I consulted with Jay about divorce and child custody before the pandemic. Then the pandemic hit and everything got so crazy that I wasn't sure what to do. Other lawyers I talked to tried to scare me into hiring them and filing all kinds of documents immediately. They told me my case was too complicated to handle by myself and pressured me into giving them a retainer.
Jay was the only one who took the time to explain to me what I needed to know. He told me to take my time and make the right decision for myself and my children. After talking to the other lawyers I was freaked out and wanted to hire Hall Underwood but Jay told me that he thought my case was simple enough to handle without a lawyer. He was right!
I came back to Jay multiple times with more questions (I'm kinda OCD about this stuff) and he always answered my questions right away no matter what time of day it was. He kept me calm and helped me through the documents I needed to file for my case. He gave me tips to help me negotiate a settlement with my husband and avoid ugly family court drama. Most importantly he put my interest and my children above his own interest when none of the other lawyers would. By not rushing me into filing, the value of our home nearly doubled and I wouldn't get that extra money if I had listened to any of the other lawyers I talked to.
Definitely talk to Jay before you hire any lawyer because if your like me you might not even need one. If you do, definitely hire Hall Underwood! Thank you so much!
I have never encountered an attorney as smart, honest, sensitive, and intuitive as Jay. He gave thoughtful and practical guidance for what seemed like very complicated problems and immediately made me feel like I had come to a safe place. Jay didn't use fear mongering to sell services or give promise any unrealistic results. He calls it as he sees it - and he has a smart and objective way of seeing the many sides of any problem. I strongly recommend speaking to Jay before going to anyone else. Truly just a really great human being.
I founded Hall Underwood PLLC to give clients a better option. We are a boutique litigation and family law firm with top rated attorneys who offer predictable and transparent fees scalable to each client's unique needs and, more importantly, budgets. Contact us for your complimentary consultation or visit our website for more information.
Licensed for 10 years
StateAZ
StatusActive
Acquired2012
Updated12/21/2022
We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Literal lifesaver
I consulted with Jay about divorce and child custody before the pandemic. Then the pandemic hit and everything got so crazy that I wasn't sure what to do. Other lawyers I talked to tried to scare me into hiring them and filing all kinds of documents immediately. They told me my case was too complicated to handle by myself and pressured me into giving them a retainer.
Jay was the only one who took the time to explain to me what I needed to know. He told me to take my time and make the right decision for myself and my children. After talking to the other lawyers I was freaked out and wanted to hire Hall Underwood but Jay told me that he thought my case was simple enough to handle without a lawyer. He was right!
I came back to Jay multiple times with more questions (I'm kinda OCD about this stuff) and he always answered my questions right away no matter what time of day it was. He kept me calm and helped me through the documents I needed to file for my case. He gave me tips to help me negotiate a settlement with my husband and avoid ugly family court drama. Most importantly he put my interest and my children above his own interest when none of the other lawyers would. By not rushing me into filing, the value of our home nearly doubled and I wouldn't get that extra money if I had listened to any of the other lawyers I talked to.
Definitely talk to Jay before you hire any lawyer because if your like me you might not even need one. If you do, definitely hire Hall Underwood! Thank you so much!
Read less
Posted by anonymous | August 19, 2020
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
A Godsend
I have never encountered an attorney as smart, honest, sensitive, and intuitive as Jay. He gave thoughtful and practical guidance for what seemed like very complicated problems and immediately made me feel like I had come to a safe place. Jay didn't use fear mongering to sell services or give promise any unrealistic results. He calls it as he sees it - and he has a smart and objective way of seeing the many sides of any problem. I strongly recommend speaking to Jay before going to anyone else. Truly just a really great human being.
Read less
Posted by Chloye | February 19, 2020
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Without a doubt, most trustworthy!
I consulted with Jay on multiple topics regarding my divorce and child support/custody case; no matter my question or concern he always had a well educated answer. Even while emotionally overwhelmed (and probably a tad hysterical) he stayed level headed and patient with me while explaining what, how and why things worked the way that they did. His rationality and "larger picture" mentality gave me the confidence to do what needed to be done in the best interest of my children and what would, eventually, become less stressful for me as the transition to this new way of life was complete. I have, and will continue, without a doubt recommend Jay and his team of attorneys to anyone in search of help, guidance and representation in the realm of family law!
Read less
Posted by Svetlana | June 15, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Amazing combination of experience, compassion and integrity!
Hands down the best in the Valley. Jay and Emi provided legal advice and guidance during a very difficult time in my life. They were not only experienced and knowledgeable, given their strong background in family law, they were also incredibly honest, very responsive, and extremely fair. Before making any decision, they made sure I had all the facts and a solid understanding of them. I knew they wouldn’t steer me wrong and that I was in great hands. They were compassionate about my situation and it was clear they really cared about their clients.
I would strongly recommend Hall Underwood to anyone seeking the absolute best legal representation and advice.
Read less
Posted by Victoria | April 1, 2019
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Very compassionate and extremely knowledgeable.
Jay consulted with me about a very complex divorce case and has been very straightforward with me from the beginning. I wish I could hire him to be my attorney but I can't due to jurisdiction issues. I would recommend him to any of my friends who need legal help in Arizona.
Posted by Andi Coffee | March 17, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great Service
Jay has his team have been very helpful and attentive during a horrible custody battle. I know Jay and his team are fighting for me.
Posted by Ana | December 7, 2018
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Honest, loyal, and professional
Despite the length and complexity of the case, Jay provided an expert consultation that helped me understand the laws and regulations in family court. I wish I had known about this lawyer when the case started, as it would've resulted in a much better outcome. I thank him for taking his time to review the case and give me advice.
Read less
Posted by Ryan Clancy | March 26, 2018
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Excellent response
Jay wasn't able to take on my case given his workload and the speed I needed help but went the extra mile to give me some great referrals. Thanks Jay!
Posted by anonymous | October 25, 2016
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Excellent, simple and straight
Jay answered all my questions without exceptions, he gave me simple answers without any complex jargons. I would love hiring him if my case was on the same town where he practices.
Posted by Jessica | October 11, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Couldn't have asked for a better lawyer!
Jay did an amazing job representing me during a child custody/child support case! I previously retained a different law firm and I was very unhappy with them and that's when I found Jay. Best decision I made was switching to him. He answered all of my questions no matter how big or small. He was very prompt in answering me both through email and text messages. He eplained exerything in great detail and i definitey couldnt have asked for a better outcome! Words could never expess how satisfied and grateful I am! I will definitely be using him in the future (hopefully I won't need to though lol) and I refer them to everyone I know! Thank you Jay for everything!
Read less
Posted by Robert I. | July 29, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Doesn't get any BETTER!
I retained Jay for my child custody matter. He is responsive, professional, highly intelligent, dependable and he will get results! If you're in need of an attorney that will go above and beyond.. Jay is your guy. I am so grateful I found Jay and his team!
Posted by Andrew | April 28, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Sharp, knowledgable, and direct
I've had the pleasure of retaining Hall Underwood twice. Once for temporary orders, then again for the rest of my divorce. Words really cannot express how grateful I am for all the effort Jay and his colleagues put in to my case, because everything I've been fighting for over the past year (my kids and their future), he fought just as hard for them on his end as counsel.
While I didn't get what I originally had hoped for out of the the temporary orders matter, it had to settle. Jay thoroughly explained why it was necessary to do so. The evidence I had simply wasn't enough to meet the burden of proof for anything more than equal parenting time and decision making. Being hot-headed by nature, I had foolishly considered going to an evidentiary hearing on it regardless, but Jay was able to talk me out of it, and in the process very likely saved me from having to pay several thousands of my ex's attorney's fees. Looking back on it knowing what I know now about family law, he was absolutely right.
After the temporary orders matter settled, my ex and I had considered reconciliation, and he withdrew so I could pursue that. I ended up retaining Jay and his firm again a few months later after unsuccessfully trying to settle the rest of the issues when it became apparent that the marriage was in fact irretrievably broken. Opposing counsel had been extremely dodgy responding to calls and e-mails and continually refused to provide mandatory discovery for months even after I retained them. They were calm and professional dealing with my ex's unreasonably difficult attorney and eventually forced them to hand over everything we needed. The most impressive part of Jay's performance was that he noticed a subtle, yet significant defect in the wording of the proposed parenting plan we received and capitalized on it, which allowed me to place the children in any school in the valley with zero restrictions and ultimately place them in the best school possible (one of the things that is EXTREMELY important to me).
Needless to say, my ex wasn't very happy about that, and her attorney fought pretty hard to try to save face in the wake of his devastating blunder. He tried to back out of the agreements that we had made that were not yet binding, tried to conduct an untimely noticed and frivolous deposition, tried to make misleading arguments so I'd be the one to have to pay child support, tried rearrange the parenting time schedule, and continually threatened to seek an award of attorney's fees if we didn't give in to his demands.
Naturally, Jay knew it was all just an act and didn't fall for it. Eventually, after all the discovery was completed, Jay gave him an ultimatum. Either this case settles, or we go to trial and we'll almost certainly collect an award of attorney's fees from having to enforce the parenting plan we agreed to (which was binding pursuant to Rule 69). Needless to say, they chose the former.
I really couldn't be happier with the results of my case. Not only did I get almost exactly what I wanted out of my divorce, but also my fees for the entire case were only about one-third (1/3) of what my ex paid for her attorney (hers was hourly), who has been practicing for over 30 years, and we still came out slightly ahead. I think that speaks to how amazing Jay and his colleagues are in their profession. Having dealt with a dozen or so other attorneys in my divorce, Jay and his firm is the only law firm I'll ever recommend to family and friends.
Read less
Posted by Lorina | November 30, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
NOT ENOUGH STARS
On this scale of 1-5 the rating earned here is a solid 12. Jay Hall is an outstanding, compassionate and knowledgeable attorney. As a single mother on a slim budget, I shopped around. My young adult son needed help with a personal matter that could have been disastrous to him. Jay listened to him intently, said he would glad to help, and helped my son navigate his issue expeditiously with the utmost respect, guidance and reassurance. The matter was resolved with a favorable outcome and Mr. Hall has been just a blessing to us both.
Read less
Posted by Mike | September 29, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Jay Hall has re-written my definition of what a lawyer is..
I hired Jay Hall for a defense of a civil litigation case, and he is now my family attorney for all matters and he is one of the only two lawyers I would refer to friends and family....
Jay has a no bs approach to law and will not build his clients into a false sense of security.
He is an extremely talented lawyer and has the wisdom and confidence to do for you what he does for me and my family and friends.
Not what your typical lawyer is, and I have met many lawyers...and would only recommend Jay Hall and Associates.
Read less
Posted by Shanyn | September 26, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Helpful, timely, knowledgeable!
I could not be more satisfied with Jay's help with my small business issue. Being a small business owner I was overwhelmed stressed with the threat of an angry client and Jay went above and beyond to help me. He calmed my nerves and he was patient. Jay answered all of my questions quickly. After the issue was resolved Jay made it a point to follow up with me to make sure my issues were resolved and everything was good on my end. I recommend Jay to all of my friends who are needing legal help and advice.
Read less
Posted by Alex | September 8, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Absolute best divorce lawyer
I fired my previous attorney midway through my case because she wasn't getting the job done. Like most lawyers who only practice family law, she was timid, disorganized, and weak in the courtroom. From the first time I spoke to Jay, I could tell he was the exact opposite. He was assertive and aggressive and always in control. If you think your divorce will require litigation, don't waste time interviewing other attorneys because there's nobody better.
Read less
Posted by Matthew | September 7, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The best money can buy
I own several businesses in the Phoenix area and I have used some of the "big" law firms before. Never again. None of those attorneys compete with Jay. He is always a step or two ahead and everything he does is part of a bigger plan. Before Jay, I didn't know how much writing ability could influence the outcome of the case. He's my go-to now for all civil litigation matters.
Read less
Posted by Daniel | August 11, 2015
Met and exceeded my high family law expectations.
I began a relationship with Jay and his partners very late in the divorce process. I had a complex litigation involving an attempted relocation with children. I represented myself up to the final trial stages and the relief I felt after hiring competent professionals was immense. They took the case out of my hands, left no stone un-turned nor detail overlooked. They responded PROMPTLY to my concerns and inquiries and have a team dynamic in place to ensure responsiveness to clients. That is unique among law firms in my experience and I was quite emotional by the end of my extensive litigation. They heard me out, allowed for me be over reactive and hyper emotional to perceived changes in the case and then they handled each situation with savvy and finesse. I couldn't recommend Jay and his team higher, my only mistake in working with him is that I didn't do it sooner. If you are an over thinker like I am and suffer from analysis paralysis......then instead of MANY sleepless nights fretting over every possible contingency, hire a team that will exceed your expectations and be fair with their fees. Jay is an expert in his craft.
Read less
Posted by Michael | January 24, 2015
Don't settle, hire the best
I hired Jay Hall as my attorney for one civil matter and then for another matter closely related.
I am a former peace officer and did not hold lawyers in high regard until I hired Jay.
Jay Hall has redefined what I know a lawyer to be, honest, trustworthy and polite; not to mention a great attitude and availability during stressful times.
You will not be disappointed, Jay will not tell you fairytales nor falsely build your confidence, a real straight shooter and very high on my "A" list of credible lawyers...(and that's a SHORT list!)
Read less
Posted by Heather | September 2, 2014
Jay Hall Review
Jay Hall has worked with me in a professional and respectful manner. He responds to my e-mails quickly and if he is not able to answer my questions right away, he will let me know and get back to me within a reasonable time. He is very knowledgeable and has build my confidence in him as a lawyer this year. If I am in need of an attorney again, Jay Hall will be my first choice. I would recommend Jay to anyone who is seeking assistance from an attorney.
Jay has been very patient with me because I have been finishing my bachelors degree at the same time that I have been dealing with my court situation. I have never felt rushed or abandoned by him the entire time I have worked with him, as I did have to put my court responsibilities on hold a few times during my last semester of my program as it became hectic and needed my full attention. Jay worked around my schedule and kept me well informed on any new developments during this time.
I was very lucky to have found Jay Hall and have his services available to me for my legal situation. As I have stated in this review earlier, I would highly recommend Jay as the attorney to represent you. He will not let you down and you will be satisfied with all of his services that he will confidently provide you.
Our Rating is calculated using information the lawyer has included on their profile in addition to the information we collect from state bar associations and other organizations that license legal professionals. Attorneys who claim their profiles and provide Avvo with more information tend to have a higher rating than those who do not.
What determines Avvo Rating?
Experience & background
Years licensed, work experience, education
Legal community recognition
Peer endorsements, associations, awards
Legal thought leadership
Publications, speaking engagements
Discipline
Disciplinary information may not be comprehensive, or updated. We recommend that you always check a lawyer's disciplinary status with their respective state bar association before hiring them.
Unknown Attorney | Aug 15
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have read many of Jay's answers. They are consistently accurate and helpful to Avvo Askers. These are qualities a client should consider when looking for a lawyer."
Business Attorney | May 05
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Jay is an excellent attorney that will thoroughly analyze your situation and develop the best strategy for your individual scenario. Jay is well-versed and very knowledgeable of the law."
Litigation Attorney | Mar 22
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Jay's a very competent attorney. I was very impressed in his general competence in family law and litigation generally. He's an excellent writer and is willing to go the extra mile for clients. I would encourage anyone seeking a civil or family law attorney to meet with Jay, first."
Litigation Attorney | Aug 01
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I would be remiss if I did not endorse Mr. Hall. I'm consistently impressed by the breadth of his knowledge. He's a formidable litigator whose thought processes are unique and unlike anyone I've ever known. He's able to stay a step or two ahead of his adversaries and his clients are the beneficiaries.
He maintains such great relationships with his clients because he's able to empathize and relate to people like few others in our profession. I highly recommend him if you're looking for a business, family, or litigation attorney in the Phoenix area."
Business Attorney | Jul 19
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"An extremely talented and well respected attorney in the legal community, I wholeheartedly recommend him to anyone looking for a lawyer who knows the law and truly cares about protecting the rights of his clients and getting them the most favorable result possible."
Business Attorney | Jun 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Although he is fairly new to Avvo, I have just reviewed an answer of Mr. Hall that was not only accurate and analytic but also customized to the needs of the Avvo asker. His perception of the consequences which he explained to the asker makes Mr. Hall's combination of qualities exactly what every client would look for when hiring an attorney."
Litigation Attorney | Jun 23
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Jay is passionate about helping every single one of his clients achieve the best possible outcome in their individual cases. His excellent critical thinking and problem-solving skills, coupled with his passion for the law, enables him to obtain favorable results for his clients. I would highly recommend him."