Child custody cases and divorce cases are tricky. I had to relocate out of state for my job and custody was an issue as this would be a greater than the maximum distance allowed. It was a lot and I knew I couldn't do it successfully without some legal guidance. No one would give me a straight answer over the phone. Some wouldn't even call me back. Then, I found Madeleine D. Olmstead. Madeleine is a no nonsense lawyer and got right to work. She will do exactly what is allowable according to Wisconsin Law. If you know what you want, need some sound advice, great follow through and some options to approaching a difficult case. then she just may be your answer.
I would highly recommend Alison and her assistant Maya as a team you want on your side. Alison was thorough and stood up for me whenever needed. Whether it was to the opposing counsel or in front of the judge. She explained everything to me from a technical side but also was able to take a more personal approach to help me with my decisions. When push came to shove, Alison never allowed me to be taken advantage of or accept unfavorable terms. The whole process with a contested divorce is brutal, but Alison provided a calming effect and a voice of reason that helped me through this process. If I could assign more than 5 stars, I would. I truly felt like she was behind me, not because I was her client, but because she was truly looking out for me in my case as well as for my future. Maya was also great explaining a lot of the legal documents and requirements during this process which helped to keep my stress level down.
I would like to thank Madeleine for all of her hardwork with the case of my son. She was very thorough in helping me with my case. Madeleine always got back to me very quickly between phone calls and emails which made communication very simple and easy. Madeleine also was extremely passionate and professional.
First and foremost, I would like to thank Madeleine for her hardwork and commitment with my case. I had custody of my son for over a year while his biological mom bounced all over the United States then decided she was ready to be a mother and took him away. Not knowing my rights, I was limited with what I could and couldn’t do. I reached out Madeleine, explained my story with all details. She then told me that I have a great case and that with time, we would get my son back. After the first hearing, my son was able to return home for a temporary order. During this time, Madeleine continued to work on my case so we would be prepared for the final hearing. After a long year, the final hearing was scheduled. Madeleine presented all of the documents and preparation to the court. I now have primary placement and full decision making. I appreciate everything she did for me during that year and a half period. My son is home, safe, and happy as ever. She remained in contact with me through out the entire process. She walked me through how everything would look and gave me tremendous confidence in her and the system. Once again I would like to say thank you to Madeleine, I don’t know where me and my family would be without you. Thanks again!!!
In the interest of privacy, I don't want to rehash my whole situation, but let me say it was a non-contested, seemingly simple matter that I ended up finishing myself after the cost added up far beyond my initial $1,500 retainer (never imagined it would go beyond that). The only value provided to me was the initial filing of the paperwork. Beyond that, the costs of emailing and a couple phone calls quickly added up to nearly $3k, without atty olmstead even finishing my case. I will say if this firm is good at anything, it's collecting their additional retainers and money! They called me and emailed me more than for anything else! Granted, I've never been through anything like this and hopefully never will again, but I feel I ended up doing much of the work figuring things out myself and never was given any indication I'd burn though three grand with little to show for it--a complete unpleasant surprise. There were some other oversights and deficiencies, too. Not a good experience.
I decided to hire Teri as my lawyer because she was the #1 ranked family law attorney in southeast Wisconsin. My expectations were exceeded. She is extremely knowledgeable, hardworking and dedicated. I really feel that she cares about my case, which it is a difficult and complicated one, even by normal divorce/custody standards. Teri has defeated many odds in my case so far and I couldn't be more happy that she is my lawyer. She has fought for my children and me and I know she is not done yet! She is the best of the best!
Teri Nelson and her team were organized, calming and professional during a stressful time. I appreciate their open communication and collaborative nature throughout the process. I had a lot of confidence and trust in Teri's ability to not miss a step.
I was very lucky to have Teri represent me in a very challenging Divorce.
Attention to detail, advice and communication exceeded my expectations. I couldn't be more happy with the outcome. Thanks, Teri and Shelly for all your hard work and more importantly, your caring for my outcome!
Great supportive attorney! Teri Nelson and her staff walked me through each step of the process with education and knowledge. She has years of experience and great connections. They were there for me from beginning to end and beyond. Caring, professional and good at their job !!! Glad I had Teri on my side.
I hired Rebecca on the spot. I was impressed with not only her knowledge and professionalism but also her kindness. She represented me in my divorce which was final in Feb of this year. Rebecca negotiated a terrific settlement for me and I would highly recommend her to anyone facing divorce.