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13 Dec, 2024 by Derek mayokok
So this could go up to 5 Stars or down lower, it just all depends on the finished transactions between us all.. I will say so far I am very satisfied with the hard work they have been doing for us.. my lawyer is very kind and knowledgeable as well as her partners..
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05 Dec, 2024 by Leeja rein
My experience is great. Tamaki Law is out to help you in the worst experience that can happen to you and get you the best outcome.
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01 Oct, 2024 by Family fun
Le doy 5 estrellas a este maravilloso bufete de abogados tuve un accidente y no fue mi culpa ellos metieron mi caso con mi aseguradora y no tuve que preocuparme de nada ellos me consiguieron. Una gran recompensa por mi accidente y fueron muy atentos en mi caso y respondieron a todas mis dudas con amabilidad
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23 Jan, 2025 by Luis garcia
24 Dec, 2024 by Destiny roman
The best lawyers and they are understanding people and helpful always responding when i have a question and they got to me quick and if i need them again i will without hesitation ❤️😊
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14 Oct, 2024 by Amanda pantaleon
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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18 Sep, 2024 by Marcos milanez
Highly recommended Kelly Murray and her team. Excellent service thank you once again.
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04 Sep, 2024 by Tobias xbox
05 Dec, 2024 by Xenia hood
As busy as lawyers are, Don L. Schirm Jr. dropped everything and helped me with my case the same day I needed him. He cared about my needs and was there for me during stressful time and even calmed me down. I will always come back to him for all of my needs.
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26 Nov, 2024 by Cheri ballard
08 Nov, 2024 by Rachel guerra
Very amazing team. They work very hard to do their best. Very great team
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07 Nov, 2024 by Fernanda duran
Thanks to Yakima Law for being apart of my citizenship process. Jodi was amazing every step, always available and never made me feel bad for asking questions. I will recommend them to every one looking for great representation during an immigration case.
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10 Oct, 2024 by Edgar raudales solorzano
Gracias a Dios y con las abogadas, Jody y Claudia de Yakima Law, pudimos tener un buen resultado en nuestro proceso de inmigración. 100 x 100 recomendados!!!
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01 Jun, 2024 by Yanneiry saavedra
These firm embarrassed my mother and ruined her case. Her attorney's inability to do his duties resulted in her having to withdraw her case. This law firm is not something I would suggest. They are only trying to take your money and are quite reckless. The Washington State Bar Association should be notified about them.
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07 Nov, 2024 by Fernanda duran
Thanks to Yakima Law for being apart of my citizenship process. Jodi was amazing every step, always available and never made me feel bad for asking questions. I will recommend them to every one looking for great representation during an immigration case.
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10 Oct, 2024 by Edgar raudales solorzano
Gracias a Dios y con las abogadas, Jody y Claudia de Yakima Law, pudimos tener un buen resultado en nuestro proceso de inmigración. 100 x 100 recomendados!!!
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01 Jun, 2024 by Yanneiry saavedra
These firm embarrassed my mother and ruined her case. Her attorney's inability to do his duties resulted in her having to withdraw her case. This law firm is not something I would suggest. They are only trying to take your money and are quite reckless. The Washington State Bar Association should be notified about them.
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13 Dec, 2024 by Josue oseguera
I really recommend Savage law they are great people to work with and helped me so much with my case absolutely amazing staff thank you so much!
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09 Dec, 2024 by Charles hamil
I was glad that Amber was working at Savage Family Law she was great helping answer my questions through this long process. Tonilynn gave me the information I needed that helped me through this ordeal. Thank you, Amber and Tonilynn.
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09 Dec, 2024 by Dalton perry
I dreaded every step of this process but Amber was amazing in explaining everything for me. Toni Lynn and Amber always had mine and my child’s interest in mind every step of the way. I don’t recommend divorce but I would recommend them to anyone that needs help getting through it.
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07 Nov, 2024 by Fernanda duran
Thanks to Yakima Law for being apart of my citizenship process. Jodi was amazing every step, always available and never made me feel bad for asking questions. I will recommend them to every one looking for great representation during an immigration case.
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10 Oct, 2024 by Edgar raudales solorzano
Gracias a Dios y con las abogadas, Jody y Claudia de Yakima Law, pudimos tener un buen resultado en nuestro proceso de inmigración. 100 x 100 recomendados!!!
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01 Jun, 2024 by Yanneiry saavedra
These firm embarrassed my mother and ruined her case. Her attorney's inability to do his duties resulted in her having to withdraw her case. This law firm is not something I would suggest. They are only trying to take your money and are quite reckless. The Washington State Bar Association should be notified about them.
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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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26 Nov, 2024 by Jacobo rivera
Muy buen servicio me ayudo con muchas dudas que tenia muy profesional se las recomiendo
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22 Nov, 2024 by Esmeralda torres-lopez
Best firm in Yakima, I would Highly recommend. Karina was efficient and thorough with my case. They were consistent on following up and keeping me updated!
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12 Nov, 2024 by Douglas wood
Very helpful and professional is an understatement, would easily recommend the services here. Resolved a difficult situation with ease. Really couldn’t ask for better, thank you!!!😊
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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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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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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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05 Nov, 2024 by Noah cook
Went here for a Police polygraph, he was very fair and kind and made the process easy.
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27 Dec, 2022 by Eric geary (william e. lief)
Very knowledgeable, but seemed to lack humbleness and ability to clearly state accurate information during hearings. Words matter, especially during opening statements.
In my case, a misstatement of my current work location could have, or maybe it did, drastically impacted my equal parental sharing time. The petitioner was attempting to use my work location of overseas in Montenegro (extended/long term military orders) and the Ukraine/Russia war as a reasons for not returning with the children, or even allowing me to have the children overseas with me in the summers. Montenegro is a country quite a ways away from the conflict, so that shouldn’t even be a concern; that was until my attorney during opening statement said that I work in Moldovian (meaning: Moldova), which is a bordering country to Ukraine. And given that the judge was a prior military service member, it can be assumed he knows exactly where Moldova is; giving potential false credit to the Petitioners claim.
They also failed to correctly input data/numbers into our presented child support worksheet and it was discovered in the middle of the first hearing; causing me to be stuck with the petitioners data/numbers, which were inflated in her favour. Things went further downhill from there.
At the end of the day, I wrote a letter listing out the total inaccuracies and impacts. They responded with what I can only describe as a snubbing letter, explaining years of experience, and ultimately dropping me as a client. Which was fine as I had already been out hunting for a new lawyer, as I already intended to fire them.
Negative Outcomes: Unwilling to accept responsibility for mistakes made during court, overconfident, failed to take time to fully understand client and clients situation.
Positive Outcomes: Will let you know when I think of one.
*All information is available through public disclosure, as case records were not sealed. Court transcripts confirms events listed above.
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22 Nov, 2021 by Ardele w
Love the different pizzas. Friendly staff.
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26 Nov, 2024 by Jacobo rivera
Muy buen servicio me ayudo con muchas dudas que tenia muy profesional se las recomiendo
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22 Nov, 2024 by Esmeralda torres-lopez
Best firm in Yakima, I would Highly recommend. Karina was efficient and thorough with my case. They were consistent on following up and keeping me updated!
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12 Nov, 2024 by Douglas wood
Very helpful and professional is an understatement, would easily recommend the services here. Resolved a difficult situation with ease. Really couldn’t ask for better, thank you!!!😊
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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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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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03 Oct, 2024 by Kaitlyn
Was extremely patient with my case and completely understanding of the mess I was in! He tried his very best to help me with. I will recommend him to anyone that needs the help! I appreciate all the help he gave me!
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14 Oct, 2024 by Liceth fresneda
Muchas gracias a la abogada Emily, y a su asistente Janelle. Son muy profesionales en sus representaciones y son muy racionales con los cobros económicos por su trabajo. Si están buscando una abogada de Familia recomiendo sus servicios.
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11 Oct, 2024 by Ann marie andersen
Wow. Not only did I feel seen, heard and valued, but I felt respected and empowered. The legal system can often times make you feel very small and underprepared. I am so grateful for Emily and her team.
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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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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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18 Sep, 2024 by Marcos milanez
Highly recommended Kelly Murray and her team. Excellent service thank you once again.
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04 Sep, 2024 by Tobias xbox
26 Nov, 2024 by Jacobo rivera
Muy buen servicio me ayudo con muchas dudas que tenia muy profesional se las recomiendo
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22 Nov, 2024 by Esmeralda torres-lopez
Best firm in Yakima, I would Highly recommend. Karina was efficient and thorough with my case. They were consistent on following up and keeping me updated!
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12 Nov, 2024 by Douglas wood
Very helpful and professional is an understatement, would easily recommend the services here. Resolved a difficult situation with ease. Really couldn’t ask for better, thank you!!!😊
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13 Nov, 2024 by Deevonn arciga
Very professional very satisfied very much recommended
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13 Sep, 2024 by Mason koch
22 Jun, 2024 by Rita alvarado
03 Jan, 2025 by Becky gutheridge
04 Nov, 2024 by Marilyn nelson
Kimel Law was professional experience has been invaluable in explaining procedures and requirements, which are in-turn put me at ease. I would highly recommend their office for any issue concerning a bankruptcy. I cannot thank Mr. Kimel and his staff enough for their help in my case.
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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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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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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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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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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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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.
