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05 Jan, 2025 by Tom laska
Mazza law will get the job done. Listen and do what your told the results will come.
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10 Dec, 2024 by Kitt lady
Mazzu Law was the first firm that took me seriously. Listend to my story. Worked diligently, kept me informed, and got a settlement for me. If I ever have to go through this again. I would come back to this firm first. Treated me with kindness, respect, and honesty. Gave me options and never felt like I was lost. I was informed all the way through and was carefully explained all the steps we took together. It is a very professional and they prove productive services.
Of your looking for a great firm look no further. This is one of the greats.
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11 Nov, 2024 by Nick garey
I had an excellent experience with Mazzu Law handling my case. From start to finish, they were dedicated, professional, and clearly committed to getting me the best possible outcome. Ed & his team went above and beyond, always keeping me updated and explaining every step. Thanks to their hard work and determination, they were able to secure a maximum settlement for me. I couldn’t be more grateful for their expertise and support throughout the entire process. If you’re looking for a law firm that truly cares about your case and your results, I highly recommend Mazzu Law.
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09 Jan, 2025 by Patricia anne hover
I would certainly recommend the excellent staff at Sawers and Sackel Attorney's at Law. After being injured at work, I know I could always be reassured that they were there to assist me every step of the way.It made it a great deal easier to get through the Workers Compensation process. Sawers and Sackel were always very prompt to answer my many questions, they treated me like family and really assisted me when the difficult questions came up.
Sawers and Sackel guided me in a very caring manner and were always very concise.
I have already referred a friend to Sawers and Sackel. I would highly recommend them to everyone.
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21 Aug, 2024 by Jeffrey hileman
I have been with Sawer & Sackel for 3 separate workers comp claims and have been very unsatisfied until recently. Up until Holly took ownership in my cases I was left wondering what was going on. I was the one that had to initiate any and all inquiries into correspondences from the insurance carrier. And I rarely spoke with a lawyer and it was Never the same individual. Since working with Holly things have change my thinking entirely. She has taken ownership in my case and has gone above and beyond my expectations (or at least what my expectations of a law firm should be) and have reaffirmed my choice in a workers compensation law firm. Holly will initiate and follow up on all inquiries and respond in a timely manner. I have enjoyed working with her and look forward to a positive outcome in my pending cases.
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14 Aug, 2024 by Kk eagen
I’ve been with Sawers & Sackel for a few months. From day one, they have been professional and answered all of my questions. Going through this process has been difficult. During a phone call, Holly was so supportive. A few days later, I received a letter from Holly, with handwritten encouragement from her! It brought me to tears. I’ve never heard of a law firm that cares this much, to not only work diligently on my behalf but to take an interest in me personally. Bill and Julie have also been so supportive to me I would recommend Sawers & Sackel to anyone!!
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16 Feb, 2025 by Willie holton
I want to express my gratitude for my attorney, Eric. He is always available, personable, and ensures everything is handled in a timely manner with great follow-up. I truly appreciate his dedication and professionalism. Plus, I love that they are local! Thank you for your excellent service.
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18 Dec, 2024 by Daveisha hunter
The best law firm
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09 Dec, 2024 by Michael kinsley
The firm was very timely with any questions that I had regarding my case.Very personable and informative 👍. Would recommend them to anyone.
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17 Nov, 2010 by Anonymous
Dan represented me in two adoption cases through the foster care system, and while one case was successful and the other wasn't, Dan was an excellent resource and ally throughout the whole process.
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22 Jan, 2025 by Ty evans
Mr. Daniel Tarantino succeeded with my felony case, including three additional misdemeanors by digging deeply into every aspect of information that was put in front of him. My case was dismissed due to Mr. Tarantino’s Dedication to determine my innocence and not be claimed as a criminal. Thank you so much Mr. Tarantino for the hard work of and for my case.
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17 Jan, 2025 by E foster
I had a very complex case before the Erie Co. Family Court. I wish I met Anthony Cervi, Esq. years ago. I was dealing with opposition who cares about nothing but themselves; not the child. Anthony Cervi sorted through all the data and provided truly zealous representation.. Mr. Cervi is one who can think on his feet, use time judiciously, and obtain the best result for his client.
Having deeper knowledge of Family Court than most laymen I can say - call him first! Mr. Cervi has a friendly, professional staff available. He will fight for his clients. Disregard any negative reviews out there. Mr. Cervi is well above average. He’s not there to drain your funds. He focuses like a laser on your case. He is simply the most effective family attorney I’ve ever met (..and I’ve met many!). If you have a case before the Family
Court, don’t waste your time and energy. See Mr. Cervi, do what he advises and relax knowing you’re in truly expert hands. He knows more than the judges.
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18 Dec, 2024 by Yathee abdi
I would like to thank you and your team for the hard work and time you have put in to my case.
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14 Dec, 2024 by Edward pitts
15 Oct, 2024 by William “bill” squire
Don't waste your money! Talks and talks like a used car salesman, postpone, delay,postpone, delay cash your check and delay.
Hoping courts loses interest
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27 Aug, 2024 by Kash dinero
On August 27th at 2:00 PM EST, I called your office seeking legal advice and assistance. Unfortunately, I encountered an individual who displayed an unprofessional and discourteous attitude. When I initially explained my situation, she abruptly informed me that your office does not handle such matters and hung up without allowing me to ask any further questions.
I called back to inquire about the specific cases your office does handle, as I believe my civil rights have been violated. However, before I could fully articulate my question, she interrupted, stating, "I said we don’t handle this, and I said have a great day," and then hung up on me once again.
Frustrated by this lack of assistance, I called a third time to request to speak with a supervisor. On two separate occasions, she answered the phone only to immediately hang up. When she finally responded, she simply said, "Please stop calling."
I would like to bring this matter to the attention of her supervisor, as this behavior reflects a lack of customer service skills and professionalism. It is disheartening to encounter such a response, especially when reaching out for help in a difficult situation. Individuals who prioritize dismissing potential clients over offering assistance should not be in positions where they interact with the public. As a college student in need of legal help, I expected better treatment.
I hope this feedback is taken seriously and that appropriate steps are taken to ensure others do not experience the same level of disregard.
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22 Jan, 2025 by Ty evans
Mr. Daniel Tarantino succeeded with my felony case, including three additional misdemeanors by digging deeply into every aspect of information that was put in front of him. My case was dismissed due to Mr. Tarantino’s Dedication to determine my innocence and not be claimed as a criminal. Thank you so much Mr. Tarantino for the hard work of and for my case.
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16 Jan, 2025 by Facts jr
10 Dec, 2024 by Jaime difrancesco
I did not intend on posting a negative review, until every other means I have taken was ignored by this law firm.
I was a client of Ms. Hawthorne for approximately 6 years between 2015 & 2021. I thought she represented me well in child custody matters at that time.
A new issue arose in July of 2024, so I contacted her office to retain her for the new matter. I paid the full retainer fee up front, and Ms. Hawthorne agreed to represent me.
Long story, but here is the point of the review, & caution to others who rely on reviews to choose an attorney.
1) Ms. Hawthorne repeatedly dropped the ball when it came to being prepared for court dates. I would ask a simple task be handled, & she arrived at court telling me she didn't have the information needed to pursue. It could have been addressed by a quick phone call so the information would have been presented on that court date.
2) Ms. Hawthorne avoided ALL of my emails with questions regarding legal representation & how to proceed with our Court matter. I was only able to get basic responses and interaction with her staff member, Ann.
3) I ended up having to fire Ms. Hawthorne 3 months after retaining her due to ZERO direction and follow up from her on Court deadlines. I was left on my own, when I hired her for legal representation.
4) I fired Ms. Hawthorne before all the retainer fee was used up, and by law, & by the legal code of attorney conduct, any monies paid has to be earned. Refunds are to be issued for any unused portion.
5) I terminated Ms. Hawthorne's services on October 3, 2024 & requested a current statement of services rendered. I requested a refund on that date. It was nearly a month before I received the requested statement. It showed that I had $855 CREDIT.
6) I sent several emails to Ms. Hawthorne & her office, requesting the refund, as I had to retain a different attorney to represent me for the job she failed to do. I was charged double for work Ms. Hawthorne didn't complete, and new attorney had to follow through on.
7) I filed an attorney grievance for her unethical standards pursuant to the Attorney Code of Conduct. Ms. Hawthorne lied in that case & claimed she WAS representing me.
8) When emails were repeatedly ignored for my refund, I called the Office & left a message (10 weeks after initial requests)
This is why I am resorting to a public review. No other means I have followed through with are being received and dealt with. I am just asking for the money I paid UP FRONT to be returned to me for the unused portion of $855. I have other attorney bills to cover thanks to Ms. Hawthorne not doing her job.
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12 Nov, 2024 by Dean jones
I am not having the best experience with this organization, I'm sure that everyone there is like the person that is supposed to be helping me, but I feel like the individual is very opinionated and is emphasizing more on what I need to show the landlord when the landlord isn't violation of not providing heat for over two years. I have decided as of last month withhold renting to the issue is fixed and it has not been, yet my council has been on me showing that I have all the rent and nothing in regards to giving the landlord a time frame into which they need to fix my heat. Pretty disappointed I will be looking into another organization to help me out with this matter or just deal with it myself cuz I have done the research and I pretty much know what I need to do and what paperwork I need to file and so on and so forth.
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19 Oct, 2024 by Jackie toews
27 Sep, 2024 by Victoria pol
Taking g over a week for a lawyer to return a call he calls on a day ??? What still can't get through even pressing 0. No one answers
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13 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
I hired Charles for my divorce and although my divorce was finalized pretty quickly, I am very unhappy with how things went. He confused me on two separate occasions with a different client, with one time having an entire conversation about 'going to court' before realizing he had the wrong person. My documents written were too vague and had to hire an additional lawyer to write an addendum upon hearing that my divorce was finalized. I was very dissatisfied with how things went and am very disappointed with how much money I spent on mediocre service.
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31 Jul, 2022 by Weslyn
Mr Messina was very knowledgeable and kept it real! He did not recommend pursuit of my case as he said it was a hit or miss. He seemed straightforward and honest. I would love to have him for representation. I would recommend anyone to at least talk to him and consider him for representation.
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09 Nov, 2021 by Anonymous
I contacted Chuck due to him having stellar reviews all over the inter webs. I had a few questions for a legal matter and he advised me within hours. I hope I don’t need him. But if I do I can tell that I would be in good hands.
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07 Jan, 2023 by Anonymous
My husband hired her , then after 3 months we realized that she has no clue what she was doing.
But it took time to find a new lawyer . We spent over ten thousand dollars for a case which she was totally clueless. Finally we got a better result with a new attorney.
I wouldn’t recommend Lana Tupchik to anyone.
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25 Apr, 2022 by Anonymous
SCAM. She takes $250 for a consultation and does nothing. Hurt me as survivor domestic violence as she tricked me. Failed to provide any legal advice or a retainer. Completely unprofessional and draining as an experience, the opposite of holistic. Save yourself the annoyance and time, and money. This is how the fake attorneys sound that takes your money.
Good Morning Miss ____
Thank you for your email, I wish you the best of luck in finding the attorney you are looking for, it was my pleasure speaking with you.
Good luck and best wishes,
Lana
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09 May, 2021 by Anonymous
In 2020 I hired Ms.Lana to represent me in a Family Court matter. Before I engaged her to represent me, I had spoken to other attorneys who seemed more interested in the retainer and fees than in my concerns. Due to my past experiences I had absolutely no faith in the Legal System and did not think that there was an attorney who would really care about my situation. When I met Ms. Lana all of that changed. She was truly a gift from God. She definitely is the attorney you want on your side. She fights for you from the beginning until the end. She has your best interest at heart. Ms. Lana wants to know how you feel about situations and will not just make her own decision without discussing things with you first. She keeps you fully informed. She is a great listener, caring, compassionate and understanding. She is never to busy too address any concerns that you may have. Ms. Lana always responds to emails, text messages and calls very promptly. Ms. Lana is the best! I assure you that if you hire her you will not be disappointed!
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What an Adoption Lawyer Can Do for You
An adoption lawyer specializes in navigating the legal complexities of the adoption process, ensuring that the rights of all parties involved - the adoptive parents, birth parents, and the child - are protected. They assist families through the different types of adoption, such as domestic, international, foster care, stepparent, and private adoptions. Adoption lawyers ensure that the adoption process complies with state, federal, and international laws, and handle any legal issues that may arise during the process, such as terminating parental rights, conducting home studies, and finalizing the adoption.
If you're looking to adopt or if you're a birth parent considering placing your child for adoption, an adoption lawyer can guide you through the legal requirements and ensure the process goes smoothly.
When Should I Hire an Adoption Lawyer?
You should consider hiring an adoption lawyer in the following situations:
- Private or independent adoption: If you’re adopting a child directly from the birth parents without the involvement of an adoption agency, a lawyer is essential to draft and review all legal documents, including consent forms and parental rights termination agreements.
- Foster care adoption: If you’re adopting a child from foster care, a lawyer can help navigate the legal process, ensure the child’s eligibility for adoption, and represent you in court to finalize the adoption.
- Stepparent or relative adoption: If you’re adopting a stepchild or a relative, a lawyer can assist in terminating the parental rights of the biological parent and ensure the adoption is completed legally and efficiently.
- International adoption: International adoptions are complex, involving multiple layers of laws from the U.S. and the child’s birth country. A lawyer can help navigate immigration requirements and ensure compliance with international treaties like the Hague Convention.
- Contested adoptions: If a birth parent changes their mind about the adoption or there is a dispute over parental rights, a lawyer can represent you in court and ensure that the adoption proceeds legally.
- Adoption for same-sex couples: If you're a same-sex couple looking to adopt, a lawyer can help ensure that your adoption complies with state laws and that both parents have equal legal rights to the child.
- Birth parent representation: If you’re a birth parent considering adoption, a lawyer can ensure that your rights are protected, help you understand the legal implications of terminating parental rights, and ensure that your decision is legally sound.
Hiring a lawyer early in the process can help avoid legal complications and ensure that the adoption is legally finalized as smoothly as possible.
What Does an Adoption Lawyer Do?
An adoption lawyer provides a variety of legal services, ensuring that the adoption process is completed in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. Their responsibilities often include:
- Filing legal paperwork: Adoption lawyers handle all the necessary paperwork, including petitions to terminate parental rights, consent forms, and final adoption decrees. They ensure that the adoption is in line with state, federal, and international laws.
- Conducting home studies: Some adoptions require a home study to evaluate the prospective adoptive family. While a social worker usually conducts the study, a lawyer can ensure that the process complies with legal requirements and that the report is submitted correctly.
- Terminating parental rights: Lawyers assist in terminating the legal rights of the biological parents, either voluntarily through signed consent or involuntarily through court proceedings if necessary.
- Representing clients in court: Adoption lawyers represent adoptive parents, birth parents, or other parties in court hearings to finalize the adoption or resolve disputes.
- Navigating international adoption laws: For international adoptions, a lawyer helps ensure that all legal requirements, both in the U.S. and the child’s home country, are met, including securing the child’s visa and citizenship.
- Providing legal advice: Adoption lawyers guide clients through each step of the adoption process, advising them on their rights and obligations, as well as any potential legal issues that may arise.
- Drafting post-adoption agreements: In some cases, especially open adoptions, a lawyer can help draft post-adoption agreements that specify the level of contact between the adoptive and birth parents.
How Are Adoption Lawyers Paid?
Adoption lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the adoption and the time involved. Common payment structures include:
- Flat fee: Many adoption lawyers charge a flat fee for handling the entire adoption process. This is common for straightforward adoptions, such as stepparent or foster care adoptions, where the legal work is relatively predictable.
- Hourly rate: For more complex adoptions, such as contested or international adoptions, some lawyers charge by the hour, with rates typically ranging from $200 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and location.
- Retainer: In cases where the adoption process may take longer or involve more legal work (e.g., termination of parental rights or court disputes), a lawyer may require a retainer, which is an upfront payment that is billed against as the lawyer works on the case.
It’s important to discuss fees with your lawyer upfront, so you understand the total cost of the adoption and any additional expenses that may arise during the process.
How Much Does an Adoption Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring an adoption lawyer depends on the type of adoption and the complexity of the case. General cost estimates include:
- Stepparent or relative adoption: Legal fees for these types of adoptions typically range from $1,500 to $5,000, depending on whether the adoption is contested or requires a court hearing.
- Domestic private adoption: The legal fees for a private adoption usually range from $5,000 to $10,000, including drafting documents, terminating parental rights, and finalizing the adoption in court.
- International adoption: International adoptions are generally more expensive, with legal fees ranging from $7,000 to $15,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the adoption and the child’s country of origin.
- Contested adoption: If the adoption is contested and involves court disputes, legal fees may range from $10,000 to $20,000 or more, depending on the length and complexity of the court proceedings.
In addition to lawyer fees, adoptive parents should also be aware of additional costs such as court filing fees, home study fees, and travel expenses (for international adoptions).
Top Questions to Ask an Adoption Lawyer
Before hiring an adoption lawyer, it’s important to ask key questions to ensure they have the experience and knowledge to handle your case effectively. Key questions to ask include:
-
What experience do you have with adoptions?
Ensure the lawyer has experience with the specific type of adoption you’re pursuing, whether it’s domestic, international, foster care, or stepparent adoption. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges a flat fee or hourly rate and ask for a detailed breakdown of the costs involved in your adoption. -
What are the legal requirements for my adoption?
Ask the lawyer to explain the legal steps involved in your adoption and any specific requirements that may apply to your case, such as home studies or parental consent. -
How long will the adoption process take?
Adoption timelines can vary depending on the type of adoption, so ask the lawyer for an estimate of how long the process will take, including any potential delays. -
What are the common challenges in adoption cases?
Ask about any potential legal challenges that could arise during the adoption process and how the lawyer plans to address them. -
Will I need to go to court?
Depending on the adoption, you may need to attend court hearings. Ask the lawyer whether your presence will be required and what to expect during these hearings. -
Can you help with post-adoption issues?
Ask the lawyer if they can assist with any post-adoption issues, such as obtaining the child’s birth certificate, finalizing the child’s U.S. citizenship (for international adoptions), or drafting post-adoption contact agreements.
How to Check the Credibility of an Adoption Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable adoption lawyer, take the following 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 law and has no disciplinary actions on their record.
- Look for adoption experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in adoption law and have experience handling cases similar to yours.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for client reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients have said about their experience with the lawyer.
- Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have worked with them on adoption cases.
- Check for memberships in relevant organizations: Look for lawyers who are members of adoption-focused organizations like the American Academy of Adoption Attorneys (AAAA), which can indicate their expertise in this field.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To make the most of your first consultation with an adoption lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:
- Information about the child and birth parents: Provide any available information about the child you’re adopting (e.g., age, country of origin, current living situation) and the birth parents, if applicable.
- Adoption preferences: Be clear about the type of adoption you’re pursuing - whether it’s domestic, international, foster care, stepparent, or private - and discuss any preferences you have regarding the child’s age, background, or special needs.
- Legal documents (if applicable): If you’ve already begun the adoption process or have signed any agreements, bring copies of all relevant legal documents, such as consent forms or agency agreements.
- Questions about the adoption process: Prepare a list of questions about the legal steps involved in your adoption, potential timelines, and any concerns you may have about the process.
- Financial considerations: Be ready to discuss your budget for legal fees and any additional costs, such as home studies, court fees, and travel expenses (for international adoptions).
By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your situation more effectively and provide the best possible legal advice for your adoption journey.
