Client
From 2023-2025, I hired Richard Wilks for a custody case, and the entire experience was extremely disappointing. I paid $3,500 up front, plus an extra $500 for "gas," even though he only traveled to Tifton three times. Every time a court date was scheduled and then rescheduled, I found out from the court, NOT from him. His office never communicates unless you chase them down, and the front desk staff are rude and dismissive. Once he gets your money, you're basically on your own. The only helpful person in that office was Colleen. She was the only one who ever made me feel heard. But the attorney himself did not fight for me. He constantly advised me against everything I believed in for my own case. Almost all of the evidence I provided him was never even used in court. During the hearing, he turned to me asking what questions he should ask, which is shocking considering what I paid. Another huge issue was that every time I wanted to strategize or take action, they would always say, "We have to wait to hear from the other party first." Instead of being proactive, it felt like they were waiting on the opposing side before doing anything for my case. What is the point of hiring an attorney if they won't push forward unless the other party moves first? I also later found out the opposing party was told by their attorney that my attorney called me "crazy." I never mentioned this during the case out of respect for the process, but that alone tells you the lack of professionalism. I am not "crazy." I am a mother fighting for her child, and instead of a lawyer defending me, I had one labeling me because I expected effort and strategy. When it came to mediation, the session lasted about 15 minutes, but I still got charged the full 2-hour fee. I watched him on Zoom chatting casually with the mediator (who is some important person's son in Valdosta), and nothing was accomplished. That whole process was another waste of money. After the final ruling came back, he didn't even call me to explain it. I had to call THEM. When I did, the woman who files the documents (I believe her name is Amanda) answered the phone with an attitude and told me that if I needed him again, I'd have to pay another $3,500. For what? For the same lack of effort? If you're considering this lawyer, please be careful. In my experience, the value you get from this office is not worth what you pay. Avoid this firm unless you want to spend thousands of dollars and still end up feeling like you had to fight your case alone.