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26 Jan, 2025 by Brent satterly
I cannot begin to express my gratitude for the Giampolo Law Group who helped us navigate an incredibly painful year—both legally and emotionally. Angela provided expert legal guidance with great compassion when we had to navigate the complicated trappings of losing a loved one. In our grief, she and her team seamlessly helped us honor our Queer brother and his wishes.
And then Trump was elected. Again Angela was an invaluable resource lending her legal brilliance with great aplomb and speedy action to help secure and protect our Queer family in light of the real threat to LGBTQIA+ folks. I sleep better knowing that The Giampolo Group has provided us with the legal paperwork and counsel to keep my family safe.
~Brent Satterly
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19 Jan, 2025 by Jennifer rhoads
Angela, Tom, and her team made the process extremely easy and seamless. Estate planning can seem overwhelming and scary, but the experience we had with the Giampolo Law Group was very empowering and personable. All should do this, especially members of the LGBTQ+ community in order to keep control of your assets and make your wishes known. It’s so important to protect and defend the life that you built together regardless of the future threat to marriage equality. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts- Jen & Donelle
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19 Jan, 2025 by Michael barriskell-lento
Angela and her team were amazing, this work is incredibly thorough and I've never felt more secure than I do after having an estate plan done. As the youngest member of my family I have the most thorough and powerful estate plan out of all of them and it's all because of her incredible work and dedicated team. Efficiency is unmatched, professionalism bleeds from the walls, and empathy and compassion flow effortlessly from them. 10s 10s 10s across the board!!
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5.0
20 Reviews
4.7
654 Reviews
23 Jan, 2025 by Mohamed m
Attorney Giberg is outstanding! Highly responsive. Excellent firm. Paralegal Morgan is exceptionally thorough. This is what you're looking for in a law firm.
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22 Jan, 2025 by Keith munson
20 Jan, 2025 by Suni dae
This firm is not just a firm, this is my family. They have taken care of me & my family to make sure I received everything I deserve. They check on me regularly, keep me updated & even when I was sick. I can call them at anytime & I recommend to anyone this amazing organization. Liss & Marion
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23 Jan, 2025 by Mohamed m
Attorney Giberg is outstanding! Highly responsive. Excellent firm. Paralegal Morgan is exceptionally thorough. This is what you're looking for in a law firm.
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22 Jan, 2025 by Keith munson
20 Jan, 2025 by Suni dae
This firm is not just a firm, this is my family. They have taken care of me & my family to make sure I received everything I deserve. They check on me regularly, keep me updated & even when I was sick. I can call them at anytime & I recommend to anyone this amazing organization. Liss & Marion
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24 Sep, 2015 by Barb
Ben and his law firm successfully settled my case with the state of Pennsylvania regarding an inheritance tax issue. Ben was caring and compassionate throughout the process, professional in all of his interactions both with me and in the courtroom setting, and maintained frequent communications with me throughout the case.
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17 Sep, 2015 by Benjamin
As executor of my brother's estate, and living out of state, I required the assistance of an attorney to aid in the settlement. My brother had employed Jerner & Palmer in the preparation of his will so Ben Jerner's law firm was a natural choice for me. Mr. Jerner's assistance was invaluable to me in solving all issues of the estate settlement.
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17 Sep, 2015 by John
I have worked with Benjamin Jerner since 2010 and have been exceedingly impressed and pleased with all of our interactions. I initially asked him to work with me in preparing a will and again approached him recently to amend this document incorporating some rather significant detailed changes. The result was everything and more than I expected! Ben's entire office staff is warm, welcoming and professional and are responsive to questions. Emails and telephone calls are returned promptly and courteously and fees are fair and reasonable. My late father was an attorney and I am quite savvy about recognizing quality. I am 100% pleased with Ben and his firm and strongly recommend it!
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01 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
Aneesah is very professional and will definitely help you to navigate through the system in a very easy and simple way. she did provide the best legal advice and she is the best representation you will ever seek. If you want peace and confidence then you defiantly should work with Aneesah.
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11 Apr, 2016 by Michael
Ms. Aneesah El-Amin-Jaamia provided legal counsel for me in a N.J. child support case covering more than 15 years.
(i.e. my child was a minor, went on to college and then graduate school ) In N.J. the support laws are different than most every other state in America. Ms. Jaamia helped me navigate the New Jersey court system with a very positive outcome. If you need a dedicated, experienced and thoughtful lawyer contact her.
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11 Apr, 2016 by Christopher
Aneesah El-Amin-Jaamia, Esq. has represented me for the past 6 years for my Divorce, Support and Custody matters. Her representation has always been the utmost in professionalism, support, education and most importantly, protection for myself and children. She belongs to one of the largest and most successful law firms in the Philadelphia area and is highly respected by the entire Family Court System. I absolutely recommend her to anyone who wants the best representation available.
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12 Nov, 2015 by Christine
When faced with child custody and support actions, I was looking to find a lawyer that would keep my children's best interests in mind. Ms. Scrivner has been the perfect choice. She has been able to guide me throughout this process and has been extremely effective at achieving the best possible outcome for our family. Ms. Scrivner remains focused on the issues at hand despite the often manipulative nature of the other co-parent. Not only has she been able to navigate favorable legal outcomes, she has also been able to calm my fears throughout this difficult process. Ms. Scrivner strikes exactly the right balance between being patient and being stern. Her extensive experience in the family and child court systems, in both Philadelphia and Bucks County, enables her to read and adjust to each situation in order to best advocate for her clients and families. I have already recommended Ms. Scrivner to close friends and would recommend her to anyone looking for a strong, focused lawyer who keeps the children as her main priority.
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24 Jan, 2025 by Mark
Pat is a highly knowledgeable and compassionate family law attorney. Handles cases with professionalism and care, ensuring the best outcomes for his clients. Highly recommend!
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24 Jan, 2025 by Richard m
Pat Cooper has the experience, expertise and communication skills that deliver favorable results. Pat's familiarity with Philadelphia's courts and judges proved invaluable.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Kimberly hampton
23 Jan, 2025 by Mohamed m
Attorney Giberg is outstanding! Highly responsive. Excellent firm. Paralegal Morgan is exceptionally thorough. This is what you're looking for in a law firm.
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22 Jan, 2025 by Keith munson
20 Jan, 2025 by Suni dae
This firm is not just a firm, this is my family. They have taken care of me & my family to make sure I received everything I deserve. They check on me regularly, keep me updated & even when I was sick. I can call them at anytime & I recommend to anyone this amazing organization. Liss & Marion
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20 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
Really helped me when I needed her. She even brought me snacks. Can always count on her for some delicious snack-time goodies. Even sent me a holiday card!
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06 Oct, 2023 by Zan r (mishegoss)
10 Apr, 2024 by Annie
As a Pennsylvania licensed adoption agency, we have collaborated frequently with Liz Vaysman. She is dedicated, thorough, and a pleasure to work with!
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09 Apr, 2024 by Angelo stromlan
We were quite disappointed in our interactions with Liz Vaysman. We contracted her for a consultation phone call, which was a limited engagement, of which we were entirely aware of. In our experience, if you hire Liz, be prepared for defensiveness, an inability to listen, and a combative atmosphere from the outset.
However, Liz spent way too much time on the call itself explaining over and over how limited our engagement was. We stopped the whole conversation to make a clear point that we were NOT interested in taking advantage of her in any way, and we clearly understood the engagement.
This was apparently not heard, and she continued to make this point over and over while we tried to salvage the conversation and get clear legal guidance for our money.
We wanted to record the session, so none of the important information we received would be forgotten by us, considering we are very busy and not lawyers. But Liz didn’t allow that. We were fine her reasoning, and we all agreed she would follow up our call with an email listing the advice and the relevant links to details.
Liz then proceeded to ghost us entirely, and it took multiple emails and phone calls and a threat to leave a negative review before we heard back from her. At that point, 4 months had elapsed.
We finally received our follow up email, with a curt apology and a repeat of her admonishment that we had not paid for any more services, and that our engagement was completed.
In our experience, if you hire Liz, be prepared for defensiveness, an inability to listen, and a combative atmosphere from the outset.
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14 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
Liz was awesome to work with. Extremely nice yet knowledgeable, fair, and professional. Would definitely recommend to others and would work with again in a second.
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02 Jan, 2025 by Debra gaines
Thank you for Mr Clearfield for helping me out I hope that everything will work out for me the right way the investigator that you sent to me was very pleasant and help me out a whole lot and thank you very much
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26 Dec, 2024 by Mecca medina
I am so grateful for Mr. Ronald Clearfield, as soon as I called he was on it! No body wanted to take my case but he did with faith.
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06 Dec, 2024 by Ellite13
Thank you very much for your help and support and great work of your investigator Rich
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22 May, 2024 by Roseline ridore
18 Apr, 2024 by Man uela
Margret has a nasty attitude
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06 Jun, 2022 by Jade freeman
25 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
I cannot be too specific, as I don't wish to be identified, however this attorney and her Team are not trustworthy. Furthermore, if you do or say anything that they are unhappy about, or disagree with, they take you to task and threaten you. All I can say is that in my dealings with her, there were lies told and cover ups throughout. I would recommend people to steer well clear of her and find a more reputable, honest Attorney who has true integrity.
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24 Jun, 2013 by Barbara
I have never, before or since, worked with an attorney with such integrity. Tara truly does all she can for both the birth parents and the adoptive parents, guiding both through what can be a tangled system.
We adopted our first baby through her and two years later went back to get our second baby! I have referred her several times because she is so honest.
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16 Jun, 2013 by Terri
I worked with Tara several years ago when adopting my daughter. The whole process can be overwhelming: not knowing what questions to ask, waiting for a child, termination of birth parent rights, etc. She and her staff were understanding and helpful during that time but also took care of business.
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28 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
The firm reels you in then gives you an attorney with 1 yr experience……fee was ridiculously high
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18 Oct, 2019 by Anonymous
I appreciate this attorneys answer and the fast response to the first question. She kept the answer short and to the point and was knowledgeable about the subject. However I had to leave off one star because my second question wasn't answered. This of course is not meant in any negative way. I am sure she is very busy. I would definitely recommend her because she knows the law.
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11 Oct, 2017 by Dorian
I took your advice I contacted a lawyer, and everything in the judges order is specific. The lawyer advised to wait another week to have a trail of the defendant not following the order. Then she advised me to file papers that the mother of our child is in contempt of the judges orders. I am to keep detailed records, keep cool, and list every violation she is doing and present it to the judge. The lawyer listened to my Concerns and after her reading the order my baby's mother is the one who will need a layer to help her get out of the trouble that she has wedged herself into. Thank you April
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What an Adoption Lawyer Can Do for You
An adoption lawyer specializes in navigating the legal complexities of the adoption process, ensuring that the rights of all parties involved - the adoptive parents, birth parents, and the child - are protected. They assist families through the different types of adoption, such as domestic, international, foster care, stepparent, and private adoptions. Adoption lawyers ensure that the adoption process complies with state, federal, and international laws, and handle any legal issues that may arise during the process, such as terminating parental rights, conducting home studies, and finalizing the adoption.
If you're looking to adopt or if you're a birth parent considering placing your child for adoption, an adoption lawyer can guide you through the legal requirements and ensure the process goes smoothly.
When Should I Hire an Adoption Lawyer?
You should consider hiring an adoption lawyer in the following situations:
- Private or independent adoption: If you’re adopting a child directly from the birth parents without the involvement of an adoption agency, a lawyer is essential to draft and review all legal documents, including consent forms and parental rights termination agreements.
- Foster care adoption: If you’re adopting a child from foster care, a lawyer can help navigate the legal process, ensure the child’s eligibility for adoption, and represent you in court to finalize the adoption.
- Stepparent or relative adoption: If you’re adopting a stepchild or a relative, a lawyer can assist in terminating the parental rights of the biological parent and ensure the adoption is completed legally and efficiently.
- International adoption: International adoptions are complex, involving multiple layers of laws from the U.S. and the child’s birth country. A lawyer can help navigate immigration requirements and ensure compliance with international treaties like the Hague Convention.
- Contested adoptions: If a birth parent changes their mind about the adoption or there is a dispute over parental rights, a lawyer can represent you in court and ensure that the adoption proceeds legally.
- Adoption for same-sex couples: If you're a same-sex couple looking to adopt, a lawyer can help ensure that your adoption complies with state laws and that both parents have equal legal rights to the child.
- Birth parent representation: If you’re a birth parent considering adoption, a lawyer can ensure that your rights are protected, help you understand the legal implications of terminating parental rights, and ensure that your decision is legally sound.
Hiring a lawyer early in the process can help avoid legal complications and ensure that the adoption is legally finalized as smoothly as possible.
What Does an Adoption Lawyer Do?
An adoption lawyer provides a variety of legal services, ensuring that the adoption process is completed in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. Their responsibilities often include:
- Filing legal paperwork: Adoption lawyers handle all the necessary paperwork, including petitions to terminate parental rights, consent forms, and final adoption decrees. They ensure that the adoption is in line with state, federal, and international laws.
- Conducting home studies: Some adoptions require a home study to evaluate the prospective adoptive family. While a social worker usually conducts the study, a lawyer can ensure that the process complies with legal requirements and that the report is submitted correctly.
- Terminating parental rights: Lawyers assist in terminating the legal rights of the biological parents, either voluntarily through signed consent or involuntarily through court proceedings if necessary.
- Representing clients in court: Adoption lawyers represent adoptive parents, birth parents, or other parties in court hearings to finalize the adoption or resolve disputes.
- Navigating international adoption laws: For international adoptions, a lawyer helps ensure that all legal requirements, both in the U.S. and the child’s home country, are met, including securing the child’s visa and citizenship.
- Providing legal advice: Adoption lawyers guide clients through each step of the adoption process, advising them on their rights and obligations, as well as any potential legal issues that may arise.
- Drafting post-adoption agreements: In some cases, especially open adoptions, a lawyer can help draft post-adoption agreements that specify the level of contact between the adoptive and birth parents.
How Are Adoption Lawyers Paid?
Adoption lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the adoption and the time involved. Common payment structures include:
- Flat fee: Many adoption lawyers charge a flat fee for handling the entire adoption process. This is common for straightforward adoptions, such as stepparent or foster care adoptions, where the legal work is relatively predictable.
- Hourly rate: For more complex adoptions, such as contested or international adoptions, some lawyers charge by the hour, with rates typically ranging from $200 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and location.
- Retainer: In cases where the adoption process may take longer or involve more legal work (e.g., termination of parental rights or court disputes), a lawyer may require a retainer, which is an upfront payment that is billed against as the lawyer works on the case.
It’s important to discuss fees with your lawyer upfront, so you understand the total cost of the adoption and any additional expenses that may arise during the process.
How Much Does an Adoption Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring an adoption lawyer depends on the type of adoption and the complexity of the case. General cost estimates include:
- Stepparent or relative adoption: Legal fees for these types of adoptions typically range from $1,500 to $5,000, depending on whether the adoption is contested or requires a court hearing.
- Domestic private adoption: The legal fees for a private adoption usually range from $5,000 to $10,000, including drafting documents, terminating parental rights, and finalizing the adoption in court.
- International adoption: International adoptions are generally more expensive, with legal fees ranging from $7,000 to $15,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the adoption and the child’s country of origin.
- Contested adoption: If the adoption is contested and involves court disputes, legal fees may range from $10,000 to $20,000 or more, depending on the length and complexity of the court proceedings.
In addition to lawyer fees, adoptive parents should also be aware of additional costs such as court filing fees, home study fees, and travel expenses (for international adoptions).
Top Questions to Ask an Adoption Lawyer
Before hiring an adoption lawyer, it’s important to ask key questions to ensure they have the experience and knowledge to handle your case effectively. Key questions to ask include:
-
What experience do you have with adoptions?
Ensure the lawyer has experience with the specific type of adoption you’re pursuing, whether it’s domestic, international, foster care, or stepparent adoption. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges a flat fee or hourly rate and ask for a detailed breakdown of the costs involved in your adoption. -
What are the legal requirements for my adoption?
Ask the lawyer to explain the legal steps involved in your adoption and any specific requirements that may apply to your case, such as home studies or parental consent. -
How long will the adoption process take?
Adoption timelines can vary depending on the type of adoption, so ask the lawyer for an estimate of how long the process will take, including any potential delays. -
What are the common challenges in adoption cases?
Ask about any potential legal challenges that could arise during the adoption process and how the lawyer plans to address them. -
Will I need to go to court?
Depending on the adoption, you may need to attend court hearings. Ask the lawyer whether your presence will be required and what to expect during these hearings. -
Can you help with post-adoption issues?
Ask the lawyer if they can assist with any post-adoption issues, such as obtaining the child’s birth certificate, finalizing the child’s U.S. citizenship (for international adoptions), or drafting post-adoption contact agreements.
How to Check the Credibility of an Adoption Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable adoption lawyer, take the following steps to verify their credentials and experience:
- Verify their bar status: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed to practice law and has no disciplinary actions on their record.
- Look for adoption experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in adoption law and have experience handling cases similar to yours.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for client reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients have said about their experience with the lawyer.
- Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have worked with them on adoption cases.
- Check for memberships in relevant organizations: Look for lawyers who are members of adoption-focused organizations like the American Academy of Adoption Attorneys (AAAA), which can indicate their expertise in this field.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To make the most of your first consultation with an adoption lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:
- Information about the child and birth parents: Provide any available information about the child you’re adopting (e.g., age, country of origin, current living situation) and the birth parents, if applicable.
- Adoption preferences: Be clear about the type of adoption you’re pursuing - whether it’s domestic, international, foster care, stepparent, or private - and discuss any preferences you have regarding the child’s age, background, or special needs.
- Legal documents (if applicable): If you’ve already begun the adoption process or have signed any agreements, bring copies of all relevant legal documents, such as consent forms or agency agreements.
- Questions about the adoption process: Prepare a list of questions about the legal steps involved in your adoption, potential timelines, and any concerns you may have about the process.
- Financial considerations: Be ready to discuss your budget for legal fees and any additional costs, such as home studies, court fees, and travel expenses (for international adoptions).
By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your situation more effectively and provide the best possible legal advice for your adoption journey.
