How long does a custody or divorce case typically take?

Timelines vary widely. One client reported case resolution in under 3 months after switching counsel; another spent over a year without custody agreement despite retaining the firm.

What is the typical cost?

Reviewers mention retainers and fees ranging from $12,000 to $60,000, depending on case complexity and duration. Clients consistently note high hourly rates.

Can I reach the firm outside business hours?

The firm publishes opening hours seven days a week. One reviewer cited slow responsiveness to calls and emails as a concern.

JMD - James, McElroy & Diehl, P.A.

Updated 2026-08-02 · 1,354 reviewed · 200 listed · Scored from 51 Google reviews · How we rank ›

4.4(51) 74 composite score See reviews on Google ✓ Google-verified

Estate & Trust LitigationEstate Planning Attorney

Services: Estate & Trust Litigation, Estate Planning Attorney
Reviews: 51

What recent reviews say

Strong litigation outcomes dominate feedback, with clients repeatedly praising John Paul Tsahakis and team members for compassion during contentious divorces and custody battles. Multiple reviewers credit the firm with winning difficult cases within tight timelines. Cost and billing practices divide opinion sharply: several clients report six-figure fees and prolonged engagement with minimal results, while others describe the rates as justified by outcomes.

Praised for

responsive and compassionate communication
strategic litigation success
named partner strength (John Paul Tsahakis)
thorough case preparation
client advocacy and personal attention

knowledgeablecompassionateresponsive-communicationclear-explanationstrustworthyprofessional-demeanordetail-oriented

Best for: High-conflict custody and divorce cases where clients prioritize litigation strength over cost control.

Strengths

Experienced litigators in high-conflict divorce and custody
John Paul Tsahakis and partner-level case strategy
Rapid case resolution in some disputed matters

Worth knowing

John Paul Tsahakis listed as lead attorney in multiple contested matters
Joe Karam and Megan Andrews cited for professionalism and communication
Sarah Brady noted for detailed advocacy in custody and asset protection
Lauren Leader praised for grace in contentious proceedings
Jon Burns credited with improving custody outcomes against biased judges
One client achieved full case dismissal without settlement payment after multi-year civil case
One client completed contentious case with custody outcome in under 3 months after switching counsel
Firm experienced data breach; response limited to short-term identity protection

How it compares

Rated 4.4 against a 4.59 average across the 147 estate & trust litigation businesses listed here.
Has more Google reviews than 57% of the businesses in this directory.

How we scored this

How We Rank

Star rating 64

Review volume 75

Review recency 88

Review sentiment 64

Profile completeness 100

Verification 30

Rating breakdown

Common questions

How long does a custody or divorce case typically take?: Timelines vary widely. One client reported case resolution in under 3 months after switching counsel; another spent over a year without custody agreement despite retaining the firm.
What is the typical cost?: Reviewers mention retainers and fees ranging from $12,000 to $60,000, depending on case complexity and duration. Clients consistently note high hourly rates.
Can I reach the firm outside business hours?: The firm publishes opening hours seven days a week. One reviewer cited slow responsiveness to calls and emails as a concern.

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