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27 Jan, 2021 by Jeannine
One time in my life, I hired a lawyer for a simple will to provide for my young children. Beyond that, in my 60 plus years, my experience with the law came from television. Then the carpet got pulled out from underneath me and I needed help. A good friend contacted Barbara Howard and I found myself living a life I never imagined or hope for. Barbara Howard could not have been a more perfect person to walk me through these unchartered waters. She tolerated my highly emotional adjustment to my new normal, all the while steering me forward. She spoke clearly and framed things in reality while making me feel hopeful about my future. I wanted her to take over my life and fix my problems and she wanted me to feel part of the process and a partner in my decisions. When it is imperative to trust someone, you want that someone to be Barbara Howard. She was the best parts of sage legal mind and kind and tolerant partner. She is brilliant and has a depth of experience and contacts you can't match any where. I was not the easiest person to work with, I was not happy with losing my life partner and watching my family unit reshape while facing retirement. I don't know if I could have come out the other side as intact with anyone else but Barbara. I don't miss the collaborative process of divorcing, but I will always miss a chance to connect with Barb and feel her strength and compassion. If you are reading this because you find yourself in a similar situation, God Bless you. Thanks, Barb, for telling me at the beginning I would make it through and guiding me there. I am all the better for knowing her.
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19 Jul, 2024 by Vlad shapiro
Mr Whittaker helped us with a difficult noise nuisance case. Very thorough and detail oriented. I would highly recommend.
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31 Jul, 2021 by E.m.i.
I came to Whittaker Law on a recommendation from a local LGBTQ network. I needed an attorney who had experience representing trans clients in wrongful termination and retaliation matters. Justin exceeded my expectations and I cannot recommend his services highly enough. Justin put an end to the retaliation, and helped me reclaim wages owed. You should contact Justin for your legal matter.
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14 Jan, 2025 by Alex campbell
02 Jan, 2025 by Vicki watts
18 Nov, 2024 by Jennie fox
I am beyond pleased with Mr. Kapor and his paralegal Kaitlyn! Without them, I don't know if I could have won my SSDI case. They truly know the ins and outs of the SSA system and their experience shows. David prepped me for my hearing and made the process very smooth. Kaitlyn helped ensure all the correct paperwork was went sent in and helped to answer any questions I had. All this to say, you will be in great hands. Thank you so much David and Kaitlyn!!!
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04 Feb, 2025 by Brenda alderfer
They have been real awesome about responding back to me whenever I have sent them any and all messages!!! I really appreciate the quick response back to me!!!
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03 Feb, 2025 by Cindy bailey
22 Jan, 2025 by Keith holtel
Although we are still going through the case, Alex and his team have been very formative and thorough about the whole process. I feel very confident that the outcome will be a positive one
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13 Nov, 2024 by Brian feightner
“I had a fantastic experience working with Arthur Southard. He is extremely professional and incredibly knowledgeable, which made a noticeable difference in how smoothly everything went. His attention to detail was exceptional.
I was especially impressed with the speed and ease with which he handled my case—everything was completed faster than I expected, with no issues along the way. Arthur listened to my concerns and He gave clear and helpful guidance.It made a complex situation feel manageable. I’m very happy with the results, and I highly recommend him to anyone in need of expert legal support.”
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04 Sep, 2024 by Beth trigg
As a mother of an incarcerated son who was told one sentence, then given another a week later which was an additional 2 yrs. I felt I was given advice to call other county bar associations . This was not what I was in need of. I have contributed thousands of dollars for his defense. This was a Bait and Switch scenario, other attorneys are not going to go against other attorneys, rosecutor or in this case, even the Judge. Who advocates for the incarcerated then>
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17 Jun, 2024 by Amy guenther
You guys were very professional and helped me out so much I could never thank you guys enough
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03 Jul, 2023 by Ramona
We (husband and I) have known Dwayne and his family growing up! He was my dad’s attorney, helped me and my siblings with closing the estate after his passing! He helped my husband and I to negotiate and buy out my siblings so we could keep my parents property in the family. There to complete our wills/trust and much more. Dwayne is honest, stays on the task at hand until finished and always keeping you informed! A great friend and a super, outstanding lawyer that I would recommend to anyone.
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02 Jun, 2016 by Anonymous
I've know Mr sims most of my life (27 years). he represented my mom, myself, and younger brother and saved our lives from my abusive father when Indiana courts wouldn't help us. he saved me again after I left my ex and helped me get a restarting order. now he is helping me again in dealing with my ex and I wouldn't trust anyone else but him. he's very good at what he does and explains every step. I have referred many of my friends to him and they all love him very much.
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04 Feb, 2016 by Frederick
I hired Victor for my divorce. It was a long process with many fights with my ex wife who was the main provider for the family. I remember the first negotiation with my ex and her lawyer. Victor did not say much ,he knew nothing positive could come out. One week after when he finished to review my ex financial information he sent a mail to her lawyer asking embarrassing questions about financial transactions my ex did . Since she got heavy pressure until final court date. Then she propose a reasonable deal.
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04 Jan, 2025 by Mike shanks
Thank you so much for your help. To help me get my life back on track. And Especially to Rebecca Linder.
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04 Nov, 2024 by Cynthia sturm
I owe everything to Godbey Law! Ed Vardiman and his team are outstanding in what they do, they go above and beyond for their clients. After a long fight, I can finally say that my daughters are safe and out of harms way. Thanks to their hard efforts in this case! I would highly recommend this law firm to anybody! I am grateful for everything they have done!
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23 Sep, 2024 by Noah abner
Edwin Vardiman Jr. Was my lawyer and he screwed me over. Only after money and not actually trying to help you. Just pushed through the case until it was over and he could be done with it. Even went as far as giving me misinformed advice so the case would be over quicker. Would not recommend this firm to anyone but my enemy.
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25 Feb, 2025 by Alpha wolf express
25 Feb, 2025 by Willi lempert
Darrin is fantastic. Capable, kind, and honest. Highly recommended.
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10 Jan, 2025 by Marcus callahan
My fiancé and I originally contacted an attorney in Cincinnati to help with our K1 Visa process, however he seemed a bit…busy? Anyway, after the initial phone conversation and odd feeling, we were lucky enough to find Neil Fleischer.
Neil was there EVERY step of the way, walking us through every aspect with respect, politeness, and a TRUE sense of caring! My (now wife) and I are truly blessed to have worked with him and were married earlier this year.
I can’t speak highly enough of Neil and his team. He always responded right away, was there for a phone call if I was confused about anything, and is a great human being. We are now working with him for my wife’s change of status paperwork.
You won’t find a more kind, caring, and knowledgeable attorney for immigration! I guarantee it! I HIGHLY HIGHLY recommend him and his team, and my wife and I are forever in his debt. Thank you so much!!!!
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25 Feb, 2025 by Alpha wolf express
25 Feb, 2025 by Willi lempert
Darrin is fantastic. Capable, kind, and honest. Highly recommended.
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10 Jan, 2025 by Marcus callahan
My fiancé and I originally contacted an attorney in Cincinnati to help with our K1 Visa process, however he seemed a bit…busy? Anyway, after the initial phone conversation and odd feeling, we were lucky enough to find Neil Fleischer.
Neil was there EVERY step of the way, walking us through every aspect with respect, politeness, and a TRUE sense of caring! My (now wife) and I are truly blessed to have worked with him and were married earlier this year.
I can’t speak highly enough of Neil and his team. He always responded right away, was there for a phone call if I was confused about anything, and is a great human being. We are now working with him for my wife’s change of status paperwork.
You won’t find a more kind, caring, and knowledgeable attorney for immigration! I guarantee it! I HIGHLY HIGHLY recommend him and his team, and my wife and I are forever in his debt. Thank you so much!!!!
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25 Feb, 2025 by Alpha wolf express
25 Feb, 2025 by Willi lempert
Darrin is fantastic. Capable, kind, and honest. Highly recommended.
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10 Jan, 2025 by Marcus callahan
My fiancé and I originally contacted an attorney in Cincinnati to help with our K1 Visa process, however he seemed a bit…busy? Anyway, after the initial phone conversation and odd feeling, we were lucky enough to find Neil Fleischer.
Neil was there EVERY step of the way, walking us through every aspect with respect, politeness, and a TRUE sense of caring! My (now wife) and I are truly blessed to have worked with him and were married earlier this year.
I can’t speak highly enough of Neil and his team. He always responded right away, was there for a phone call if I was confused about anything, and is a great human being. We are now working with him for my wife’s change of status paperwork.
You won’t find a more kind, caring, and knowledgeable attorney for immigration! I guarantee it! I HIGHLY HIGHLY recommend him and his team, and my wife and I are forever in his debt. Thank you so much!!!!
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07 Dec, 2024 by Jai eberhart
I had a great experience working with Brad and the Gibson law firm. He and his assistant took the time and really listened and fought for what I felt was discrimination. I had a positive outcome and would highly recommend anyone to looking for an employment attorney to Gibson Law.
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06 Dec, 2024 by Peter storz
Brad was awesome to work with. He was straight up with me. Very knowledgeable Stayed in touch with me the whole way!! Which wasn’t very long I must say. If I ever have an issue with being treated unethically or unlawfully by an employer again, Brad is the guy, I’m gonna call. His fees were reasonable as well. It didn’t cost me a dime to retain him, he made sure I was taken care of before he got his which I thought was pretty cool!!! He was prepared to seriously go to war for me. I needed that at that time of my life. It felt like the world was against me, Brad was in my corner. I’ll never forget that.
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26 Nov, 2024 by Shayla o'connor
I seen others give a bad review for the same reason I’m about to. I wanted to know I wasn’t the only one. I received an email that they could not take my case so I called only to find out why, out of curiosity since two other law firms considered taking my case. The receptionist was nice and professional but was irritating dancing around the fact that the lawyers are busy and would call me back if they could. I had to keep reiterating how important it was for me to speak with a lawyer and that I needed a better response than maybe they might get back to me. She finally placed me on hold and came back on the phone to say that the lawyers chose not to take my case because of certain reasons. I still got no real reason and instead of a lawyer speaking to me they had the receptionist do the dirty work relaying brain dead information that could not help me. One day I could have a case you could make a lot money from but I wouldn’t even blink twice your way. If you want to make this right, respond with an answer by email. Dont make more excuses, wasting time responding that you can’t share information on this forum because that’s not what I expect.
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30 Jan, 2025 by Holly leo
David Blessing is truly an amazing human. He has went above and beyond and is in this profession for all of the right reasons. Compassionate and empathetic. Never felt rushed when talking with him and he took the time to really make sure he understood all facets of what the issues were and to understand my position as well as how that translated into what legal options we had. I would HIGHLY recommend him. Truly a one of a kind.
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17 Dec, 2024 by Sarah peterson
11 Dec, 2024 by Cappy dick
Clyde Bennett is a absolute gem for legal representation in the Cincinnati, Ohio area. His knowledge and delivery of legal services is unmatched. I trust/recommend him to others as a first choice professional lawyer and will utilize his services again if needed, should he accept. He is a leader, well respected by judges and prosecutors throughout the system. When he enters the courtroom, "It's about business". I thank him humbly for his representation of my case.
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19 Dec, 2024 by Chris smith
Shane got a felony dropped to a misdemeanor for me and got me off with no probation, no jail time, just a fine. He drove all the way to wayne county ohio just for my case. He's worth every single penny. Then one of his partners took my girlfriends misdemeanor case and got her to a payout ticket. Theur communication is incredible. These people really care about you. They take time to learn who you are as a person, and do not judge you by your mistakes. HIGHLY recommended.
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25 Nov, 2024 by Jeffrey jenkins
Pleaded into the decision I didn't want. I asked 5 times before are you sure and told me yes. Then got hostle towards me when I called out his mistake. Told me that's why you hire a lawyer. Well he was wrong now I'm just stuck with the consequence. Please avoid Bruce at all cost.
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18 Nov, 2024 by Tamara gray
Shane and his team are nothing short of amazing! I thank you all so much for everything you've done to make this case a successful outcome for us. This was such a stressful process but your confidence, knowledge, transparency and efficiency gave me reassurance that everything was going to be fine. Even meeting you in person was pleasantly enjoyable and delightful. Take care!
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30 Jan, 2025 by Holly leo
David Blessing is truly an amazing human. He has went above and beyond and is in this profession for all of the right reasons. Compassionate and empathetic. Never felt rushed when talking with him and he took the time to really make sure he understood all facets of what the issues were and to understand my position as well as how that translated into what legal options we had. I would HIGHLY recommend him. Truly a one of a kind.
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17 Dec, 2024 by Sarah peterson
11 Dec, 2024 by Cappy dick
Clyde Bennett is a absolute gem for legal representation in the Cincinnati, Ohio area. His knowledge and delivery of legal services is unmatched. I trust/recommend him to others as a first choice professional lawyer and will utilize his services again if needed, should he accept. He is a leader, well respected by judges and prosecutors throughout the system. When he enters the courtroom, "It's about business". I thank him humbly for his representation of my case.
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18 May, 2024 by Colleen seta
27 Dec, 2023 by Gigi “gigi”
04 May, 2023 by Judy thomas
07 May, 2024 by Stan durst
18 May, 2023 by Aralynn c
Great customer service. They are all so sweet.
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02 Apr, 2023 by Jose tejeda
17 Sep, 2024 by Zachary stewart
GET THERE BEFORE 3:45pm OR GET A DOOR SLAMMED IN YOUR FACE.
I just had a terrible interaction with one of the clerks that works there that shut the door in my face, literally, I could have stuck my hand out to stop it, but I didn’t. So I knocked. I was informed they close at 3:45. “I don’t get paid after 4” is what she told me.
Their website says nothing about closing at 3:45pm. The person I talked to on the phone this morning said they’re open 8am - 4pm.
This has been a negative experience made especially awful thanks to an incredibly rude worker. I hope you can find better staff in the future.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Justin rose
08 Jul, 2024 by Denice west
17 Sep, 2024 by Zachary stewart
GET THERE BEFORE 3:45pm OR GET A DOOR SLAMMED IN YOUR FACE.
I just had a terrible interaction with one of the clerks that works there that shut the door in my face, literally, I could have stuck my hand out to stop it, but I didn’t. So I knocked. I was informed they close at 3:45. “I don’t get paid after 4” is what she told me.
Their website says nothing about closing at 3:45pm. The person I talked to on the phone this morning said they’re open 8am - 4pm.
This has been a negative experience made especially awful thanks to an incredibly rude worker. I hope you can find better staff in the future.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Justin rose
08 Jul, 2024 by Denice west
17 Sep, 2024 by Zachary stewart
GET THERE BEFORE 3:45pm OR GET A DOOR SLAMMED IN YOUR FACE.
I just had a terrible interaction with one of the clerks that works there that shut the door in my face, literally, I could have stuck my hand out to stop it, but I didn’t. So I knocked. I was informed they close at 3:45. “I don’t get paid after 4” is what she told me.
Their website says nothing about closing at 3:45pm. The person I talked to on the phone this morning said they’re open 8am - 4pm.
This has been a negative experience made especially awful thanks to an incredibly rude worker. I hope you can find better staff in the future.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Justin rose
08 Jul, 2024 by Denice west
17 Sep, 2024 by Zachary stewart
GET THERE BEFORE 3:45pm OR GET A DOOR SLAMMED IN YOUR FACE.
I just had a terrible interaction with one of the clerks that works there that shut the door in my face, literally, I could have stuck my hand out to stop it, but I didn’t. So I knocked. I was informed they close at 3:45. “I don’t get paid after 4” is what she told me.
Their website says nothing about closing at 3:45pm. The person I talked to on the phone this morning said they’re open 8am - 4pm.
This has been a negative experience made especially awful thanks to an incredibly rude worker. I hope you can find better staff in the future.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Justin rose
08 Jul, 2024 by Denice west
17 Sep, 2024 by Zachary stewart
GET THERE BEFORE 3:45pm OR GET A DOOR SLAMMED IN YOUR FACE.
I just had a terrible interaction with one of the clerks that works there that shut the door in my face, literally, I could have stuck my hand out to stop it, but I didn’t. So I knocked. I was informed they close at 3:45. “I don’t get paid after 4” is what she told me.
Their website says nothing about closing at 3:45pm. The person I talked to on the phone this morning said they’re open 8am - 4pm.
This has been a negative experience made especially awful thanks to an incredibly rude worker. I hope you can find better staff in the future.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Justin rose
08 Jul, 2024 by Denice west
17 Sep, 2024 by Zachary stewart
GET THERE BEFORE 3:45pm OR GET A DOOR SLAMMED IN YOUR FACE.
I just had a terrible interaction with one of the clerks that works there that shut the door in my face, literally, I could have stuck my hand out to stop it, but I didn’t. So I knocked. I was informed they close at 3:45. “I don’t get paid after 4” is what she told me.
Their website says nothing about closing at 3:45pm. The person I talked to on the phone this morning said they’re open 8am - 4pm.
This has been a negative experience made especially awful thanks to an incredibly rude worker. I hope you can find better staff in the future.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Justin rose
08 Jul, 2024 by Denice west
17 Sep, 2024 by Zachary stewart
GET THERE BEFORE 3:45pm OR GET A DOOR SLAMMED IN YOUR FACE.
I just had a terrible interaction with one of the clerks that works there that shut the door in my face, literally, I could have stuck my hand out to stop it, but I didn’t. So I knocked. I was informed they close at 3:45. “I don’t get paid after 4” is what she told me.
Their website says nothing about closing at 3:45pm. The person I talked to on the phone this morning said they’re open 8am - 4pm.
This has been a negative experience made especially awful thanks to an incredibly rude worker. I hope you can find better staff in the future.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Justin rose
08 Jul, 2024 by Denice west
17 Sep, 2024 by Zachary stewart
GET THERE BEFORE 3:45pm OR GET A DOOR SLAMMED IN YOUR FACE.
I just had a terrible interaction with one of the clerks that works there that shut the door in my face, literally, I could have stuck my hand out to stop it, but I didn’t. So I knocked. I was informed they close at 3:45. “I don’t get paid after 4” is what she told me.
Their website says nothing about closing at 3:45pm. The person I talked to on the phone this morning said they’re open 8am - 4pm.
This has been a negative experience made especially awful thanks to an incredibly rude worker. I hope you can find better staff in the future.
Read more
06 May, 2024 by Jazzmyne wesley
I just called to obtain information on how to get eloped and get a marriage license. When calling it rang about 20 times before she answered the phone and she was extremely rude and not helpful at all. She wouldn’t even let me get a word out and said they couldn’t help me with the marriage license application and i need to google who to call. wow extremely helpful right? I’m really disappointed. I read reviews before calling and hoped you guys would do better than that with your customer service. Extremely disappointed.
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29 Apr, 2024 by Carrie savage-zimmerman
I dreaded having to contact the Hamilton Co. Probate Court in Ohio to obtain a much-needed document. I had attempted the action some years ago when documents were still on microfiche, resulting in frustration and subsequently, my abandoning the action entirely.
However, I had no cause for such trepidation or concern when I contacted Judge Winkler’s court recently. First, requests were streamlined and online, user-friendly with easy-to-follow directions.
Second, earlier today—a MONDAY—I received the nicest, most customer-friendly phone call I have ever received from any government employee to clarify my email request. DONNA was polite, helpful, and an absolute godsend in assisting me in getting the correct document in the quickest way possible.
I do hope Judge Winkler appreciates this wonderful employee who went above and beyond to accommodate me, a complete stranger. Donna deserves an Atta-girl commendation of some sort to honor her exemplary service as the front-line representative of Judge Winkler’s office.
In an age of seemingly voiceless, faceless government and fears of AI takeover, the reassuring personal contact with Donna was gratefully appreciated by this customer.
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08 Sep, 2022 by Lynnette
Contacted Darlene about some urgent estate matters. She was very professional, understanding and helpful. Her work is thorough and precise. Takes the time to explain to you. Would hire again. Highly recommend
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20 Apr, 2015 by Rochelle
I spoke with Darlene briefly regarding the type of legal assistant that I needed. Although she was unable to assist me, she gave me names and numbers of lawyers that could.
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28 Jun, 2021 by Anonymous
This guy acted like he was in my side in the beginning when he got half his money as the case continued he was less concerned with me and ultimately told me to sign a 6 yr deal this guys is a traitor and works agains his clients I’d never recommend ok slick Hal
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04 May, 2020 by Millie
I have used hal more then once so had family and friends and always did a wonderful job
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24 Feb, 2021 by Lesley
This man has integrity. He has an unbelievable presence in the courtroom, (And I now understand how crucial this is.) He stands for justice. He is fair. And, Tim is an attorney that will FIGHT for you. I would pay this man his weight in gold because that is what he is in the courtroom: golden.
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21 Oct, 2020 by Zadok
He Fails to consider any of my evidence.
- Police reports of Defendant not following custody orders
- Medical Documentation of my child cause of autism by letting the mother vaccinate a 14 month old with 7 shots, 4 being multiple vaccination concoctions.
- Lied on me ( erratic behavior in court) to alienate me from my baby saying I need a psych eval before seeing him
I have many more abuses and corruption...
If you are a father STAY AWAY!!!!
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17 Jan, 2024 by Jimmi
I have to definitely agree with the last Guys review. Jeff is the most rudest unprofessional lawyer I've ever talked to. He downplays your intelligence and basically tells you to fall on the sword and take what the Court gives you it's pretty bad when you fire a free attorney. He's a public defender for a reason apparently because nobody in their right mind would pay to have this clown represent them. If I could give him a negative 10 I would. Run and run fast if the Court's appoint this guy to your case.
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24 Mar, 2023 by Steve horton
I just got off the phone with this lawyer, he really tries to downplay your intelligence, and education. He is also found to be very rude as well, if I could his ratings will be -5 for me. I also wouldn't be surprise that the two reviews he has on here are people he knows, and I will be filing a grievance against this lawyer on the Ohio board of professional conduct.
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01 Aug, 2017 by Samantha
I have personally used Jeff Cutcher at least 3 times, and I recommended his services to at least 3 other people, my mother being one of them. He has been nothing but professional with myself and my family. He has gotten the job done everytime! Not once have I felt like he could have done anything different. I now consider him a friend and I will use him in the future should the need ever arise.
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09 Jul, 2022 by The chas man (c)
Decent guys on a personal level, but this Review is about the Professional Legal Services that I paid for.
Pros: Aggressive in the first two days.
Cons: Lacks communication, Lacks follow through, Lacks Aggressive Representation, Lacks Thorough Legal Counsel, Uses Deceptive Tactics Against Their Own Clients (as I was "ambushed" in their office with video that actually helped my case)...
I was not impressed with the representation that I received from this firm. Although the attorney stated to me at the end, "You should have never have been charged", he did little to nothing in showing that in the Courtroom, to the Prosecutor, or even to the Judge. The attorney spent more time trying to convince me to plead "Guilty" without being able to show me what law I broke. As one attorney expressed to me that the Judge pointed out "Show me the Crime", and no one was able to.
In one breath the attorney stated "The Judge asked what Defense Strategy I planned on using, and when I told her, she shook her head No"... Two weeks later, I inquired about the Defense Strategy, and the attorney stated "The Judge has not rendered a decision on that."... There were several instances like this, but it is always excused away by "That must have been an misunderstanding or miscommunication."
In the Motion To Suppress Hearing, the attorney was told by the Judge, "The statute you used to justify the Request To Suppress actually supports your Motion to be Denied.". The attorney had no idea what he was doing.
I sent repeated emails, texts, and left messages. However, my correspondence was rarely returned, even though I paid the agreed retainer on time, in full, and was completed early. I received a return call after weeks of waiting. The call I received was from an attorney that wasn't involved in the case. The attorney apologized on behalf of the representing attorney for not receiving the "Aggressive" representation that I paid for.
It has been 120 days since the "Sentencing Hearing", and I still have not received the Judge's written details in the order she imposed. The "Sentencing" is 30 Days over, and still no communication from anyone in this firm.
Due to not getting the Order In Writing from the Judge, my career has been destroyed, my livelihood taken from me, and no word from anyone at this firm.
If you want to get "Hosed" in Court; hire this firm.
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05 Jul, 2021 by Jess
24 Jul, 2019 by Justin henry
Great lawyer
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Juvenile Law Lawyer Can Do for You
A juvenile law lawyer specializes in legal issues involving minors, including those facing criminal charges, child welfare matters, or status offenses (like truancy or curfew violations). Juvenile law lawyers aim to protect the rights of minors and advocate for rehabilitation rather than punishment in criminal cases. They also help families navigate child custody, abuse, neglect cases, and other legal matters involving children.
If your child is facing criminal charges, or you are involved in a child welfare case, a juvenile law lawyer can help protect your child’s rights and work toward the most favorable outcome.
When Should I Hire a Juvenile Law Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a juvenile law lawyer in the following situations where minors are involved in legal matters:
- Juvenile criminal charges: If your child is accused of a crime, such as theft, assault, or drug offenses, a juvenile lawyer can represent them in juvenile court, advocating for leniency and alternatives to detention.
- Delinquency proceedings: A lawyer can help navigate delinquency charges, defending your child’s rights and seeking rehabilitative outcomes like counseling, probation, or diversion programs instead of incarceration.
- Status offenses: If your child has committed a status offense, such as truancy, running away, or underage drinking, a lawyer can help you resolve these issues in juvenile court, often focusing on rehabilitation rather than punishment.
- School disciplinary issues: If your child is facing school suspensions, expulsions, or other disciplinary actions, a lawyer can help protect their educational rights and challenge any unfair or unlawful school policies.
- Child protective services (CPS) investigations: If your family is being investigated by CPS for alleged abuse, neglect, or dependency, a lawyer can represent you and protect your child’s rights throughout the investigation.
- Custody disputes: A lawyer can help in cases involving child custody or guardianship disputes, ensuring the child’s best interests are prioritized and advocating for the child’s rights.
- Emancipation: If your child seeks legal emancipation from their parents or guardians, a lawyer can assist in navigating the legal process and help the child understand their rights and responsibilities.
Hiring a lawyer early in the legal process ensures that your child’s rights are protected and that the best possible outcomes are pursued.
What Does a Juvenile Law Lawyer Do?
A juvenile law lawyer provides various services to help minors and their families navigate the legal system. Their responsibilities often include:
- Representing minors in court: A lawyer will represent your child in juvenile court, advocating for their rights and seeking rehabilitative outcomes rather than punitive measures.
- Filing motions and legal paperwork: The lawyer handles all necessary legal filings, including petitions, responses, and motions to dismiss charges or suppress evidence.
- Negotiating with prosecutors: In some cases, a lawyer can negotiate plea deals or diversion programs that prevent the child from having a permanent criminal record or serving time in detention.
- Advising on rehabilitation programs: Juvenile law lawyers often focus on alternatives to incarceration, such as counseling, community service, or probation, helping minors avoid long-term legal consequences.
- Handling CPS and child welfare cases: If your family is involved in a CPS investigation or child welfare case, the lawyer can advocate for your child’s safety and well-being, ensuring that their rights are upheld.
- Defending minors against school discipline: A lawyer can help challenge unfair or excessive disciplinary actions taken by schools, ensuring that your child’s educational rights are protected.
- Advising families on legal options: A lawyer will explain the juvenile legal process to families, offering advice on the best legal strategies and what to expect during the case.
How Are Juvenile Law Lawyers Paid?
Juvenile law lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the case and the time involved. Common payment structures include:
- Hourly rate: Many juvenile law lawyers charge by the hour, with rates ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and location.
- Flat fee: For simpler cases, such as status offenses or school disciplinary hearings, a lawyer may charge a flat fee that covers all legal services related to the case.
- Retainer: In more complex cases, such as defending against serious criminal charges or handling a long-term CPS investigation, a lawyer may require a retainer, which is an upfront payment billed against as they work on the case.
- Sliding scale or pro bono services: Some juvenile law lawyers offer sliding scale fees based on income or may provide pro bono (free) services for families who cannot afford to pay full legal fees, especially in cases involving child welfare or delinquency.
Discuss the lawyer’s fee structure during your consultation to understand the total cost and payment options.
How Much Does a Juvenile Law Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a juvenile law lawyer depends on the complexity of the case, the lawyer’s experience, and the time involved. General cost estimates include:
- Juvenile criminal cases: Legal fees for defending a minor in juvenile criminal cases can range from $2,000 to $10,000 or more, depending on the severity of the charges and whether the case goes to trial.
- Status offenses: For cases involving minor offenses such as truancy or underage drinking, legal fees typically range from $1,500 to $5,000.
- CPS or child welfare cases: Legal fees for representing families in CPS investigations or child welfare cases can range from $2,000 to $8,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the case.
- School disciplinary hearings: Legal fees for representing students in school-related issues may range from $1,000 to $3,500, depending on the legal work required.
Make sure to get a clear estimate of costs during your initial consultation to ensure you understand the full scope of fees and services.
Top Questions to Ask a Juvenile Law Lawyer
Before hiring a juvenile law lawyer, it’s important to ask key questions to ensure they have the experience and expertise to handle your child’s case effectively. Key questions to ask include:
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What experience do you have with juvenile law cases?
Make sure the lawyer has handled cases similar to yours, whether it’s juvenile delinquency, child custody, or CPS investigations. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, offers flat fees, or requires a retainer. Ask for a detailed estimate of the total cost. -
What is the likelihood of success in my child’s case?
Ask the lawyer for an honest assessment of the case, including potential challenges and likely outcomes. -
How long will the process take?
Juvenile cases can vary in duration, so ask the lawyer how long they expect the process to last and what factors might affect the timeline. -
Will you personally handle my child’s case?
In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may handle parts of the case. Make sure you know who will be managing the case and representing your child in court. -
What rights does my child have?
Ask the lawyer to explain your child’s legal rights, including their rights during police questioning, school disciplinary actions, and court proceedings.
How to Check the Credibility of a Juvenile Law Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable juvenile law lawyer, take the following steps to verify their credentials and experience:
- Verify their bar status: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed to practice law and has no history of disciplinary actions.
- Look for juvenile law experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in juvenile law and have successfully handled cases similar to yours.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for client reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients have said about the lawyer’s professionalism and success rate in juvenile cases.
- Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have worked with them on juvenile law matters.
- Check for certifications or memberships: Look for memberships in organizations like the National Juvenile Defender Center (NJDC) or certifications in juvenile law, which can indicate a lawyer’s dedication to representing minors.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a juvenile law lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:
- Court documents: Bring any legal documents related to your child’s case, such as summons, complaints, or court orders.
- School records: Provide any relevant school records, including disciplinary reports, attendance records, and communications from school officials.
- CPS or investigation reports: If your case involves child welfare, bring any reports or documentation from CPS or other investigating agencies.
- Timeline of events: Prepare a detailed timeline of events related to your child’s legal issue, including interactions with authorities or school officials.
- Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions about the legal process, your child’s rights, and potential outcomes for the case.
Being well-prepared will help the lawyer assess your child’s situation more effectively and provide the best possible legal advice tailored to your needs.
