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31 Mar, 2020 by Mary
Complete neglect.
During my divorce proceedings, she repeatedly told me that it was fine for me to move out of my house and start my new life before the court hearing took place. As a result, the judge said I abandoned my children to which I then had to fight for custody. She had no remorse for her poor advice and only said, “I don’t know happened.”
I decided to change lawyers and after thousands of dollars spent, I was finally able to obtain partial custody of my children.
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06 Jul, 2016 by Jack
Terry and her staff went the extra mile to help me update our Last Will & Testament, Living Wills, and Power of Attorney. The documents were brought to today's standards and were done quickly, precisely and very professionally. I recommend her to all!
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17 Jun, 2016 by Stacey
Theresa Donnellan is not only an excellent lawyer, but she is also kind and compassionate. Theresa and her firm helped me during a very difficult time in my life and I will be forever grateful to them for the professionalism, attention to detail, care and understanding that went into every aspect of our correspondence. This firm is a class act!
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04 Aug, 2023 by Keith
An attorney who actually responds to a clients needs within a timely manner. For over a decade and multiple family members, Temple Law Office has been instrumental at stressful times resolving various legal questions and issues. If you are looking for someone to treat you like a human and not just another client, I highly recommend!
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09 Apr, 2021 by Debbie coufal
07 Aug, 2019 by Mark haynes
I dropped somebody off there I did not go inside
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04 Aug, 2023 by Keith
An attorney who actually responds to a clients needs within a timely manner. For over a decade and multiple family members, Temple Law Office has been instrumental at stressful times resolving various legal questions and issues. If you are looking for someone to treat you like a human and not just another client, I highly recommend!
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09 Apr, 2021 by Debbie coufal
07 Aug, 2019 by Mark haynes
I dropped somebody off there I did not go inside
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13 Aug, 2024 by Brian besanson
She pulls through for me everytime! And when she can’t she’s on top of doing everything else she can.
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08 Aug, 2024 by James james
03 Aug, 2024 by Ali haider abrar
You can't find even the slightest trace of cleanliness in this filthy restaurant in the city.
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14 Sep, 2023 by Ba s
I normally do this work myself but didn't have time. The paperwork sent to NY by Frank Zappala was rejected by Clinton County. Upon my review, it was in fact done incorrectly. I redid it myself, and it went through with flying colors as always. I cordially offered the information to Frank Zappala hoping it would assist both him and his clients in their future endeavors. I did not request even a partial refund. This guy has the arrogance to bill me for research that further confirms his errors. You think about that.
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08 Apr, 2021 by L l
I am so happy with the help I received by Mr. Zappala and his assistant Siobhan that were kind, courteous, and very professional. Very patient and always responded to me in a timely manner. Thank you for helping me getting back on my feet and seeing a better future for myself and family. I highly recommend them.
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03 Jul, 2020 by Chip blair
26 Feb, 2016 by Marjorie
Dear Georgia,
Thank you for everything!
It took me several hours last night to get over the unexpected strong emotions I was feeling from the events of the trial today.
You and your staff have spent hours, days and weeks doing the most thorough job in preparation for my trial, including all those heavy file boxes you methodically carried back and forth to court.
You were superb! You walked into a situation where several meetings with the judge, my ex-husband's attorney and my prior attorney had already taken place. You fought full-force against a judge who believed my ex-husband was ill, penniless and not capable of earning money.
When you examined my former husband on the stand, much to my ex-husband’s dismay, you were able to prove, based on a report from his doctor, that he was no longer ill nor incapacitated as a result of his illness. You were also able to prove he was far from penniless, and had, in fact, spent lavishly on apartment renovations, his dogs, restaurants, travel and other luxuries. You were able to prove he had just received a substantial payment from one of the companies with which he is actively involved. You thus proved he had the means to pay me the court-ordered alimony on which he had been in default of for over two and a half years.
Georgia, you turned a judge slanted to the other side into seeing the true situation. As you know, I have had other attorneys in my lifetime, but never have I had one who did the magnificent job you have done and never have I had an attorney or known a person who is as compassionate and as fine a human being as you.
I feel so lucky you came into my life and I honestly cannot imagine what would have happened to me without you.
With much gratitude and, yes, love,
Marjorie
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15 Feb, 2016 by Diane
After my husband and I went to a mediator for a separation agreement, a lawyer friend insisted that I go to Georgia Kramer, and ONLY Georgia Kramer, before I signed it. Am I glad I did! I cannot imagine what my post-marriage life would be like had I not had Georgia as my advocate and divorce attorney.
At Georgia's suggestion, I faxed the agreement to her, and when I arrived for our first meeting she was fully prepared to help. Her calm and personable manner alleviated much of my anxiety, and her suggestions and advice inspired great confidence in her ability to manage my case.
She wasted no time . After asking specifically about my needs and concerns for my future,she took out her notes on the already studied document, and began editing it to eliminate vague and ambiguous language that could present problems for me in the future, while clearly explaining the ramifications of these changes. Her amazing patience and her ability to help me understand the implications of what was done illustrated to me how knowledgeable, how experienced and how committed she is to her clients. She clearly understands the difficult situation that divorce presents, and she went out of her way both personally and professionally to represent my interests.
I also noticed her professionalism during meetings with my soon to be ex and his lawyer. While she acted respectfully toward my husband and his attorney, she was also quite assertive, and exhibited a strong, no-nonsense approach while arguing for the best outcome for me, her client. It was clear to me that my husband's lawyer knew of and had great respect for Georgia.
Because of all this, my settlement was more than I ever could have hoped for. It meets far more than my needs and concerns. Despite Georgia's extensive experience, her deep knowledge of divorce law and her obvious expertise in tax law, she constantly explained to me clearly what she was doing on my behalf, and how it would affect me. Georgia never talked down to me. She always included me in the process. And still, there was always time for a smile and a pat on the back from her.
I am so grateful to her .
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16 Dec, 2015 by Christopher
Highly recommended by a client of mine. Met a year prior to the commencement. Unfortunate circumstances led to another attorney in the firm a year later. Rejoined my case late in the proceeding's. She was instrumental in helping close & move towards settlement. Unfortunate circumstances beyond our control made this case a very costly one. In the end I was grateful to her years of experience & decision making. Highly recommend her wisdom from start to finish!
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27 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
After asking for a review of directions was met with condescending disdain:
This is not rocket science. You initial the lines in front of Paragraphs: A, D, F and M WHILE IN FRONT OF THE NOTARY. You then sign the POA (above where your name is printed) WHILE IN FRONT OF THE NOTARY….
I’m not sure what is getting lost in the translation. The notary then notarizes your signature and BOOM, you are done….. I cannot even imagine what you did wrong, since it is so basic.
Best regards,
Sharon
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26 Apr, 2013 by Peggy
I've been fortunate to have worked with Sharon on several real estate transactions, a few of them current -- she's been very good to work with, a good listener, a good counselor. She and her office manage the multiple facets of each transaction with careful attention to detail, and with a minimum of melodrama. Her focus is on serving her clients well AND having everyone leave the closing table feeling they've been treated fairly. I highly recommend her!
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03 Nov, 2010 by Kathy
Sharon has provided our business with several different legal services and has been extremely responsive and concerned for our needs.
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15 Dec, 2021 by Philip krikszens
He was an excellent attorney. If I had a problem he got right on it. I would recommend him to anyone.
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14 Dec, 2021 by Kathleen
Attorney Rooke is knowledgeable and responsive but also kind and empathetic. I would highly recommend him.
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25 Jun, 2018 by Bill
Bradley literally admitted he didn't know how to handle my case. That should have been my wake up call to fire Cordell & Cordell. I think he was literally fresh out of school, so in all fairness, if he's gotten some experience at a good firm, he might become a good lawyer, but I'd steer clear.
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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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31 Aug, 2021 by Jesse bush
Essential for family court. Gives excellent counsel through email and phone call. Joe Kirby successfully defended matters concerning family court for me. Would recommend.
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09 Oct, 2020 by Benjamin gentile
If you want some one on your side that has little to no will to fight for you, then this is your guy.. Jason will do the bare minimum to push thinks along and will never get aggressive on your behalf.
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09 Apr, 2020 by Mary colwell
08 Jul, 2024 by Jimmy santos
I have no idea what happened I was called in sat down and this lady without hesitation tells me that a judge don't care the new laws don't help tenants. I'm being evicted because I refuse to do yard work for free after 15 years so he wants me out. I refused the eviction notice what is happening
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03 Jul, 2024 by Elizabeth reger
This attorney office is God awful. They support the other side and are against low income individuals. They are obviously an organization that supports the real estate market and contributes to putting people on benefits in the street. Sharon, a lawyer there lied and said Good Cause Eviction Law wasn't good across NYS and went against Assemblyman Pat Burke's office. I called to make sure my illegal, discriminatory eviction case was closed, and at first told me it was closed, then proceeded to give me 5 outcomes and go against Pat Burke's office and NYS Division of Human Rights Bronx, NY. She then told me I supposedly had no understanding of the Good Cause Eviction Law. Sharon ought to be fired and get a job at something she is good at, not law.
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22 Feb, 2024 by Jean klimczyk
Best landlord/tenant defense. My problems started when I was admitted to the hospitsl for six
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31 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
She should never work with children she doesn’t listen Voice of the children Does Not looking off the best off the Children’s she only favors father’s who has money more money to her packed she is absolutely horrible. I never experienced such a thing in my life. My children suffered so much because of this attorney
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04 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
I thought this lawyer was going to help my children but instead was an absolute detriment. She saw my children one time for maybe 10 minutes during a practically two year case. She didn’t listen to any of the the children’s therapists or pediatrician. Her lack of diligence put my daughter back in the hands of a bad person for unsupervised visitation. She should never work with children.
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10 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
Bills to read emails but does not reply, was court appointed, met kids once 3 1/2 years ago for 10 minutes and thinks she knows what is best for them. Does not listen, does not respond, totally incompetent. Have to be anonymous as 4 years into this, she is still their court appointed attorney will zero results. If you want to waste your money, hire jher.
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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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04 Apr, 2022 by Vedo cartel
22 Mar, 2019 by Louis ignatti
I have known Mr. DiSalvo for many years. He has represented my family and friends through many real life situations when a fine legal mind is necessary. He fits the bill very well and his hourly rate is well below the fees of the BIG OVERHEAD firms and the ones who spend tens of thousands of dollars on TV ads. The only way you can make a sound legal decision is meet with him, talk and go with your gut. I would like to point out, the explanation and exercise of the law, as well as a person's (usually a judge's) interpretation of the facts is NEVER A SLAM DUNK. Manipulating the law is not a science, it is an art. Each experience clients have had with Mr. DiSalvo, which I know of, he has worked very hard to see the case through to an end where the law will favor a positive outcome for his client. Thank you
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06 Aug, 2017 by Beingnice matters
The only 5 star review also has the last name of DiSalvo ? Really ? Hey Tommy, be sure to thank your brother!
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13 Mar, 2024 by Michael
Find someone else! She is horrible with communication and fighting for you. During the divorce process, she was more concerned with taking notes than doing the best for her client. We had a third-party financial person with our divorce. Sometimes it felt like five against one. Hardly four against two. But definitely not two versus two and an impartial third-party. before the divorce was final, she mentioned she had something for me to sign which I was going to take about five minutes. After going to her office and her fumbling through her phone for over 45 minutes, my address was changed. That’s all it was. My address.
After my divorce was approved by the judge, I was notified by my ex-wife that we were officially divorced. Six days later, SIX, I called my attorney to find out what the deal was. She said she “just received the paperwork.” So I called her out on it and asked what day she received the email from the other attorney. It was the prior week. But no correspondence to me saying hey, we need to talk about something and finish up signing some paperwork, or hey, you’re divorced. No phone call. No text. No email.
At the end of this same conversation, she said that she would mail me a hardcopy of the divorce. Decree for my files. It is now been three weeks. I have yet to get my divorce decree in the mail.
Do yourself a favor, get someone else. Someone who will fight for you and be on your side and has the decency to communicate with you. It’s your life! It’s your divorce!
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13 May, 2021 by Anonymous
Julie wrote up separation paperwork incorrectly by using the incorrect dates. This is causing agreed upon spousal support to end a year sooner than it should have. When error brought to her attention she refused to correct her error.
Her response was to “sue” me. Tells you what kind of attorney she is that she refuses to be held accountable for her error. She is obviously not working in your best interest but her own!
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10 Jan, 2021 by Vivi
Julie was a fantastic advocate for me and my children during the collaborative law process. She was flexible with her schedule to work around times when i needed consultation and explained all aspects of collaborative as we went through the process and i had questions. I truly felt like I had a partner to help me navigate this difficult part of my life. For anyone who thinks Collaborative could be a route for them, I would highly recommend you work with Julie.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Tricky guy...blowhard w contempt for his clients.. Agreed upon upfront simple letter price not honored....Extremely self important and arrogant...his reviews are spot on...There are nicer lawyers in
Kingston.
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05 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
Rod badgered me pver the phone.Then shared very innacurate information with others. I would urge Anyone contemplating to use this man as an attorney buyer beware. He will work against you and for himself only! Rod and one of his partners are dangetous to clients well being.
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19 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
Failed to properly research title and failed to communicate this, causing chaos and underserving clients
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29 Mar, 2024 by Jamie
My ex-wife and I enlisted Robin to assist with the dissolution of our marriage. We brought documentation that had been the result of our mediation and handed it over per the mediator's instructions. Robin was recommended to us as someone who would work efficiently and take care of the rest of the process for a flat fee. That was not the case. The paperwork returned to us was clearly not prepared by an attorney. We were billed at attorney's rates for barely paralegal work. As a layperson I was able to identify problems with the documents. Whole paragraphs started over mid-sentence. Negotiated provisions from our mediation were missing. It was a mess. Then she literally billed me for her time to answer the question "How much will the rest of this work cost?" We finally walked away and took what she had done to a _FAR_ more reputable firm in Ithaca. Our attorney at that firm initially resisted taking the work because Robin had done such a bad job. That firm required a separate agreement to take on our work that specifically held them harmless from any potential litigation arising from the enforcement of the horrible agreement Robin wrote up. That was nearly 14 years ago. I'm disappointed to see she's still practicing. Run, don't walk, to any other attorney in town.
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28 Aug, 2018 by Barb
Robin handled a possible home purchase. I was young, naive and inexperienced. She barely looked at the purchase agreement, allowed me to put a 5000$ deposit The deal eventually fell thorough and when I asked about the 5000 deposit she shrugged her shoulders. I learned later that if the deal falls through for lack of the ability to finance the deposit should be returned. But the worst part of all was that she and the sellers attorney kept arguing while myself and the seller actually got along. AND she charged me 3000$ for all the phone calls they had arguing about something that was not arguable- I couldn’t get the financing!!!!! Terrible!
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20 Feb, 2024 by Michelle
I hired Barbara Moore for a custody case over 12 years ago,.....she informed me that we had lost in court one day because the judge had lost a sports bet with her the night before and was still angry. She laughed. It wasn't funny to me at all, my child's well-being was at stake.....then for a year after my case, she harassed my mother for a payment that she had already made, but was "lost" when she joined the puff and cockerill firm during my trial. Would not ever reccomend.
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09 Apr, 2022 by Anonymous
She failed to do her due diligence while representing me within Family Court. She failed many times to communicate with the court on my behalf. She wasted a full year during my case ! Had to have Marsden hearing to replace her with a different 18b
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05 Dec, 2019 by Anonymous
He is too old to still practice law. He seemed very knowledgable and competent during his sales pitch. In court he would forget details we had discussed 10 min prior on several occasions. In the end when time came for the final settlement he was "ill" and couldn't appear. He sent a young inexperienced lawyer to sit in for him. I ended up going back and forth with my ex's lawyer while she sat quietly. Dave is a nice guy but it' might be time to call it quits when you're almost 90 years old. Don't end up in a position where you can't afford another retainer.
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12 Jul, 2012 by Anonymous
She seems very sweet but she over bills. She is unorganized and did not keep me informed. She didnt return my calls. I always had to call her and never got a clear answer. Personality wise she is OK but business wise very horrible.
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17 Jan, 2012 by Anonymous
Perhaps, Ms. Asonye and her partner have improved over the last three years, but when I employed them (Asonye and Asonye, LLP) for visa help, they were not helpful at all. They were recommended to me by an associate of the company I worked for, for the application of an H1 visa. There were basic aspects of the process, that I would expect a lawyer who claims to be an immigration lawyer to know, that they did not know (eg. when the visa cap was reached, what companies at the time qualified for special consideration for cap exemption (later found out when I hired a real immigration lawyer), special instructions given for H1 master's cap etc). In fact, I had to inform Ms. Asonye of some of these things, and without that information, my visa application may have been declined for a second time under her advisement. They cost myself, and the company I was working for, a lot of money over two application processes.
Beware of attorneys who claim to know immigration law. Do your homework; look them up; and ask lots of questions before hiring them.
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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.
