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10 Feb, 2021 by Seth
When I first called this law office and set up my initial consultation with Michael Peterson for my pending divorce, I was impressed with how professional and straight-to-the-point he was. He asked all of the necessary questions and summarized my situation very quickly. His assistant, Jordyn, was also very efficient with scheduling and ensuring they got me in quickly whenever it was needed. I then hired Michael to help me draft a divorce agreement (i.e. settlement offer). We worked together, in person, to think through all of the angles and ensure that my interests were protected. Michael was very realistic, reasonable, articulate, and easy to work with. As much as I thought working with a lawyer might be a miserable experience, I actually enjoyed hanging out in Michael's office and working with him. In the end, I felt that I received solid guidance from Michael throughout the entire process of the divorce and felt confident, despite all of the uncertainties and "what ifs", that he had helped me get through the divorce as quickly and smoothly as possible. He also made phone calls to other experts / consultants / lawyers for advice related to real estate law, since my divorce involved some complicated issues regarding a home my ex wife and I owned together. Compared with other local attorneys - some of whom wanted over $7,000 right at the start - this law office was extremely reasonable with their rates, billing by the hour with full transparency and printed breakdowns along the way. Even after the divorce paperwork has been all signed off and completed, Michael has continued to help answer my questions as they arise. I am extremely grateful to have found Michael and Jordyn, since they saved me a lot of money and made my divorce as painless as possible. I would highly recommend them!
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04 Mar, 2019 by E veritas
I’m pro per and needed a second opinion on my complex court filing. Mr Arnold gave me exceptional advice, highlighting the weaknesses and strengths in my arguments ( immediately targeting and prioritizing the critical aspects, and then backing up his review with an impressive knowledge of the law) I was genuinely impressed, not only with his expertise, but his compassion and kindness in dealing with my difficult circumstances. He took time to make sure I understood, gave exemplary advice and saw the case from all angles. Don’t hesitate to contact him for a second opinion, you won’t regret it.
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04 Jan, 2019 by Dennis
Thank You
The advice I received 01/04/19 form Mr. Arnold on my legal endeavors, as one quoted is "as good as it gets."
Mr. Arnold gratuitously assisted me with the next direction to re-file my request to reduce or terminate a prior award of spousal support with great optimism. Patient to listen.
Second Opinion Client.
Northern, Ca.
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01 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
I had the privilege of working with Ralph Santoro at the office of Goldberg Jones over the course of the last year and a half. Ralph was simply outstanding, if I could recommend an attorney to anyone going through the same divorce and custody struggles that I went through, I would recommend Ralph any day of the week.
For starters, Ralph has never been one to shy away from conflict with the opposing party, a lot of attorneys will often times take the path of least resistance when it comes to fighting for their client. However, this was not the case with Ralph, he secured the custody agreement I wanted and got favorable terms for my divorce. It was an absolute pleasure getting to know Ralph on a personal level as well. He is truly an amazing guy all the way around.
He is very knowledgeable on current case literature and knows how to make the process as smooth as possible.
Thank you Ralph!
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02 Jan, 2024 by Eric
Ralph helped me get through what was supposed to be an amicable divorce but turned out to be very nasty. He was extremely knowledgeable, always on time with requests, and quick to get back to me anytime I contacted him. He made me comfortable knowing that his goal was not to make as much work as possible in order to gain more hours from me. He often discussed various options in terms of the amount of work necessary and what it would cost me, but did not push me to do anything I wasn't comfortable with. I highly recommend Ralph for any divorce/family law needs.
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04 Dec, 2021 by Tyler
Having Mr. Santoro advocating for me was the right choice. He is a strong advocate and it makes all the difference. As a father, navigating the family court is tricky and can be perilous, Mr Santoro's experience and tact was indispensable when I needed it most. Thank you Ralph!
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08 Jun, 2020 by Anonymous
I cannot thank Amy enough. After a terrible breakup, Amy helped me sort out selling a jointly-owned home and navigated a pet ownership dispute with my ex. She figured out what to do at every twist and turn and helped ease my anxiety during the most stressful experience of my life (in the end, the home was sold, finances were sorted, and I was able to keep the dog). If you are looking for someone who is a great attorney, knows how to listen, and who truly cares then look no further than Amy!
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28 Jan, 2020 by Debbie
Amy Saunders answered my phone call quickly on a weekend and went right to work to advise me on POA issues and how to dismiss a divorce. I highly recommend Amy Saunders for dealing with my issue quickly and skillfully.
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10 Feb, 2018 by Anonymous
I am a father who has been engaged in a custody dispute and divorce. I was in need of an attorney on short notice and when I called Amy’s practice to ask for a consultation it was Amy who answered. Amy gave me same-day counsel in person in the evening! I cannot express how professional and knowledgeable Amy has been during my crisis. Amy, Catherine, and Amanda operated as a team and provided outstanding guidance and direction when I needed it most. They seem to work around the clock and take phone calls and reply to emails very quickly. In the worst time of my life they provided me with a degree of emotional stability through their legal diligence and support. I would highly recommend Amy to anyone going through a divorce or custody dispute. I cannot thank you enough Amy, Catherine, and Amanda!
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03 Oct, 2019 by Anna
I could not have asked for a better attorney. She was on top of everything, yet she was so compassionate and kind when I was going through this tough time. You can tell she truly cares about people. I felt confident having her at my side through this excruciating event in my life. I’m thankful for her and I recommend this powerhouse of a person and attorney!
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22 May, 2019 by Chris
Leanne Cooper and entire staff made our adoption process seem so easy. With the thoroughness and ease of the Clio program, our adoption was seamless. Thank you Leanne and Amanda for making the adoption possible. Highly recommended!
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13 Dec, 2018 by Petra
Thank You LeAnne and your office for getting me thru a complex divorce .... I tell ppl she's a pit bull with lipstick .. I look back 6-7 years now and Iam still grateful. I read back thru my files recently and had read your response and I was saying to myself . I had a great attorney ...Thank You so much
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10 Feb, 2023 by Todd
The staff were highly efficient and communicated effectively. They resolved my case in a timely manner.
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16 Feb, 2022 by Luis
Great services and knowledge. Thanks Sandra and Lisette you are simply the best highly recommended
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07 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
I retained Attorney Sandra Bonfiglio for my divorce. She listened to my concerns and worked hard to provide the best outcome. The team she works with as also a great asset and always there to answer any of my questions. I high recommended Attorney Sandra Bonfiglio.
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12 Feb, 2024 by Norma
I was referred to Dennis & Dennis and I am so happy with the results Amy was able to achieve in my divorce. Amy is knowledgeable, adaptable and personable. Her staff was always available to answer my questions and guide me in the right direction. I am truly grateful to the entire team for their professionalism and strategic approach.
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10 Apr, 2023 by Jessica
If you need someone who listens and cares about how you feel, Amy is who to hire. She was so understanding and always available to help. My case involved my parents property and she helped resolve the case without affecting them. She guided me through the whole process in an easy to understand manner while being very professional. I am so grateful I had her by my side during this difficult time in my life!
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26 Jan, 2023 by Yassiel
Amy was instrumental in helping me settle a very complicated divorce case. Thanks to her, I was able to return to my home and get my life back together. She‘s a great person and truly cares about her clients. Many thanks also to her amazing staff including Lissett, her paralegal, who was always an email or phone call away and kept me updated throughout every single step along the way.
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04 Apr, 2024 by Dom
David was very professional during the whole divorce case. He appeared to run laps around his opposing counsel during my divorce. His knowledge and legal talent is the best I have ever seen or dealt with. He skillfully negotiated the best possible outcome for me in my divorce. He kept me informed at all times, and he was always available for questions, even finding the best way out of several difficult legal quagmires. He put a complex case settlement together in a timely manner. I find he was reasonable with his fees, he kept my costs minimal, and he was more than fair with me overall. My divorce settlement was approved by the Court without problems. This allowed me to get on with my life in freedom. David's relatable style, and candor was refreshing. This was just what I needed during that tough time in my life. As a result, I ç highly recommend David and his firm. In fact, I would not have recovered as well as I did without his steady guidance throughout my divorce proceedings.
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28 Feb, 2023 by Yulia
This is my second time working with David Gabriel.
If I have to get an attorney I will choose him again.
If you need someone who is honest and knows his stuff - hire him.
My case was complicated- other attorney was interested in her own earnings and tried to drag things along just to bill.
David was making things mentally as easy as possible for me and shield me from other side nonsense and abuse and absorbed a lot of craziness. He will do a great job and he is honest man. He is doing things Right.
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01 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
Getting divorced is never easy, but with a lawyer like David Gabriel by your side, it can be swift and painless. As an attorney myself, I know how difficult it can be to work with high-maintenance clients, but David has the patience of a saint and answered all of my calls, texts, and questions along the way. His communication was exceptional, far surpassing my expectations. When it came down to the terms of divorce, custody issues and child support, David’s experience in this field was invaluable. Issues like child support and alimony will impact a household for many years after a divorce is finalized, and David had the foresight to prepare for my future both financially and with regard child custody issues. He negotiated tirelessly with opposing counsel and completed my divorce, from filing to finalization, in less than one year. Thank you, David!!
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12 Jan, 2023 by Anonymous
I went through a difficult divorce and Attorney Barraco helped me navigate this painful process every step of the way. She is a consummate professional and knows divorce laws inside and out. She always thinks 2 steps ahead of the opposition and fights for your rights. Thank you attorney Barraco.
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01 Jul, 2020 by Anonymous
Attorney Barraco is a true professional. From the moment we first spoke, she put me at ease, with her calm and professional demeanor. Having never met before we discussed my needs and within a few days we met for the first time. When we met she was kind, welcoming, and to the point. I enjoyed her ability to weed through the nonsense and get down to business.
Throughout the process she was just a phone call or email away. She returns messages in any form very quickly and with great tact.
While Attorney Barraco represented me her knowledge of the law and preparation for the case came to light throughout the process. I had full confidence from day one and she did not disappoint at the conclusion. I HIGHLY recommend her to anyone looking for representation.
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17 Mar, 2020 by Arthur
My case started in 2017 and mostly just ended in my mind yesterday. Laurel was there every step of the way. Not only that, I had the entire firm assisting me whenever it was needed. This was a very ugly case. We went up against multiple lawyers. With many issues that needed to be tackled. She kept her cool, while I being emotionally attached needed her guidance to not let it get the best of me. Not that I will ever consider marrying again, although she told me to never say never. (She tells me she has divorced multiple people, multiple times) I will do my best to never make this mistake again. What I know from this hell that I went thru, is I would never have come thru it as well as I did without her knowledge and support of her team of well educated people. So if you are going through a divorce I would highly recommend using Laurel as your lawyer. She will stand by you from beginning to end! Thank you Laurel for your support and guidance. Goog or bad, I will always remember our days in court together.
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14 Sep, 2023 by Chioma
I had the pleasure of working with Alyson for nearly 4 years on a divorce case with a covert narcissist who suffers from various mental health issues in addition to his personality disorder. It was a nasty and stressful case with a completely uncooperative defendant but ultimately it ended up in a total, outstanding victory for me and I can unequivocally say that it was due in large part to Alyson being my attorney.
Pause and take a deep breath...I hope your case won't be like mine but if you suspect that you might be in for a ride, stop, get on your knees and thank the Lord that you came across this review. If you're a serious person who is doing your best to do the right thing then Alyson is your attorney. You will not find a more knowledgeable, capable, and respected attorney in the metro-Atlanta area.
In fact in my search for a lawyer, Alyson Lembeck's name came up multiple times both from highly respected professionals who work with the court system and recently divorced people in my network. These people did not know each other and I have since thanked them profusely for their recommendation. Alyson is a Top 50 Woman Lawyer in Atlanta who can help you not only as a divorce attorney, but with your prenuptials or as a Guardian ad Litem amongst other services. During my time working with her, I NEVER felt nickeled and dimed, her fees and billing were fair and she was always professional and accessible.
Alyson is calm under pressure, strategic and analytical. She's a fierce fighter but not in a dramatic or superficial sense, instead she is laser - focused on asking the questions that quickly reveal the heart of the matter and the first time that you see her in action in a court room you're going to thank God that you both are on the same side. She is not distracted by silly answers or deflection - she is not there to socialize although everyone knows who she is and respects her from the Judges on down. Instead she is there simply to fight for you and the comfort that provides during an otherwise stressful process in priceless.
At the same time that I was represented by Alyson, my ex was busy burning through lawyers and I got to witness how dangerous it is to both not be represented by good counsel and not respect court orders - the probability is very high that you are going to crash and burn and no one will be there to pick up the pieces. In addition to paying tens of thousands of dollars to me, my ex wound up going to jail because he did not respect the court system and I had a lawyer who understood that holding him accountable was important to me.
To anyone contemplating divorce - be smart about it! Meet with Alyson and discuss your biggest concerns before you even think about filing - she can help you navigate those issues. There are so many restrictions placed on you and your spouse the day that you file for divorce and investing in a little planning can make a world of difference. The law is often times not intuitive, you'll hear conflicting advice from your friends and family and even if you scroll legal forums for months, the true answer may be very different from what you thought. Because there is so much on the table in a divorce, you really cannot afford to play around from a time or financial perspective.
Even through the final hearing, Alyson was not only fighting for me, but setting me up for future success by making sure certain key facts went on the record so that should I need to come back to court for contempt, which is highly likely, future legal actions would be more likely to work in my favor. I was both in awe and so appreciative of her foresight and wisdom.
In wrapping this up, I want to give you a few pieces of advice. Your lawyer is not a therapist or a private detective - therapists and private detectives are cheaper. Have a good support team in place and understand that no matter how good your attorney is, at the end of the day you are the subject matter expert on your case!
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14 Apr, 2023 by Anna
Alyson Lembeck is utterly unflappable, focused, knowledgeable, and efficient. Her associates and staff are all professional, kind, and responsive. I never had to follow up with them for responses, which, as an attorney myself, I know is exceedingly unusual. She and her team provided support and guidance during the scariest time of my life. I hope to never need her firm again, but I would not hesitate to recommend her to anyone else going through a divorce, especially in a high-conflict situation involving contested custody.
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19 Dec, 2022 by Alex
Alyson assisted with me with a post-Divorce Settlement Agreement where the OP was seeking alimony in perpetuity by exploiting weaknesses in the contract language.
She was timely, client focused and highly thoughtful throughout the process. She and her firm were masterful and polished with all pleadings and filings. Billing was painless and fair. She selected an impressive mediator and swiftly brought the case to a close.
This firm blew me away and brought me to tears. They helped me to feel understood and reassured. You won’t second guess yourself while working with them. Be honest and true. They are on the good side and masterful at family law.
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19 Jul, 2023 by Max
David represented me in my divorce case and cannot thank him enough. Super responsive and very smart.
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05 Aug, 2020 by Stephanie
I interviewed a few lawyers whose names I got from other professionals. I went with David because of his bedside manner and the fact he told me how to save money through the divorce process while I felt the other lawyers just viewed me as a money stream. He gave me great advise and was always very responsive (I mean the guy would respond to my emails late into the evening and on weekends which always helped with my anxiety). I could tell our guardian ad litem and the other lawyer in the case respected him a lot and we were able to mediate and get the case resolved with an outcome I am very pleased with. Thanks David! I sing your praises.
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11 Jan, 2020 by Aliaa
David And his team were amazing and on top of things! They represented me in a very difficult and ugly divorce case and made sure me and my kids were taken care of. Most importantly they got me the custody of my three kids that I should have after being the caregiver since they were born. I will forever be thankful to them and would 100% recommend them.
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06 Feb, 2024 by David
I simply cannot say enough good things about David Goldberg and his incredible team. They were amazing to work with. The kindness and devotion they demonstrated during my divorce has had an enormous impact on me and changed the entire trajectory of my life. David and his team were my compass while I was lost and trying to navigate my way through the most challenging time of my life. The Goldberg Legal Group was a bold light even on my darkest days. He and his team are some of the kindest, thoughtful, and most loyal people I have ever had the pleasure of meeting in my life. (Just wish it had been under other circumstances) I would highly recommend David for anyone going through a divorce, particularly with a narcissistic ex. He is an equal part of being aggressive when merited and being a friendly confidant when needed making for the perfect combination while going through a very painful and emotionally draining time in mine and my children's life. I feel so incredibly blessed that he was in my corner while I went through this rather long, drawn out process. (no fault on our end) I interviewed over a dozen attorneys before ultimately hiring him; best decision I have ever made! Do yourself a favor and make sure he is in your corner, you will NOT regret it!!
David R.
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09 Aug, 2023 by Deeann
The Goldberg legal group represented me in my divorce. I was more than cared for legally. They helped me navigate the most difficult challenge of my life and were competent and compassionate at every turn, and there were many turns.
I have no reservations about recommending this firm. I remain grateful for the representation and care I received while a client and my case was favorably resolved.
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31 Aug, 2021 by Robert
David is definitely the one that you want on your side. He is very detailed and gets things done and finds the right solution for your case.
If you want good results, you should put David at your side. He is definitely good at what he does and gets you what you need.
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27 Oct, 2023 by Jennifer
Excellent representation for an international child support and custody case, first in 2010 and then again in 2021-2023. The team under Bryan Reed is professional, knowledgeable, trustworthy and thorough. Reed Centracchio and Associates is honorable and represents with great integrity which is very important to me. I have always felt supported during the process, even though at times the case almost broke me. I felt confident from day 1 that we made the right decisions and arguments not only with class and respect but also with strength and authority. It is difficult to navigate through a lengthy, trying and exhausting court battle but this team is phenomenal at what they do. I cannot thank them enough for representing me.
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13 Mar, 2020 by Lorenzo
I cannot recommend Bryan strongly enough. Both his understanding of the law and his compassion for our case were without parallel in my experience. Bryan instills confidence in his clients and commands respect from all others.
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14 Jan, 2020 by Charles
My Ex wife filed for divorce while in Chicago in 2000 as I was in Arizona. Running out of time to respond I immediately located Bryan through Lawyers.com. He took full charge as he was a relatively new attorney at the time.He handled the situation in a most professional manner to both parties involved and my children are better adults now thanks to a amicable divorce. thanks again Bryan..
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09 May, 2024 by Anonymous
Alexa is very patient and empathetic of ones situation.
She takes her time to listen and advise you appropriately. She’s just helped me with my case and I’m very happy with the end result, I will definitely return to her in the future, I highly recommend her services, she’s not money hungry too, I must say!
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13 Jan, 2024 by Elizabeth
I would very highly recommend Attorney Alexa Tibshraeny. She was referred to me by a mediator who sang her praises. Fortunately for me, I hired Ms. Tibshraeny. She handled my divorce (after a 25 year marriage) in the most efficient, commanding, attentive and highly intuitive way. Her communication skills are excellent, on both sides of the coin. Lastly, her drive and ambition to reach the very end of this divorce process were truly amazing.
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23 Oct, 2023 by Lusine
From our initial consultation, I noticed what a compassionate person Alexa was. She is very knowledgeable and quick to respond to emails. She keeps things short and sweet and always steers you in the right direction. She has gone above and beyond to make sure that my kids and I are protected and somehow found a way to get my ex to stop harassing me. In a few months, she got this high conflict case settled after having no progress for a year and half with my previous attorney. I highly recommend Alexa!
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30 Sep, 2023 by Joseph
I cannot express enough how grateful I am for the incredible legal representation I received from Ronald Bell. He is an absolute rockstar in the world of family law and asset division.
My case involved the most delicate matters - children and assets. It was a very challenging and emotional journey, but thanks to Ronald Bell’s expertise and dedication, it ended more favorably than I could have ever hoped for.
From the moment I walked into his office, I felt a sense of assurance and professionalism that immediately put me at ease. Ronald Bell took the time to listen to every detail of my situation and clearly guided me on the best course of action.
Throughout the entire process, Ronald Bell demonstrated an impressive depth of knowledge and experience in family law. He left no stone unturned in preparing and executing my case, always ensuring that I was well-informed and comfortable every step of the way.
What truly sets Ronald Bell apart is his unwavering commitment to his clients. He was not just my lawyer; he became my advocate and a true source of support during what was without a doubt one of the most difficult and challenging times I have faced. His dedication to my case was evident in his tireless work ethic, attention to detail, and effective communication. Not to mention, he really does care!! A LOT!!!
When it came to negotiations and courtroom proceedings, Ronald Bell was a force to be reckoned with. His confidence and poise in the courtroom were remarkable, and it was evident that he had earned the respect of his peers (and everyone else in the courtroom).
Ultimately, the outcome of my case greatly exceeded my expectations, and it was all thanks to Ronald Bell. He fought tirelessly to protect my interests and secure the best possible future for my children and me.
I wholeheartedly recommend Ronald Bell to anyone facing family law issues. These situations are tough, and you need the very best by your side. He is not just an attorney, but a compassionate advocate, a legal genius, and a true champion for his clients. If you want the best possible outcome for your case, Ronald Bell is the lawyer you need.
Thank you, Ron, for everything you've done for me and my family. You are a true legal superstar, and I am forever grateful.
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15 Dec, 2021 by David
Mr Bell is the best lawyer on here hands down. I had two of the other lawyers on here and I fired each of them. Then I went to Mr Bell. He answers your calls and emails very quickly, even on the weekends. He knows how to win. I only wish I went to Mr Bell first. Don’t waste your time or money with these other lawyers,
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28 Oct, 2019 by Jeff
Divorce is painful and emotional and if you're like me, you don't know much about the process and don't really have the headspace to learn all about it while it is happening to you...Ron's parting words at my first consult with him were, "The best thing you can do is pretend like you are asleep for the next 6-12 months and let me handle things." Those words were so true. I didn't always want to listen to them, but being 5 months post divorce and still dealing with some issues with opposing parties not living up to the terms of the MSA, Ron is still in my corner. I don't think I realized how good he and his team are until recently. Discussing my agreement with divorcees has shown me that Ron helped me reach a fair deal that allows me to move on in life with confidence and financial stability and do the right thing for my children and he kept emotion out of it which is so important in negotiation for separating assets and in my case a lot of liabilities.
I would absolutely recommend Mr. Bell and his team to anyone in need of advice and guidance and council during the process of divorce.
Thank you Ron and team for working with me!
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09 May, 2023 by Joey
Syed, (and legal team member Brandy), are the upper echelon of family law representation. Once I told Syed my situation regarding my divorce he immediately had my mind at ease.
EVERYTHING he told me was exactly what took place all the way through the final hearing. He is articulated, composed, and friendly. No gray areas, no surprises, and only positive outcomes.
Whenever I called the office, (a lot), someone always answered my call. If I ever had a question I always received answers in a timely fashion. I had absolutely ZERO issues.
I would say most family lawyers are like Kirkland brand chocolate; good but you know there’s better. If you want Godiva level quality, you go to Syed.
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17 Apr, 2023 by Laurie
Syed Ahmed, is and will always be, a master at what he does - a grandmaster - at this game called family law. He won my case with ease. The process was long due to opposing counsel;
yet, he knew every critical move to make and offered unparalleled guidance along the way. He brings with him unique experience - years of prosecution and years of family law and leverages both for your benefit. There isn’t anything that surprises him or intimidates him. He is masterful, intellectual, determined, resolute, confident, aggressive, fair, emotionally intelligent and above all, a good person who does what’s right by his clients. He is now a friend for life and an attorney that I, without question, endorse for any family member, friend, colleague and you seeking help. You must hire him if you need a true advocate and to win the game.
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05 Jan, 2023 by Anonymous
Syed and his team are the way to go. His fee was 25% of what they charged my ex. Easily accessible, you can text him anytime. Knows the law and everyone in the area. Everything is super efficient. He’s not out to take your money. He wants it done quickly and fairly. Zero issues. The attorney will matter regardless of how simple you think the case is….get a good one that knows what they’re doing.
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29 Oct, 2023 by Maryanne
During the most horrible time of my life, Erin Kopelman was there for me every step of the way, from the beginning consultation, to the final court proceedings and paperwork. She was always accessible by phone and email, even on weekends. She calmly explained things to me, presented many options, solutions, and she listened to all of my worries and concerns. I’ll never forget, during a particularly difficult, scary moment, even though Erin was out of town with her family, she contacted me immediately to address my situation. I always felt she was extremely knowledgeable about the most current laws, and contract composition. Although she was respectful of opposing counsel, she didn’t accept any nonsense from them, and wasn’t afraid to put them in their place. I felt confident and thankful to have Erin in my corner.
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27 Jul, 2023 by Aviva
Erin has had my back the entire time through my divorce. She gets back to me, usually, with hours. I felt very strongly that we had a mutually trustful relationship. She trusted that I realistically knew my situation and I trusted her knowledge of the law and opposing counsel. As birds of a feather flock together, I would trust anyone at her firm and all her recommendations.
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09 Jan, 2022 by Scott
Erin was my divorce attorney through an extremely messy and contentious situation. During the entire process she was unfailingly patient with me, taking the time to explain some of the more arcane or complex parts of the process to me so that I could better understand (and be responsive to) the many requests by the Court for documents. In addition, Erin was able to rise above the acrimony of the situation and was a constant advocate for fair, negotiated approaches to closing the gap between the parties. In court, she respectfully, but forcefully pushed our positions in a way that was clear, but not antagonizing to the Judge. She is, in short, someone you would be lucky to have on your side. I wholeheartedly recommend her.
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03 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
Wow, I mean WOW. I was in a panic when I looked into legal help and this practice helped me find the right attorney for the case after clear and prompt communication within a day of reaching out. Once they had my case information they guided me through each and every step with clear instructions, which really put my mind at ease. They went above and beyond to ensure I had the best outcome with all of the options and information at my fingertips and with immediacy.
Could not have been a better choice for me and I haven’t lost sleep over my case since hiring them to walk me through what could have been a very rough time.
Do yourselves a favor a and hire the Erin Morse practice to take the pressure of and ensure the best possible outcome!
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27 Jun, 2023 by Laura
Thank you Erin and Patricio for all your help and support during my process of divorce . Both are thoroughly professional and Very knowledgeable . Erin, having you as my legal representative restored the faith in my case.
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02 Nov, 2022 by Rj
She gave me excellent information and provided me with what I needed. I sincerely appreciate this attorney. She is very knowledgeable and helpful. Thank you!
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24 Jun, 2023 by Edgar
From the moment I stepped into Renehan Pearlstein office I was greeted by friendly staff who immediately made me feel welcomed and at ease during a really stressful time.
Mr. Pearslstein was warm and inviting and made me feel very comfortable from the start. Throughout the course of my case, Mrs. Renehan has continued to gain my confidence in her skills and I firmly believe that she cares about me and my needs.
I hired Brodsky Renehan Pearlstein for my divorce. They was very kind and helpful in making what could have been a very difficult and confusing situation into one that I felt in control of and confident in.
They have also kept the divorce moving forward despite opposing counsel’s sluggish progress.
They handled my case with the utmost professionalism. The staff was kind and attentive. Should I ever need a family law attorney again (cross my fingers I don't), I would certainly look to Renehan & Pearlstein for a guidance once again. . You and your staff have been wonderful.
I highly recommend Mr. Pearlstein as a family law attorney.
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07 May, 2023 by Anonymous
Mr. Pearlstein and Ms. Renehan handled my case very professionally, responsively, and with great knowledge. My case was unique as I needed to transfer custody from another state to Maryland, which required a thorough modification. Having both of them made me feel safe and heard. They were always on top of my needs, meeting deadlines, and, best of all, they were there for me. They had the best interests not just for me as their client, but also for my child. They were very passionate about what they do. Lastly, their extensive experience in Family Law is what makes them a powerhouse in helping me achieve the custody agreement that I have wanted.
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01 Feb, 2023 by Anonymous
"In my opinion divorce is one of the lowest points in one's life, much like death. Faced with divorce, emotions are heightened, there is anger, resentment and the list goes on and one loses the ability to think clearly and rationally. The wrong attorney uses these emotions and feeds it to build billable hours. The wrong attorney promises things that most often they know they can't deliver, again, just to build billable hours.
At the end of last October my marriage started to unravel and suddenly within one weeks it came to an end. I was faced with having to hire an attorney.
I always do lots of research before doing anything but time was not on my side. I studied the web, looked up many attorneys, read their bios, and read reviews as much as I could. I narrowed the field down to seven attorneys and tried to talk with them or to meet with them. Several of them never returned my call. I made an appointment with five.
I had the good fortune to meet with Mr. Pearlstein as my second appointment and after leaving his office I cancelled all other appointments. He was and is amazing. He listened to me attentively, he never gave me false promises. What I really appreciated was that he did not take the position of let's fry the other side, and let's do this and that. As we worked together I began to realize just how fortunate I was. He knew exactly how to calm me down, how to communicate with the other side, he knew exactly what to do. He knows the law, what is the right thing to do and all along I knew that his most important focus was the best outcome for me and absolutely, definitely not building billable hours. I have developed such respect and appreciation for this man and I am so grateful for finding him.
I am not much for writing reviews but if you are in the position of needing a family lawyer I would definitely say that he is in my opinion absolutely the best. During a divorce one stands to lose much with the wrong lawyer and to end up with an astronomical legal fee on top of the losses is not something that one recovers from. I believe that Mr. Pearlstein delivers the best outcome as he has done for me."
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01 May, 2024 by Anonymous
These attorneys at this firm are beyond incredible!! They are efficient and respectful and really take the time to make sure you are represented at the highest level. They did everything right in my case and couldn't have asked for better. These attorneys are top notch!
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27 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
Kevin is an excellent family law attorney. I had a complex child support case and Kevin, Akylah and their team helped me maneuver through difficult legal situations and huge mess of documents submitted by opposition party. Kevin and his team were professional, patient with me and very thorough with their work. They prepped well leading to the trial and I won the trial thanks to them. I would definitely recommend them to anyone looking for a family law attorney.
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28 Dec, 2023 by Kayla
Kevin is an amazing lawyer. He represented me in a Juvenile Dependency cases and won, getting it dismissed. He found outstanding medical experts to testify for my case. He was super responsive whenever I reached out and answered all of my questions. He is super easy to work with, knowledgeable, and very personable. I would highly recommend to anyone looking for a lawyer.
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01 Jun, 2024 by William
Damon and Suzanne were phenomenal to work with as our family in going through a very tough circumstance. They were empathic, tenacious, and understanding.
They were not just collecting a pay day, they cared about the outcome for our family, and they celebrated with us after guiding the process to close and a big victory in a way we did not believe was even possible.
Could not recommend the firm more. If you a phenomenal family law firm, look no further.
Thank you so much!
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01 Jun, 2017 by Sabina
I am so impressed with Mr. Bivek. He is a "cut to the chase" kind of attorney who is incredibly knowledgeable, but more importantly he's sharp. He knows what you need, how you need it, when you need it and will help you make it happen. He's a bright light in a seemingly dark tunnel of paperwork and procedure. I'm just glad I found him to assist me in my divorce.
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16 Jun, 2016 by Robert
My experience with Damon Bivek was excellent. Divorce is a difficult thing, Damon was professional, responsive and efficient. My experience couldn't have been better. His experience and demeanor helped me deal with the matter in a dignified and positive way. I would highly recommend this lawyer to anyone facing a divorce.
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03 May, 2024 by Karla
Mary worked tirelessly to make sure I was taken care of in my divorce settlement. She alerted me of new developments in my case and what my next steps were. Mary was very professional, however, she was also very realistic about what I needed to do to move forward. I sincerely thank Mary and her staff for helping me get through one of the most difficult times in my life.
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27 Nov, 2023 by Jennifer cannon
I believe that I went through the worst divorce on earth, and I thank god that I met Ms McDaniel. She is tough; she fights for what's right and fair. Sadly, I was married to a narcissist and a monster, who manipulated me throughout our marriage, while I struggled with Stage 4 cancer. Ms McDaniel worked hard to find a way to ensure my divorce was as easy as possible, in order to ensure it will not interrupt any of my Doctor Appointments and Chemotherapy sessions. The team at MGM Law are very respectful, kind, and hard working. My Ex husband tries to hide some funds, lied under oath and showed no respect to everyone, including his own lawyer. Ms McDaniel and her team was able to help me get a fair trail.
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21 Feb, 2023 by Iveta
Divorce is a very hard process to go through, and even though it is not over yet, I already know that I could not pick a better lawyer. The first minute I walked in the office, terrified and not knowing what to do, Mary listened me and knew right away what is the best for me and especially for my boys. Mary is very knowledgeable, she works very hard and she fights even harder. I highly recommend MGM Law to everybody who seeks a great family law attorney!!
ONE YEAR LATER: Today I had my final hearing. It was a very long and stressful day but again, Mary is The Shark!!! If they came at me strong and tried to put me down, Mary went back at them even stronger. I am so incredibly happy that Mary went with me through this difficult time because not only it is over but the most important thing is, she has managed to achieve a request, she has never experienced before to be ordered, and thanks to that my boys will be safe!
Mary is the type of the attorney who will always be here for you, will fight for you very hard and not once you will feel like you are just some client. We have developed very close relationship and I could not ask for better attorney to help me with my very difficult case!
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15 Apr, 2024 by C wilson
The Family Law Matters team handled my divorce professionally and with care during a very difficult time. I felt like I was always in good hands by the entire team and I was fully supported through the whole divorce process.
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11 Jan, 2024 by Brandi
I would highly recommend this firm. They are very Professional and will get the job done. They treat you like family, Call back or even email right away. with the stress of the case, they Heald my hand and went right in to work. Thank you so much for all your support. If needed i will definitely be using them again.
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30 Aug, 2023 by Raymundo
Beshoy and the entire staff are simply amazing, very detailed and professional. They made everything simple and understandable, I highly recommend using Family Law.
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24 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
I had the privilege of working with Elisabeth Donovan on my case, and I couldn't be more impressed. Her expertise, attention to detail, and dedication to my legal needs were truly exceptional. She communicated clearly throughout the process, ensuring I understood every step. Thanks to her diligent work, we achieved a successful outcome. I highly recommend Elisabeth Donovan to anyone in need of legal representation.
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18 Mar, 2024 by Grace
Elisabeth was my saving grace in this broken Family Court system. What 2 other attorneys were unable to accomplish in 18 months she resolved and settled in 2 weeks. I would highly recommend her. She is fair, honest and simply the best!!
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20 Feb, 2024 by Maria
Actually I met Mrs Donovan in my hardest time ever when my ex husband kid napped my two little children and lost all my rights, it seemed impossible to get them back specially my ex husband took an advantage of me not knowing any of my rights but Mrs Donovan was supportive and fully equipped to help me and with her help I was able to get my kids back.
I highly recommend Elisabeth when it comes to family law she is the best attorney ever.
Thank you Mrs Donovan
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13 Mar, 2024 by Nicky
Ben Aguilar is a talented, whip-smart, and thorough attorney. He is all business in his interactions but he was very thoughtful and sensitive about my situation as a divorced Dad with a child whom I miss dearly. He writes impeccable correspondence. He brought a strategy to the table but he didn’t impose it on me. He is not overly aggressive; he is sensible. It was obvious to me how much he is respected by the judges at Family Court in Vista. Ben was recommended to me by a supervisor who had interacted with him in court. She said he was among the best family court lawyers she’d worked with and that he was hard-working and affordable. He is all that and more. I recommend him 100%.
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25 May, 2023 by Gustavo
Ben was recommended to me by family, and I wanted to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude for the exceptional consultation, professionalism, and valuable time you dedicated to me. I genuinely appreciate the time you dedicated to our discussions and the efforts you made to accommodate my schedule. Your responsiveness and availability made it easier for me to navigate through this legal process. Thank you again.
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13 Jan, 2023 by Anonymous
Having watched this Attorney as a public Observer, I was impressed by him and his due diligence toward his clients, primarily when he is representing them in Court. My observations were that the opposing Respondent was a Family Law Attorney whom he had the pleasure of filleting.
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02 Nov, 2017 by Hadil
I wish there were 10 stars or 100 to rate Mark Howard.I called Mark on very short notice. Less than a week before my court date,in which the case has been on going for almost three years with a different lawyer I hired. My previous lawyer practically left me hanging and Mark picked up all the pieces. I kid you not this man educated himself on my child support modification case within hours! I hired him on Friday,my case was 4 days after, which means he even worked the weekend to get caught up on my case. He was constantly communicating with me,as well as his assistant. They kept me informed at all times. He did for me in a matter of hours what my previous lawyer couldn't do in years. I was at ease, fully trusted Mark to the point that I could have let him make decisions for me because the interest of me and my kids were his top priority. He showed me outlines of everything he did, he called me and reached out to explain every possibility in my case and any outcome that may or may not happen. His assistant Joni was also very professional and always kept contact to inform me of any thing regarding my case. I cannot express the amount of gratitude that I have for this lawyer and the staff. He is very straight forward, got me back on track if my emotions started taking over. He is very direct, he explains your payments,what the invoice describes,what his next steps are. You will never feel left out in your case, you will always be reassured and confident that he will do his very best and have your interest at heart . My case was a child support modification like I stated ,but I'm more than positive that any case he handles will be handled with precision,professionalism and integrity. I am beyond satisfied with the outcome of my case. This man takes his job seriously and any case given to him his just as important as the next. YOU WILL NOT REGRET HIRING HIM. I wish I would have done so sooner.if there was an option to leave a video review I would have done so,only so anyone contemplating on hiring a lawyer could see the sincerity I have when speaking of him and the satisfaction I feel when I explain how wonderful him and his staff are. You can't go wrong with him. Thank you Mark for giving me faith in lawyers after I lost all hope.
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17 Sep, 2016 by Susan
Attorney Mark Howard represented me in a very complicated divorce. It was a very difficult time for me and my children. I trusted him as he always kept our best interests in mind.
He was professional, knowledgeable, trustworthy and efficient. I would absolutely recommend Mark Howard.
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12 Mar, 2014 by N.s.
Mr. Howard was recommended to me by a family friend who knew of his work. In the last two years, Mark Howard has helped me twice.
I can honestly say he is an all-in lawyer who truly cares about his client and their story. He asks probing questions but intently listens to the answers because you will hear him repeat it weeks down the road. He is an experienced, knowledgeable lawyer with helpful, caring staff to back him up. He is an outstanding professional who produces results and solves issues quickly and efficiently. One of the many things that I respect him for is his honesty and the fact that he sets clear expectations. His priority is getting the client the best deal, which he did for me.
I will always recommend him.
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07 Jul, 2023 by Michael
Katie covered every area of my relationship issue and then some. She is awesome!! Use her for your relationship needs!!
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02 Apr, 2023 by Anonymous
Katie and her team did an excellent job during a very difficult time. Katie was very helpful and worked with my situation in a very professional manner
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30 Jan, 2023 by Tracy
Katie took me through the adoption process, made our journey less stressful. Very kind, caring and compassionate attorney. High recommend!
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29 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
Dustin was very knowledgeable and ethical. He took on a very difficult case and worked diligently through a complicated set of circumstances. He was always very professional. He was always responsive and available to talk and explain things. He was very supportive throughout the entire process. We were fortunate to find him.
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26 Aug, 2022 by Natasha
Super helpful and knowledgeable! You can’t go wrong with this attorney. He is friendly and professional.
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24 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
Dustin was on point, every question, every phone call, every time I needed him was 100% there and willing to help. Super knowledgeable, friendly and firm when needed. Tell your friends when it’s time you got the right guy to get it done.
Thanks Dustin,
D
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28 Aug, 2019 by Carmen
Mark Abzug and his staff are excellent. I truly recommend him. The process of my case was fast and he promise me to win my case and he did it. Thanks Mark!!!
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22 Dec, 2017 by Lori
Mr.Abzug helped me through a very difficult time. He was very kind and very efficient.
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19 Nov, 2017 by Bill
Mark Abzug is the best attorney hands down. I became a satisfied client about 10 years ago and when complications arise from my divorce settlement agreement Mark nips it in the bud right quick. I have had the displeasure of other attorneys in the past that talk the talk but can't produce. So, believe me I know the difference. Mark is the most knowledgeable , fairest, most caring , reasonable and attentive, and gets the job done with no over billing or B.S.. Mark's respect for the court is reciprocal. His petitions are precise and realistic with common sense, he has a way of demonstrating logic to his clients and especially to the court which is most important. I highly recommend Mark Abzug if your goal is peace of mind. His integrity is irreproachable.
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27 Oct, 2022 by Jason
Kate provided superior representation in my divorce proceeding. She was effective in facilitating the best result for our children and the equitable distribution of our assets and business. Kate is a class act. It was apparent from my experience that judges and opposing lawyers show tremendous respect to Kate and the Gillespie Law Firm.
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03 Nov, 2020 by Jay
Ms. Gillespie is an excellent attorney who excels in difficult and complicated family law matters. Having dealt with attorneys my entire adult life, I was particularly impressed with her ability to match legal theory to applicable law. Furthermore she has an uncanny ability to analyze purported facts by opposing counsel and rip them apart. Through a very difficult divorce, Ms. Gillespie was always prepared and “outworked” opposing counsel. She leaves no stone unturned in preparing for court. I would recommend Kate to anyone seeking highly competent counsel in family law matters. She’s the best!
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21 Jul, 2019 by Xiao
I hired Kate after much frustration with my first lawyer, who is a terrible human being, knows nothing about your case, has no strategy in place and wants nothing but your money. Kate is the exact opposite: she knows your case, cares about you, responds in time to answer your questions, advises you on all aspects related to navigating your life during a nasty divorce. When you find yourself in the unfortunate position to have to fight for your life and fend off the constant attacks in court, Kate is there, as a great human being and friend first and then a very competent lawyer, to hold your hands and escort you to safety. Forever grateful!
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27 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
If you ever find yourself in the situation of needing a family/DV law attorney, Asha is second to none. She is a rare combination of kindness and razor sharp smart. Always prepared very methodical in her arguments, and at our last court appearance the judge went out of her way to compliment Asha about her brief. Sitting next to her in court, I was so calm because she was. Without going into the details of my case, she got me out of a dark place and I am forever thankful.
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14 Nov, 2023 by Rob
Asha is incredibly smart, insightful, caring and most importantly someone who can grab a very complex and emotionally charged situation and bring great calm and direction.
Asha's case studies and ability to bring all available perennate law to bear is second to none!
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13 Mar, 2019 by Anonymous
If you are reading the review here, then may be you are in search of an attorney who could represent you, is professional and the best. So, Stop your search, reach out to Asha ASAP!
Why do i recommend her so strongly? My Divorce case started in August 2017, and at that time I was represented by another attorney, but within one month I switched on to another attorney (Not Asha). Why?
My previous attorney was totally unprofessional, and would be on time with invoice but no progress in the case. So, I chose another lawyer and that lawyer just made a mess of my case by making delay in submitting document, and moreover the stipulation which we made were a dark web to ensure that my case runs for a long time and the attorney can keep running the invoices. Moving further 1 year into my case with no progress, I reached out to Asha again, and lucky me, she accepted the case. That was the first best step in my case which i took..
I myself give 100% in work and i feel actions are better than words. But the other attorney's were primarily words and gave only 5-10% of effort what i would expect. I am not a lawyer, but as you go with your case, you start seeing the positive / negative of the strategy which your lawyer recommends / adopts. I was getting impatient and my anxiety of what should be done was increasing and taking a toll on me. So, with the hope that may be Asha is the right attorney, i decided to talk to her. Also, I got recommendation of her from one of my colleague where Asha was the opposing counsel. She is awesome, that's why someone recommended the opposing counsel!.
Oh man, believe me, Since the day Asha took over my case, I never had to worry about my case at all. I am not exaggerating but her professionalism, timeliness and ethics would make it easy for you to worry less / none about the case. I am fan, and in awe of Asha's professionalism, she is the best attorney one could get.
What I got?
- All the documentation was thorough, thought through and ON TIME.
- She reviewed the existing case documents, sat with me and explained how we are going to tackle the existing issues. (Some of them created by previous attorney's)
- She is very transparent and will keep me looped (in bcc) with the emails to opposing counsel. This instils huge trust as you believe / see what is going on vs Oh i spoke and this is what the other counsel said.
- Every email I sent, i got a quick and satisfactory response. This reduces the number of emails which you send and keeps your brain content. She might respond, that I will get to you by xxx day, but that will keep you content and she will definitely respond. (No bluffs from her side at all on timelines)
- We prepared for trial thoroughly and since that day, my communication to her is very little, because she has already covered everything, now for our hearings there is little or nothing to discuss. Our preparation is well in advance.
- Proper billing, Every penny is worth. 100%.
- Results: In my case, there were couple of things
1. 50% Child Custody - Before i filed divorce, my wife didn't let me see my daughter at all, for one year she was away and gave me no access to our kid. When she came back to US, i had to fight to get the custody.
2. Date of Separation was contested - We got the DOS which we wanted. This has huge impact in support / alimony calculation.
3. Property - This is on-going, I am fully satisfied with the strategy.. Let's see how the Judge rules it.
4. Bifurcation - My previous lawyer got me into a serious mess, and since I am an immigrant, there were immigration issues because of which Bifurcation became a challenge. Asha's persistent approach has brought bifurcation on the table now, Judge agreed to grant bifurcation. That is a great win! Because my wife, wants to extend the case forever..
4. Anti-Injunction granted
- Lastly - PEACE. Most Important.
"THE" Best Attorney! Believe me.
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Child Custody Lawyer Can Do for You
A child custody lawyer specializes in helping parents navigate legal matters related to the custody and care of their children, particularly in the context of divorce, separation, or other family disputes. These lawyers assist with determining custody arrangements, drafting parenting plans, and advocating for your rights in court. They also help resolve disputes over physical custody (where the child lives), legal custody (who makes decisions for the child), visitation rights, and modifications to existing custody orders.
Whether you're going through a divorce or need to change an existing custody arrangement, a child custody lawyer can help you understand your rights and protect your child's best interests throughout the legal process.
When Should I Hire a Child Custody Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a child custody lawyer in several situations, especially when disputes arise or complex legal issues affect your parental rights. Some common reasons to hire a child custody lawyer include:
- Divorce or separation: If you're going through a divorce or separation and need to establish custody and visitation arrangements, a lawyer can help ensure the custody order reflects your child's best interests.
- Disputed custody cases: If you and the other parent cannot agree on custody or visitation terms, a lawyer can advocate for your rights in court and help you develop a strong case.
- Modification of custody orders: If you need to change an existing custody arrangement due to changes in circumstances (e.g., relocation, changes in the child’s needs), a lawyer can help file a modification request.
- Parental alienation: If the other parent is interfering with your relationship with your child, a lawyer can help address these issues through legal action.
- Domestic violence or abuse: If there is a history of domestic violence or abuse, a lawyer can help protect you and your child by requesting restraining orders and advocating for appropriate custody arrangements.
- Grandparent or third-party custody: If you are a grandparent or another relative seeking custody or visitation rights, a lawyer can guide you through the legal process.
- Paternity disputes: In cases where paternity is in question, a lawyer can assist with establishing or challenging paternity, which may affect custody and visitation rights.
Hiring a lawyer early in the process can help protect your parental rights and ensure that the custody arrangement is in your child's best interests.
What Does a Child Custody Lawyer Do?
A child custody lawyer provides a variety of legal services to help parents resolve custody disputes and secure favorable custody arrangements for their children. Their responsibilities often include:
- Filing custody petitions: Helping you file the necessary paperwork to request custody or visitation rights and ensuring all legal procedures are followed.
- Negotiating custody agreements: Assisting in negotiating custody and visitation arrangements, often working toward a mutually beneficial parenting plan without going to court.
- Representing you in court: If you and the other parent cannot agree on custody terms, representing you in court by presenting evidence and making legal arguments to support your case.
- Drafting parenting plans: Helping you draft a comprehensive parenting plan that outlines the schedule for physical custody, decision-making responsibilities, and visitation.
- Handling child support issues: Assisting with related issues such as child support, ensuring that financial obligations are properly calculated and enforced.
- Modifying custody orders: Helping you request a modification from the court if you need to change an existing custody arrangement due to significant life changes.
- Mediating custody disputes: Acting as a mediator to help both parents reach an agreement on custody and visitation without the need for litigation.
How Are Child Custody Lawyers Paid?
Child custody lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the case, the time involved, and the nature of the legal work. Common payment methods include:
- Hourly rate: Most child custody lawyers charge by the hour, with rates ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer's experience and location. The total cost depends on the time spent preparing documents, negotiating, and representing you in court.
- Flat fee: For simple custody matters or uncontested custody agreements, some lawyers may offer a flat fee for specific services, such as drafting a parenting plan or filing a custody petition.
- Retainer: Many lawyers require an upfront retainer fee, which is billed against as the lawyer works on your case. The amount varies based on the expected complexity and duration of the case.
- Sliding scale or pro bono services: Some lawyers may offer reduced fees or pro bono (free) services for clients with limited financial means, particularly in cases involving domestic violence or other serious issues.
It’s important to discuss fees and payment arrangements with your lawyer during the initial consultation to understand how much you will be charged and what services are included.
How Much Does a Child Custody Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a child custody lawyer depends on various factors, including the complexity of the case, whether it’s contested or uncontested, and the lawyer’s experience. General cost estimates include:
- Uncontested custody cases: Legal fees may range from $1,500 to $5,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the paperwork and any negotiations.
- Contested custody cases: Legal fees can range from $5,000 to $40,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the issues, the need for expert testimony, and the time spent in litigation.
- Hourly rates: Lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour, with higher rates for more experienced attorneys or complex custody disputes.
- Mediation services: If both parents agree to work through mediation, costs typically range from $1,000 to $5,000 or more for the mediation process.
Always ask for a clear cost estimate during your consultation to ensure that you understand the total legal fees and payment structure.
Top Questions to Ask a Child Custody Lawyer
Before hiring a child custody lawyer, it’s essential to ask the right questions to ensure they are the best fit for your case. Some key questions to ask include:
-
What experience do you have with child custody cases?
Ensure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, especially if your case involves complex issues like domestic violence, relocation, or paternity disputes. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, offers flat fees for certain services, or requires a retainer, and ask for an estimate of the total cost. -
What is the likelihood of success in my case?
Ask for an honest assessment of your case, including potential challenges and expected outcomes. -
How long will the process take?
Inquire about the expected timeline from filing the petition to reaching an agreement or going to trial. -
Will you personally handle my case?
Ensure you know who will be managing your case and representing you in court. -
Can we pursue mediation or alternative dispute resolution?
Ask whether the lawyer recommends mediation or other forms of dispute resolution to avoid a lengthy court battle.
How to Check the Credibility of a Child Custody Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable child custody lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and experience:
- Verify their bar status: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed to practice and has no history of disciplinary actions.
- Look for family law experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in family law and child custody cases.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for client reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to gauge the lawyer’s professionalism and success in child custody matters.
- Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have worked with them on custody cases.
- Check for certifications: Look for lawyers who are board-certified in family law or have memberships in organizations like the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML) or local family law sections.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a child custody lawyer, come prepared with relevant documents and information:
- Court orders or existing custody agreements: Bring copies of any existing custody or visitation orders for the lawyer to review.
- Communication with the other parent: Provide copies of emails, texts, or letters regarding custody, visitation, or disputes.
- List of your child’s needs: Prepare a list of your child’s specific needs, such as medical care, education, and extracurricular activities.
- Timeline of the case: Outline key events related to your custody case, including changes in living situations or parental involvement.
- Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions about the custody process, legal fees, and the lawyer’s strategy for your case.
By being well-prepared, you can help the lawyer assess your situation effectively and receive the best possible advice for protecting your rights and your child’s well-being.
