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19 May, 2023 by Leah
I am thoroughly pleased with my experience working with Paul Leinoff. He was timely, thoughtful, strategic and accountable - a true professional. He has a deep understanding of family and Florida law and was always honest and transparent. His patience and commitment to my case with invaluable. I highly recommend his services.
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18 May, 2023 by Manuela
I hired Paul and he continued to fight for me and protect me throughout my case. He was able to secure a very favorable financial settlement for me and was incredibly attentive to my needs and was very patient with me. One of a kind!
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18 Dec, 2020 by Peter
Cheese and Crackers. Paul just pulled me out of THE MOST INSANE HOLE I have ever been in. Literally the difference between my ex getting $30k instead of MILLIONS!!!! Paul showed me the light which turned out to be a train barreling towards me at 100mph about to destroy my life. Him and Max slapped me out of my daze, pulled me aside, and put together the most CLUTCH 97-page contract and got 9 other people which included me, my ex, 4 witnesses, 2 notaries, and another lawyer to show up at this signing ceremony and WE MADE IT HAPPEN!!!!! Holy guacamole. Im a FREE MAN thanks to Paul with a BRIGHT FUTURE. God bless this guy he's SHARP AS A TACK and a force to be reckoned with. God help those he's against. May their souls and sh*tty deals rest in peace. Thank you Paul and Max!
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02 Apr, 2015 by Ashley
Bridget handled a traffic citation and an unrelated custody issue for me. She was so easy to talk to about all of my legal problems and handled my case with integrity. Bridget was very knowledgeable on my case and the law and I am eternally grateful for her. I highly recommend her!
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25 Jan, 2015 by Anonymous
Bridget handled my divorce for me. She was very upfront and no nonsense and I appreciated that. She didn't overcharge me the way lawyers I've worked with in the past did. Bridget kept me informed, explained things with great patience and kept my best interests in everything she did. I enjoyed working with her, as much as you can when you're going through a divorce, and I know I can count on her if I ever need help with anything in the future. She's the best!
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22 Jan, 2015 by Monica
Ms. Bridget handled my criminal case and kept my record clean. I am so thankful that she had my back and got my case dismissed.
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29 Mar, 2017 by Dan
I had a difficult divorce with a woman with a genetic disease. Al helped me to find a suitable solutions for all problems including my high school daughter. I would recommend Al to everyone who needs an excellent, thoughtful and considerate Using Yiddish, Al Fiore is a true mensch
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25 Oct, 2016 by Jayne
Al Fiore has been our family attorney since I needed his services in the "90's" for a divorce. He stuck with us through the entire process which took much longer than anticipated. The things I appreciate and would recommend of Al are: 1) He is very organized. 2) He is very honest, and 3) he will return your emails and phone calls in a very timely manner. He has always been professional in his behavior inside and outside of the courts. The painful process of divorce was minimized thanks to Al.
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12 Oct, 2016 by Silvana
Al Fiore successfully renegotiate the spousal support for us in 2016. He is an experienced, knowledgeable, and effective negotiator who is always well prepared.
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04 Jan, 2024 by Carlos
Matthew took my case last minute he heard me out was patient and I promise you I had to wait years for justice to be finally heard before I met Matthew. I had my daughter back safely home with me in just a short time! Although I’m not one to ever talk malice of the other party, even when it probably is necessary, I’m just more than glad that Matthew was able to get the light of justice to be seen and fixed what was broken So quickly! If you’re looking for someone who is fast reliable and doesn’t overcharge just to charge and actually gets the job done caring and professionally Matthews, your man. If your asking yourself should I take the chance on this new attorney.Don’t ask call him. I asked that same question when I first came and the moment I stepped in I knew he was the one! I couldn’t ask for more.Thank you so much Matthew I don’t think this would have happened if God didn’t put in my life.My daughter and I will forever be grateful.And no words can explain the dept of gratitude we have for you and your whole TEAM. Make the call! And get your case heard in the right hands! I’m a real parent and so is Matthew..This is a review from someone who’s had to endure the worst for no real reason.Get your family back in the right hands Matthew and his team are the ones I assure you.He will never rush you and always has a listening hear for you. Do not let another day pass, call Matthew your children deserve it.
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04 Jan, 2024 by Stephanie
After a very long search for a good attorney God placed Matthew into our lives. God is definitely good and Matthew was able to find justice for him and his daughter. This is the beginning of something great and I can assure you if you hire Matthew he will make sure he finds you justice the right way. He listens, hears you out and helps you find a solution. His professionalism comes a long way and it shows in his work ethics. If you’re looking for the right attorney I can assure you Matthew is the one for you and your family.
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19 Mar, 2021 by Emily
Matthew Sheasby is nothing short of amazing. I was so scared to get out of my marriage and he not only got me out, he had my back every single step of the way. He has been there every court date I have had, has always thoroughly answered all of my questions (and there were PLENTY in the beginning), and he genuinely cared about my case and my wellbeing. I consulted with numerous attorneys before I retained him and from the moment I met him I knew he would fight for me. I can't recommend him highly enough.
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16 Apr, 2024 by Michael
I was involved in a very contentious divorce with quite a few moving parts. I worked a lot with Jean Kim and Steven Fernandez. Both Jean and Steven were always professional, extremely helpful and empathetic throughout the case.
Crystal Boultinghouse and Melanie Minas were extremely capable and instrumental in helping me reach a fair outcome regarding the custody component of our case.
In short, I would recommend Fernandez & Karney if you're looking for an excellent family law attorney.
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18 Oct, 2018 by Zach
I don’t know where I would be without Steve Fernandez. This is not merely a review- some suggestion that endorses the services of Fernandez and Karney. This is more of a testament of gratitude for what he did for me.
First things first: the work of Steve Fernandez is excellent. He is a professional in the highest sense of the word. He obviously has a deep nuanced understanding of family law. He is beyond competent. All of his work was precise, swift, timely, and thorough.
But the true zeal beneath this review comes from the humanity in the way Steve treated me.
When I met Steve Fernandez my life was not in a good place. It is now. I have my life back, and, for the first time in a bit, the future looks bright and exciting. Steve Fernandez gave me a fresh start, brought order back to my life, and stood up for me when no one else would.
And that is the real reason I write this. My life was flipped upside down in the span of a day. My absorbantly wealthy wife used all of the powers at her disposal to bully me and make my life as difficult as possible. It was a daunting situation. But Steve kept me poised, sane, and confident that the way I was being treated was not only immoral, but not legal either. He was right.
So he stood up for me when no one else would. When all other avenues of help disappeared Steve was there- calm, intelligent, a guiding light through the tumultuous and complex process of divorce.
So, Steve, thank you. You kept me calm. You got me what I deserved. And, most importantly, you truly helped me in a time of need. These are not little things and I can’t thank you enough.
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22 Dec, 2017 by Robert
Opposing council will misquote this review in court, so I will misquote Hunter S Thomson.
"Family Law is a cruel and shallow money trench where thieves run free and most of the time good men die like dogs. There's also a negative side.... "
Free advice : Before filing for custody, select your attorney wisely, choose a firm with a strong foundation. Hopefully this helps. Had I initially hired Steven Fernandez, none of this would have happened, had I not hired him I would have never seen our child again as I had come to his firm unable to speak and broken. I'll explain. I am a thirty eight year old man who loves his daughter dearly. I've had a smorgasbord of Family Law Specialist, JNE Commission, overpriced Avvo 10's. Not all of them were to blame for the original event that turned the child custody case that I filed in Los Angeles into a fabricated Hemet case, built by design for over-litigated fee churning fraud... However, said attorneys sure were lazy for the money and were happy to turn a blind eye to the blatant fraud and corruption, while simultaneously extrapolating from me every single penny. Steven Fernandez, who's name is on the letterhead of this firm, was the first person to put the wellbeing of myself and our child ahead of easy money and Steven has done a better job than every single other firm combined. He has earned every single dollar and then some. Fraud, perjury, corruption, stalking, extortion, legal kidnapping, private investigators, investigative journalists, you name it, from Malibu to Hemet, we have been through it. Again, had I initially hired Steven Fernandez, absolutely none of this would have happened. Steve has the guts and good nature to run a deep roster of gifted professionals. Steven is smart, ethical and everything that one would hope their own children would grow up to be. Every attorney at this firm is a consummate professional and gifted in their own right. I believe the latter is a prerequisite for being employed by Steven, as Mr. Fernandez is highly intelligent, yet still he is a respectable humble man. Steven and his firm are hands down some of the most compassionate skilled litigators alive and excellent human beings.
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21 Mar, 2019 by Wes
Courtney and her Team were AMAZING in my divorce process. No divorce process is easy, but if you want the BEST, retain Courtney and she will get you the best outcome!
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15 Nov, 2017 by Anonymous
Assisted me during a very stressful time in my life. Also efficiently handled a high conflict case against my child's other parent.
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13 Oct, 2017 by Rick
Ms. Carpenter was able to reduce the alimony I had been paying from $2400/mo to $0! Her attention to the details was impressive. I’ve got an attorney!
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03 Jun, 2021 by Deborah
Extremely cares about your case. He is the first attorney I have ever had that returns my calls or messages the same day. I would recommend Ben to anyone that needs representation in family court. He has your back.
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20 Aug, 2020 by Lisa
Ben is an incredible attorney! Our family has been using him for years. He has handled divorces, child custody cases, legal issues a nephew was in, I went thru a messy division of property with a man I wasn’t married too... handled vehicle tickets... he’s calm, collected and patient with his clients! He is upfront, honest, doesn’t oversell or over promise... you know where you stand throughout your legal proceedings. I’m very please and my family is pleased with any and all services he has provided. We highly recommend him!!!
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10 May, 2018 by Adrian
I, too, hired Mr. Aranda after my previous attorney failed to adequately advocate for me in my divorce. Immediately, Ben put me at ease and let me know there was no need to worry about the "malicious tactics" of the opposing counsel (and my soon to be ex-wife). Divorce is hard enough, and I'm so thankful to have Ben representing me so I can be a responsible father and get on with my life. Ben keeps it real, and he fights hard for his clients. He deserves to be recognized with the highest jurisprudence commendation for his diligence. If you are in need of a superb divorce lawyer, he's your guy! God bless you Mr. Aranda!
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28 Mar, 2018 by Derek
Nedra represented me for quite a few months while working through a very complex and ongoing custody case. While I was upset and worried throughout the case, Nedra was patient, compassionate and understanding of my needs and questions. However, most of all, Nedra is very professional and talented as a lawyer and not afraid to stand her ground. I am satisfied with the outcome and she did a tremendous job in my legal representation. I strongly recommend her as she protects what means most to you.
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07 Mar, 2018 by Pam
I highly recommend Nedra Howard. Nedra is a remarkable attorney. She is organized, thorough and dedicated to providing the highest caliber of legal services to each of her clients. She is skilled in the courtroom and her attention to detail in drafting is superb. She leaves no stone unturned on her agreements, parenting plans and court orders. If I needed to hire an attorney she would be the first and only person I would hire.
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26 Feb, 2018 by Trisha
Words cannot describe how grateful I am to you. Nedra is an outstanding attorney! She has helped me on several occasions and not once have I left without a clear understanding of what I need to know. Nedra made everything very easy and smooth.
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26 Mar, 2017 by Claudia
Choosing an attorney when going through a devastating process such as a non amicable divorce is critical. I felt like my life was turned upside down and my heart was ripped into pieces. My biggest fear was hurting my two beautiful children in the process, and so protecting them was my main priority. I consulted with several divorce attorneys and the level of anxiety just kept increasing. It wasn't until I met Natalie Lemos that I finally felt safe and hopeful. She had been highly recommended by a friend and the minute I consulted with her I instantly knew she would be my "forever attorney". You see, Natalie was totally aligned with my family values. She is a woman of integrity and her main focus is the children's well being. All decisions were based on protecting us as a new family, with our new future. That is something a parent always can appreciate, it is priceless. Natalie guides you through the steps to consider pre and post divorce. She really cares about her clients, their financial stability and emotional state. You need her, she's immediately there. She will not make you wait. She literally spoils her clients. Shes effective and fast. She's not an attorney that prolongs the process. Her honesty and loyalty are the things I admire the most. She's strong in court and in mediation, I always felt well represented and at ease. She's phenomenal! I respect her for her outstanding mentoring and leadership during and after my divorce. She gave me hope when I was going through the darkest time in my life, I will forever be grateful for giving light to my life again.
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20 Mar, 2017 by Jorge
Although divorce is not ideal, I’ve gone down that unfortunate path. Having Ms. Lemos on my side made a profound and positive difference. She ensured my kids were untouched by the unfortunate divorce process. Natalie's advisement helped me to prioritize my contentions. Her keen understanding of the nuances of family law coupled with her compassion and empathy for “the family”, made it possible for me and my-ex wife to find an amenable solution. So much so that today we are on good terms. Personally, I discourage my friends from pursuing divorce if at all possible. But once divorce becomes inevitable, then Ms. Natalie Lemos is the right person to have on your side! She’s smart, knowledgeable, balanced and particularly clear on helping you pinpoint what matters most. I highly recommend Natalie Lemos.
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19 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
I'm a single father of two and I was very pleased with Natalie's guidance through my challenging divorce. She is extremely knowledgable and well prepared. She gave me great advice on financial matters and with regard to my children. I highly recommend Natalie.
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01 Feb, 2018 by Mike d
A really good divorce attorney. I know a handful and she’s the only one I ever recommend to friends or family. Quality attorney who knows her cases. She always remembered my kids names and what they are into. I think that makes a real difference
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11 Jan, 2018 by Jenn
Kate is a strong attorney. She and her team were well-prepared and I am glad they were in my corner. Custody and child support were a lot easier than I thought. Highly recommend
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04 Aug, 2017 by Zoe
Kate did a terrific job of negotiating a workable co-parenting arrangement for me and my former partner. I didn't think we could reach and conclusion but Kate got I done. I felt comfortable being open with her and she's an attorney who actually returns calls and emails on time.
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06 Jul, 2017 by Anne
It was an absolute pleasure working with katie. She went above and beyond to help me through a rough time!
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03 Jul, 2017 by Wallace sreaves
She covered all the angles for me. She went the extra mile to consult with military lawyers so she would be straight on that part of my case.
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26 Jun, 2017 by Sheida
When I met Kathie, she introduced herself a new lawyer. After 10 minutes, I knew she is a sharp, no nonsense, knowledge and she was no rookie. she handed me a plan of action, which I was trying to accomplish in months with another attorney who had 20 years of experience. Kathie listen to client and guide the client like me to a clear path. she explains all the procedures, options, facts, and take you step by step to your goal. I am so grateful to this amazing young attorney.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Pearce
Morgan handled my child support case with professionalism, but better than that I felt like I had an advocate who took the time to understand what I was going through so she could give me the best advice and direction. She was effective, responsive, and proactive to keep me on track when things were time sensitive. She gave me clear expectations and options so I felt like I had open eyes and support, but I could still drive the decisions.
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21 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
I feel very fortunate that Morgan assisted me with my case. Her knowledge and direct approach allowed us to quickly review all information, explore options, and form a plan immediately. She and her office prioritized all of my concerns, and patiently addressed questions. Morgan is extremely knowledgeable and acts with integrity every step of the way. Although Meiselman, Helfant and Wills Firm previously represented me multiple times, this was my first opportunity to work with her, and I highly recommend her services.
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29 Mar, 2022 by Sherhonda
Since the beginning of my divorce, I have tried to resolve so many challenges for my daughter and me. After working with several attorneys, I researched and found Meiselman Helfant & Willis. When I initially arrived at the office, I was greeted and there was NO wait. My time was respected!
Throughout the entire process, I was informed and aware of everything that was to be expected of me. My questions were answered thoroughly; emails responded to promptly; phone calls answered; and everyone was always prepared and organized.
Extremely pleased with the service and the outcome! Highly recommend M. Appel to support your child support and custody needs.
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19 Dec, 2019 by Jessica
Margaret made my divorce go as smoothly as possible and helped me get the best outcome for my family. Her knowledge, patience and timely responses were such a relief for me during this difficult time. As bumps in the road came up she would help me weigh all of my options so I could make the best decision to proceed. If you find yourself in need of an attorney I would highly recommend her over and over again!
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21 Mar, 2019 by L. anne lewis
I cannot begin to say enough great things about Margaret. I had a gut feeling about her and my gut did not steer me wrong. I am beyond thankful that she took on my case. No separation is easy, especially when it involves children. I was dealing with threats, verbal abuse, harassment, bullying, etc. I explained to Margaret what she would be in for and what we would be up against and she did not bat an eye. She was always very supportive and reassuring and all around a pleasure to work with. Anytime I had a question or concern, if I called or sent her an e-mail, she would always get back to me in a timely manner. She is very organized and extremely professional. And she is a go-getter! She will fight for you. I was extremely impressed by her overall work ethic and attitude. She is great in what she does. If there is ever a time where I find myself being in the same situation, Margaret is going to be the first person I call. I will never use another lawyer!
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11 Dec, 2018 by Anonymous
Margaret was extremely helpful as my ex and I worked together to amend our divorce agreement.
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5.0
3 Reviews
5.0
3 Reviews
04 Apr, 2021 by Cenvalleysteel
I would never use any Familly Law Attorney then Ms. Davis. Very honest and forthcoming.
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07 Apr, 2020 by Kimberly de lima
12 Jan, 2020 by Pete
Jullian, is an awesome lawyer. She helped me in a very messy divorce. I will be consulting her again and would highly recommend her if your going thru a divorce.
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25 Mar, 2022 by Joe
I am very pleased to have retained the services of Ms. Mentor for a family law matter. Her decades' worth of legal experience proved invaluable to bringing my case to a favorable conclusion. She is very strategic and tactical in achieving stated goals and, equally as important, performed in a very ethical and compassionate manner. She is definitely not a clock-watching attorney looking to bill for every second of her time or charging a proverbial arm-and-a-leg for admin/clerical services. Ms. Mentor genuinely cares about her clients, not only about the achieving successful outcomes but also treating you compassionately as a person instead of just another case. I highly recommend her, without any reservations.
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26 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
Karen Mentor is a great lawyer on a tight budget. I hired her for my divorce. Her professionalism and knowledge about my divorce were beneficial. She did all the paperwork and took the guesswork out for me. I felt comfortable with her handling many of the details of my divorce. She negotiated a good outcome for me from the divorce. She was able to work desperate the challenges of the difficult Covid times. I recommend her to my friends.
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06 Oct, 2020 by Jennifer
I hired Karen for a divorce she was very knowledgeable and friendly. She was always there to answer any questions I might have along the way and made sure I felt comfortable through the whole process. I am glad I chose her to represent me and I highly recommend using her.
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22 Jun, 2015 by Thuy
I have been with Ms. Hubbell as my family attorney since November 2003 up to present. Ms. Hubbell is an ethical attorney who responds to my concerns and needs very promptly and effectively, especially during crises. My case consisted of complicated asset division and long, bitter custodial battle. During one court date, Ms. Hubbell was very compelling in every stage. Because of her effectiveness, I had a favorable outcome for the case, which included having the other party pay for my attorney fee. I was fortunate to have Ms. Hubbell, a good communicator who strives for the best results for her client, represent my case. Overall, I am very happy with her work and her care. For those I recommended Ms. Hubbell to as their family attorney, they were also happy with her. As time goes by, I know that I cannot find a better attorney than Ms. Hubbell.
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26 May, 2015 by Melissa
Karen Hubbell provided my husband and I with excellent legal support in finalizing some lingering issues from his previous marriage. I wish he had gone to Karen from the beginning, instead of using a mediator. So many people wanting an amicable divorce shy away from hiring a lawyer, fearing that it will lead to a court battle or cost a ton of money. However, when you have financial entanglements and children involved, it is imperative to seek help from a lawyer who knows the ins and outs of the legal system and can get it done right - the first time around. We found Karen to be very straightforward and understanding of the approach we wanted to take in getting matters resolved. With her help, we were able to finally lay to rest the custody schedule and financial issues that had been dragging on unresolved for three years after his divorce. I only wish we had gone to her sooner. If we ever have any future issues, Karen Hubbell will be the first person we call.
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28 Apr, 2015 by Steve
Karen is very dedicated and truly devoted to her clients’ best interests. She is thorough and responsive. She has excellent knowledge of the law and always helps me make the best decisions. She works well with opposing attorneys and her fees are reasonable. I always know what is going on and what to expect. I feel safe knowing that Karen is on my side.
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04 Aug, 2021 by Maureen flanagan
I used Jim Lowry for services of Will/Trust.. He's efficient and responsive with any questions I had. Also, was very affordable and helpful through a tough process for me.
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22 Oct, 2018 by Robert prestandrea
I met James through my bankruptcy attorney
During the bank fraud forclosures in 2010. He assisted me to stay in my forclosed home for 5 years, to recover some of the financial loss I incured when the bank kept my escrow money through the forclosure process. I highly recommend Jim for any issues you may have. In addition I found him to be genuinely concerned with my well being. I also loved his sense of humor.
Thanks Jim
I appreciate you.
Rob P
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08 Sep, 2017 by Jessica
My case dealt primarily with her partner Stephanie. When Stephanie became unavailable, Michelle stepped in. I always thought a lawyer subbing in for their partner would be more of a placeholder following instructions. I was wrong. Michelle was well versed in my case before we even began discussing it. I credit what I have with my daughter to both their brilliance. I endorse any parent to reach out to them if they need legal assistance.
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20 Aug, 2019 by Brian
Trying to work with a bad judge in Cook County to address dangerous parenting behaviors from my wife's ex-husband, Michael was professional but tough. We prevailed and my step-children are much better off as a result.
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19 Nov, 2018 by Anonymous
I met Mr. Sabath today for a consultation of my case. He was honest and straightforward. I liked how he quickly he understood my case and gave great suggestions. I highly recommend this lawyer. He knows what he is doing.
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06 Sep, 2018 by Mark newman
Tremendous alimony reduction on the first go around. The second time resulted in a finalization of any future alimony payments.
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05 Nov, 2023 by Christina
I spent way more time and effort to select my divorce lawyer than I ever did to choose my (now ex) husband. I did extensive online research. I read tons of testimonials. I even listened to divorce podcasts and took notes.
On paper, Geraldine Hess stood out among the other divorce lawyers I considered because she is Fellow of the Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), and her practice is 100% focused on family law.
In practice, Geraldine Hess ended up being an advocate I could TRUST to help me navigate through one of the worst times in my life.
I liked working with Geraldine because she was always tactful and professional, but at the same time, she never sugar coated anything or tip toed around difficult things that needed to be said or done. I loved that she was so straightforward and honest, while also being fair and kind.
I also really appreciated how tough Geraldine was, both mentally and emotionally. I don’t mean that she was a junk yard bull dog with a spiked collar and a loud bark. I mean that nothing surprised her or shocked her or threw her off her game. If my husband had set himself on fire while on the witness stand, Geraldine would probably have to stifle a yawn.
Beyond that, Geraldine was organized, reliable, and responsive, as were her assistants. She ran a tight ship, and I knew that she would never let anything fall through the cracks.
During my divorce, I ended up needing a criminal lawyer and then a contract lawyer. Geraldine referred me to two excellent attorneys who were both trustworthy and excellent in their fields.
Geraldine Hess has my highest recommendation. I hope never to get divorced again, but if I did, I would call Geraldine right away.
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30 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
The short version:
If you need a family law attorney, go to Geraldine. She is smart, dedicated, no nonsense (but still kind), will keep you well informed and quickly and fully responds to questions. Bottom line, she takes care of business and does so extremely efficiently.
The long (yet still shortened) version:
My spouse and I decided to get divorced and started off with the collaborative divorce process. As the collaborative process neared completion, my spouse terminated the collaborative process despite the advice of counsel and a mutual divorce coach.
Shortly after terminating the collaborative process, my spouse hired a new attorney and filed for divorce while making many false and vicious accusations along with unreasonable and upsetting requests to the court. I obtained a new family law attorney/law group and a very contentious process ensued. After many months, not much progress had been made and my attorneys were convinced that settling outside of court was not likely. My attorneys therefore significantly increased their retainer and informed me that they would have to withdraw from my case if I was unable to pay the new retainer. At this point I had amassed a significant amount of debt and could not afford the amount they requested. They withdrew from my case. I was at a complete loss for what to do. I was financially destroyed, the emotional stress of the past year and a half was taking its toll on me and I didn’t know where to turn.
Then I found Geraldine and retained her services. Almost immediately the tone of the process changed and I felt like progress was being made. Geraldine quickly got up to speed with my case and hit the ground running. She laid out the options and scenarios, explained what she was thinking and why and developed a strategy for moving forward. She kept me fully informed and answered any questions I had every step of the way. A few months after Geraldine came on board, my case was settled and with an outcome that was significantly better than what I was expecting and better than previous offers made to my spouse which had been turned down.
Having the unfortunate, and likely uncommon, experience of working with multiple family law attorneys, I can say that Geraldine is awesome at her job! She did much more for me than any prior attorney in a fraction of the time and at a fraction of the cost.
I never write reviews. However, felt compelled to write one for Geraldine as 1) a way to acknowledge and thank her for a job very well done and 2) to hopefully help others out there who find themselves going through a divorce. It is not fun. It is not easy. However, having the right attorney makes a world of difference.
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11 Dec, 2015 by Anonymous
Geraldine became my lawyer in 1996. She attempted to settle my case, which involved child support, child custody, and property settlement, amicably. However, my former spouse made things extremely difficult. Geraldine recognized that we would need to change the strategy for my case, and she made the change seamlessly. She represented me well, which resulted in my being awarded primary custody of my children. She also ensured that I was able to maintain my retirement savings (my former spouse had depleted his after our separation, and he wanted half of mine). My former spouse took me to Court twice after our divorce to reduce the amount of child support he was paying. I retained Geraldine for both of those cases and found her to be just as thorough as she had been during my divorce. My case has been closed for some time now, but I still consult with Geraldine as needed. Geraldine is smart, meticulous, honest, knowledgeable, and accessible, and I strongly recommend her to anyone who needs a divorce attorney.
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02 Jan, 2021 by Dora
Mr. Greene law office was great to work with in regards to a recent bankruptcy. I was very pleased with the level of legal service I received. I highly recommend this bankruptcy lawyer to anyone!
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01 Jan, 2021 by Cody m
They literally hold your hand through the whole bankruptcy process Mr. Greene is awesome understanding! I was so grateful for his expertise and knowledge in bankruptcy. He never judged me and always worked with my crazy schedule at work. I highly recommend this bankruptcy attorney!
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01 Jan, 2021 by Patrick b
I highly recommend this law firm to assist you with your legal claims. Jason Greene did a wonderful job guiding me through my legal issue. And he answered any questions I had along the way.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Frank armenio
My divorce was not an easy one by any means. The other party did not want to be a participate in the process that she initiated, be fair financially, and was in character throughout the two and half yr process. Veronica weeded through this from minute one.
Veronica jumped on board in my case more than halfway through the process from the recommendation of my previous attorney to get my case resolved. There is a reason he recommended her. Veronica was forceful and stern during the negotiations(mediation) with the other party and was always looking out for my best interests financially which included doing everything possible from the first day I spoke to her to avoid trial which is where my case was headed. The reason for the referral from my previous attorney.
During one of most difficult times of your life, Veronica attempted to understand everything on a personal/emotional level as well beyond the business aspect of divorce.
Veronica is extremely knowledgeable of the NJ laws of divorce which is so important. She is professional, cordial, assertive, and great at explaining things/answering questions. Veronica also will hold you accountable if she needs to which is important in this process.
The firm in Springfield is professional and welcoming; which is includes her paralegal Diana O who I would like to acknowledge as well.
In divorce, no one wins or loses. My JOD was fair and equitable at the end of the day which is what should have happened. Veronica accomplished that for me with honesty and sincerity from day one.
Five star review.
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12 Oct, 2023 by Jamie ryan - mih
Judi McDermott Esq. is direct, compassionate and effective!
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03 Oct, 2023 by William green
PHENOMENAL ATTORNEY!!!
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17 Sep, 2023 by Chuck
I was fortunate to work with Ms. Dundas. It was a grueling six year process and she was always there to explain my options, relevant strategies and most importantly keep me on track when the pressure of process began to seem insurmountable.
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27 Aug, 2021 by Anonymous
My case with Allison demonstrated how outstanding she is with all the following distinctions: experience, knowledge of the law & process, strategy, preparation, prudence, and compassion. She is an astute, clear-sighted & assertive counselor who consistently demonstrates a detailed & thorough understanding of the daunting complex of challenges faced in separation, child custody & divorce ranging from innumerable minutiae to overarching strategy. In particular, Allison was very efficient, directed, and targeted at the extended goals of asserting my self-interests especially with regard to mediation & child custody – she has great foresight born from well-integrated experience. Over 19 months of the case, I truly appreciated how concise & exact she was in communicating with the other party and executing on the process – from a financial standpoint I benefitted from much greater value of effort than I reasonably calculated for the anticipated cost. Another observation I made that further cemented my confidence was the demonstrably established credibility she holds with judges & the court system. On a personal side, I may have benefitted as much, if not more, from her heartfelt awareness, understanding & compassion for my anguished state through most of the process. She was very adept at helping to modulate my emotions throughout – something I was not cognizant of for a long time, and this effort further contributed to executing a thoughtful, constructive plan. My separation, child custody & divorce ended up decidedly where Allison advised we would arrive at the outset, a conclusion that I had great difficulty believing was achievable. The path from confusion, uncertainty & enormous emotional distress to understanding, acceptance, satisfaction & personal ease was the most challenging course of my life and one that I could not have followed without Allison’s guidance, action & encouragement. I have rarely felt so fortunate as to have Allison manage and execute my case while concurrently offering the most meaningful personal support.
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14 Jun, 2021 by Laura
Allison Dundas helped me with perspective when I was in the process of a divorce with young children. She approached my case with care, concern, and excellent guidance.
I couldn't have made the choices I made to change my life without legal help. Allison's expertise was pivotal for me to make the change I needed to make.
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07 Dec, 2015 by Caroline
Ben Phillips is an outstanding attorney.
Having Ben as my attorney was one of the best choices I made during a very challenging time. He came highly recommended to me, and I will always be grateful for those recommendations.
Going through a divorce can be emotionally draining. However, with Ben as my attorney handling everything superbly, I was able to focus on being a mom to my 3 children.
The moment Ben became my attorney, things started to quickly line up and shift in the right direction.
It was a very complex financial case with a very litigious husband of high net worth who was hiding assets. Ben is extremely intelligent, quick-minded, and organized. He is highly respected by judges and peers alike. Litigation comes naturally to Ben as he is extremely eloquent and well-versed in the law. He is an excellent litigator.
His perfectionism shows in his work, and his staff are all top notch as well. I am and will always be truly grateful for all that Ben has done for me as my attorney. I highly recommend Ben Phillips.
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01 Nov, 2013 by Doug
I had to endure a three year divorce process and learned a lot from it. First and mainly, I should have retained John "Ben" Phillips first off. I had three attorneys prior to retaining Ben and if you combined all three prior attorneys as a team, they could even come close to Ben's expertise in family law matters. The difference between an attorney and a great attorney is a great attorney can get the job done quickly.
Ben is highly organized and he knows the law regarding divorce, child custody and all other aspects of family law. Ben is a great negotiator as well as a great listener. His handling of the division of community assets and child custody issues in my divorce case left me great satisfaction. My retirement funds were a huge concern of mine and through Ben's negotiating skills, provided me with more than favorable results.
No one likes to go through a messy, complicated and emotional divorce. From my experience, I can tell you do not throw money away by just hiring an attorney(s). Retain the best attorney possible you can from the get-go who will work and fight for you with professionalism. I highly recommend Ben Phillips as absolutely the best family law attorney out there. Before my divorce I did know Ben but now I consider him a friend.
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04 Dec, 2011 by Christine
If you are looking for an attorney who is extremely smart, competent, effective, fair in billing, and empathic to your situation, then Ben is a great choice for your attorney. My divorce was complicated and my ex wanted to fight. Ben was able to keep the focus on the facts and keep track of the vast quantities of paper and rabbit trails that the other side created. He was quite organized and retained the relevant information such that when we finally did get to court, he knew exactly where to go to get the pertinent information/numbers. He did not allow the other side to "bully" me, which in fact they tried. I highly recommend Ben as an excellent lawyer who can handle just about anyone. By the way, don't be misled by his nice smile, young appearance and 6 years in practice... He is smart and he is a fighter!
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18 Feb, 2020 by Kristen
I can't say enough about mike. He was FANTASTIC. Honest and upfront. Even helped me do things more affordable. He cares about his clients not the money. Finding an honest lawyer who is on your side is not an easy task. Thankfully I found mike.
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19 Nov, 2015 by Sandra
Mike has been the best attorney ever. He has tirelessly helped me an my children during my divorce. I couldn't ask for a better person. He is quick to get things done and get back to me. His staff is wonderful and I will always recommend him or any legal needs you might have.
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30 Mar, 2015 by Randy
Michael is a great lawyer. If I could not reach him, his staff is extremely friendly and had Michael follow up extremely fast. He always answered questions that I had, offered advice, and was very professional. I have absolutely no complaints and would recommend Michael Mitchell to anyone!
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26 Apr, 2022 by Pamela
Let’s face it, divorce is never something that is easy or painless for anyone involved. It forces us to expose our “underbellies” when we already feel vulnerable and afraid. The Ozelie team was incredibly sensitive to the tender emotions involved. They were very fair towards finding middle ground for a settlement, yet protective of my interest in their legal approach. They were available many times outside of normal business hours, and always respectful of my position and perspective. If you unfortunately find yourself in a divorce situation, I HIGHLY recommend and encourage you to reach out to OZELIE and determine if they are a fit for you. BTW, I have now retained them for representing me on some legal issues one of my adult children is facing. Long story short…If you are looking for 100% TRUST, RESPECT, and CONFIDENCE navigating the legal waters, I personally wouldn’t look any further than them.
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25 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
Ozelie Law has handled two different cases for me and my family and both were resolved to our satisfaction. I would recommend Richard highly as he is passionate and determined in his representative practices. His paralegal and support staff are also top notch :-)
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04 Apr, 2018 by Kelly
Mr.Ozelie and Erica are the best ! They have a amazing team there . I am very thankful I found them . They made everything less stressful for me while I went though a very difficult time in my life . Thank you again !!! :) :)
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02 Jul, 2020 by Ken
Due to family issues I have unfortunately needed to contact and work with different attorneys over the years. I reached out to Micaela for a child custody matter. A minor child, who was a relative, was being abused and I needed legal advice and potentially an attorney. I am very happy I reached out to Micaela. In my first face to face meeting with Micaela I could tell something was different. She didn't just listen for key words or phrases. Micaela asked questions that demonstrated she was genuinely concerned. After the initial consultation I knew I wanted to hire her.
During the family court process, Micaela was honest about what to expect and what actions were needed. Many times I would express frustrations with government officials, and sometimes the system. Micaela was always able to help me put thing into perspective.
Working with Micaela I felt like I had a genuine advocate. She wasn't just an attorney I hired to help get a family member out of danger, she felt like a genuine partner. She always kept me informed about each step along the way. Micaela and her team were also very prepared when anything needed to be filed. Before any court appearances or filings, Micaela explained what motion was going to be filed and why. When I would ask questions about the judge, or the proceedings, or any other legal matter, Micaela was ready with an answer, or she would always get back to me in a timely manner. I appreciated her humility and honesty.
The qualities I appreciated most about Micaela were -
1 - her honesty - she was upfront about expectations
2 - her humility - she was not afraid to acknowledge her own limitations
3 - her preparation - she always had a plan B (and sometimes C) and she always explained my options. Knowing she was prepared gave me confidence in court.
4 - communication - her office was quick to respond and open
5 - genuine - I felt like she genuinely cared about my case.
6 - tenacity - I felt good knowing I have a "bulldog" on my side. I felt comfortable hearing Micaela be my (and the minor child's) advocate. I felt as if she was fighting hard for the child's safety.
I would hire Micaela again in a heartbeat. Hopefully I won't be in need of her services ever again. If I am ever in need of an attorney for child custody, Micaela will just be the first person I contact, she will be the only person I contact.
I'm very thankful that Micaela was available when I needed her services.
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01 Jul, 2020 by Rebecca
Micaela did a great job helping me through my divorce. She made sure to keep communication open was helpful in working with the other attorney. I always felt that she has my and my children's best interests in mind. Micaela was a great asset in getting negotiations done efficiently and in a timely manner. I would definitely refer other to Micaela and her firm.
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23 Jun, 2020 by Kristie
Micaela was very understanding of what my needs were from the beginning. She took the time to explain in detail step-by-step the process and what the expectations were. She was very professional and courteous during a very difficult time. I would definitely recommend her and her team! Thank you.
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28 Dec, 2016 by Brian
Scott was exceptional, really courteous and helpful on all aspects of the divorce. He walked me through the process and I thought going into the courtroom we were fully prepared.
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23 Dec, 2016 by Frank
Scott is very professional, honest and down-to-earth. He does not hesitate to tell it like it is and make recommendations based on facts and experience. He is quick to communicate and respond. He was able to help me through a difficult divorce and again with another issue tied to the divorce a few months later. I believe Scott cares about his clients and I would not hesitate to recommend him or use him again.
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22 Dec, 2016 by Anonymous
Scott Russell is a true professional. I walked into his office for our initial consultation full of questions and anxiety regarding my impending divorce. My stress was quickly alleviated within moments of beginning our consultation. Scott answered all of my questions and fully prepared me with reasonable expectations of the outcome. Throughout the process, I was continually impressed by the effective communication and responsiveness received by him and his staff. In dealing with the most difficult time of my life, I know with certainty that I could not have been better represented. I've recommended Scott to several people and he apparently treats everyone with this level of professionalism and respect. Can't say enough great things about this attorney...he is the attorney to meet. I used to think attorneys had a bad reputation but this changed my view! I know he has represented at least 4 of my friends and know that they were all very happy with his representation! 5 stars aren't nearly high enough for this level of service!!
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01 Jun, 2021 by Andrea
If you are looking for a family lawyer Kim Kleinhans and her team are amazing. I would highly recommend this law firm, they go above and beyond to make sure they listen to what you want and need. They will also do the same when it comes to representing you and your family in your case. Kim represented me in a Child Custody case and put in a lot of long hard hours over many months and helped us get the outcome we wanted. She was always very responsive and quick to answer to my emails, calls and texts. Any kind of advice I needed at the time, she was there to help. Kim and her team were always super respectful to us and let us know the truth about what we wanted to try and accomplish. I will always come back to this law firm in the future.
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09 Aug, 2020 by Colette
Kim, Keith and team secured settlement of my personal injury case. My case was difficult because I was an overseas visitor to Texas when the accident happened and the investigation had to be conducted from a different stance. This proved no problem to the team who successfully secured a settlement for me. I strongly recommend this excellent law firm.
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28 Apr, 2020 by Linda
Kim stayed on top of making sure all items were ready to go and had been discussed when the time was needed. She was there to address any concerns I had, and got my questions resolved swiftly. She is easy to work with and her caring for others comes through in the quality of her work.
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11 Jul, 2020 by Crystal
I had my consultation with Stephen today and I hung up the phone feeling empowered and confident. He went above and beyond to help me and wasn't just looking to make money. I was served Habeas Corpus documents on Friday evening and ordered to be in court Monday at 3p. I had little to no time to prep let alone find an attorney but I reached out during wee hours of the morning and was contacted by 9a Saturday morning. I've yet to go to court but I wanted to write a review on my first impressions and how Mr. DePaul exceeded all expectations. I have a pretty treacherous journey ahead in my custody case but I feel confident in Stephen and his team
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16 Jun, 2016 by Andrew
Steve was a big help to me when I was working on changing my name back to my birth name. He explained the process and assisted with all court documents and filing so that the process was as painless as possible.
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15 Jun, 2016 by Eric
Mr. DePaul is my "go-to" attorney for legal advice. His expertise reviewing personal and/or professional contracts and documents has proved invaluable to me in the decision-making process on multiple occasions. His advice has assisted me in numerous complex situations that have had a financial impact on my life. Mr. DePaul breaks down convoluted legal jargon in a way that anyone can digest. I appreciate his candidness and honesty while counseling me through tough decisions. He's approachable and friendly, and I would highly recommend him to anyone that is seeking the services of a straightforward lawyer that you can totally trust.
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5.0
6 Reviews
11 Jan, 2023 by Anonymous
Tonya is a very thorough and mindful attorney. She gives good advice and is protective of her clients and their rights. She’s tough and plays to win. She’s exactly the kind of attorney most women need.
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01 Feb, 2021 by Mike
I don't know if I can properly articulate just how good of a lawyer Tonya is, but I'll try. She represented me in a custody case that dragged out for almost a year and a half. Today, I won custody of my daughter! Even after putting a HUGE obstacle in her way, Tonya was able to win the best possible outcome for my daughters best interest and facilitated reunification after my baby was kept from me for over a year! This woman is worth every penny and she WILL get results!
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15 Nov, 2019 by Ryan
This attorney is by far the best for have ever seen ... The care.. the work... The extra mile. This is who you need. I'm a former Marine. My neighbor.. former Marine. Recommended her to me. He was right. She'll is legit the best attorney around. I swear. I don't even know how to put on words how much you should hire her! She'll do more and better than any lawyer/person you can imagine!
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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.
