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18 Jan, 2024 by Adam trinciante
Stay away from this law firm. Maegan hired our company to do an emergency service water remediation. She apparently decided that our fair price was too much and she would just pay half.
If she acts like this with contractors, what will she do when she gets her hands on your money...
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06 Dec, 2023 by Levi wilson
Maegan susa is amazing, she is someone who you want on your side representing you. She is personal, yet a fighter inside the courthouse. Highly recommend her!!!!
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05 Dec, 2023 by D lando (lando)
She's an excellent attorney. I can't recommend her enough.
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28 Jan, 2020 by Kevin
Attorney Sundmaker, as well as, his awesome paralegal Lisa, are the best in the area. I do not mean he simply excels as an attorney but, has committed to excellence in the knowledge of the law and communication with his clients. I have been a client for over a year, in an array of cases. I have also found Attorney Sundmaker and his staff to be the most correct in practice. If you are looking for “right is right”, he’s your guy.
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03 Oct, 2019 by Chris
We did not find Mr. Sundmaker to be effective, responsive or concerned about resolving a DUI matter. He did not return phone calls or letters once he had our initial payment of $500, nor did he produce requested documentation for the work that was claimed to have been done on our behalf.
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14 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
Mr. Sundmaker did great helping out my dad during hard times. His secretary was extremely helpful when I called with questions. They also helped when I was struggling to make payments. Mr. Sundmaker and his office are helpful and really willing to work with you. Thanks!!
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14 Jan, 2019 by Ruth
After hiring a different attorney in the area with negative results, I consulted with “We care legal” team. Jan Grossman and team were focused on obtaining the best results and making me feel like part of the family. Jan was tireless and relentless while obtaining a solution for this difficult time in my life. His compassion and dedication led to unparalleled results. When we first met he described himself as a “pit bull with a chain”. He is fearless for his clients. Hiring an attorney can be very difficult decision. If you are need an Attorney who has your best interest at the forefront, you will not be disappointed. THANK YOU JAN GROSSMAN!
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02 Apr, 2018 by Anonymous
I was 19 years old, a stripper, and about to lose custody of my child. After the attorney Jan Grossman had me pay him, he had me plead guilty. (So much for having a lawyer) I ended up losing custody of my child for about 3 years to Child Services. He couldn't get a hold of me for a week and said I owed him another $1200 because he had his assistant call all the stripclubs looking for me. All because he couldn't get a hold of me for a week. I'm in my 30s now and even though I have a felony now because of this case I have still turned my life around by going to college, but he seriously judged me saying he never met someone like me. The one who suffered was my child. She hasn't recovered after being in different foster homes from ages 5-8. Jan Grossman is not a good attorney at all.
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17 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
We went to Mr Grossman with very serious charges. We were given bad advice to wave the preliminary hearing. He showed up to court completely disheveled. Before our hearing, he dropped us and told us to get a public defender. I am completely disgusted with his unprofessional manner and would advise steering clear.
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09 May, 2016 by Anonymous
I can't express how pleased I am with the work Heather and her staff put into my high conflict custody case. I found her to be incredibly organized and prepared which was, without a doubt, an immense asset to my defense when things went to trial. She is knowledgable of the law, handled herself well in the court room, and is empathetic and honest. I had no issues getting a response from Heather or her staff. She was pleasant to be around and even more importantly, I am pleased and relieved at the custody order we received.
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09 Aug, 2015 by Karen
Without any hesitation, Heather Z. Reynosa is an amazing attorney. Heather displays knowledge, empathy and persistence towards her clients. I have had the privilege of working with her and she has earned my admiration and appreciation. I am grateful to have her on my team.
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24 Oct, 2012 by Steve
After an intensive search for York County's best custody trial attorney (contacting no less then 25 law offices) I kept hearing the name Heather Reynosa. She did not disappoint. She won my case which had certain complexities that she went out of her way to learn about and handle appropriately. I will use and refer Heather in all family law matters from now on.
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08 Sep, 2024 by Michael
When I was in early twenties I got convicted of a crime and Dauphin county that did not commit. Long story short to spend at the time was a public defender and after a two year battle I got found not guilty with an over assuming amount of evidence that Damian put together. When I saw this I thought , young, smart , and delligent, and I'm so thankful for his professional advice and having him as my council
I would recommend this man to anybody.
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28 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
If you ever find yourself needing your attorney to contact this guy thoughts and prayers! Does not return emails or phone calls and may even skip a meeting with the court.
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29 Nov, 2021 by Anonymous
Yeah, not sure what to make of dude. He said he'd take my case; I was to send him my evidence and he would send me prices. I thought it was weird so I only sent him half the evidence at first... just incase cause.. er something was fishy.. then.. bloop never heard from him again. After waiting two weeks..and several texts later I called the bar. They gave me someone else. Like, you guys know we can leave reviews right? Derp.. would not recommend. I guess maybe I was boring.. sorry I'm not an exciting criminal... must have other "cool" things going on.. the bar gave me someone else and I actually won.. hmm imagine that. My faith is partially restored. So, he can have 2 stars.
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10 May, 2021 by John marra
When I call I always get a voice mail box that is full where you can't leave a voice mail. Been trying to get a hold of this lady for ever a month now.
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09 Sep, 2019 by Xsposethedark educational
Words can’t explain just how good of a attorney she is.
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10 Aug, 2019 by Eudoxia carr
She is not a good attorney..when you piss her off by proving her wrong she hangs up the phone and will no longer take your calls.. I agree she should be disbarred.
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28 Oct, 2024 by Nestor perez
I recently found myself in a tough spot, facing an eminent domain situation with the Turnpike planning to relocate a main road through my property. Feeling like I had no options, I reached out to Meyer Unkovic and Scott for legal advice. Frank called me back promptly, offering not only expert advice but also a sense of reassurance. When I first received the news early in the morning, I was anxious and hadn’t yet told my wife. Frank’s guidance helped me understand my situation better and prepare for that conversation with my wife.
He advised me to explore all my options first, including assessing whether the Turnpike’s offer is fair and getting my property appraised to gain a better understanding of its value. I appreciated this approach because he didn’t push to sign me up right away or pushing for payment for the advice. He acknowledged that at this stage, he might not be able to assist fully and recommended I first determine if their offer is reasonable. He genuinely hoped I wouldn’t need to contact him again (in a good way) as it would mean the issue was resolved. However, he reassured me that if things didn’t work out, I could always reach out for his help.
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17 Jun, 2024 by G b
Excellent firm. Guided us for years, and we cannot be happier!
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18 Sep, 2023 by Sam mccrossin
I hired Frank Kosir.jr unfortunately for a dispute with CSX railroad unfortunately. All this man did is take my money with no action. I paid for a complete deed search and after he completed it, I was told I have no rights to cross the railroad tracks. I took maters into my own hands and did a deed search on my own and found all my rights that he said I did not have. I do not understand how I was able to find all my rights with no experience in this field after paying this firm. He wasted over 7 months of my time with no action. I was charged thousands of dollars with no action. I feel this man is corrupt, be careful
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08 Jun, 2024 by Ryan
Mr Hills is a straight shooter. He doesn't sugar cost your case and make you think you can do something you can't. I have worked with him on several cases both professionally for my business and for my kids. He has gone out of his way to help my family. He even came to my house when he didn't have to. He has responded to calls and emails late at night when it wasnt necessary. I have told several people that needed a good lawyer that I wouldn't trust anyone else. He's s a good guy that will fight for you.
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05 Mar, 2024 by Kelly
He is very unprofessional and disrespectful. He makes degrading remarks to defendants in child custody cases in the hallway and is an all-around terrible person. His star rating should even be lower than that!
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24 Mar, 2019 by Shawn
I am here to say that Mr. Hills, is a hard working defense attorney. He has been my advocate for awhile now and sometimes we disagree he never let that get in the way of doing his job. So in short I would recommend this man to anyone that needs someone to protect their rights. From criminal to civil..
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16 Apr, 2024 by K
10/10 Recommend Jim. He has been an EXCELLENT lawyer and has gone above and beyond for me. He has saved my a$$ in court several times, getting me sentences less than what anyone thought was possible. He has even gotten me off charges that would have put me in jail. Jim is amazing!
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21 Jul, 2018 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. Baron and he never finished my case. All he wants is money to adjourn and continue your case just to get funds. Once he sees you don't have enough money he withdrawals as your attorney. If you be a cash cow and lose your case then hire him.
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11 Jul, 2018 by Joseph
Mr. Baron was recommended by my wife's cousin and I couldn't be more pleased with his representation and outcome of my court case. At our first meeting, he was patient and listened carefully to me and my explanation of what happened and reviewed my hyped up charges. Mr. Baron explained the law, the whole court process, and discussed possible outcomes. He did not make any promises and all decisions were mine to consider and decide in the end. Mr. Baron was professional and I was very pleased with how he presented my case in court. I was lucky to have him representing me when I knew very little about legal stuff and what to expect. I had a lot riding on this because my reputation and job could have been seriously impacted. Well my case went well (I don't want to give details) and I was so glad that I didn't go in that courtroom by myself. Overall I can't thank Mr. Baron enough. I thought writing this review is probably the best way I can express my appreciation, and also pay it forward to others who might need his help.
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19 Jan, 2025 by Anonymous
Bernard Hessley aka "Bernie Ha" has been engaging in online bullying and harassment for the last 5 years. He has said some of the most vile things to people. I've even been a victim of his. He does enjoy threatening people. To see his most recent threats of violence against minorities. (1/18/25) Youcan follow the link here to see for yourself:
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1YRMRAZreF/
There is a vast collection of screenshots from over the years of this, "man" doing this to locals. He should be disbarred. He's not professional and, quite frankly he's just a small, weak fragile man.
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15 Jan, 2025 by Harold
Bernard spends all day trolling local news pages with white supremacist memes and threatens women.
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26 Feb, 2021 by Dana
Best lawyer around. Highly recommend him. I've used Hessley law offices several times, and always satisfied.
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28 Sep, 2024 by Cathleen molinari
31 Oct, 2023 by Brent g.
13 May, 2023 by David ashby
07 Apr, 2020 by Marimah
I highly recommend Leslie Ditlow as an attorney for family law. She is extremely knowledgeable, relatable, empathetic, compassionate, and take definitive action to help your case. Her care for and support of my children and my family has been a comfort, and a great help in navigating this difficult custody situation.
A tremendous attorney!
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11 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
I really liked Leslie on a personal level. We hiredanother lawyer for a criminal case and he brought her in to consult as he was not experienced enough to handle it. She really knew her stuff and showed much compassion. We were supposed to have another hearing within a month of going to court and it was never scheduled. I repeatedly asked her what the status was and if I got a response at all she would say "I'll see what I can do to speed up a date." and nearly a year later we finally got her to have the court schedule it after going back to our original lawyer who had to contact her twice. I would not have hired her again for custody due to this but she was very good. I also looked up the docket sheet myself and saw that the court had scheduled this hearing for 2015, 2 years after it was supposed to be scheduled. I assumed this is what took so long and that it was not her not doing the job. I figured she was having trouble with the courts bc the hearing was scheduled and no one could find it. So, my husband and I hired her agin to handle child custody. I asked her she would be able to file papers the first week in Dece,bet and she said yes. The case took an unsurprising turn and so we waited 3 weeks to make a decision on what to do. We needed to add a lot more detail to our filing and decide if we wanted to go that route. We did and she was to file the papers the week of Christmas. Never happened. I did not hear from her from the day we returned the papers to her that week u til January 23. The response Ito was that she had some health problems and was down for a little while and she would see what she could do about a date. I knew then and there that she never filed the papers because if she had we would have gotten a letter in the mail from the court with the date. I have contacted her weekly since that day in January and gotten no response. NONE. I finally asked for a refund for the deposit we gave her and haven't heard back on that either. Surprise, surprise. She really messed up this case for my husband bc we needed to act on something his daughter's mother was doing immediately. She totally dropped the ball. If you can get her to respond to you though, kudos bc she really does know her stuff. What good is that though if she doesn't do the work you hire her to do?
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27 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
Leslie was great. I had a DUI case and she was really able to help me out. She kept me very informed on what was going to happen and kept my mind at ease during the stressful time. I couldn't ask for a better lawyer I would recommend her to everyone I know if they had legal issues.
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03 Feb, 2024 by Susan kaneshiro
Maryann acted like my daughter-in-law‘s divorce attorney not for the benefit of those children. Since then we had to go to family court multiple times because the mother and her boyfriend are unfit. The children was choked and my granddaughter who was 6 dragged across the floor by her boyfriend. Maryann even talked crap behind my son and my back and it got back to us. . How can this person be an advocate for minor children? There needs to be an investigation on this advocates motives. Since we wasted so much time with her incompetence ..the children were thrown out along with the mother without enough notice to get their belongings from the boyfriend due to the mother cheating among other things. This advocate sure did get this one wrong! Now the children are where they are protected with their father. This so called attorney should be investigated.
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25 Jan, 2023 by Puppii satellite
She was my granddaughters father's attorney. I thought we would work that to achieve a goal we would all appreciate. It wasn't a good situation.
I complimented her on her long healthy hair. She flipped her head as if I was a fly in her face.
We will work on how to deal with such evil.
The Lord will deal with her eventually. He knows my heart's in the right place.
As much as everyone says how lazy she is she was 'on' the boy.....!
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16 Dec, 2022 by David m
we have delt with mariann hathaway for over 3 months. she does not care what happens to the children. only wants to get paid. no attorneys speaks good about her.
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13 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
Worst person ever she goes against the system does not follow any of the guidelines or laws she makes it impossible for a mother to be reunified with her kids she during court sessions she tries to manipulate the plane have to say what she wants the messiah last in the same question many different ways she should be ashamed of herself she pulls up criminal records from 23 years so that the child would not be with family she’s a very corrupted attorney and she should be removed from her post
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24 Jan, 2023 by Marsha
She's caused enough trouble in the community. I wouldn't believe a bad thing about CYS. Until this lawyer turned on me. After court I was sobbing and she was smiling. As if I was a problem.
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23 Apr, 2013 by Anonymous
Erin represented a relative of mine a few years back. She was very honest with her (us) about what could be expected, speaking in terms that were easy for those of us without her background to understand. She's tough, but compassionate, and a hard worker.
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29 Feb, 2024 by Taylor
I don't know what the person is talking about that gave him one star you sir are moron Mr Renstchler help me and my family out of tough situations, and our cases came out with excellent precision he's a great attorney I would recommend him anytime to anyone he's one of the best
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18 Jun, 2011 by Dave
Hard to believe this guy is a is still a licenced attorney. All the guy seems compentent enough to do is apply for postponments... i thought my case set a new for the guy with five but another guy I know his DUI had six... Naturally after every postponement he came around with his hand out wanting more money. After using this highly trained professional for six months I found out he was on a year probation for being a drunk... I think should do a check on him, i noticed the man was more than a little groggy in the morning. Once he forgot my name through out the entire meeting
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31 Dec, 2024 by Keith
She recommended me for a head doctor review but my x wife attempted suicide in front of me and she didn’t recommend nothing for her talking about the mother had concerns about my mental health. I went to college for psychology & computer science my wife was pushed through school since 3rd grade according to my x. This lady said I was defaming her but it was what my x told me. My x feeds my 2 year old bread and leaves him upstairs while she entertains her male friend down stairs but I need a head doctor to see my children and I was the one who filed for custody didn’t suggest anything for the mother. Subsequently the mother assaulted her daughter. Kicked her children out of their bedrooms for her new boyfriend and his pregnant baby mother. Now she suggested I have supervised visits when I homeschooled 5 of my children. What rational functioning human being does this. She attempted to off herself in front of me but I have to go to the psychiatrist. Unbelievable
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03 Nov, 2024 by Anonymous
She always emails evething, never calls to discuss yiur case. She thinks everyone who hires her has been arrested before and knows how things work. She never explained that id have two charges she just sent me paperwork. She said id get disorderly conduct but they were harassment charges. She doesntspeak up for you in court at all. The lawyer and district attorney rules her and she never says a word! Horrible worst lawyer in the area! I wish i never hired her!! Dont hire her as well or she will ruin your life! She only cares about money and not what happens to you after. She gives no advice to help you whatsoever!! Worst female lawyer out here in PA.
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03 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous
Hillary is an excellent attorney..... she made me feel comfortable so I can have a good nights rest .... she’s smart and confident. I would recommend her to anyone that needs a solid lawyer. Hillary knows how to to guide you through any legal process. I’m very pleased.
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10 Feb, 2025 by Sheila godshall
Rude and barely wanted to help me figure who I owe and what for!!! So tired of people that hate their jobs!! Get a new one already
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21 Apr, 2024 by Francisco arroyo
28 Mar, 2024 by Alyson vrontisis (ali)
Called 3x for replacement dog license and no one answered phone
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12 May, 2022 by Anonymous
I have worked with Kim on 2 other cases and I was blessed to have found her beyond the scopes of just paper and she made sure things were done right and fair
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07 Apr, 2021 by Yvonne worman
I contacted this attorney to advise her that my nephew is potentially the father of a child she represents. She laughed at us, ignored our request for Dna, and looked the other way.
She continued to try and advocate for the adoption of child in question out, against legal protocol. She states she will not cooperate and will fight claims, even though no legal father has been established in this case. The child had blood relatives willing to step forward and she ignores the legal rights of the potential father, and “doesn’t recall” a phone conversation stating potential paternity.
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02 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
Always yelling at me, took advantage of the fact I'm addicted to drugs and accuses me of being high when I'm not ( even in COURT!!!) says she is on my side and wants to help me but lies to me and fights against me in every way possible and took my visits away because i brought my significant other around took complete advantage of my age and situation and had sign papers she only expanded 10% of for what I believe is her own benefit and liedALLOT shhe talks to me like in a drug addicted piece of scumand talks about me in that manner and make sly insulting comments constantly I asked if I had any other options she said no then scared me into signing something I didnt want to I feel taken advantage of and wish I could take back this whole nightmare
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04 Jan, 2025 by Anonymous
At Beacon Law I had a consultation with Alana. When I gave Beacon Law 4 grand Alana push off to Sonia who had no family law experience. She knows how to spend your money without doing anything. I would talk to her on the phone and she would give me advice. I would follow up with an email about our conversation and she would back track and deny what she said. My husband who was arrested for hurting out child has recently filed for divorce. I asked her over a month ago what the next step that I have to take is. I have not received any communication from her. I have to now spend another 4 grand on another attorney because she is worthless. Thanks Beacon Law for pushing off on such a worthless attorney. Personally I think I might report her to the bar or just sue her.
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28 Aug, 2022 by Ant
He sold me out and took my money. He even had the audacity not to even show up to 1 of my court hearings
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20 Jul, 2013 by Sunny
THIS LAWYER IS THE WORST, I HIRED HIM FOR CRIMINAL AND A CUSTODY MATTER AND ALL I WAS TO HIM WAS A PAYCHECK. HE DID NOT FIGHT FOR ME OR STAND UP FOR MY RIGHT HE JUST TOOK A PAYCHECK. THIS GUYS SUCKS, DONT HIRE HIM. GET A LAW FIRM THAT KNOWS WHAT THEIR DOING!
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14 Nov, 2019 by Anonymous
Eileen was appointed to us by Montgomery County as a child advocate. When we spoke on the phone she seemed bothered by the fact that I wanted to speak about my sisters case with her. She barely asked any questions and I felt very rushed to get off the phone. The day of our hearing was the first time we met and we didn’t even talk in private about what was going to happen or our case. Before we went in front of the judge she told my sister she should just throw out the case because she wasn’t going to win. My sister, already terrified that she had to testify against her parents didn’t need to be put down like that. She needed someone with positivity and reassurance that she would not have to go back to an abusive home. When we finally got in front of the judge, Eileen did nothing to make a case for my sister. She asked the general questions but when my sister started to be attacked verbally by my parents, she sat there and did nothing to revert the questions about the abuse. She made it seem like my sister was the problem child and that it was okay that my parents abuse her the way that they do. My sister is terrified for her life and Eileen did nothing to protect her.
On a side note, I did seem like there was a similar case before us that ended up the same way and when the child came out crying she looked at him and with a demeaning face and voice asked him why he was crying.
Someone who is willing to allow children to go back to their abusive homes, is someone who should not be working with children. I strongly suggest that if you are looking for a custody lawyer to look elsewhere, and if she ends up being you appointed child advocate, contact the clerk of courts and ask for someone else. I would not want to see any other child go through what my sister had today.
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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.
