I typically don't write reviews, but because this experience has to do with my children and my…read morefreedom, it is important that others have a clear understanding before making decisions for their loved ones. This review is for anyone considering this firm to fight on your behalf against DCS.
At first, I came to this firm through a trusted attorney referral, and things began positively. However, the situation quickly changed when I authorized payment for a crucial professional consultant, and the firm withheld those funds. They decided internally, without informing me, not to pay.
In addition, despite multiple requests, I never received a detailed, itemized statement explaining large, sudden charges or linking payments to actual case progress.
During my case, I saw no real progress from the firm. Most progress came from my own efforts and those of my family. A significant portion of the firm's billable hours were spent attempting to convince me to accept a legal position that I did not agree with. Communication about strategy and expenses was often delayed or ignored. When I asked legitimate questions or expressed legal strategy, I was met with personal judgment rather than objective legal advice.
When disagreements arose, instead of collaboration, the firm increased payment demands and rarely accomplished substantive work on my behalf. At one point, they planned to file motions without my authorization that could have negatively impacted my case. There was significant inconsistency between the advice of the two main attorneys, Trail Potter and Jen Moshier, especially regarding case funds--what one said would often contradict the other.
At a crucial point in the case, a family member wanted to help and regularly spoke to Trail while prepping for the next move. Once it was decided Jen might represent my family member, it became a nightmare. Excessive funds were requested before she would even answer simple questions or pick up the phone. Keep in mind, I had already spent thousands with the firm. In the end, the family member secured excellent representation elsewhere, and I intend to do the same.
Ultimately, I had to take on much of the research and strategic thinking myself, even while paying for legal representation. It makes no sense to pay for a lawyer and still end up doing the work on your own.
If you are considering hiring this firm, I recommend you continue your research elsewhere and save yourself the headache.
Unfortunately, it was not until late in our business relationship, when I raised the possibility of filing ethics complaints with the Arizona State Bar, a malpractice claim, and a motion to compel payment for my professional consultant, that one proper motion was filed. I am still moving forward with those next steps.
When you're fighting for your children, in every way, the last thing you need is internal conflict with your attorney--any parent could understand that.
Before hiring this firm, I did not take other negative reviews seriously. I am writing this now so you do.