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21 Dec, 2024 by Quique olivera
Me pareció muy raro al consultar mi caso a la doctora en leyes y que me diga que no tenía una respuesta que darme respecto a mi caso. Otra cosa, una abogada que tiene que revisar los precios de los fees de inmigración en el Internet porque no sabía cuánto cuesta un N-600.
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18 Nov, 2024 by Noel ray
30 Aug, 2024 by Xuech
26 Sep, 2015 by Julie
Sunita is a fantastic attorney. She is very down-to-earth and very easy to talk to. I felt very comfortable discussing my issues with her. She is very knowledgeable and dedicated. She was available every step of the way to answers any questions or concerns I had regarding my case. I would definitely recommend her and her team.
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05 Jun, 2015 by Maria
Sunita is an outstanding attorney. We worked closely together for over a year. She knew every single detail regarding my divorce like the back of her hand. She answered all my emails and phone calls promptly even when she was out of the office. She made sure she took every step to try and settle my divorce in the most cost effective way possible. She is a highly intelligent, knowledgeable, and compassionate attorney who is an expert in matrimonial law. I will 100% recommend Sunita for anyone looking for a matrimonial attorney.
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30 Dec, 2020 by Jerry
Mr. Frunzi is extremely professional and knowledgeable.
He strove to bring my issues to a rapid conclusion while working diligently in my behalf.
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23 Nov, 2024 by Lilian borum
Very hardworking and smart law firm. From my time with Rondon law group , she treats clients with the utmost honesty, integrity and successfully helped reached my legal goals. Thanks Rondon law group.
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31 May, 2024 by Gaston solymar
Hoy dia recivi mi permiso de trabajo, gracias a la abogada patricia rondon que me alludo en todo este preceso , hace mucho tiempo que utilizo su servicio y es exelente la mejor abogada , esta siempre pendiente de todos los detalle , la recomiendo 100% su trabajo es exelente.
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31 May, 2024 by Simran noori
Our experience with this law firm is good. They are available most of time when you needed.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Frank armenio
My divorce was not an easy one by any means. The other party did not want to be a participate in the process that she initiated, be fair financially, and was in character throughout the two and half yr process. Veronica weeded through this from minute one.
Veronica jumped on board in my case more than halfway through the process from the recommendation of my previous attorney to get my case resolved. There is a reason he recommended her. Veronica was forceful and stern during the negotiations(mediation) with the other party and was always looking out for my best interests financially which included doing everything possible from the first day I spoke to her to avoid trial which is where my case was headed. The reason for the referral from my previous attorney.
During one of most difficult times of your life, Veronica attempted to understand everything on a personal/emotional level as well beyond the business aspect of divorce.
Veronica is extremely knowledgeable of the NJ laws of divorce which is so important. She is professional, cordial, assertive, and great at explaining things/answering questions. Veronica also will hold you accountable if she needs to which is important in this process.
The firm in Springfield is professional and welcoming; which is includes her paralegal Diana O who I would like to acknowledge as well.
In divorce, no one wins or loses. My JOD was fair and equitable at the end of the day which is what should have happened. Veronica accomplished that for me with honesty and sincerity from day one.
Five star review.
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12 Oct, 2023 by Jamie ryan - mih
Judi McDermott Esq. is direct, compassionate and effective!
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03 Oct, 2023 by William green
PHENOMENAL ATTORNEY!!!
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08 Oct, 2023 by Paul eskola
14 Jan, 2022 by Chelsea
The whole team at Edens Law was and still is amazing. They helped me through a hard time by making it easier for me. Mrs eva Uhrik is an amazing woman who worked so hard for me and fought for me and my daughter. Her team was always there for me to help answer my questions along the way and kept me updated with my case. You guys helped change my future. I am forever grateful.
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18 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
Ann helped me navigate a difficult divorce with impressive skill and professionalism. She was able to diffuse potentially volatile disagreements with her exceptional mediation skills, and gave me excellent legal advice. I am very grateful I was referred to Ann and this impressive firm.
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26 Nov, 2024 by Justin mace
18 Nov, 2024 by Hope eisman
Alon Solon Is a highly professional, very courteous and empathetic. He conducted our business with care and respect. We highly recommend anyone who is doing real estate transactions that they The employee, Mr. Solon as their attorney.
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27 Oct, 2024 by Rosanne salvaggio
01 Jul, 2023 by Pat lynch
Going through this divorce was the most difficult road I’ve had to take in my life up to this point. Throughout the process Saminski Fuller stood with me and helped me navigate towards a conclusion that gave me my freedom and a positive outlook on my new life. Siobhan Fuller was incredible to work with, she was always prepared, helped me understand information if I was confused by any legal jargon and worked with me to reach the best possible outcome. She made me feel safe, heard and supported during this process. I also have to mention Linda Salazar, I felt lost at times dealing with all the legal paperwork and Linda was very kind and patient with me any time I felt stuck. I’d highly recommend this law firm anytime someone finds themselves in the unfortunate situation of divorce. I can never thank Saminski Fuller law enough for helping come out on the other side of this whirlwind feeling positive and hopeful towards my future
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27 Jun, 2023 by Ang
Saminski Fuller Law has gone above and beyond in my case. I was recently represented by Siobhan Fuller who is sharp and detailed with her work. Nothing was hard to understand, thankfully to Ms. Fuller and the staff. She never missed anything, and everything was on point. I hate going to court so thank you for basically being my face throughout the whole thing. Beyond thankful and happy with how my case settled.
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26 Jun, 2023 by Gladys davila
Saminski Fuller is not like those other law firms. They really do work as a team. The staff is extremely knowledgeable and every attorney you get works together and has over 15 years of experience. I would highly recommend this law firm. Affordable and knowledgeable
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04 Apr, 2024 by Makhfirat
Had a consultation with this lawyer based on my friends great recommendation. Not only I left the consultation with the bad taste in my mouth I also spent 400$ for nothing. It was supposed to be a Strategic Planning Session but it more felt like a Judging Session as the lawyer was extremely arrogant and judged me by my income telling me quote "I couldn't afford her" because I am a beautician. Had I been a CFO like my ex that I was divorcing I am sure she would have had different approach. She told me that my divorce didn't matter and I should get some money and move on and I am not entitled to anything except a little bit of child support. I had a lawyer who now proved that she is fantastic, but at the time she wasn't answering my email so I was looking to change my lawyer and this is how i ended up in Hollys office, which I regretted going to. I felt discriminated based on my race and income.
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09 Jul, 2021 by Grace
During my two-year case, it was chaos but with Holly’s help it ended well. Holly is extremely trustworthy, helpful, and gives great advice. Holly understands your needs and will help you immediately. I highly recommend Holly as your attorney!
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26 Jun, 2016 by Sibel
Divorce is one of the most difficult processes to go through. I had many concerns about my decision when I retained Holly to represent me. My divorce was just finalized and looking back I realize I could not have picked a better attorney to represent me. When you retain Holly, you are dealing only with Holly and no paralegals. She is excellent in communicating in a timely manner. She is a bright person with integrity.
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12 Nov, 2024 by Slipkid
Just completed my case with Blair as counsel. He was thoroughly professional and completely attentive throughout the many months of the process and enabled the best outcome possible. In addition, as someone not familiar with the legal system, he took time to explain things and ensure that I understood all the issues. He understood what is was like to be put into a frightening and frustrating situation. I'm fortunate to have found him.
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12 Nov, 2024 by Candler tower
After facing a series of serious New Jersey traffic violations—charges that typically carry jail time—I found myself discouraged after consultations with other attorneys who either dismissed my case or advised me to brace for the worst. Realizing I needed more than just local connections between a traffic lawyer and the local courts, I looked further afield and found Mr. Zwillman.
Meeting him at his Morristown office, I was immediately struck by his geniality, insight, and genuine curiosity. His extensive experience in the New Jersey legal system combined with an almost “puzzle-solving” approach brought me a sense of calm and confidence. True to his reputation, Mr. Zwillman’s approach was refreshingly unorthodox but meticulously thorough. He left no stone unturned in discovery and was relentless in his negotiations with the prosecutor.
The outcome speaks for itself: I retained my freedom. Mr. Zwillman’s fees were fair given the stakes, and I can confidently say he exceeded my expectations.
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05 Nov, 2024 by Yuki yuki
Not recommended!
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10 Jan, 2025 by Shane oliver
Great team and very fast
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06 Dec, 2024 by Arely l
El abogado no es el tipico abogado q solo quiere dinero , también ve la forma de no dañarte en tu estatus migratorio eso habla muy bien de el como persona , su equipo es muy profesional , te responden y dan la cara no como en otros bufetes de abogados , sin duda lo recomiendo a cualquier persona q quiera arreglar su estatus migratorio 🙂
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22 Nov, 2024 by Juan e tecalero
I have been using Alberto Brothers's services since 2016.
Lizbeth Mantilla who works for them for many years, has been helping me and has made the experience a breeze. Her professionalism makes all the paper work go smoothly I highly recommend!
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21 Feb, 2018 by Jamie
Ms. Cerruti is professional, very well respected in the court system and strong in her law knowledge. I’m proud to recommend her for a divorce settlement. She helped end an extremely stubborn case when it mattered. Her guidance through the closure was a huge asset. Highly recommend.
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12 Feb, 2018 by Ken
I have been a client of Pam's since 2012. My divorce - over a simple estate - unfortunately took 2 years, 2 months to settle, then more litigation/motions by my former wife, post divorce. My situation was made worse by my former wife's corporate law firm, who were awful people to go up against. Pam was the perfect choice for me: my criteria was to hire a tough woman, not a man, experienced, local to Essex County, one who knew the inner workings of the Newark divorce system. Pam is not only very experienced (30+ years) but from the area having spent her whole adult life in Essex County. She not only took on the corporate lawyers representing my wife, she defeated them in a long motion post divorce, which resulted in a full blown trial. We won this huge case that could of cost me hundreds of thousands of dollars. Pam is professional, tough but fair, and also has accounting/finance skills that are so important during the divorce process. I recommend Pam to any person who is looking for a competitive edge in their case. Pam also knows the Newark judges well having been working in the Newark system for several decades. Want the best? Hire Pam.
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09 Dec, 2017 by Gregory
Pamela offered outstanding council during the most stressful and trying times of my life. Her vast experience and professionalism was a great comfort. I truly appreciate all of her efforts and guidance. Pamela was very accessible and always on point. Highly recommended!
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16 Dec, 2024 by Jennifer suarez
My experience with Julie Burick, a divorce and family law attorney at Adinolfi, Lieberman, Burick, Roberto & Molotsky, P.A., was nothing short of outstanding. Ms. Burick is an excellent attorney who is certified by the Supreme Court of New Jersey as a Certified Matrimonial Law Attorney, which means; she has been recognized as an expert in divorce and family law matters. Ms. Burick took over my year-and –half case with the utmost professionalism and care. Ms. Burick fought tirelessly for my case, and especially my children. Ms. Burick took the time to explain all the documents and was very patient with my numerous questions. It was an emotionally exhausting case with too many complexities involved, but her strategic thinking, proactive approach and bold advocacy helped me, and my children, achieve a favorable outcome. Ms. Burick did not have to resort to name calling or the blame game; instead, she focused the case on the facts and the law. Ms. Burick is respectful to opposing counsels but can be feisty if needed. In addition, the paralegal staff was also courteous and prompt with their responses - which made the stressful process much more bearable. I am profoundly grateful for Ms. Burick’s exceptional services and results. I highly recommend Julie Burick and Adinolfi, Lieberman, Burick, Roberti, & Molotsky, P.A. to anyone seeking top-notch legal representation in divorce and family law.
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14 Dec, 2024 by Ingrid juliano
Julie Burick has been my family law attorney for 10 years. She is always responsive, thoughtful, compassionate and extremely knowledgeable about every detail. I trust her and she has helped me through some very difficult issues.
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14 Dec, 2024 by Neece zerfing
As a client, I am very pleased with Julie. She’s very professional and substantially knowledgeable of the law. She’s always accessible to answer any questions I have and explains things so I know what to expect and am prepared for my cases. Thanks to Julie and her team, a lot of stress was taken away with my divorce and custody of my daughter.
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26 Nov, 2024 by Justin mace
18 Nov, 2024 by Hope eisman
Alon Solon Is a highly professional, very courteous and empathetic. He conducted our business with care and respect. We highly recommend anyone who is doing real estate transactions that they The employee, Mr. Solon as their attorney.
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27 Oct, 2024 by Rosanne salvaggio
24 Sep, 2024 by Christelle guillaume
Not not at all bad service the just care about money
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15 Apr, 2024 by Emily
I've known Heather for more than 3 years because we belong to the same professional organization. Heather is a compassionate yet tenacious attorney who takes this job very seriously. I highly recommend Heather and her law firm!!
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15 Apr, 2024 by Leah mayersohn
Hire Keith Family Law if you want a fabulous law firm handling your family law needs. I trust Keith Family Law with the referrals from my law firm to handle my clients who have divorces and other family law cases in New Jersey.
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10 May, 2017 by Mileris
I have known David Hartstein for 16 years, he handled my divorce and it went very smoothly. He listened to my demands and worries. He is a very compassionate person. Mr. Hartstein is always available by phone 24/7. A majority of my family members and friends have used Mr. Harstein for their issues and were very content with the outcome of their matters. He is very personable and easy to talk to. I would not hesitate to use him again in the future, if the need be.
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09 May, 2017 by Daisy
Mr. Hartstein represented me in my divorce. He did an amazingly great job. I am very happy with the results that he obtained for me. This has been a very stressful process for me, but at all times I felt confident that Mr. Hartstein was looking out for my best interests. I am very grateful for all the effort he put into my difficult divorce case.
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03 Oct, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr Hartstein has proved to be incompetent when it is a complicated divorce case and he cannot remember the facts and misapplied the facts without consulting me. Mr Hartstein is scattered during phone conversations and can't retain details . Mr Harstein placed me in a precarious situation and was unable, even after acknowledging his error, to correct the mistake. Mr Hartstein loves to share stories about other clients, wasting precious time and billing for his non sequitor babble. Mr Harstein is filled with himself, manipulative and spent more time talking about himself and other cases and then billing me. The results were doing nothing of any value. Mr Harstein is not technical with the new computer age and using him is a waste of money. Mr Harstein makes it appear that he is interested in your case, but don't fall for his concern, his main focus is to talk a lot and then bill, bill, bill. Instead of Mr Hartstein working on your case, he spends the time bragging and patting himself on the back Don't do it... you will be wasting your money.
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23 Nov, 2024 by Chrysa pikramenos
14 Nov, 2024 by Rich caccavella
Very professional answered all my concerns with clarity i would highly recommend the firm
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01 Aug, 2024 by Christine heery
I have had the misfortune of needing many different types of lawyers in my life. The bright spot of that, is being able to recognize what a good attorney looks like, and Gene is absolutely phenomenal.
I reached out to the main office regarding my legal situation and the admin/finance departments were always responsive, kind and professional. I felt the pricing was transparent, and fair.
I was impressed with the level of communication, dedication and quality of service provided by this firm. Gene is an extremely knowledgeable, helpful and organized professional. His professional connections and legal acumen makes him an incredible attorney.
Whenever I had questions Helen and Gene ensured I felt comfortable and was fully informed of each potential branch the case could take.
I appreciated their grace with my limited knowledge in the inner workings of DCPP situations. I feel whole heartedly that hiring this form was the best choice I could have made.
My case was resolved to my satisfaction, ahead of expected time frame. If you’re reading these reviews as I did prior to hiring this firm, please know this is the best decision.
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19 Jan, 2025 by Darrell thomas fertakos
Mark is so brilliant. He taught me more about the law than my college law professor and did so for free to help me. What a great man who takes time to understand clients and call them back. I'm so glad Mark may help me. He is everything a good attorney should be. Thanks, Mark.
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30 Sep, 2024 by Political asylum
Should be avoided at all cost. Unless of course you actually want an incompetent, non-responsive, unethical, and unprofessional lawyer.
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03 Jun, 2024 by Joel small
His Staff makes sure,they keep incontact
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30 Aug, 2024 by Thomas balzano
19 Jul, 2024 by Maxi friedermann
Samuel and Caitlyn were both very helpful and professional throughout the entire process of my tenant/landlord matter, were responsive to email and telephone communications, and with the speed of today's legal system I believe they handled things in as timely a fashion as humanly possible.
Thanks again!
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16 Jul, 2024 by Meeta pandya
Horrible horrible mark gruber
Only cares about his own money; not about his clients’ matters. Do not choose this law firm for anything. Nothing gets done here
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10 Oct, 2023 by Kaleea leake
Our attorney Kevin Dimedio of Dimedio Law in Haddonfield, NJ has reached out to Kenneth Miller and, John Leake Jr about these checks that John Leake Jr claims were all sent out at the same time now no one can seem to find 2 of them they are missing. Being an attorney I would think Kenneth Miller would advise his client to use priority mail with confirmation numbers when dealing with checks. Free advice for you Ken use it! It’s very unprofessional and, should be brought to someone’s attention so we can conclude this matter and, move on with our lives being as though everything was finalized by all parties involved.
I’m sure our parents never dreamed this would be handled so terribly when they agreed to hire Kenneth Miller for a job this important dealing with their financial affairs. I couldn’t include this in my review I left on the firms website because it was removed for only telling the truth about this matter I figured email works well also.
Hope you all enjoyed your lunch have a great rest of the day!
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18 Sep, 2023 by Matthew leighty
Ken has helped our family business for years - both personally and professionally. We appreciate his referrals and assistance with our Real Estate clients!
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14 Sep, 2023 by Sueann leighty
Writing from my person experience with Ken helping my husband and I with some very complicated business closure and I could not be happier with the results. He also handles all of our personal family work such as wills, power of attorney and is a great friend! He always figures out a way to make you smile!
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25 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
Ms. Zoschak did not do discovery, did not prepare for my MESP and refused to talk to me about the panels conclusion. I was not told until after it already started that I couldn’t attend. She was supposed to call me right afterwards, but never did. I called and emailed her for 9 days until I finally went down to her office. She wasn’t in. She never is. Another lawyer called her and told me while she was on the phone that it wasn’t a good deal and not to take it. Jen didn’t even have the decency to talk to me herself because she knew she messed up, big time!
After that I pleaded with her to at least get my rightful amount of child support. She lead me on for months, but never actually applied. I’ve lost out on thousands of dollars of support. I make 1/5 the income my husband does. I have a permanent restraining order against him and she refused to help me get my support and also refused to get him to pay the kids court ordered medical bills. My children’s primary doctor refuses to see them since his share of the balance is so outstanding.
Jen doesn’t care that my kids and I are struggling. I wanted a lawyer who would fight for me. She won’t even return my phone calls or emails. Jen let me down. I would have been better off representing myself.
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07 Mar, 2014 by Anonymous
Jennifer was an amazing legal resource and a tremendous source of support. She listened to all of my concerns, addressed each of them, talked me through the pro's and con's of all actions, and then executed our plan just as we had discussed. I would recommend her to anyone who is going through a tough situation: domestic violence or divorce.
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09 Dec, 2013 by Anonymous
Jennifer is the most caring lawyer I have ever had the priveledge of knowing. Going through a divorce was the hardest thing I ever had to do and I know I couldn't have gotten through it without her. Jennifer makes sure that you are always informed with what is going on, she is very prompt in answering back phone calls and will go the extra mile for you. She is open and honest and looks out for your best interests. She made sure everything was done as promptly and accurately as possible, she never made me feel uncomfortable about anything. I couldn't thank her enough for everything that she has done for me. When you go through a divorce your emotions are all over the place and she understood that, and was very patient and caring with what was going on. She will make sure you get the best legal advice possible!
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14 Jan, 2025 by Lisa
First Ginsburg takes your Retainer, claims he doesn’t have it when it came directly out of my checking account and I have said bank statement, doesn’t finish what he was hired to do, always an Excuse- “ I’m disorganized, I’m too busy, I can’t find your file. Gives Poor Legal Advice until almost 2 years later at my time not to follow through. Discusses his Other clients with you and calls them terrible, hurtful names. I don’t know other than “ his friends” would give this “ Attorney “ a 5 star review. YOU Obviously didn’t deal with him. Run, find any other Attorney fast. I’m going to have to Report him to ETHICS as I have tried to resolve this. Try- he hangs up on you- I don’t have time for this. His a Liar, a Thief, a Domestic Abuser and doesn’t have a clue!
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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.
