Filter by

star star star star star
20 Jun, 2024 by Tyler jones
Ms vesper was assigned to my custody case it was the most unpleasant experience I could have imagined. Guessing her law degree came through education connection.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
09 May, 2024 by Jason
She is horrendously unable to respond in the timely manner. If you need a divorce and you want it done in the timely fashion this is the worst person you could possibly choose
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
08 Jan, 2024 by S w
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
20 Jun, 2024 by Tyler jones
Ms vesper was assigned to my custody case it was the most unpleasant experience I could have imagined. Guessing her law degree came through education connection.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
09 May, 2024 by Jason
She is horrendously unable to respond in the timely manner. If you need a divorce and you want it done in the timely fashion this is the worst person you could possibly choose
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
08 Jan, 2024 by S w
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
20 Jun, 2024 by Tyler jones
Ms vesper was assigned to my custody case it was the most unpleasant experience I could have imagined. Guessing her law degree came through education connection.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
09 May, 2024 by Jason
She is horrendously unable to respond in the timely manner. If you need a divorce and you want it done in the timely fashion this is the worst person you could possibly choose
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
08 Jan, 2024 by S w
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
20 Jun, 2024 by Tyler jones
Ms vesper was assigned to my custody case it was the most unpleasant experience I could have imagined. Guessing her law degree came through education connection.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
09 May, 2024 by Jason
She is horrendously unable to respond in the timely manner. If you need a divorce and you want it done in the timely fashion this is the worst person you could possibly choose
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
08 Jan, 2024 by S w
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
20 Jun, 2024 by Tyler jones
Ms vesper was assigned to my custody case it was the most unpleasant experience I could have imagined. Guessing her law degree came through education connection.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
09 May, 2024 by Jason
She is horrendously unable to respond in the timely manner. If you need a divorce and you want it done in the timely fashion this is the worst person you could possibly choose
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
08 Jan, 2024 by S w
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
20 Jun, 2024 by Tyler jones
Ms vesper was assigned to my custody case it was the most unpleasant experience I could have imagined. Guessing her law degree came through education connection.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
09 May, 2024 by Jason
She is horrendously unable to respond in the timely manner. If you need a divorce and you want it done in the timely fashion this is the worst person you could possibly choose
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
08 Jan, 2024 by S w
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
20 Jun, 2024 by Tyler jones
Ms vesper was assigned to my custody case it was the most unpleasant experience I could have imagined. Guessing her law degree came through education connection.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
09 May, 2024 by Jason
She is horrendously unable to respond in the timely manner. If you need a divorce and you want it done in the timely fashion this is the worst person you could possibly choose
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
08 Jan, 2024 by S w
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
20 Jun, 2024 by Tyler jones
Ms vesper was assigned to my custody case it was the most unpleasant experience I could have imagined. Guessing her law degree came through education connection.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
09 May, 2024 by Jason
She is horrendously unable to respond in the timely manner. If you need a divorce and you want it done in the timely fashion this is the worst person you could possibly choose
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
08 Jan, 2024 by S w
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
20 Jun, 2024 by Tyler jones
Ms vesper was assigned to my custody case it was the most unpleasant experience I could have imagined. Guessing her law degree came through education connection.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
09 May, 2024 by Jason
She is horrendously unable to respond in the timely manner. If you need a divorce and you want it done in the timely fashion this is the worst person you could possibly choose
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
08 Jan, 2024 by S w
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
20 Jun, 2024 by Tyler jones
Ms vesper was assigned to my custody case it was the most unpleasant experience I could have imagined. Guessing her law degree came through education connection.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
09 May, 2024 by Jason
She is horrendously unable to respond in the timely manner. If you need a divorce and you want it done in the timely fashion this is the worst person you could possibly choose
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
08 Jan, 2024 by S w
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
20 Jun, 2024 by Tyler jones
Ms vesper was assigned to my custody case it was the most unpleasant experience I could have imagined. Guessing her law degree came through education connection.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
09 May, 2024 by Jason
She is horrendously unable to respond in the timely manner. If you need a divorce and you want it done in the timely fashion this is the worst person you could possibly choose
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
08 Jan, 2024 by S w
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
18 Oct, 2023 by Molly harrington
We used Katherine Bestine for a no-fault, uncontested divorce. On my initial visit, 10/28/22. At that time I was told the divorce should be done by February so we could file our taxes together one last time. She cut the remainder in half because "this is so simple". We paid $2400 upfront. They took so long they needed another $2000. We did not have a divorce date until AUGUST 29 2023. It was so upsetting and hard. I'm so disappointed. I was recommended to her from several very public attorneys. I have made them all aware of what happened. I hope the truth can be provided to clients so you don't have to spend 11 months getting divorced. No money, no property. The only thing was a name change. Just so disappointed. I'd be weary to use her again. The paralegal and clerks were all fantastic.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
20 Jun, 2023 by John j
Several weeks ago I inquired about a case and I didn't get to actually explain everything before I was told I couldn't get helped and accused of wrong doing. Clients beware they are not in your best interest.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
21 May, 2019 by Brenda
Terrie assisted me during a very difficult time while my mother was in Hospice and we were working on selling her home. She was able to maneuver through the Medicaid lien process, and assisted me in what paperwork was needed to move things forward. Once my mother passed Terrie assisted my family and I with the estate process. She was very thorough and flexible with our schedules.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
20 Jun, 2024 by Tyler jones
Ms vesper was assigned to my custody case it was the most unpleasant experience I could have imagined. Guessing her law degree came through education connection.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
09 May, 2024 by Jason
She is horrendously unable to respond in the timely manner. If you need a divorce and you want it done in the timely fashion this is the worst person you could possibly choose
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
08 Jan, 2024 by S w
Google Maps
See more
Alan Donatelli, experienced  attorney in Buffalo, NY with 64 reviews
star star star star star
4.0/5
Avvo
3.0
2 Reviews
Google Maps
4.1
62 Reviews
star star star star star
20 Jun, 2024 by Tyler jones
Ms vesper was assigned to my custody case it was the most unpleasant experience I could have imagined. Guessing her law degree came through education connection.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
09 May, 2024 by Jason
She is horrendously unable to respond in the timely manner. If you need a divorce and you want it done in the timely fashion this is the worst person you could possibly choose
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
08 Jan, 2024 by S w
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
20 Jun, 2024 by Tyler jones
Ms vesper was assigned to my custody case it was the most unpleasant experience I could have imagined. Guessing her law degree came through education connection.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
09 May, 2024 by Jason
She is horrendously unable to respond in the timely manner. If you need a divorce and you want it done in the timely fashion this is the worst person you could possibly choose
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
08 Jan, 2024 by S w
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
20 Jun, 2024 by Tyler jones
Ms vesper was assigned to my custody case it was the most unpleasant experience I could have imagined. Guessing her law degree came through education connection.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
09 May, 2024 by Jason
She is horrendously unable to respond in the timely manner. If you need a divorce and you want it done in the timely fashion this is the worst person you could possibly choose
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
08 Jan, 2024 by S w
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
09 Jan, 2024 by Ken
Contacted Attorney we worked things out. Will continue to work with him. This is a tiring process.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
20 Aug, 2022 by Joann
He did not demonstrate respect as attorney-client representation and adhere to code of ethic in my interest. He breached his commitment and tried to force me to sign a contract against my will. He lacked verbal communication with me after he compromised that resulted not in my favor
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
16 Sep, 2020 by Anonymous
Matthew is top notch for debt collection processes. His prices are fair and he is responsive. Even after he settled my case he still answers any questions that I have. I highly recommend him.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
02 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
I’m a single mom. I made an unsafe lane change on my way home from a friends house , I shouldn’t have driven home. I have never been In trouble in my life before this. I emptied my checking account of my children’s child support to hire Mr. Dubois . I had to wear an ankle for 6 months , so embarrassing, drug court, several fines,, AA , counseling, etc. and I don’t really drink, it’s been almost 3 yrs & Ii still do not have my license. So many unreturned calls , I’ve spoken to 3 other attorneys & they basically said the same thing, you could’ve went in there without an attorney and got the same thing! We are in contact with the bar association grievance committee at this point. I feel i should at least get my money back for the poor representation. Ty , I finally had to say something.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
11 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
I would refer anyone who needs a Lawyer who will Fight for your best interest. He did a greaat job we are very happy wirh the result. I have used him on different Cases over the years
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
10 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
Dan did a great job informing me of my legal rights, expectations and helping me throughout the custody process. Dan was able to ensure the end result was fair and that I was happy.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
20 Jul, 2021 by Stephen hays
So how do you rate something you never want to experience? I'm in the middle of a tough stretch and needed some help. When things are falling apart around you, it helps to have someone give you hope. I was given a couple of options and he worked with me to find what I hope to be the best.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
08 Jul, 2020 by J bently
Google Maps
star star star star star
14 Aug, 2017 by Jamal alsoufi
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
05 Oct, 2020 by André
I personally recommend Kristin based on my experience as her client in an extremely unorthodox matrimonial dispute, which ultimately culminated with sole custody being awarded to me. She was very responsive to my inquiries and kept me well informed about reasonable expectations for outcomes.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
12 May, 2017 by Jacqueline
Kristin Arcuri is an exemplary attorney. She is trustworthy, intelligent, professional and compassionate. She works very hard to get the job done in real time without the drama. She will fight for your rights and see the case until the end. I am grateful for her representation. My suggestion is if you need legal help consult Kristin first. It will be the best decision you ever made!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
20 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
While Ms Arcuri was responsive and knowledgable, my divorce took two years, and I had to prompt her quite a few times to keep things moving along. I didn't feel like she really "fought" for me, I felt like she went through the motions, and I ended up basically giving up the farm just to get rid of my ex, because nothing was happening unless I made concessions. In the end, I got minimal child support, only had my kids half the time, and I basically feel like I could have fared better with just about any other lawyer. And it cost me a fortune. Highly disappointed. Would not recommend her to anyone.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
24 Apr, 2022 by Darren white
Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Apr, 2022 by Roxana orellana
Google Maps
star star star star star
18 Mar, 2021 by Missy bkillingit
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
06 Mar, 2024 by Patty y-s
I'd rate higher if it was an option. Maureen is always professional, very knowledgeable, compassionate, timely, friendly, and successful!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
01 Sep, 2023 by John knope
Google Maps
star star star star star
03 Nov, 2022 by Cassie brenner
Retireing soon ....don't waste your time
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
06 Mar, 2024 by Patty y-s
I'd rate higher if it was an option. Maureen is always professional, very knowledgeable, compassionate, timely, friendly, and successful!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
01 Sep, 2023 by John knope
Google Maps
star star star star star
03 Nov, 2022 by Cassie brenner
Retireing soon ....don't waste your time
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
13 Jan, 2024 by Kenji saito
I’m embarrassed about it, but I was a victim of scam. so I asked for advice. Even though I’ve given them the contact information of the scammer’s email address and telephone number, they never contacted the scammer. I was still receiving several emails and texts from the scammer, but the attorney said just ignore it. Later, I received letter from the attorney regarding my case. It was written my case was closed. What’s more, it dated one months before I received the letter!! Nothing was resolved in the end.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
07 Jan, 2024 by Caralyn mirand
Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Jan, 2024 by Brian sarama
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
13 Jan, 2024 by Kenji saito
I’m embarrassed about it, but I was a victim of scam. so I asked for advice. Even though I’ve given them the contact information of the scammer’s email address and telephone number, they never contacted the scammer. I was still receiving several emails and texts from the scammer, but the attorney said just ignore it. Later, I received letter from the attorney regarding my case. It was written my case was closed. What’s more, it dated one months before I received the letter!! Nothing was resolved in the end.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
07 Jan, 2024 by Caralyn mirand
Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Jan, 2024 by Brian sarama
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
13 Jan, 2024 by Kenji saito
I’m embarrassed about it, but I was a victim of scam. so I asked for advice. Even though I’ve given them the contact information of the scammer’s email address and telephone number, they never contacted the scammer. I was still receiving several emails and texts from the scammer, but the attorney said just ignore it. Later, I received letter from the attorney regarding my case. It was written my case was closed. What’s more, it dated one months before I received the letter!! Nothing was resolved in the end.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
07 Jan, 2024 by Caralyn mirand
Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Jan, 2024 by Brian sarama
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
13 Jan, 2024 by Kenji saito
I’m embarrassed about it, but I was a victim of scam. so I asked for advice. Even though I’ve given them the contact information of the scammer’s email address and telephone number, they never contacted the scammer. I was still receiving several emails and texts from the scammer, but the attorney said just ignore it. Later, I received letter from the attorney regarding my case. It was written my case was closed. What’s more, it dated one months before I received the letter!! Nothing was resolved in the end.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
07 Jan, 2024 by Caralyn mirand
Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Jan, 2024 by Brian sarama
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
13 Jan, 2024 by Kenji saito
I’m embarrassed about it, but I was a victim of scam. so I asked for advice. Even though I’ve given them the contact information of the scammer’s email address and telephone number, they never contacted the scammer. I was still receiving several emails and texts from the scammer, but the attorney said just ignore it. Later, I received letter from the attorney regarding my case. It was written my case was closed. What’s more, it dated one months before I received the letter!! Nothing was resolved in the end.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
07 Jan, 2024 by Caralyn mirand
Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Jan, 2024 by Brian sarama
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
13 Jan, 2024 by Kenji saito
I’m embarrassed about it, but I was a victim of scam. so I asked for advice. Even though I’ve given them the contact information of the scammer’s email address and telephone number, they never contacted the scammer. I was still receiving several emails and texts from the scammer, but the attorney said just ignore it. Later, I received letter from the attorney regarding my case. It was written my case was closed. What’s more, it dated one months before I received the letter!! Nothing was resolved in the end.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
07 Jan, 2024 by Caralyn mirand
Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Jan, 2024 by Brian sarama
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
13 Jan, 2024 by Kenji saito
I’m embarrassed about it, but I was a victim of scam. so I asked for advice. Even though I’ve given them the contact information of the scammer’s email address and telephone number, they never contacted the scammer. I was still receiving several emails and texts from the scammer, but the attorney said just ignore it. Later, I received letter from the attorney regarding my case. It was written my case was closed. What’s more, it dated one months before I received the letter!! Nothing was resolved in the end.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
07 Jan, 2024 by Caralyn mirand
Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Jan, 2024 by Brian sarama
Google Maps
See more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
FAQs
Questions? We have answers

Top Questions to Ask a Lawyer

When meeting with a lawyer for the first time, it's important to ask the right questions to understand their expertise and determine if they're the right fit for your legal needs. Here are some top questions to consider:

  1. What experience do you have with cases similar to mine?
    Ensure the lawyer has relevant experience in the specific area of law pertaining to your case.
  2. How do you charge for your services, and what are the estimated costs?
    Understand the fee structure, including hourly rates, flat fees, retainer fees, and any additional expenses.
  3. What potential outcomes can I expect from my case?
    While no lawyer can guarantee results, they can provide an assessment of possible scenarios based on their experience.
  4. What is your approach to handling cases like mine?
    Learn about their strategy, whether they prefer negotiation, mediation, or litigation.
  5. Who will be working on my case?
    Find out if the lawyer will handle your case personally or delegate tasks to other attorneys or paralegals.
  6. How will you communicate with me throughout the process?
    Establish expectations for updates, preferred communication methods, and response times.
  7. What is the likely timeline for resolving my case?
    Get an estimate of how long the process may take from start to finish.
  8. Do you have references from past clients?
    Testimonials or references can provide insight into the lawyer's professionalism and effectiveness.
  9. What are the strengths and weaknesses of my case?
    Understanding potential challenges helps you prepare and sets realistic expectations.
  10. Are there alternative ways to solve my legal problem?
    Discuss options like mediation, arbitration, or settlement to resolve the issue efficiently.

How to Check the Credibility of a Lawyer

Before hiring a lawyer, it's crucial to verify their credibility and ensure they're qualified to handle your case:

  1. Verify Their License:
    Check with your state's bar association to confirm the lawyer is licensed and in good standing.
  2. Experience and Specialization:
    Ensure the lawyer specializes in the area of law relevant to your case.
  3. Disciplinary Record:
    Look up any history of disciplinary actions or complaints through the state bar association.
  4. Client Reviews and Testimonials:
    Read reviews on legal directories like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to gauge client satisfaction.
  5. Professional Memberships:
    Membership in professional organizations or specialty bar associations can indicate a commitment to their field.
  6. Awards and Recognitions:
    Honors from reputable organizations reflect expertise and a positive reputation.
  7. Consultation Assessment:
    Use the initial consultation to evaluate their communication skills, responsiveness, and willingness to address your concerns.
  8. Ask for References:
    A credible lawyer should be willing to provide references from past clients.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To make the most of your initial meeting with a lawyer, come prepared with:

  1. Relevant Documents:
    Bring all documents related to your case, such as contracts, correspondence, legal notices, court papers, or evidence.
  2. Written Summary:
    Prepare a concise written summary of your situation, including key dates, events, and involved parties.
  3. List of Questions:
    Write down any questions you have about your case, the legal process, or the lawyer's experience.
  4. Financial Information:
    If applicable, bring financial documents like pay stubs, tax returns, or bank statements.
  5. Contact Information:
    Provide details of any witnesses or other parties relevant to your case.
  6. Personal Identification:
    Bring a valid ID for verification purposes.
  7. Pen and Notebook:
    Take notes during the consultation to remember important points.
  8. Budget Constraints:
    Be ready to discuss your budget and any financial limitations.

How Much Does a Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a lawyer varies widely based on several factors:

  • Fee Structures:
    • Hourly Rate:
      Lawyers may charge anywhere from $150 to $500 or more per hour, depending on experience and location.
    • Flat Fee:
      For routine legal services like drafting a will or handling an uncontested divorce, lawyers might offer a flat fee.
    • Retainer Fee:
      An upfront payment against which the lawyer bills hourly fees.
    • Contingency Fee:
      Common in personal injury cases; the lawyer receives a percentage (typically 25% to 40%) of any settlement or award.
    • Monthly Retainer:
      For ongoing services, businesses might pay a monthly fee for a set number of hours or services.
  • Factors Affecting Cost:
    • Complexity of the Case:
      More complex cases require more time and resources, increasing costs.
    • Lawyer's Experience:
      Highly experienced lawyers may charge higher fees.
    • Geographic Location:
      Legal fees can vary significantly by region or city.
    • Additional Expenses:
      Court filing fees, expert witness fees, travel expenses, and administrative costs may be extra.
  • Estimating Total Costs:
    Request a detailed fee agreement outlining all potential costs.
    Discuss any additional expenses that may arise during the case.
  • Negotiating Fees:
    Some lawyers may be willing to negotiate fees or offer payment plans, especially for clients with financial constraints.
  • Pro Bono Services:
    For those who cannot afford legal services, some lawyers or legal aid organizations offer services at reduced rates or for free.
Scroll to top