James Robert Schmillen

Jim (James) handled my divorce and custody situation for me recently. Him and his team were compassionate, caring, loyal and hard working with my case. I was an emotional disaster when I came into the firm in the beginning due to being a stay at home mom for 11 years and a ex that was out to destroy ...me. Jim stood up for me every turn of the way. In the end I received more than my expectations in both child custody and spousal support. My ex was known to bully me and I knew Jim would stand up for me in court and through e-mails to him. He really made a traumatic event in my life as easy as possible. I'd recommend him to anyone needing an attorney who will fight for you, cares about his clients and puts heart into what he does.

I had done a review originally, as he asked me to. This was when I was happy with him; he works hard and is a shark when your retainer is funded though he was late to every meeting we ever had, even court. My case got sticky and funds got short so monthly payments started occurring. I contacted him a... few times for questions with no response. I had issues that were consistently not addressed. DCS knocked on my door with a series a false allegations. I ran to him, thinking my lawyer would help. He refused to so much as call me back. When I finally heard from his paralegal, they asked me when I was going to replenish my retainer and continued to ignore my practically begging for help. I told them I will stress about payment once I get my current issues resolved. I was also becoming late on pressing issues due to Jim's constant vacations. I mentioned the BAR, to which he dismissed me as a client because "I made a threat". I've been too busy fighting my case to report him, but I still fully intend to. He only made matters worse for me and now I'm even more behind financially. I still don't know what I paid for.

Jim Schmillen took over my divorce proceedings after another Central Avenue lawyer had escalated my case well beyond my wishes, angered the Judge and shut down communications with the opposing side. Within days of hiring him he had re-evaluated my issues, opened communications, and saved me a costly ...and unnecessary deposition. He was then able to quickly prepare for our Temporary Orders hearing presenting a respectful and united front to the Judge. It made all the difference! Our experience would go on to include court ordered mediation and an eventual trial. Mr. Schmillen's council proved invaluable. He was able to champion the causes I found most important to me, for the life I wanted going forward, and for the needs of my children. His accounting background assisted me in realistically planning for my present situation and for building a strategy to secure my future needs. He and his staff were always helpful and accessible for questions or guidance and I always felt my case was their top priority. If you ever need to go to trial, you will want Jim Schmillen with you. He comes well prepared with a brilliant mind and demeanor. That will make all the difference! My future quality of life and for my children largely depended on the hour and a half we were given before the Judge at trial. He made all the difference! If that were not enough, he is fair with his fees at a time when you most need it. If you are thinking of divorce, unhappy with your present attorney, not being heard, being over billed, or need advice about a child custody issue I highly recommend a consultation with Jim Schmillen. He is absolutely the best advocate you will find!

I was somewhat new to the area and had a feeling that I would soon be needing legal services. My close friends recommended Jim and I met with him for a consultation. No less than a week after the consult, I was served with custody papers from my exhusband. I contacted Jim and felt reassured that I... was in good hands. Jim has now been my legal counsel for a year and I have been thankful throughout this time to have him and his office staff on my team. They are always there for my questions no matter how big or small. I have also had a tremendous about of problems with my exhusband throughout this custody battle and Jim has handled it with great expertise and a calm demeanor. Exactly what I have needed during such a stressful time.

Jim is technically my third lawyer in my case which goes to show how long and dynamic my case has been. A friend referred me to his lawyer, who heard my case and actually said, "You want Jim Schmillen." To have a lawyer recommend another says a lot, and Jim has actually exceeded the expectations I ha...d. I hired Jim for hearing last minute; the case was a few weeks out. He advised me to proceed in manners that were refreshing, on point, and also very relaxing for my nerves. He and his office staff are always extremely quick to respond, kind, and professional; Jim was fully prepared in court even with my lengthy case and short notice. Jim continues to advise me on exactly how to proceed and makes me feel confident in my case with my relentless ex. I trust him because he has shown me he performs and even covers extra bases just in case of anything recurring if you have an ex like mine. It is nice to finally feel confident in a battle that was emotionally and mentally exhausting prior to hiring Jim. I have since referred friends who also love his expertise, efficiency, and professionalism.