Meldie Marie Moore, Adoption Attorney in Laguna Beach, California

Meldie concentrates on adoption, criminal defense, education, estate planning, and family law. Each area below outlines the kind of case Meldie handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Adoption

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• Criminal Defense

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• Education

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• Estate Planning

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• Family Law

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Meldie's primary office is at 361 Forest Avenue, Laguna Beach, CA, 92651. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Working with a new adoption attorney should feel structured. Here's how the first two conversations with Meldie usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Meldie discusses fees during intake so the arrangement fits the matter. Contingency, hourly, and flat-fee options are all common in adoption practice — ask which fits.

• How much does it cost to hire Meldie for a adoption case?

  Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Meldie walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.

• Does Meldie offer a free consultation?

  Meldie charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Meldie's office. Some adoption attorneys offer free consults — check Meldie's current terms during booking.

• How long do adoption cases in California typically take?

  Simple adoption matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. Meldie gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

• Can Meldie take my case if I'm outside Laguna Beach?

  Meldie is licensed in California. Matters governed by California law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Meldie will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.

• What should I bring to my first meeting with Meldie?

  Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. Meldie will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

• Is Meldie accepting new adoption clients right now?

  Meldie's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.