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26 Mar, 2024 by Michaela lawson
Highly recommended.
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05 Mar, 2024 by Michael osborne
He does NOT fight for your kids like you want him to, he also doesn't try getting what your asking for nor show any documentations you've given him to present in court. If I were you, save your money and find another BETTER lawyer!
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16 Jul, 2023 by Dmitry lobachev
My friend(truck driver) paid John Andrew Motter for his truck driving ticket. John took his money and disappeared. John Andrew Motter did not appear in Court and never answer his phone. His worker always found excuses not to call him. John Andrew Motter behave as an AS...... !!!! Be careful.Waist money, time and your trust.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Andrew sharkey
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08 Jul, 2024 by Janet netter
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08 Jul, 2024 by Jordhan
Jonetta Gadson is a great Guardian at Litem if you are in need of one! She takes her time to listen and to observe! She is easy to talk to, and seems to have a good 'read' on her clients and others involved in each case. I would highly recommend her!!!
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03 Apr, 2024 by Miko king
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18 Dec, 2023 by Melissa walters
John Brechbill is amazing! I was a bit nervous until I watched him on my daughter's behalf. He looked at every angle and more. He knows what he's doing. If you're innocent and you need someone to defend you, he's the one!!
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05 Oct, 2022 by Cynthia stout
All I had to do was drive a person there to put their form in a drop box.
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07 May, 2024 by Kim frank
Great job , explains everything she doing.
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10 Feb, 2024 by Michelle conant
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17 Jul, 2023 by Lynne finch
Very competent & capable young attorney!
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24 Apr, 2024 by Cynthia
She faught her heart out for me and my children whom were being manipulated by my ex husband's new wife, no jealousy on my end I left him! She was forcing my children to lie to school authorities along with police and children protective services. My ex and his family have a lot of money so they kept us tied up in court for a bit. But in the end I won Full custody and crazy step mom isn't allowed near my children ever! Denise is the real deal, she will work her butt off as long as you don't lie or hide things. She genuinely cares for people.
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08 Sep, 2019 by Patricia
Was very unhappy with her performance as a lawyer. She DID work with me financially. But other then that lost a case that should have been won.. Not enough fight against untrue statements in court or things that should have been brought up were not. Amongst many other things she said we would talk before court . I was scared to death . She did not talk to me. People started coming in in the room we were in before going into court room they were sitting around laughing and talking while I was in tears because we did not able to talk in private. . I speak the truth.
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31 Jul, 2010 by Jack
Very knowledgeable and very dedicated to each and every case. She is one attorney that DOES work for YOU and your case, as long as you are honest and upfront. Recommend her highly!
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22 Nov, 2022 by Anonymous
Emails and calls were not answered. The ones that were, were not returned in a timely manner. When you did speak with her she seemed like all she wanted to do was get off the phone. The only time she would talk to you a little bit more, would be in front of her. And she still acted like she wanted you out of her office. She lost me custody of my child and I got supervised visits! I have raised my child on my own for 15 years!!!!
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29 Jun, 2020 by Richard w blydenburgh
Very good lawyer won custody of my daughter for me . Very Professional . O and I’m a man.
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12 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
I thank God for Nancy Brum. She is tough, no nonsense, straight forward, and kept every promise. She helped me get a 5 year protection order for DV for myself and my son. Would highly recommend!
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12 Nov, 2020 by Ron
I consulted with Mr. McKenna regarding my options after an administrative child support review raised my support. He explained the process clearly, his free process was straightforward, and honestly I felt like I would be charged a fair price for the work. Fortunately I was able to negotiate terms with my ex and have not needed to hire him yet. If I have other legal matters in the future I will be contacting him.
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13 Mar, 2020 by Brian
Matt was always helpful and replied to my questions at the drop of a dime. As a father of 3 daughters..he helped me get residential custody. Which is not easy in this state for a father to get in this state. I would recommend him to anybody I know!
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26 Jun, 2018 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. McKenna after posting on LegalZoom. He was full of big ideas like we're going to do this and we're going to do that, but when asked to do this or that he was reluctant to do so. It was obvious that my case wasn't important to him and any effort wasn't worth his time. He put off major issues until the last minute and then wanted you to run around and give him whatever info and documents with just hours notice. His reluctance and poor time management ended up costing me big money when if he put the necessary work into the case he would have been prepared on the days of court.
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16 Jun, 2022 by Heather c
Ms Sellers believed me when no one else would listen. I’m very grateful that she was appointed to represent me and very proud to say she is my attorney!
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04 Feb, 2020 by Anonymous
I hired Ms. Sellers to assist my son in a criminal case in Dayton. She handled his case in a timely professional manner. I appreciated the time that she took to explain each step she was taking in resolving his case. The out come of the case was very favorable. We were very thankful and cannot thank her enough.
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17 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
Ms. Sellars was my attorney in a criminal case. I desperately needed her to file one Motion that was very significant in the case. She ttok an eternity to actually file the Motion and then she did not follow up properly. Mrs. Sellars would never return my phone calls, was very rude and unprofessional. She always spoke to me in a very condescending tone..despite the fact I am college educated. Having Ms. Sellars as my attorney was a horrible experience.
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25 Jun, 2019 by Michael
Mathew Exton is an excellent attorney very knowledgeable, very friendly, very polite, and he works hard to get you what you want. He has helped me with getting my divorce, helped me with a custody issue, and just helped me to adopt my daughter. I will always be indebted to him not in money but in appreciation for what he has done for my family. I would highly recommend him you will not be disappointed.......
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18 Jun, 2019 by Tim
Lack of attention to detail explains it all. He arrived to my dissolution with a completely different document that was previously signed by myself and ex-wife. Filled with errors. Extensive clean up work needed after divorce finalized. He never took accountability for his missteps. Communicating with Mr. Exton was very difficult. Emails were NOT returned in a timely manner. Very disappointed. Buyer beware, I guess.
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20 Dec, 2012 by Anonymous
Mr Exton was an excellent attorney. He was straightforward and always told me what to expect with each step of the legal processes we had to go through. I would reccommend him to anyone, no matter what your situation. Mr Exton was even forth coming about the fees and also made it clear to me when my retainer fee was used. Mr Exton will not let you down, he was always honest about my situation.
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31 Aug, 2023 by Whitney
He is knowledgeable, works hard for the client, actually cares, and is a great strategist. I had a very high conflict divorce and custody battle Thurman was the lawyer for me. Highly recommended!
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05 Feb, 2017 by Tara
WARNING... Adam Thurman is a stand-up guy. Do not hire Adam if you are not going to pay him regularly. That would say a lot about your character. Santa is always watching. Adam did not write the laws. He does follow them and healthy people like him for this, including but not limited to judges. Adam is highly respected. Even the opposing side in my divorce can't help but notice. Divorce can be costly. Here's a tip… save money by emailing Adam unless he asks you to call. Another tip... Get a self-help book about divorce. Theses tips are priceless and will save you money. Listen to Adam's advisory, divorce is not a new concept for him. This is his profession. As you move through this challenging time Adam will be your trusted advisor. Although the light can be very hard to see Adam will help guide you. You'll be much better off with Adam at your side. Every divorce is unique. Mine took long. It is unpredictable. You will be as happy as I have been with Adam at your side. I will be forever grateful for his counsel. I have the responsibility of two children and Adam is qualifed as a guardian et litem. Which brings its comfort. If you were lucky enough to hear about Adam then search no further. Adam is a true gem. Take good care with him. No matter how challenging it might seem, never stop moving. Move right through this time and keep moving thereafter for best results. Sincerely and geniunely, From: A Client of Adam Thurman
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24 Jun, 2015 by Susan timko
Retained for a divorce case where I was a defendent- took my retainer and more then did not deliver. Asked to have a TPO placed after I was assaulted -never got. Allowed Lake County Courts to not even follow the rules of the court- no one cared how I lived only how much money they could get- words of advice- have the court divide without a blood sucking attorney- forms are available at the courthouse.
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01 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
Attorney King has represented a few different times in front of a few different judges! I am proud to say he not only did his job as my attorney, he also helped to save and turn my life around from addiction to recovery! He has been dedicated to his law career and always represents his clients to his full potential. He doesn't show judgement & always carries himself in a professional manner no matter what the case is! He has alot of respect from not only the area's judicial system but from the community as a whole! 5 STARS !
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16 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
The attorney was with a woman who was charged with DUI. LISBON -- Joseph King, an East Liverpool attorney, was to appear before Judge Robert C. Roberts of Columbiana County Municipal Court this morning on charges of assaulting a police officer, resisting arrest and disorderly conduct. The Lisbon post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol reported that King, 52, of East Sixth Street, struck Trooper Jim Oakes Friday evening at the post. King was there because troopers had arrested the woman in whose car King was riding. Sgt. Gary Dolak of the post said King was taken to the Columbiana County Jail on Friday evening. A jail spokesman said he was released Saturday. No bond information was available. Dolak said assaulting a police officer is a fourth-degree felony, and resisting arrest and disorderly conduct are misdemeanors. Woman charged Dolak said King and Kim Triner, 38, of Bank Street, East Liverpool, were taken to the Lisbon post Friday evening after Triner was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol, failure to control and disorderly conduct. Dolak said King was a passenger in Triner's car. Dolak said Triner kept trying to leave the post. He said Oakes was trying to prevent Triner from leaving and King attempted to shove Oakes. Dolak said King struck Oakes as Oakes was attempting to handcuff King. Dolak said the Canfield post called Lisbon about 10:30 p.m. Friday about a possibly intoxicated motorist driving south on state Route 11. Caretaker's report Dolak said a caretaker at the rest area on Route 11 in Beaver Township, Mahoning County, told the Canfield post that a woman at the rest area was intoxicated. The caretaker then told the Canfield post trooper the woman left and drove south on state Route 11. Dolak said the Canfield post trooper reported the car swerving badly as it entered Columbiana County, the Lisbon post's jurisdiction. He said the car crossed the median strip and stopped facing in a northeast direction in the northbound lanes. There were no other vehicles in the area, Dolak said.
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16 Jul, 2013 by Joshua
Attorney King defended me in a very serious case. His representation is the reason I am free from a wrongful conviction. East Liverpool cops are looking to just arrest people without any actual evidence or police work.
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02 May, 2024 by Marilyn armstrong
He’s the best in my opinion.. ⭐️
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13 Jun, 2023 by Annette
Cathie was retained after previous counsel failed to act in the best interest of the children in a complicated domestic dispute. Within one week the children were placed with their father out of harms way. We could never thank her enough for saving these beautiful kids and acting swiftly and aggressively, to show the court what the previous counsel failed to do. My greatest admiration and deepest graditude go with my 1000% positive review of this family law attorney, THIS is how it's done.
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28 Sep, 2022 by K s
Knowledgeable and on point. Worth every penny! Thank you
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07 May, 2023 by Delaine adkins
great communication from assessing if their skills were a fit for my needs to completing the work. Other law offices had much worse communication (responsiveness and knowledge). Highly recommend.
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15 Mar, 2023 by Megan pope
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21 Jan, 2023 by Anonymous
I came to Kelly McKoy seeking legal assistance for a family matter. Kelly met with me in a timely matter, was quick to take action, and resolved my case the way I needed. I have worked with multiple lawyers on various different occasions, and Ms. McKoy has surpassed the rest.
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23 Oct, 2023 by Shannon
You will not meet a better attorney than Jay Adams. He is honest, up front and gets the job done every time. He is direct to the point and very straight forward. I have referred him to many many people. He ALWAYS does a stellar job. No he might not return every single call but that's because he's working. to win your case. He will call when there is an update. He is super busy but takes the time to work every case as if it were his own. He CARES and that's not easy to find. He is my attorney for life and if you need an attorney it would be in your best interest to call Jay at CiceroAdams.
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17 Jun, 2023 by Jessica
From the initial consultation to the finial hearing, Mr Adams did a stellar job. He is kind, caring, honest and smart. He and his team were impeccably professional and dedicated. I always felt valued and respected as a client and he got great results for me in the end.
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13 May, 2023 by Mindy
Pat hands down Jay Adams is the best attorney I have ever dealt with. He doesn't lie he tells it like it is he's very open about your case to you letting you know what to expect. I have used him over 30 years it started out with a divorce and child support and whatever bull my ex-husband tried to pull Jay fixed it 100%. I have had two of my sisters go to him as well as two friends and one guy for a divorce that was in the military and honestly I can't tell you what else. Jay Adams is worth every penny he charges and whether he likes it or not he is my attorney for life. Thank you Jay for everything you've ever done for me my family or anybody I recommended you to you're awesome......Mindy Harrison you know the one that was married to a Green county deputy I don't have to say any names you know exactly who I'm talking about LOL. I am getting ready to use another lawyer and his office who I haven't used yet but if she works for Jay I know she's okay I look forward to meeting Melissa
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24 May, 2024 by Anna m messer
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20 May, 2020 by Jessica rister
Susan made our step parent adoption painless and simple. When I reached out to her a year and a half after the adoption was completed because the biological parent came forward, after years of no contact, and began causing duress for our family, Susan jumped into action and eased all of our legal fears quickly. She is my hero!
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03 Sep, 2019 by Dj bibart
Susan is a War Horse in the adoption field. We have retained her twice!
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05 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
Do not get her she's horrible she portrays herself as something that she's not
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06 Dec, 2019 by Betsy
My case was unique in Ohio. As a WA state grandma I was seeking visitation for my granddaughter. I chose Virginia through the internet. Always Virginia was very professional and very thorough. She mostly answered the phone herself and kept me on track; she was always available and sometimes with the three hour difference in time it was difficult for both of us. If she couldn't reach me then she would email promptly. I ended up stepping down from the case; knowing that we would most likely win; however the situation itself became a no-win situation. As in the beginning so was the ending, an honest, forthright attorney. I was never sorry that I chose Virginia to guide me through this journey. Thank you.
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29 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
Worst experience I have ever had with an attorney. I wish others had warned me. Was just trying to get child support and settled because I couldn't deal with her anymore.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Raymond keiser
Attorney Studer is a great attorney, he was able to help with all my firearm , and 2nd amendment issues I had , and he got me through my divorce with the best possible outcome. Thank you Studer law for all your help past and future.
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19 Jul, 2024 by Weeb
I am very happy with the service I received couldn't ask for a better attorney thank you so much
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25 Oct, 2023 by Joseph wyble
Great place to get a great attorney.
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25 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
Threatend to sue client if client posted a poor review. Please review this attorneys history of misconduct before choosing.
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06 Jul, 2022 by Lisa martin
I would highly recommend Attorney Benbow. We hired him to represent my son for his judicial release. He also represented my son for his appeal. My son won both the judicial release and his appeal, due to Mr Benbow's thoroughness on my son's case. Attorney Benbow always returned my calls even after hours. He answered all my questions and explained any concerns I had. His staff were very polite and made sure he received every message I left concerning the case. He represented my son extremely well. I have and will continue to recommend Attorney Benbow. If you are in need of an attorney I urge you to contact him
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07 Jul, 2021 by Danielle
Works very hard for you. Works with you on payment options. Loves to win his cases.
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25 Oct, 2015 by Anonymous
Mr. Armstrong represented me in a juvenile court case in 2012. He offered a Shared Parenting Plan when I did not think it was the best decision for my circumstance and he uses "scare strategies" when not in agreement with him. Three years later, the shared parenting is being cancelled. I wasted over 2-3 grand. He should listen to his clients more and stop talking about himself so much.
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30 May, 2015 by Bob
I have a case in Summit County & Mr. Armstrong was assigned to me. Since the first time that I met with him he has worked continuously on my case. I have paid lawyer's that have done less & that have not as therow as James. I would refer him to anyone. Thankyou James for everything you are doing it's appreciated.
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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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31 May, 2024 by Christina smith
I wouldn't hire this lawyer, don't return phone calls or call you back when they say they will. Must already be wealthy and don't need the work.
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21 Jan, 2024 by Megan taylor
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12 Oct, 2023 by Tj mcwhorter
Tony was very helpful and gave me a bit of hope.
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31 May, 2024 by Christina smith
I wouldn't hire this lawyer, don't return phone calls or call you back when they say they will. Must already be wealthy and don't need the work.
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21 Jan, 2024 by Megan taylor
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12 Oct, 2023 by Tj mcwhorter
Tony was very helpful and gave me a bit of hope.
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07 May, 2023 by Delaine adkins
great communication from assessing if their skills were a fit for my needs to completing the work. Other law offices had much worse communication (responsiveness and knowledge). Highly recommend.
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15 Mar, 2023 by Megan pope
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23 Mar, 2022 by Sondra moorman
Professional, caring and friendly law office. Our lawyer is Kelly McKoy. She's a crusader for children from what I've been told but we had her services for our wills etc.
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21 Feb, 2019 by Lisa
Top notch. I was in some serious trouble with a dui and Jonathan was awesome ! Highly recommend!
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28 Mar, 2018 by Anonymous
Recently hired Jonathan on a Criminal matter. He has excellent relationships with his peers and it showed in my case and in the courtroom. I was in real trouble and Jonathan negotiated a settlement above and beyond what I probably should have received. I would recommend him to everyone and would definitely use him again (although I hope I don’t have to!).
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15 Mar, 2018 by Ririthequeen_ ps4
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07 May, 2024 by Betsy davis
I used Walt several times in 2010. He was always very honest and reliable. I have and will always recommend him.
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16 Oct, 2023 by Brennon hill
Walt handled my case some years back (2018). The reason for the review isn't specifically the handling of my case. Though he did pretend to know what he was talking about, and was sure to run up as many billable hours as possible without doing much. But again, not the reason for the review. The reason for the 1 star is because during his handling of my case, I received court documents with my name spelled wrong, and I informed him about it and was ensured that it wasn't a big deal. Fast forward five years of me doing exactly what I am supposed to and it's time to seal my record, except guess what, I can't because my name is spelled wrong on the courts side of things. I called to discuss this with Walt and he didn't even hear me out before starting to sell me on his "record expungement service." And told me he couldn't remember me or my case. Took $8000 from me over the course of 9 months, only 5 years ago and he has no idea who I am. When I told him I was unsurprised he didn't remember me because of how little he did in my case. He grew hostile and snobby and told me to "handle it myself then" and hung up. So now as a result of the fine work of Walt, I get to hire another lawyer to fix mistakes that he was aware of and refused to do anything about. Walt doesn't care about you. Hell he might not even know what your case is about. He is a very good pretender and will act like he knows what he is doing to get paid. That's all Walt cares about at the end of the day is the money. Don't make the same mistake I did. Don't choose Walt. If you do, I promise you'll regret it.
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13 Sep, 2023 by Chrisy flood
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01 Mar, 2024 by Angela mozingo
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30 Nov, 2021 by Katelyn youkers
We put 1000$ down & they ended up saying the couldn’t contact us , when they didn’t even try, & left us hanging ab 2-3 days before our court date.
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03 Aug, 2021 by Ivan hurt
Britt wiseman is a crook as wsll as a ofher police and judge in municipld courtthe recusd mmw justice and took my money becore xmas that was mine from undmploymet . wiseman knew of the deal and never filed first paper but took e50.p0 of my. Mondy and i had fo go retdieve the rest. He is a crook
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05 Apr, 2024 by Tom nesbitt
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02 Mar, 2024 by Darlene knowlton
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21 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
This man is extremely rude, arrogant, refuses to explain anything to you, acts superior to you, treats you like you are crap in the bottom of his shoes and apparently likes to pick and chose his cases. He is cocky and speaks over you and does not listen to what you have to say. He is NOT worth your time or your money!
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26 Aug, 2024 by Larry
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24 Jul, 2024 by Akira holmes
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23 Jul, 2024 by George robertson
Never Received What I Was Told
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20 Apr, 2024 by Alliyah harris
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20 Feb, 2024 by Bill tusai
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13 Jan, 2024 by Daryl colbert
I was represented by the public defenders office and my case was won today, they did a GREAT job representing me and allowed me to also have input the entire time and considered it! Big shout out to Tia Jackson whom sat right next to me and allowed me to write her notes the entire time, and she did a great job with continuing to pay attention to the case, representing me, all while reading my what seemed like to be a million side notes during the trial, which she addressed each and every one of my concerns and mentions. She was a great support through our the entire trial, helping a very nervous and daunting situation not be as bad as it could have been. I felt very supported and they were all very honest with me as well as respected my concerns and wishes as well. I am very pleased with how today went and I can not thank them enough for being there with me, helping the court reach the NOT GUILTY verdict. All three of them stuck it out til the end, ten hours we spent, and they all stuck it out to the very end with me and I am very grateful and thankful for that, as well as the honesty and support I was given. YOU GUYS ROCK! Thank you much :)
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24 Sep, 2024 by Sidney merrick
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09 Aug, 2022 by Jason e. knisley
I didn't go here, I went to the farm market that is held outside of the building. I could not find the "I did not go here button".
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05 Jun, 2022 by Steph lansing
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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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

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