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09 Apr, 2024 by Raymond and erica
Dedecker I cannot express enough gratitude for the outstanding legal support provided by Michael Dedecker during our adoption case. Facing a time-sensitive situation involving a novel law that most attorneys were hesitant to tackle, Michael stepped up to the challenge with unwavering dedication and professionalism. From the outset, Michael demonstrated his commitment to our case by exhaustively researching options and took time to seek the expertise when needed. Despite encountering dead ends in finding a more experienced attorney, Michael never wavered in his determination to assist us. He took it upon himself to thoroughly understand the complexities of the law in question and diligently gathered all necessary materials within an incredibly tight timeframe. When our case proceeded to trial, Michael's meticulous preparation and profound understanding of both the law and our circumstances were evident. He presented our case with confidence, clarity, and a depth of knowledge that instilled trust and assurance in us throughout the proceedings. Michael's unwavering support, professionalism, and expertise were invaluable assets throughout our legal journey. Thanks to his guidance and advocacy, we achieved a successful outcome that exceeded our expectations. I wholeheartedly recommend Michael Dedecker to anyone seeking a dedicated and knowledgeable lawyer.
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27 Mar, 2024 by Mark
From the very beginning of our journey through the complex legal landscape of family law, Michael stood out as not just a lawyer, but as a beacon of hope for our family. Initially, we brought him on board for what was to be a de facto hearing. However, as our case evolved and became more intricate, Michael's role in our lives grew. Michael possessed an uncanny ability to simplify the convoluted legal processes we were facing. He meticulously broke down each step, ensuring we understood the implications and strategies at play. His approach was not just about guiding us legally but also about educating us, empowering us to make informed decisions throughout our case. Communication was one of Michael's strongest suits. He proactively kept us in the loop with every development, big or small. Whether it was through emails, phone calls, or in-person meetings, Michael made sure we were never left wondering what was happening with our case. His transparency built a foundation of trust that was invaluable during such a stressful time. Perhaps what set Michael apart the most was his calm and reassuring presence. Family law cases, especially those leading to adoption, are fraught with emotional highs and lows. Michael's steady demeanor was a constant source of comfort. Knowing he was on our side made the journey less daunting. His confidence and compassion alleviated much of the anxiety and uncertainty that often accompany legal battles. In the end, our case concluded more favorably than we could have ever imagined - we were able to adopt a child and officially welcome them into our family. This life-changing outcome was, without doubt, significantly influenced by Michael's unwavering dedication, profound expertise, and heartfelt commitment to our case. Choosing Michael as our attorney was one of the best decisions we've ever made. Not only did he navigate us through the legalities with unparalleled professionalism, but he also provided moral support that transcended the typical attorney-client relationship. For anyone facing the complexities of family law, especially those considering adoption, Michael is an exceptional choice. His impact on our family will be cherished forever.
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21 Apr, 2023 by Jessica rios-steinbach
When we first talked with Michael, we immediately got the feeling that he was honest, truth worthy, transparent and knowledgeable. Michael proved to be all of that and more throughout the entire court process. We have had other layers, and I can’t understate how important it is to have a lawyer who can communicate with you with these qualities during a child custody case. I would 10/10 recommend Michael and continue to use him in the future for any needs.
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07 Oct, 2023 by Serghei
I can't thank enough Ms. Cox for her support and every possible and impossible effort she made to help our family get reunited. Evelyn represented me and fight for my rights to be with my family in CPS case in Yolo County, CA. She is very knowledgeable about Child Protective Services system, very well respected, very honest and easy approached when you need help. It isn't a secret that CPS cases are often long, painful, demanding and physically, mentally and emotionally exhausting for every person involved in them. And having an attorney who WILL REALLY FIGHT on your side is critically important! If you or your loved ones ever find themselves involved in CPS case, I highly recommend to contact Evelyn Cox as soon as possible and at least get a consultation with her! Thank you Evelyn for all your help! It was a real blessing for our family to have you in our case!
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20 Sep, 2023 by Francisco
AS A GAY COUPLE WITH A FAMILY OF 3 17 YEAR OLDS, MS. COX WENT ABOVE AND BEYOND IN FIGHTING LIKE A BULLDOG AGAINST OUR CPS PROSECUTORS. THE CASE WAS DSIMISSED WITHIN WEEKS ONCE THE PROSECUTION FOUND OUT SHE WAS ON OUR SIDE. BEYOND HER LEGAL ACUMEN AND PROFESISONAL DEMEANOR, MS. COX TRULY CARES ABOUT THE SACRED RELATIONSHIP AMONG FAMILY MEMBERS AND THE SPECIAL ROLE PARENTS PLAY IN NURTURING THEIR CHILDREN AS THEY SEE FIT. CPS IN CA IS A BROKEN, DYSFUNCTIONAL, AND OFTEN SPITEFUL SYSTEM OF MEDIOCRE INVESTIGATORS WITH AXES TO GRIND OF THEIR OWN. MS. COX KNOWS HOW TO LEVEL THE PLAYING FIELD. TRUST ME, AS SOON AS CPS FOUND OUT SHE WAS OUR ATTORNEY, THE TENOR CHANGED IMJMEIDATELY AND OUR CASE WAS DIMSISSED WITHIN WEEKS (AGAINST ALL ODDS, GIVEN CPS' UBRIDLED POWER IN CA). I WOULD GIVE HER A SUPERIOR, BUT THAT WAS NOT AN OPTION PER ABOVE. LOOK NO FURTHER; YOU WILL NTO REGRET IT.
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28 Sep, 2021 by Anonymous
Grandparents well into 9 months of this case. Having a consultation & hiring Ms Cox is the right Attorney for our case. She has filed & submitting proper documentation. We have a sense of relief. We have hope and we can see light at the end of the tunnel. Thank you Ms Cox. But NO words can express our gratitude!!!!!
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25 Aug, 2022 by Stephanie
My son unfortunately ran into a double felony case with inhancements. After talking to many lawyers about his case I was referred to Kevin from another Law firm. After meeting with him we hired him for the juvenile case. Kevin is intelligent, has good respect within the juvenile courts and is a great communicator. He negotiated the plea deal down and also the inhancements disappeared and my son was able to get probation and after a year his record expunged. My son now has a clean record and can move forward in life. I would HIGHLY recommend Kevin Adamson.
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19 May, 2022 by Shanita
I would recommend Kevin J. Adamson to anyone who needs representation in juvenile court cases. The first time we met him we knew we had an attorney who would advocate for our son, and he did! The system is confusing and can be very intimidating for all parties involved. He was extremely thorough in explaining the process of the juvenile court system, so there were no surprises. He is extremely responsive, thoughtful and pleasant to work with. He is also very knowledgeable about the law. He worked diligently on my sons case and ensured we got the best outcome. We are very pleased. We could not have had better representation. 10/10 would recommend him to anyone who finds themself in an unfortunate situation, as we did.
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19 Feb, 2022 by Jon
First off, he’s super nice. I was calmed down immediately when talking to him the first time. Kevin knew exactly what would happen in my sons case and explained everything. I felt so much better after we spoke. Best thing we ever did was hire him. Unfortunately this wasn’t our first time in juvenile court but the first attorney seemed like he didn’t care that much. Kevin was very different and spent time explaining everything even before we hired him. He was the best! He is the best!
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23 Apr, 2024 by Mel
I live in Seattle, WA, and me and my wife interviewed (consulted) 2 lawyers in our area but we were still nervous and had a lot of questions and concerns that we did not get answered with our initial consultations. Even though the office is in Sacramento, CA, a close friend recommended that I call Clemente. We are extremely grateful we did. First, he speaks Spanish and my wife was immediately at ease. Second, he was an excellent listener to our concerns. Third, he was very empathetic to our situation and concerns. Fourth, HE DELIVERED!! He and his team walked us through the legal immigration process and kept us informed of all the updates along the way. We submitted the legal paperwork in November 2023 and we got my wife's Green Card around the end of March 2024. Thank you very much, Clemente (and Karen)!!!
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16 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
El abogado Clemente Jiménez me ayudó mucho en el caso de mi hijo mi hijo tenía acusado por 5 cargos querían darle a 80 años de cárcel y gracias a Dios y al abogado mi hijo pudo salir en libertad en un año y medio gracias al abogado que siempre se portó muy educado conmigo y me ayudó muy bien Yo lo recomiendo y Su secretaria so muy amables
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22 Jun, 2015 by Ruben
The attorney made me feel as if I was his most important client. He would always answer my calls and return them in a timely manner. I am very satisfied with the result he was able to give me. Thanks to him i am now able to visit my son in prison, who I have not seen in many years. I am very thankful to God that I had him as an attorney.
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30 Aug, 2018 by Hector
I hired Mr. Dedecker for a dependency court case and the odds were really stacked against me. He fought really hard and secured my innocence despite the county counsel being against me. He took my case and he was optimistic about it from the start. He really cares and it shows. First he was incredibly knowledgeable. From the first conversation I had with him until the last he was able to successfully explain to me the process of my legal problem and what he was going to do to help me. He was very responsive to all my calls and questions and enthusiastic each time I spoke with him. I was shocked that he answered his phone on a weekend and was willing to talk to me! I definitely needed a lot of support during my difficult time and he was able to put me at ease. If you want an attorney that cares to listen to your concerns and helps you understand the system. I would recommend you hire Mr. Dedecker. If you find yourself or your family faced with allegations by social services, YOU MUST HIRE A GOOD ATTORNEY! Do not make the mistake of thinking that just because you are innocent things will “sort itself out”. I would whole heartily recommend Mr. Dedecker to anyone facing a dependency case involving a minor. He was an integral part in helping us get my son back and my wife. We will always be forever grateful. I wouldn't hesitate to hire Mr. Dedecker
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30 Jul, 2019 by Candace
I was fighting a misdemeanor charge that I was not going to plea guilty to. I was ready to take it all the way to trial if need be. I'm also disabled and in a wheelchair. Charles was very helpful with my physical condition. I never had to go to court once he was hired. He was very professional and keeped me posted on every aspect of my case. I never had to worry about what was going on. He was willing to answer any question I had. I had to sign the final paperwork and I didn't even have to get out of my vehicle. He brought the papers to me. He negotiated my charge down to an infraction with no probation violation. I definitely felt I was in good hands. He listened to me. He was very prompt in getting my case done.
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22 Nov, 2016 by Miranda solevilla
Rachel Is an incredible lawyer.. Like a breath of fresh air... she truly runs on nothing but heart.. is very dedicated to the work she does... She really listens as you speak.. goes above an beyond any and every attorney I ever met.... ANYONE OUT THERE WHO IS LUCKY TO HAVE HER REPRESENT THEM, IS TRULY BLESSED. ...
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30 Sep, 2024 by Lisa clawson
Leanna Neal was very helpful and gave me a ton of legal advice. I would highly recommend this firm.
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30 Sep, 2024 by Christina casas
Poor. They are NOT Jesus people. Do not be fooled ! The positive ads are false. Be careful everyone! Advertisement is also misleading.
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27 Sep, 2024 by Carrie cheney
I recently inquired about a medical malpractice suit and Leanna Neal was extremely helpful although they did not take my case, she did give me resources to other attnys to help me. Leanna was very professional and I highly recommend Moseley Collins. Thank you Leanna.
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17 Sep, 2024 by Gloria chacon
When choosing a family law attorney, some say the best way to find a good one is to meet with them in person and see how you feel. You may have found the right attorney if you feel confident and trusted. My first interaction with Attorney Morgan Montoya exceeded my greatest expectations. I immediately felt supported and felt well taken care of. I truly believe that my best interest was at the forefront. She is caring, thoughtful and knowledgeable. Attorney Montoya was very thorough and professional. Selecting a great family law attorney may be one of the most important decisions you may need to make. Her expertise in family law and knowledge of the process was admirable. I have worked with several attorneys in the past 20 years. I have to say that Attorney Morgan Montoya instantly made me feel seen and heard from our very first interactions more than any other attorney I have ever known. She is very warm and caring. She listened attentively and immediately sought information regarding my case. I highly recommend Attorney Morgan Montoya for all of your Family Law needs.
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13 Sep, 2024 by Tony gomez
Divorce is a difficult time in life. Mrs. Montoya helped me get through this process with favorable results. I recommend this law office if you need to get through an already rough procees.
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11 Sep, 2024 by Aymen salhi
Can't believe the day that I saw a favorable recommendation on dos website! I had a J1 hardship waiver case, out of status plus US government funding, odds were all against me but I'll give it to the ranchod Law group for presenting the best ever case for USICS and dos. Make sure you enclosed every aspect of your life because you never know what could be used as a hardship factor, I'd like to thank Melissa specially too and also kaushik words or a review or a speech can't express how greatful i am!
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30 Nov, 2023 by Its me
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25 Jun, 2023 by Christian ibarra
Amazing lawyers and the team they have. They explain everything in detail and give me calls to let me know any updates. They have kept me out of trouble and our Grafeful for their services.
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04 Oct, 2022 by Joseph h
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20 Oct, 2021 by Joyce aka ehrhardt ,enders ,dalton aakhus (useyrpowers4good)
Very personal and kind hearted woman. Honest caring and helpfull
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28 Aug, 2021 by Timothy glenn
Tail feathers lol
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14 Jan, 2016 by Troy allen
Truly Thankful
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19 Feb, 2013 by Anonymous
This lawyer filed my paperwork for me, she is my x wifes lawyer, had served me with a tro in jail. Then was being "nice and Helped me fill out the papers" I needed to end my horrible divorce. She did not recall the restraining order and in fact kept it active for my x, now 8 years later I was almost arrested for having my kids and taking care of them 90% of the time because my X had a bad day and said she still had this thing! If I did not have my divorce papers at home I would be in jail right now!
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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.