Joan-Marie Kettell Dean

I hired Joan-Marie to handle my divorce and I could not have been happier with the personal attention that I received, the outcome of the divorce, and follow-up that's taken place in the years to follow. I had been married for over 11 years of my military career, with two small children, when I foun...d myself going thru a divorce. Joan-Marie went out of her way to talk me thru the process, was expert on Alabama divorce law, and understand the implications of military service in a divorce. She places the needs of her clients above those of her self and always makes the time to meet or talk on the telephone. I could not have had a better experience and outcome. Through her understanding of law and negotiation efforts, I was able to retain 100% of my military retirement and a substantial amount of my assets. When my ex-wife asked for additional child support 6 years following our divorce, I again turned to Joan-Marie. Although I was required to pay more child support, since my salary had increased, Joan-Marie provided expert advice and documentation to ensure the modification was reasonable. The qualities that I like best about Joan-Marie is that she's straight forward and honest. She knows the law and will be honest about the pros and cons of any legal action. She is sensitive to the emotional ups and downs of going thru a divorce. Joan-Marie is absolutely the "best of the best" and I highly recommend her to those who are faced with divorce!

I have been in the court system in Alabama, Huntsville in a total of over 5 years. I have hired 3 attorney's in this length of time. I ended the hiring process with Joan Marie Dean. As previously stated by another client Joan Marie is sometimes unable to attend a hearing due to another client, she... should not be held accountable for scheduling conflicts due to the Judges itinerary's. At no time do I feel disconnected from her office. If she is unable to speak with me her legal assistant is always available, and passes along any messages or concerns that I may have. Joan- Marie has almost fixed all the blunders that the previous lawyers messed up, as well achieved extra money that was left on the table by them.. I have a deadbeat ex husband, who ignores his kids and tried to make bastards of them.. My children are special needs and Joan Marie is making sure that we/they get what they deserve!!! Everyone feels that there case is more important then the next, but Joan- Marie trys and achieves to make everyone equal!!! She is a busy lawyer who is trying to fit everyone in and her schedule has conflicts just like everyone else. The court system in Alabama is way to busy and not enough judges!!!! 30.00 and hour is not much for the level of care Joan Marie gives her clients...I spent 60-150 an hour for other lawyers who essentially screwed up!!!! My opinion is Joan Marie is excellent at her job....as a client you need to have patients!!! Perfection takes time!!!!! P.S. She was able to get a judge overturned in an appeal that doesn't normally ever get over turned!!!! Truly amazing!!!!!!! Sincerely Daisey