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04 Mar, 2024 by Karen gonzalez
Jeff is a professional Family Law attorney who cares about his clients. He was very receptive and responsive to my questions. Jeff was empathic and provided realistic outcomes without incurring unnecessary legal fees. He gave sound advice and explained everything to me in terms I could easily understand. I highly recommend Jeff to anyone looking for a quality Family Law attorney!
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06 Dec, 2023 by Rachael conran
I have had the help of Jeff during a couple different cases. He’s the best lawyer. I felt he genuinely wanted to help and was very caring. I feel lucky to have him by my side during stressful, upsetting times in my life. I would recommend him to anyone. He is so kind.
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06 Dec, 2023 by Douglas tate
A truly great attorney !!!!!
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05 Jan, 2023 by Maireny lantigua
She works fast, and make sure I felt comfortable with everything during my divorce agreement. Thank you Theresa and her team.
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28 Feb, 2022 by Hannah hoops
Theresa and her associates assisted my family with our custody battle and with their help the process was so much simpler and less stressful than we had been anticipating. We were given excellent counsel and constant communication, along with incredible and successful efforts at securing our rights during court. We could not be happier with Gomes & Associates in our endeavors and will be sticking with them as long as they'll have us!
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24 Jun, 2021 by Cheryl mehos
Theresa was the Mediator for my divorce and made the process so easy. She was fair, professional and answered all my questions. I highly recommend Theresa!
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03 Aug, 2021 by G l
Working with Marian’s office was a pleasant experience. Her services are exceptional. Our client was very happy with the outcome! Thank you
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14 Dec, 2020 by Meghan
Eliza has helped my husband and me navigate real estate and estate planning questions to ensure we knew about our options and risks, so that we are able to make sound decisions. She also provided excellent guidance for an employment contract question, which enabled me to navigate a potentially thorny issue with confidence. I highly recommend Eliza for her knowledge, wisdom, candor, and fairness in all areas, from giving legal advice to billing accurately and transparently for her work.
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10 Dec, 2020 by Celia
I've had a superb experience with Eliza as my divorce attorney. She enabled us to go through the process very smoothly, in spite of some unexpected difficulties derived from lockdown. Eliza worked hard to ensure my deadlines were met, as I was dealing with sensitive immigration timelines, and I am most thankful for it, especially in such a difficult life period. Her dedication was superlative. 5 stars.
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01 Nov, 2024 by Laura smith
We highly recommend the Family Estate Planning Law Group for their excellence in creating trusts and for the care they take to educate their clients. We have also found them to be available and helpful with a number of non-trust related issues. Their team of kind, professional, and responsive advisors is impressive.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Stephanie parker
03 Sep, 2024 by Martha smolen
It's been great working with the Family Estate Planning Law Group. They are very knowledgeable and have been so helpful to our extended family around trust planning, inter-generational planning and estate management. We all feel lucky to have them as partners and feel like our estate and future is in great hands. Thank you!
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13 Mar, 2024 by John benchoff
Highly recommend Nancy. She's not only a great attorney, but a great person a well.
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11 Aug, 2023 by Paul f coughlin
Excellent experience, thoughtful and pleasant. Good and fair outcome.
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27 Apr, 2016 by Dylan caldwell
Great lawyer !
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22 Jan, 2025 by Mellissa s
Lawyer was great
But fair warning, they will keep taking money from you after all of your invoices are paid and they will completely ghost you. Use a card ONLY to set up payments. One you can cancel.
In response to the response from Turco: You are correct, I did not engage you so all payments to the firm you subsumed in my name should have ended especially when my invoices were paid in full. They did not and money was taken from my account without a contract. Interestingly, I got a refund after posting this review so my advice stands. Make sure to put a payment on file you can dispute. Thank you.
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22 Jan, 2025 by Chris lincoln
I had a great experience working with Brian, he really helped me understand the process and what we could do for the best outcome.
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16 Jan, 2025 by Nancy mcconnell
I first reached out to Nicole in 2007 and have entrusted her with my legal needs since. Most recently, I recommended her to a friend that was in need of Will and other document preparation. Leslie LaFlamme responded to our request for this very quickly and shepherded the process with knowledge, understanding, and support prior to my friend's meeting with Nicole. Not only did we appreciate how expeditiously this was all handled, but we particularly appreciate the kindness and empathy displayed during a trying time.
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19 Nov, 2024 by George mulindwa
14 Nov, 2024 by Brian sullivan
Chris Murry provided me and my company excellent professional services. He always answered my calls and questions in a timely manner. His price was reasonable and I feel I received excellent representation. I highly recommend Chris for any legal issues.
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13 Nov, 2024 by Jodi tognacci
I would highly recommend Murray Law Firm. Chris solved our legal problem quickly and efficiently. He was very professional and empathetic to our situation.
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17 Dec, 2024 by C ostello
Atty McNally is empathetic, patient, and very supportive. He relates to his clients, genuinely cares and understands their needs, and helps them feel comfortable. He responds to any inquiries you have very quickly, and patiently explains legal complexities. This is someone we highly recommend, he is there for you when you may require the expertise and legal assistance of an attorney.
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11 Dec, 2024 by Ellen baranowski
We had a very positive experience working with Pacy Law. Eric Pacy and his team were thorough and responsive. Working with the Pacy Team was the easiest part of our home selling/home buying transaction. We felt safe leaving our business in their hands.
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04 Dec, 2024 by Jen collazo
Bad experience with this law firm.. We as a seller were suppose to receive wire transfer, in which we requested and paid for, did not receive on sane day of closing from this attorney.. The reason being they were incompetent to put in correct acct number.. Wire was suppose to be done on a Wednesday. We didn’t get our transfer until following Monday..Never nice did they try to compensate us for there “mistake”
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26 Nov, 2024 by Piero mendz
I have no words to thank attorney Smith!! Without any doubt, el mejor abogado ! ! Gracias attorney Sean Smith for everything you have done in my case! I will be forever thankful
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03 Sep, 2024 by Michael norwood
Attry Angela Cavanaugh is extremely professional under the truncated timetable delivered extraordinary testimony with literally less than 24 hours given unfortunate circumstances for me to provide evidence and that amount of time. Her testimony and cross-examination was something you could write a book about literally. If you ever have a scenario we'll get an unfortunate mess, you cannot go wrong with this law firm as a whole and or attorney Cavanaugh. Thanks
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28 Aug, 2024 by Max lafrance
Attorney griffis saw my case through from the begining to the end with the upmost professionalism. I am truly greatful I hired him as my lawyer and will do so for any of my legal needs. He and his team routed for me throughout my entire recovery process. Highly recomend him
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28 Jul, 2023 by Dean crosby
Tracey has been an excellent lawyer. She helped our family navigate a difficult estate settlement, she was always there to answer questions and solve problems. We couldn't have done it without her. I highly recommend Tracey and her staff for any legal matters. They did a great job!
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25 May, 2023 by David cancian
24 Aug, 2022 by Fulanito de tal.
💩💩💩💩💩💩💩💩
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27 Oct, 2009 by Meghan porter
I thought Oona was wonderful. She kept me posted and up to date on my case. She always took the time to hear my thoughts and counted in my opinion. I would reccommend her to anyone.
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27 Sep, 2009 by Anonymous
In my first interview with Oona Kingston she provided a clear and accurate assessment of the potential options for divorce settlement and the likely outcome of the settlement. In an arena in which many lawyers seem to thrive on creating confusion and anxiety, Oona was a calm voice of reason and worked diligently to get a fair settlement as efficiently as possible. Oona was more than a match for the big-city, high-priced lawyers on the other side and my legal costs were a fraction of those of my ex-spouse. I highly recommend her services.
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29 Aug, 2009 by Anonymous
During the duration of my divorce I struggled with the sadness of it as well as feelings of being so alone. While my ex had already moved on...I was still trying to process it all...how do I go from here...how do I make ends meet....my only identity was wrapped around my husband...how do I start over? I felt so completely alone with two kids and a house to worry about. Needless to say I felt overwhelmed by the divorce process and the decisions that needed to be made. Oona has the ability to take the entire picture and break it out into what is important and not important. She can simplify the decisions based on what needed to be addressed at that time and what could wait or what didn't need to be addressed at all. Although she is sympathatic to your situation, she has the ability to keep emotions out of the decision making process. I felt this allowed me the confidence to make good, fair, clear decisions based on her advise even while I was an absolute mess. She was honest with me about what was worth fighting for and what was a waist of time. She understands the process and is confident in her abilities and this shows. I had such low self esteem at this point and really felt as though I would never recover and yet, Oona had a away of making me have just enough confidence to at least stand up for myself and my kids. Although my divorce was at the time heartbreaking to me, somehow with Oona's help I stood up for myself. I feel to this day that this was the best thing I have ever done!
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25 Jan, 2022 by Nelia
Attorney Assunta Petez was my divorce lawyer. She is terrific. Very caring and experienced!! In Addition she is down to earth and her fees are reasonable. I am very happy with her hard work!! If you need an honest , awesome Attorney...give Assunta Perez a call!!!!!!
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13 Aug, 2020 by Dean
Assunta Perez is a very hard-working attorney that will always fight for you. She excepts all challenges from every direction and manages all types of interference very well. She is poised with professionalism and good character. She is the attorney that you want to work for you. I highly recommend Assunta. It was enjoyable working with her over the past 13 months of my divorce.
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13 Aug, 2020 by Martha
Assunta set up our house so our daughter was executive of the house as my husband has dementia. This was we save the house from a nursing home taking it. She did an awesome job.
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25 Feb, 2020 by Ashley
After contacting several lawyers with questions regarding adoption, a friend recommended Michael. From the start it was easy to talk with Michael and lay out all of my questions and concerns. At first we were simply exploring our options of adoption, foster to adopt and embryo adoption. We eventually moved forward with a unique embryo donation/adoption case that Michael was able to navigate smoothly. We don't live very close to Michael's office so he accommodated us by promptly returning emails and having several phone meetings. Michael is knowledgeable with infertility and sensitive when speaking to you. We highly recommend working with Michael for your fertility and family building needs!
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24 May, 2018 by Brady
Mike has been incredible in helping my wife and I through our adoption. We must've contacted a dozen lawyers trying to find the best and Mike was hands down the most helpful and friendly.
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27 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
Nicole was my third attorney, the one who ultimately resolved a grueling three-and-a-half-year divorce battle. She joined the case when I was deeply affected by the conflict, fully cognizant of the general disdain for lawyers and the imperfections of our legal system. My previous lawyer had become a source of fear and distrust, as I did not believe she prioritized my best interests.
I engaged Nicole to finalize an agreement that had been pending for years due to my former lawyer's lack of availability and reluctance to follow the judge's guidance. I was unable to counteract my husband's deceptions and the ongoing smoke and mirrors. Within an hour, Nicole grasped the nuances of the case like no one else had. She proposed a new perspective on an asset managed by my husband, which resulted in me receiving a slightly larger settlement, something my previous lawyer had overlooked.
For those feeling vulnerable during such a challenging time and in need of a lawyer who is both gentle and assertive, knowledgeable, up-to-date, compassionate, and brave, I wholeheartedly endorse Nicole. Although she has the qualities of an excellent therapist, it is her legal expertise that is most beneficial—she guides and educates you about the legal system, your options, and stands by your side.
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25 Sep, 2024 by Scott
A 3-yr divorce required 4 different attorneys to have my voice heard, and Nichole was my closer. When the Judge repeats back to opposing Counsel what she said - word for word - it's a power shift not seen often. Very happy with her results and I would refer her expertise, knowledge, and insight to anyone.
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25 Jan, 2025 by Bruce
I felt like there was no way out of the debt I was drowning in. Fortunately, there was hope thanks to affordable bankruptcy. Their staff was informed and helpful, which made it easy for me to go through the bankruptcy procedure. I sincerely appreciate their help in getting my life back on track!
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24 Jan, 2025 by Elliott mason
This attorney’s exceptional service made filing for bankruptcy less intimidating. They were patient, understanding, and committed to helping me regain financial stability. Their attention to detail and communication skills gave me peace of mind. I highly recommend them to anyone looking for a skilled and supportive bankruptcy lawyer.
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24 Jan, 2025 by Tamara smith
I had a wonderful experience with Affordable Bankruptcy - Mead Law Office!
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03 Apr, 2012 by Nancy
Fantastic experience. We would highly reccommend Attorney Nichols to represent you in your surragacy process. He is extremely knowledgeable, supportive and honest.
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31 Jul, 2022 by Jeanne
Without hesitation Cheryl Garrity’s work on my divorce needs to be rated 4 stars. She allayed many of concerns during my divorce and custody case. She consistently( and staff) responded to me in a timely manner.
Cheryl also handled my estate planning just as efficiently.
In addition her sense of ethics elevates her work
She is my go to attorney
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25 Apr, 2016 by Anonymous
I found Jessica through Avvo after I was raped on my college campus. Not only did she help to make my situation at school safer, she continuously checked in on me and recommended numerous helpful resources. These resources entirely benefitted me, she had nothing to gain from them. Jessica is extremely intelligent, empathetic, and, most importantly, great at her job. She answers emails quickly, takes the time to talk to you on the phone for as long as necessary, and is a fantastically eloquent writer. She has been such a big influence in my life, and because of her, I made the decison to be a lawyer myself and do work similar to hers. She has been a role model and a godsend for me and my family. If I could give her more than 5 stars, I would.
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17 Feb, 2016 by George
When I started the process of getting a divorce, I wanted a lawyer who would both advocate for me and also keep the proceedings as civil and compassionate as possible. I am so glad that I found Joyce. From the first meeting She was honest and clear on the process, the pitfalls and the effort (both financial and emotional) that a divorce was going involve. She kept me informed and was great in dealing with my wife's very difficult and quite maddening lawyer. What I thank Joyce the most for is that when everything was over I was able to look back and honestly feel that I did a very difficult thing the right way. I am so thankful for Joyce and her advice, support and professionalism.
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24 Dec, 2024 by Eric johnson
100% Highly Recommended. Outstanding in all aspects. Completely professional organization.
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21 Dec, 2024 by Anjolina yadao dayday
Jennifer Bade Law Group is amazing! The work ethic and their team is really knowledgeable in immigration cases like our K1 visa. They keep us posted on our process until we finished our K1 visa. Jennifer communicate well with there clients. Even I'm in the Philippines she make effort and her team to set appointment to talk with me whenever I am confused on my papers. She give us assurance that we will be fine and have my visa, and yes now I'm here in America already married! We are ready for our next process together with the Bade Law Group,LLC.
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22 Oct, 2024 by Nelson guzman
Jennifer & her team are the best you could ask for. Everyone is very kind, patient, & will walk you through any questions you have.
El mejor grupo de profesionales que puedes pedir.
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17 Dec, 2016 by Amanda ellason
He wasn't my lawyer but he still gave me pretty good advice and looked out for me when he didn't have to. He also answered my questions very quickly. If I lived in his area I would probably hire him.
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26 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
Mike's help was crucial it getting our family through a difficult time. We had a case opened at DCF--an organization that has broad administrative powers and little oversight--during a difficult time for my son. Another lawyer told me there was nothing I could do except follow DCF's requests. Mike was much more helpful. He told us all of our options and the associated risks. We worked out a plan going forward, and he implemented it to perfection: today we are free and clear of DCF involvement. This has been an enormous relief to my son who is suffering from anxiety, as well as my wife and me. I am glad we found Mike; I would recommend him to anyone in a similar position.
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19 Jan, 2016 by Andreea
Mike was referred by a friend. From the beginning he was very compassionate and caring and understood my case. I can't even describe the scary moments when you get the DSS/DCF call.
That is nothing compared to the thorough interview they complete. You will feel like you have no privacy whatsoever. You will feel that your kids can be taken away any minute, for the most stupid and simple reason ever, reported by people that don't even know you. Well, throughout the whole DCF in-person interaction, I always felt safe when Mike was around because I knew I had someone that believed in me and was there to protect my family.
I wish no real parent in this world goes through those moments but if you see yourself there, I would not even make a call to DCF without hiring Mike!
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24 Oct, 2024 by Kent green
He is professional
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18 Oct, 2024 by Juan na lin
Lawyer is very patient. He is very helpful to me in my case. He hopes I can win. He is very experienced and patient in explaining. I am very grateful to him.Thank you! Edward Hung
Juanna Li
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25 May, 2024 by S y
I have known Ed as as a colleague, friend, and personal counsel for over 20 years.
Ed has thorough knowledge of the law and with his expertise and creativity, he knows how to come up with an innovative solution. He is an attorney other attorneys hire for their own matters.
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28 Jul, 2023 by Sharman
The sense of relief I am feeling after having a consultation with Susan Devine is the best feeling I've experienced in quite some time. I had consultations with several other attorneys and she is the only one who actually reviewed the documents I forwarded her prior to our phone meeting. She was ready with excellent recommendations to share with me. She really listened and responded accordingly. She truly understood me and my situation. She is a wise attorney with practical common sense advice/ideas. Anyone who is fortunate enough to collaborate with her will be blessed!
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14 Oct, 2016 by Anonymous
My daughter Kaylee is 4 and she represents her. She has done an amazing amount of work and really cares for her clients if you want your child to be safe then there is no other choice but miss devine
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17 Apr, 2016 by Rich
Let me start by saying that Attorney Susan Devine has been representing my foster child since December. Susan has shown us that she is extremely knowledgeable and has made us both feel very confident. She always anwers my calls and keeps us informed with any new developments. Susan is very genuine and makes us feel that we are all working as a team. She makes us feel very comfortable and addresses any questions or concerns we may have. We really appreciate her hard work! I would highly recommend Attorney Devine without any hesitation whatsoever!!
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09 Apr, 2024 by Akihiro kanamori
I was represented by Jill Brofsky of this firm through a years long
divorce proceedings that involved many layers of financial discovery and ultimately went to trial. The judgment was very favorable to me, in a way that I did not anticipate when my now-former wife first petitioned for divorce.
When I first approached Jill to represent me, she upon initial consultation informed me of unforeseen favorable possibilities for settlement. Over years of discovery, depositions, motions,
and finally, a long trial, Jill brought to bear her expertise with
divorce law and the intricacies of financial settlement. Ever astute and sharp in her approach, her decisions as to what is
best to do proved right, and in fact, put my situation in a more and more favorable light. Although the entire process proved
tortuous and meandering (often because the various maneuvers that the other side attempted), I was very pleased with the outcome.
With respect to the wider firm, first, Jill brought in her
firm partner Amy Green to be present at parts of the trial and in fact to advocate my side from time to time. Through the many depositions, interrogatories, and motions, Aly Werth and Mary Bussell were very forthcoming with logistic support with
respect to the documents and exhibits to be worked out.
I felt that I was in good, competent hands, and that the wider firm was working in concert on behalf.
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21 Nov, 2023 by Nic matzen
21 Mar, 2023 by Sue fertig
I'm so appreciative of the legal support I received from Jill Brofsky and associates in dealing with a recent post-divorce financial issue. Not only was Jill legally astute and exceptionally well prepared when we went to trial, she was empathetic. I felt like I had a friend beside me in court and not just legal representation. I wouldn't hesitate to refer anyone to her.
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28 Dec, 2023 by Franklin youth hockey
31 Oct, 2023 by Jonathan cavanagh
Handled our home sale perfectly. Thanks again!
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27 Oct, 2023 by Rual r
06 Oct, 2009 by Amanda
We are still clients of Mary and she is a wonderful, caring and very smart. She has and is gong above and beyond any of the lawyers I have had. She is top notch in our book
Amanda and Linda
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13 Jul, 2017 by Greg g.
16 Jun, 2017 by Vyacheslav kraplin
Incredibly attentive and knowledgeable about estate planning, wills, and tax law.
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23 Jul, 2024 by Alexis c.
My husband and I had an incredible experience working with Matt when we bought our house and sold our condo. He was deeply knowledgeable in all facets of the process, helped us through a variety of hurdles we ran into along the way with patience and understanding, and was unfailingly kind throughout the entire experience. Should we ever choose to buy or sell again we would reach out to him in a heartbeat, and we recommend him and his firm without reservation.
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13 Sep, 2023 by Notorious m.o.e (lakerfanfromnyinbos)
Dena Dionne is the best lawyer I've ever met! She's refuses to drop a case. I parked in her parking space, and she asked me to move. I said don't worry about it, we'll move. She spent the next 5 minutes berating me to get down to the bottom of it. She continued to question me when I moved my car around the corner. She is a relentless lawyer, who will not stop until she gets justice! She even took pictures of my license plate, meaning she does her homework. I am an upstanding citizen who rarely has trouble with the law. But next time I do, guess where I'm going.? Dionne & White!
Sincerely
-2pae73
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07 Mar, 2023 by Rob scrofano
Outstanding Experience.. Quick, professional, reasonable and does exactly what they said they would do. HELP !! If you need solid representation at a fair cost.. this is the ONLY office to call..
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25 Sep, 2023 by Kelly jenkins
Deb was fantastic to work with: prompt with her reply, genuine in her concern for my situation, very clear and helpful in explaining the law and options I needed to know about. I highly recommend her to anyone looking for a kind, professional, knowledgable attorney to help with your real estate legal needs.
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13 Sep, 2023 by Joshua herzig-marx
We're so lucky to have found Debbie Danger and Danger Law. She did a great job for us and we've recommended her to friends and family.
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29 Jun, 2023 by Izzy maxwell
Came highly recommend but my experience was not good.
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18 Oct, 2024 by Let's read aloud with mrs. yisrael
In this day and age, we rarely see the “stick-to-itness” and grit that Attorney Luke Ryan exemplified in his battle for justice in the riveting Netflix documentary “ How To Fix A Drug Scandal”. I’m just so grateful for your presence, Knowledge and personal righteousness to care for the lives of your clients (and others) while defending. You are what America should be made of. I pray that the Lord covers you, keeps you whole, adds peace to your days, and you rest well at night. I’m just an educator states away, but watching your fortitude gave me so much life!
Cheers to you Attorney Ryan 😊
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25 Jul, 2024 by Todd parker
On 23 July 2024 Luke Ryan stated that hundreds of thousands of deaths occure every year at the hands of police. This is an absolute lie and is inflammatory. I agree that unarmed deaths should never happen, but to lie about the number by hundreds of thousands is disgusting. Please don't lie about the facts!!!!!
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28 Jun, 2023 by Jonathon wintle
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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:
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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.
