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30 Reviews
27 Sep, 2024 by Mel
Nice place, however would not recommend Kourtney Simmons as a point of contact for an attorney. I experienced her as very quick tempered. Talks more than she listens and gets flustered easily during problem- solving - resolution tasks. I also don’t appreciate her openly discussing the matter in the lobby area of the firm instead of in her office when she got frustrated . Her voice began to rise first , and her facial expressions were flustered . Meaning, everyone in the office heard her and heard us . Not client confidential at all .
I believe if she could be more empathic in nature , and patient she could assist clients better with the needs of all parties involved , which could strengthen her reputation for the brand of this office .
Maybe it was due to her busy schedule so she wanted quick - cut - paid - deal when I finally got to see her, bringing my dad .
There was a misunderstanding - and instead of using critical thinking skills , to identify the root , she immediately jumped into defense .
I have an elderly father with 2 strokes, I already communicated that to her , a little slow in understanding , and she tried to spin my questions of clarity into coercion .
Other than that, I believe the staff are quite friendly and are awesome at following up and scheduling .
I hope in the future Kourtney can treat all of her clients with disabilities and non disabilities , black or white , young or old the same care as it’s given in previous reviews .
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27 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
My niece informed me of what happened in the office firm September 27,2024 and I was absolutely shocked and devastated that such behavior would come from a licensed attorney.
My niece is 27 years old, educated , articulate and understands ,comprehensively. She was trying to help on the behalf of my brother . Kortney Simmons did not lead by example per what was explained to me.
Definitely not a good representation of Casey & Simmons Law Firm . Threatening in tone , condescending to someone younger , cruel to someone with a disability and their ability to process information .
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26 Sep, 2024 by Melanie
Very nice firm, however would not recommend Kourtney Simmons as a point of contact for an attorney. I experienced her as very quick tempered. Talks more than she listens and gets flustered easily during problem- solving - resolution tasks. I also don’t appreciate her openly discussing the matter in the lobby area of the firm instead of in her office when she got frustrated . Her voice began to rise first , and her facial expressions were flustered . Meaning, everyone in the office heard her and heard us . Not client confidential at all .
I believe if she could be more empathic in nature , and patient she could assist clients better with the needs of all parties involved , which could strengthen her reputation for the brand of this office .
Maybe it was due to her busy schedule so she wanted quick - cut - paid - deal when I finally got to see her, bringing my dad .
There was a misunderstanding - and instead of using critical thinking skills to full assess the root needs and even misunderstandings , she immediately jumped into defense , but not in the best way .
I have an elderly father with 2 strokes, I already communicated that to her , a little slow in understanding , and she tried to spin my questions of clarity into coercion .
Other than that, I believe the staff are quite friendly and are awesome at following up and scheduling .
I hope in the future Kourtney can treat all of her clients with disabilities and non disabilities , black or white , young or old the same care as it’s given in previous reviews .
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16 Mar, 2014 by Anonymous
April worked with an organization I am closely involved with that assists families. She is extremely professional and genuinely cares about her clients. It is rare to see an attorney that is as aggressive but caring at the same time. I highly recommend hiring April for your family. She will take care of you!
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08 Feb, 2024 by Lucky mcluckerton
Lanis Karnes was hired by my ex wife and that God forsaken mother of hers to terminate my parental rights. She filed a motion to cease my visitation with my child. I filed an 11 page response with exhibits to EE that literally destroyed ever facet of their case. Mainly because their entire case was based on conjecture, heresy and camp fire tall tales. I sent her exculpatory evidence for an allegation my XMIL made up. She had an ethical obligation to present the evidence to the judge. Instead she postponed court as my ex wife went on a desperate man hunt for someone, anyone willing to say anything negative about me. They had a woman pretend to be my girlfriend for a year so she could get close enough to have me arrested. Ms. Karnes concocted a a very complex plan requiring all 4 women performing different tasks to inevitably get me behind bars. All 4 women escaped unscathed by hiding behind the VAWA as I am accepting reality that I will never receive any justice not whip. I ever hear someone call me dad. People love to tell me karma will get them . I have to laugh because there ain’t enough karma. I reported her twice to the bar for ethics violations. That’s how I learned attorneys decide for themselves if they practice ethically.
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01 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
Ive never needed a lawyer before. I live in East tn, and I suddenly found the largest, most powerful bureaucracies in the state, lined up against me with both barells! They acted as if they were above the law. I'm referring to child protective services. I went to them for help for a child in a bad situation as a mandated reporter. Then they turned on me like a pit bull. It was my worst nightmare. They just arbitrarily determined I was guilty of a crime based on the word of a derelict abusive parent. They never contacted me at all during their "investigation" of me. And they broke many more of their own rules and policies. No one would help. No one would listen to me. Family knew the truth but that didn't matter. I stood to have my name on a list, a publicly searchable database as someone who did something that never happened. They had NO CASE AT ALL but it never stopped them. I stood to be ruined by reputation, lose my ability to serve God in the capacity that I had for years. Then I found Ms. Lanis Karnes. A lawyer in the family had advised me to find one with experience in the area of administrative hearings for CPS. AND FALSE "indications" as they call them. Best advice ever. Over the months b4 hearing her staff and herself, walked me thru all that was needed, I sent them all the info and some q&a, but it was the best feeling in the world once the hearing started. All the months of worry and anger melted away as I watched her brick by brick destroy what passed as their case against me. Finally someone who was on my side (aside from witnesses and family) she was professional but tough as nails and prepared! She hit them figuratively speaking with a 10 lb hammer over and over till they had no choice but to dismiss b4 it ever even came to the point of mine and witness testimony. I just sat there in awe as she worked over this cps crew. They were stuttering and stammering and covering Their own tails. HIRE HER!
HIRE HER!
HIRE HER!
HIRE HER!
R. FROM EAST TN
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22 Jan, 2016 by Bret
As a provider of homeschool curriculum, we sometimes find ourselves trying to help families whose civil rights are violated by the out-of-control child protective system. We have worked with Lanis, and she is knowledgeable, diligent and truly cares about the families with whom she works. Not only that, but as a family who has adopted 8 special needs children, she was instrumental in helping us deal with a recent situation we had with a child who ran away from home. I cannot think of an attorney that I would rather have helping me with a case involving child protective services.
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09 Oct, 2024 by Linda
Anna Cash has the expertise and work ethic to provide for her client’s best interest. Do not hesitate to hire her for whatever your legal need might be!
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04 Aug, 2023 by Carrie
I had a difficult legal situation and really thought my case was hopeless. Ms. Cash was professional and thorough and examined areas of my case that I had not considered. She effectively worked with the opposing counsel, and I was pleased with her negotiations and the end result. She gave me my life back. I am so glad that stress is behind me.
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12 Jul, 2023 by Rich
I was stopped along I40 and taken to Madison County Jail where I was told it be the next day b4 I’d even receive a bond for DOR, and a couple moving violations,ticket for hands free Tennessee (trooper said I was on my phone) this was on a Friday morning around 9-10 am, once at the jail I contacted my family whom got referrals from a couple lawyers here in Memphis to Contact Ms.Cash, she was more then fair which her retainer fee and had me out on an O.R. bond in very short order. Long story short she was as polite and nice every time I spoke with her as anyone could be and she got all my charges nollied without any type of court cost… I HIGHLY RECOMMEND HER if you find yourself needing an experienced lawyer.
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26 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
Catherine Clayton represented me in a case of family law. It was a complex and high stress case involving domestic and international issues. She was knowledgeable, organized, diligent, meticulous, as there were many intricate details, and pleasant to work with. She remained steady in an unsteady and challenging situation. The outcome was highly satisfactory and I would recommend her without reservation.
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16 Aug, 2013 by Anonymous
Mrs. Clayton was very knowledgable and handled my family matter quickly and efficiently. I would recommend Mrs. Clayton, as it is quite apparent she truly cares for her clients.
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31 Jul, 2013 by Anonymous
I have worked with a few attorneys over the past 15 years. I worked for a law firm when I was in school. I've seen good attorneys and I've seen pathetic ones. No one is perfect, so I offer this review with an open mind.
When I first hired Ms. Clayton, she was on top of things and represented me very well. As time passed, she stopped returning my calls and emails. Her office was quick to send me a bill, but when I paid my retainers in lump sums it seemed that my account balance statements were lost in the mail. To this day, I can't even obtain an account balance (2 years later).
I was a model client. I always paid up front and never missed a payment. I'm not sure what happened, but she fizzled out and now I have to look for new counsel. It's unfortunate, too, because I worked a second job in order to afford Ms. Clayton's rates.
What do I have to show for it? Nothing. If you want nothing, then hire her.
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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:
-
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.
