Client
When you are fighting for the safety and well-being of children, the quality of legal representation is everything. Unfortunately, the previous attorney on this case, Jonathan Fox, did not advocate with the level of strength and urgency the situation required. Although he was able to modify the custody order, it was not to the degree necessary to protect the children. There was substantial evidence showing ongoing negligence and a toxic environment surrounding the custodial parent, yet stronger protections were not pursued. The result was an order that fell short of what the children truly needed. Our new attorney, who is now working to modify the orders that were originally obtained, reviewed the full case and immediately stated that there was more than enough evidence to secure sole custody and meaningful safeguards. Hearing this confirmed that significant opportunities for protection were not taken, and it has become even more evident as the situation with the custodial parent continues to deteriorate. The children remain surrounded by instability, and stronger action should have been taken from the beginning. Another concern throughout the process was the lack of professionalism from his paralegal. In our meetings she frequently complained about other clients, creating an uncomfortable and distracted environment. On several occasions when we attempted to call for clarity or updates about the case, the phone was abruptly disconnected. This made it even harder to feel confident that the case was being handled with the seriousness it deserved. What became most evident through this entire experience was his timid demeanor and his inability to stand firm in difficult situations. When dealing with a parent who is clearly not healthy and who continues to create an unstable environment for the children, an attorney must be willing to confront the issue directly and fight without hesitation. That level of strength and conviction was missing, and the children needed far more than a cautious approach.