Marsha Lynn Hackenberg

Review for Marsha Heckenberg We are posting this review solely to help others navigate a system that offers very little support once you are in it. Our family entered the legal system with no prior court experience, and the process was far more disappointing and stressful than we ever expected. Whi...le Marsha Heckenberg may be competent among her peers, our experience was defined by a significant lack of communication during critical and emotionally charged moments. Important questions often went unanswered, explanations were limited, and we were left without clarity when clarity was essential—particularly in a high-stakes family law matter involving a very young child. When communication breaks down at critical points, it creates enormous and unnecessary stress for families. Office communication was also difficult at times, and interactions with staff felt dismissive during moments when guidance and professionalism were especially needed. We also experienced issues with fee transparency. We were quoted a price prior to signing due to the urgency of filing motions; however, the amount reflected in the contract was significantly higher. When this discrepancy was raised, we were told it was our responsibility for having signed, and the originally quoted cost was not honored. Additionally, despite lengthy, billable conversations, important details were not always accurately reflected in our filing of Motion to Correct Errors. Future clients should insist on reviewing all proposed orders and documents before submission. Our experience also highlighted a harsh reality of family law: if you cannot afford counsel, you are largely on your own. Unlike criminal cases, family law provides no guaranteed counsel, even when fundamental parental rights and due process are at stake. While proceeding pro se is often described as protected by due process, in practice this protection is unlikely, and navigating the system without effective representation can be devastating. If you are looking for basic filings or procedural assistance, this attorney may be sufficient. However, if you are seeking strong advocacy, consistent communication, compassion, and clear explanations during a complex and vulnerable situation, this was not our experience. Advice to others: read your contract carefully, clarify fees and communication timelines in writing, insist on accuracy, and understand that once you are in the system, meaningful help can be difficult to obtain. Choose carefully.