommend.
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21 Dec, 2021 by John
Tonilynn and her team spends additional time understanding complex situations during the divorce proceedings. She is inventive and have excellent strategies for going forward. I look forward for her assistance in the future.
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13 Jul, 2021 by Kaleen
We had a consult with Tonilynn 2 years ago and absolutely LOVED her..We laughed, had things in common, and she understood our situation and was ready to help. THEN COVID CAME. Courts were at a stand-still and we didn't retain her, thinking we could just pick up now. I called today and was told that Tonilynn wasn't taking any new clients. :( I guess that is what I get for waiting too long. I missed getting the best attorney for us.
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06 Oct, 2022 by Jesus
Mrs, Barnes is someone you can trust to represent you to her fullest potential, she genuinely cares for her clients and doesn’t intimidate easily, she’s firm and confident in her profession. After personally consulting with several attorney’s, Mrs, Barnes won my trust within minutes to represent me in my case. I instantly felt how devoted Mrs, Barnes and her team is to family legal rights! Without hesitating I retained her immediately, and within two weeks my case was closed! All cases are different however I recommend you get a consultation and see if she can be a blessing like she was in my case. Thank you Brook Barnes and her team for bringing my daughter back!!!
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23 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
No only was she kind and made sure I knew what was going on at all times . She got the job done in a timely manner.
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31 Jul, 2022 by Cathy
Brooke did a great job as my attorney! She took the time to understand the complex details of my court case where the evidence spanned over 6 years. I commented to several of my friends that Stephanie was quick and responsive with all my inquiries. Brooke asked detailed questions and took notes to ensure accuracy. In court, she demonstrated knowledge of the law and court proceedings. I felt confident and in good hands during court. Through her professionalism and expertise, she successfully had my case dismissed. I highly recommend Yakima Law.
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08 Jul, 2022 by Amber
I highly recommend Megan Hale if you are in a car accident. I was rear ended with my 2 small children and used Megan Hale to represent my case. She was an outstanding attorney that worked hard to represent my children and myself with minimal work on my part. Megan had great communication and professionalism throughout the claim, she thoroughly explained everything she was doing to make it easy to understand. She showed compassion for our injuries and made sure we were compensated well and received all the medical care we needed to recover. She was very personable and easy to reach. We are extremely pleased with our outcome and are truly grateful for her help, we 100% recommend Megan to use as an accident attorney.
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06 May, 2017 by Julie
After my not-at-fault car accident I contacted Tamaki Law. Megan Hale took my case and I would absolutely recommend Megan to anyone needing an attorney. When you are vulnerable trust is important. Megan Hale had my back. She was thorough and her skills in dealing with insurance companies lead to a fair settlement. Megan and her staff treated me with kindness and their professionalism resulted in less stress for me personally so that I was able to focus on recovery from my injuries.
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21 Oct, 2016 by Anonymous
Megan Hale did a formidable job of defending me. She was very forthcoming with pertinent information as it became available, making a difficult process quite easy to navigate.
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23 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
He is very knowledgeable about family law and knows the ins and outs of the court system in Yakima very well. He is to the point and usually can get things accomplished without heated difficulties with other attorneys. But, when that is not possible, he is able to present clear, concise arguments resulting in success in court. He is also very straightforward with his billing-There are no misunderstandings. His staff are on top of their game. I am very pleased.
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28 Nov, 2018 by Samantha s
Howard has been my attorney for few years now he's smart,loyal and determined, he will tell you the truth and guide you when needed. I highly recommend him especially when you feel stuck and don't know what to do.
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25 Aug, 2013 by Frank tamez
Howard has represented both myself and my business on numerous ocassions. He has done an outstanding job each and every time.
Great to deal with
Down to earth
Not afraid to get in the trenches
Gets the job done.
I would highly recommend him
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24 Sep, 2021 by Jeff
Ellen McLaughlin is an awesome straightforward very understanding and caring attorney that will fight for you
After an accident and not being able to work and not having the money for an attorney when no other attorneys would even talk to me
Ellen was understanding and cared enough to take my divorce/custody case on and no matter what happened to come up and add to my case like stuff with cps Ellen was always on top of it
She is an amazing attorney and highly recommended
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23 Feb, 2021 by Michael
There is so much to say about Ellen She is compassionate honest up front and will work extremely hard for her clients! She went up against some of the best attorneys in Seattle and put them back on there heels. We have a very long-drawn-out custody battle one that nearly tore our family apart that is until we where blessed with Ellen she was a angel sent from heaven words can not even express what she has done for my family! She went so far above and beyond I am forever in debt! She has simply saved my family our daughter and our life. So if you are looking for the best attorney by far Ellen McLaughlin is it! Ellen my family cannot thank you enough thank you thank you thank you for fighting so hard and ultimately winning the case that returned our daughter You never gave up on us God bless you!
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13 Aug, 2013 by Anonymous
Ellen is one of the best attorneys I have worked with and had the privilege of going through such a traumatic and stressful divorce. Ellen was fair and agressive in court with still holding professionalism in the court room. She is great at communication, passionate, hard working and definitely knowledgeable of her areas of practice. If anyone needs an attorney that does what she says she's gonna do then I would hire Ellen. By far one of the best attorneys in Yakima County.
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18 Apr, 2022 by Cheyla
Jodi Mumford is a fantastic lawyer. My husband and I been going to here for sometime and she is professional, kind, and really puts her heart into her job. We highly recommend Jodi!!
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10 Feb, 2020 by Magalie
My family and I have been working with Jodi since 2010. Jodi is an amazing lawyer! Every time my family and I had a question, she was always so easy and fast to get ahold of. She always knew the answer to our questions! Jodi has worked with us in multiple immigration cases, such as on the case of both of my parents, my husband's case and my in-law's cases. We have referred about 10 families to her and she has always been able to help the families resolved their immigration issues. Jodi is currently working with my husband's criminal case attorney and she has been awesome! Jodi is very flexible and reliable attorney and we always count on her to help us!
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26 Jun, 2022 by L.o.
This lawyer is experienced, and determined to help you fight your case. He is well known in the court room and very respected. No more sitting and waiting for your name to be called at court. He gets you in and out of that court room very quickly. His prices are low and his successful court case wins are high. You can't go wrong with Mr. Raber.
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28 Dec, 2011 by Joel
best of the best, hes got over 20 yrs experience i've had him as a public defender & as a hired attorney he maid sure i had an exellent chance at my constitutiolnal rights
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21 Feb, 2019 by Anonymous
Brian Dosch was my appointed public defender and I could not have asked for a better attorney. He always responded promptly to my emails, walked me through the entire process, and got me the best sentencing I could have asked for. He made a not so fun life experience much more manageable, and I really felt like he had my best interest as a priority at all times. I could not recommend a better attorney!
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29 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
Mr. Dosch recently helped me with a criminal defense case. He helped me negotiate an outstanding offer with the prosecutor where I did not have to do jail time. He was always very prompt about returning my emails with questions and concerns, and even spoke to me once during his lunch hour.
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09 May, 2019 by Bruce
Mr. Smith is a hard working advocate for when you need a good defense. I contacted him after I was charged with two class A felonies, from jail, and after speaking to him retained him.
Through diligent work on discovery and his experience with the local situation in Yakima County he was able to convince the prosecutor to dismiss both charges.
But what really impressed me was that he refunded 75% of the money I paid him for a retainer when the charges were dismissed. I've dealt with a lot of attorneys over the years, and this last action impressed me. He could have easily kept the money and I wouldn't have said a thing. His professional ethics are unmatched.
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26 May, 2017 by Anonymous
Great guy n Attorney not like many Attorney around the area and say there going to help u and get this n that all lies,they tell u what u want to hear,John was different he tells you whats going to happen n he fights for whats rite n fare!!!Thanks John
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27 Feb, 2023 by Jazmin rials
My name is Jazmin R. I worked with Lauren on two different legal cases I had this year 2022 and years past 2017. Let me first start by saying I also have hired two Yakima family law attorneys with more experience before Lauren, and they did not fight my case like Lauren did. Don't assume a more experience attorney will fight your case. Lauren actually listened to me, prepared my case with sound judgment and won my case both times.
I respect that she did not judge my situation she was honest and focused on the facts to win my case. I would highly recommend her to anyone who is needing a family attorney to represent your case. You will not be disappointed.
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13 Sep, 2024 by Mason koch
22 Jun, 2024 by Rita alvarado
29 May, 2024 by Stephanie johnson
Richard is an excellent attorney. One thing I loved about working with him is that he always answered my calls, or returned them quickly. Top notch representation. Highly recommend!
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09 Apr, 2018 by Dennis
I was given his name after looking up workers comp. attorneys on the AVVO website. Unfortunately he doesn't handle workers comp. He was professional sounding and even made a helpful suggestion, even though I could not hire him. Thanks Bryan.
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27 Feb, 2015 by Michael
July 13th 2013 I was run over riding my Harley motorcycle. I went online to Tamaki Law the night I came home from the hospital to request a consultation and Bryan came out to my house to see me the next morning. My injury was severe. A trauma fracture of my left leg, requiring a metal rod screwed into my leg bone. That left me unable to walk on my own for almost a year. I had just started a new job with new insurance. Bryan protected me from creditors, helped keep my job and encouraged my own insurance company to stand up and take care of me while I was out of work for 13 weeks. This was the 1st time I had to have legal representation. I knew I needed it due to the seriousness of my accident. My family and I went through the toughest time in our history. The good thing is that we had Bryan to help us navigate through this ordeal. He put up with my ranting, frustrations and anger. All with personable and professional counsel.
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16 Jan, 2014 by Jason
Bryan was a fantastic attorney to work with. I had been involved in an automobile accident and had tried to handle everything by myself for the first couple of years. When things started to get complicated, I contacted Mr. Smith, because I had heard such fantastic things about him. They were all true. Bryan came into a situation that I had compromised on many different levels trying to handle it myself and was able to clean up my mess, get everything on track, handled everything in a very timely manner and got me a fantastic settlement that I never would have gotten by myself. Down to earth, normal guy that you can feel very comfortable speaking with. The epitome of professionalism and dedication to his clients.
You can't do any better that Mr. Bryan Smith
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09 May, 2018 by Allen
I have a paralegal degree and needed an attorney who understood the complications of being a grandparent and who sided with the ex-son-in-law against my daughter. Maggie handled the case with extreme professionalism and achieved the desired outcome of a very difficult time and situation. Ex-son-in-law was able to solidify his situation and prevent his daughter and our granddaughter from further mental abuse caused by my daughter and her recent boyfriend. Been around attorney's for a good share of my life and have to say Maggie was within the top one or two that was fully competent, understood the facts and dilemma that we faced and was able to achieve our desired goals. I would not hesitate to recommend her to anyone and I am saddened to see her move to the other side of the mountains (to be closer to family!). Good luck in the future and never hesitate to call or get in touch with me if you ever need anything, Allen
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08 May, 2018 by Ryan
Maggie helped me fight to protect my daughter. She was honest, professional, knowledgeable and sincere. She helped me through a time in my life deal with something extremely tough. I was never blindsided by anything as Maggie was on top of everything. She the best and I’d recommend her to anyone!!!
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10 Mar, 2018 by Mike
I went to seek help to gain custody of my daughter. Being let down so many times in the past, I wasn’t very confident going in, but after meeting Maggie I felt as though I actually had a chance of winning. Not only was she easy to talk to, but she was extremely professional. She guided me along the way explaining all aspects of the legal jargon I didn’t understand. She is not only a great lawyer, but is a wonderful person to work with. Thank you for all your help! Highly recommended.
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20 May, 2024 by Irene smith
Attorney Emily Schwab and her staff really care about families. Their office has supported the students at K8 Virtual in their school progress by making donations to charities on their behalf when they show success in their school efforts. They help kids be motivated to learn. They are professional and caring!
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15 May, 2024 by Lisa saxey
Emily Schwab is on her game! Don’t hesitate to hire her!!
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04 Apr, 2024 by Steve salinas
Emily saved my life, my children’s life very dramatic divorce. Emily came and help me get back on my feet. Thank you Emily from the Salinas family.
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12 Jul, 2024 by Jeremy bookout-noel
Mr.kimel was very professional and great to work with
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12 Jul, 2024 by Sue karstetter
My situation is settled. The Kimel Law Office staff were amazing with support and encouragement during this unpleasant process. Met and Cynthia were understanding and lead me through the process surefootedly. If you need a lawyer for a possible bankruptcy you will be in good care with the Kimel team. SK
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12 Jul, 2024 by Bertha walle
I had a great experience with Mr kimel and stuff I felt comfortable they really know what there doing I totally recommend them thank you so much for you’re help I’m ready to start again.
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18 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
Doesn’t communicate, unorganized, has no clue what he’s doing. I would run! Hire someone else. Cost me way too much money for 0 results. I had to start all over with a new attorney and now it’s more time away from my child because of his negligence, and more money!
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12 Feb, 2024 by Adrea
I had a very big problem finding a lawyer in town that would take my case due to who I was up against! I had called 12 that once I got into my story and what was going on they said they didn’t want a part of it. When I went in for my consultation with Adam, I was immediately put at ease. He said that he would not only take my case but that he wasn’t afraid of anyone!! Not to drag this out but Adam and his entire team did such an excellent job with helping through the whole process. This was a first for me and they kept my anxiety at bay! I would recommend Adam and his law firm to anyone who’s looking for a fabulous attorney! He’s excellent and treats you with respect!! I will hire him again if ever needed and have recommended him to several friends!! Thank you!!
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12 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
Adam helped my sister, Adrea, when she was caught in a difficult and scary situation regarding her well being. Adam took time to look at an extremely large amount of information and evidence to give my sister the best chance in court. He is professional, well educated, and conducts himself as someone you would want on your side of the courtroom. I highly recommend him.
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29 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
Spews lies against one parent even with proof. States I am coaching kids which is a lie and have only pushed them to talk kindly and positive about the other parent.
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16 Feb, 2018 by Venesa dixon
Back in 2009 she was my lawyer fighting against my dad on abuse he had done to me for years. I wasn’t in any way able to love with my mother but that’s who I chose I wanted to live. Not only did Sidney make this happen but she was by my side eveday and I couldn’t be more pleased with her. She’s an amazing lawyer. I will always love her to pieces.
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15 May, 2015 by Anonymous
I hired Sidney in 2014 to help me with a messy parenting plan. The amount of time and consideration she put into my case was extensive but she never complained. I will never forget the day she called me on a Sunday to see if the visit went as planned, she truly cares about her clients! She also won me the right to continue to take my son to church every Sunday, that's. It something that happens often in the court room but she made it happen. If you want a lawyer who cares about you and your case, Sidney Dolquist is your lady.
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15 Dec, 2016 by Anonymous
We have hired Cathy Lighty twice for child support modifications, we have been very pleased each time with her services.
She is straight to the point and gets things done ASAP
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07 Oct, 2015 by Victor
I had my divorce back in 2009. Catherine did help ( or should I say Shannon since I never really had any contact with Catherine). I already had the child support thing figured out and the amount i had to pay was already done. So what does my own attorney go and do?? She, for some reason that i still dont understand, re-did the papers up and said that I had to pay more! I told her its already done and filed in court why would I want to pay more?! Basically i was paying her to do research on how I could pay more on a case that was already one sided with the state of course favoring women in most cases. It was a very frustrating time and she did not make it any easier. She did not have any good thoughts or good info that would help me in my case ( parenting plan). The day that we were in court and everything was settled and i did not get the outcome I was looking for she gave some half ass comment about why the judge should consider it again. I guess that kind of summs up the whole experience: "half ass" everything. I was young and inexperienced as far as a divorce goes and I dont feel like she took just a bit of time to let me know the possibilities of what we we're doing. Shannon was her assistant and she was actually very helpfull. I think she is no longer there, hopefully on to bigger and better things. The only positive thing that Catherine did for me is cut me a break on my retainer. Probably felt guilty for taking my money and not doing much with my case. Im not out to "trash" anybody. Im sure if Catherine wanted to, she probably could've done a good job but she lacked effort. So I'm writting this review just to let people know to please pay close attention to the attorney they hire and make sure that they are attentive and have your well being and your family's well being in mind.
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27 Aug, 2010 by Anonymous
The initial estimate for our case was far lower than the actual costs. We had to call her office many times to find out the status of our case. We did not feel as though she was OUR advocate, as much as she was a "fellow" lawyer with opposing counsel.
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15 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
Blaine uses his years of valuable experience to give you the best representation possible. Hard-working and gets the job done right.
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25 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
It takes a certain amount of effort to be this bad of an attorney. Blaine Connaughton lost a custody battle to a documented child abuser fresh out of a mental institution who was represented by a guy who eventually lost his law license. You have got to be some kind of a pathetic attorney to do that. Zero stars.
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21 May, 2019 by Anonymous
Blaine has been my attorney since 2014, i have referred him to many many people and by personal experience is the reason I still my family together, i have him and his office to thank for fighting for me, my rights, my children, he helped me with divorce/child support modification/parenting plan modification. He is the one to hire if your seeking justice and need to know your legal rights.
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10 Aug, 2018 by Anonymous
i payed him 2000 dollars and only was able to meet with him once to discuss my case and the deal he wanted me to take was worse than the dealmy public defender was offering me, before i hired him and the case was a cake walk for any defense there was literally no crime committed and video evidence to prove it.
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11 Aug, 2017 by Larry
I like his holistic approach. He consided angles on my case that other attorneys didn't and were very effective. He comes off a little rude at first and asks blunt questions but it's a direct and effective way of gathering all the relevant info he can to get the best possible outcome.
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02 May, 2017 by Anonymous
Well the initial consultation was iffy, he really didnt discuss the charges nor looked at the possible sentence i was going to get based on my background, he is quite rude and blunt
But i hired him anyways, he is really hard to get a hold of and doesnt communicate properly through text or phone calls.
Doesnt call back when i leave a message takes more than 2 days to reply.
When i looked at his cases online, they are very different from what he recommended for pleading guilty he gave me 3 days in jail off of a 361 suspended sentence and also based on the type of background i had in coorelation to the charge i was getting i was very suprised.
Its kinda of funny he has a habit recommending deferred type sentences.
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11 May, 2021 by Anonymous
Thank you Raymond! You helped me during the hardest time in my life and you always gave me full attention and kept all of the information regarding my case organized and in view.
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16 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
I hired this man to represent me and he was very incompetent
Lost much of my information I gave home
Didn’t even respond to contempt’s on my behalf
I fired him and hired a real attorney
I’m still paying for his lack
Oh yes he still charge me full price
Don’t hire him!!!!!!
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20 Jul, 2019 by Anonymous
Shawn seemed appalled by the fact my divorce hadn’t been finalized via my ex’s attorney, telling me I had an open & shut case during my consultation. I was unfortunately fooled by these very promising words. Multiple times I heard my divorce would be finalized in “no time”; these were All LIES!! I lost thousands listening to his “professional” advice which was worthless! It’s very Sad that I had to go behind his (my hired divorce attorneys’s) back in order to actually get my marriage dissolved, avoiding paying out thousands more had I gone through his suggested mediation. His office assistant was no better to deal with than he was, she was rude at best.
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04 Feb, 2019 by Anonymous
Shawn not only knows family law, but he was realistic with me about my options when he was helping me draft divorce and parenting plan papers. No doubt he could have fought (and won) a nasty court battle if I wanted to go that route, but he did an outstanding job of negotiating and navigating me through the more fair and "friendly" (ok...maybe just fair!) divorce I was wanting.
(on a side note, use your OWN judgement when hiring a lawyer and do a consultation with more than one! I see a lot of poor reviews for lawyers that have excellent reputations around town and favorable case outcomes. Look at reviews, but also take them with a grain of sale. Remember family court is a highly emotional place, which can lead to "losing" parties lashing out in online reviews about attorneys/judges/etc without disclosing the entire story. Just my two cents)
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06 Apr, 2016 by Doug
Didn't do a damn thing for me but tell me how the judge raked me over the coals at a hearing about child support and other financial matters. He sure loved to stand there with none a word and no defense whatsoever. I'm still going through a dissolution with NO advice from him. Hired a much better attorney is town. Shawn seemed like this was an open and shut case and tested his theories in court. I lost thousands listening to his professional advice.
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04 Feb, 2019 by Anonymous
Be forewarned, Amy charges a high retainer that is also 100% NON-REFUNDABLE. Not only was she never in her office, she never does client consultations before trials. Clients are left to have all their questions answered by her para-legal or the receptionist (who has no legal certifications of any sort yet bills her time at a higher rate than the para-legal at the office I switched to!). Not only was my case constantly going before a judge for outlandish claims by my ex, but Amy would show up absolutely clueless about the details of my case leaving me wondering if she had even read my declarations before she went to court (again, she only spoke to me directly 2-3 times the entire time she worked for me!). She didn't seem to know the case or the law when she spoke in court and not surprisingly I lost several cases even though she had evidence IN HAND that disproved my ex's claims. Then after actually reading the entire case IN court and losing, she would file a motion to have the case reviewed by another judge...which meant she billed be a second time for paperwork, hours and who knows what else only to end with the same outcome. I spoke with several other lawyers and learned that these "appeals" are extremely rare to do, let alone win. I immediately switched to a new lawyer and asked for the remaining funds of my retainer back and was denied. Since firing her I have heard several horror stories from others that were unlucky enough to retain her. Honestly, I think she needs to be investigated by the Bar Association for fraud and negligence of duty. I'm just glad I got a different attorney before my final trial and was able to get a fair and reasonable outcome. Just wish I didn't have to waste over $12k on my first lawyer for nothing.
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What a Family Law Lawyer Can Do for You
A family law lawyer provides legal services related to family relationships, including marriage, divorce, child custody, and adoption. Family lawyers help clients navigate emotionally charged legal issues, providing guidance and representation in disputes that affect spouses, children, and parents. Whether you're going through a divorce, seeking custody of your children, or drafting a prenuptial agreement, a family law lawyer ensures your rights are protected and your interests are represented.
Family law attorneys often handle sensitive matters and offer objective legal advice, helping clients reach fair outcomes either through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.
When Should I Hire a Family Law Lawyer?
Hiring a family law lawyer is beneficial in several situations, especially when legal matters involve close personal relationships. Common reasons to hire a family law lawyer include:
- Divorce or separation: When ending a marriage, a lawyer can help you navigate issues such as division of assets, spousal support, and child custody arrangements.
- Child custody and visitation disputes: If you and your co-parent can't agree on custody or visitation, a lawyer can represent your interests and work toward a solution that benefits your children.
- Child support: Whether you’re seeking child support or defending against a claim, a lawyer can help ensure the appropriate amount is calculated and enforced.
- Prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: A lawyer can help draft or review agreements that protect your assets in case of divorce.
- Adoption: Family law lawyers guide you through the legal process of adoption, ensuring that all requirements are met.
- Domestic violence or restraining orders: If you're a victim of domestic violence or being falsely accused, a lawyer can help you obtain or challenge protective orders.
- Paternity cases: If there are questions about the paternity of a child, a lawyer can help establish or dispute legal fatherhood.
Hiring a lawyer early can prevent issues from escalating, and they can offer you the best chance of achieving a favorable outcome in emotionally charged situations.
What Does a Family Law Lawyer Do?
A family law lawyer provides a wide range of services depending on your specific legal needs. Their responsibilities may include:
- Advising on legal rights and options: Helping you understand your legal rights regarding divorce, child custody, support, and other family law issues.
- Filing legal documents: Drafting and filing petitions, motions, and agreements with the court, such as divorce papers, custody agreements, or support orders.
- Representing clients in court: Arguing your case in front of a judge if a settlement can’t be reached through negotiation or mediation.
- Mediation and negotiation: Assisting with alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, to reach agreements on issues like custody, property division, and support without going to trial.
- Enforcing court orders: Helping you enforce court orders related to child support, alimony, or custody if the other party fails to comply.
- Drafting prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: Creating agreements that protect your assets in the event of a divorce.
- Handling adoption proceedings: Ensuring that the legal process of adoption is followed, from filing paperwork to finalizing the adoption in court.
How Are Family Law Lawyers Paid?
Family law lawyers typically charge clients in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Common payment arrangements include:
- Hourly rates: Most family lawyers charge by the hour, with rates varying based on experience and location. Clients are billed for the time spent working on their case, including consultations, court appearances, and document preparation.
- Flat fees: For more straightforward legal services, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, some lawyers offer flat-fee arrangements.
- Retainer fees: In cases that are expected to require significant time and attention, such as contentious custody battles, a lawyer may charge a retainer, which is an upfront payment that covers the initial costs of legal services. The lawyer then bills against the retainer as they work on your case.
The exact cost will depend on the complexity of your case and the lawyer’s fee structure, which should be discussed upfront.
How Much Does a Family Law Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a family law lawyer varies based on factors such as the lawyer's experience, the location, and the complexity of your case. Here are some general cost guidelines:
- Hourly rates: Family law lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour, depending on their experience and the complexity of the case.
- Flat fees: For simpler cases, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, fees may range from $1,000 to $5,000.
- Retainers: For more complex matters, such as contested divorces or custody battles, lawyers may charge a retainer ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 or more. The lawyer will bill against the retainer for the work they do on your case.
- Additional costs: You may also be responsible for additional costs, such as filing fees, mediation fees, or expert witness fees.
Always ask for a clear breakdown of the lawyer’s fees and any additional expenses during your consultation.
Top Questions to Ask a Family Law Lawyer
Before hiring a family law lawyer, it's important to ask questions to ensure they're the right fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:
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What experience do you have with family law cases like mine?
Make sure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it's a contested divorce, child custody dispute, or adoption. -
How will you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, a flat fee, or requires a retainer. Ask for an estimate of the total costs involved. -
What are the possible outcomes of my case?
An experienced lawyer should be able to give you a general idea of what to expect based on the facts of your case. -
What is your approach to resolving disputes?
Ask whether the lawyer tends to favor negotiation and mediation or whether they prefer to take cases to court. This can help you determine if their style matches your goals. -
How long do you expect my case to take?
While it’s difficult to predict, the lawyer should give you an estimate based on similar cases. -
Who will be handling my case?
In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may do much of the work, so make sure you understand who will be your main point of contact.
How to Check the Credibility of a Family Law Lawyer
To ensure you're hiring a reputable family law lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and reputation:
- Check state bar association records: Verify that the lawyer is licensed to practice in your state and is in good standing with no disciplinary actions.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on websites like Avvo, Google, or Martindale-Hubbell. Previous clients can give you insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and success in family law cases.
- Request references: Ask the lawyer for references from past clients who can speak to their experience with the lawyer.
- Review their website or professional profile: Look at the lawyer’s background, case history, and areas of focus to ensure they have substantial experience in family law.
- Look for professional memberships: Membership in reputable organizations, such as the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), can indicate a lawyer's expertise and dedication to family law.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a family law lawyer, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what you should bring:
- Relevant documents: Bring any documents related to your case, such as marriage certificates, prenuptial agreements, financial records, custody agreements, or court orders.
- List of assets and debts: For divorce cases, prepare a detailed list of all assets (e.g., homes, bank accounts, retirement funds) and debts (e.g., mortgages, loans, credit card balances).
- Details of the family issue: Provide a written summary of the situation, including key dates and facts related to your divorce, custody dispute, or support issue.
- Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions you have about the legal process, costs, and potential outcomes.
- Your goals: Be prepared to discuss your objectives, such as custody arrangements, property division, or spousal support, so the lawyer understands your priorities.
Being organized and clear about your situation will help the lawyer evaluate your case more effectively and offer the best advice for moving forward.
