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14 Aug, 2024 by Janet
Karen definitely had my best interest at heart! She exceeded my expectations! Definitely recommend !!!!!!!!
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11 Oct, 2023 by Appolonia
Karen has fought for me tooth and nail in every legal matter I’ve even faced with thus far. She is always the smartest lawyer (and person) in the room, and I could not be happier she’s the one I went with. She has been there for me both on and off the clock as she really cares about her clients- not just making a dollar.
I will forever be grateful for Karen and will recommend her to absolutely any and everyone who needs any sort of legal advice/legal representation!
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04 Oct, 2023 by Laura
Karen is the type of attorney you need on your side. Absolutely the best Divorce attorney. She truly cares about you and your financial future. She is thorough, prepared and thinks of all avenues and obstacles that may arise. She explains everything in detail and keeps you informed on every aspect of the case. If you are looking for someone to be aggressive, knowledgeable, kind to your feelings Karen is your lawyer. I recommend her 100%.
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15 Jun, 2020 by Suzanne
Scott prepared our wills and powers of attorney quickly and for an affordable price. He came to the house and took care of everything for us. I highly recommend him!
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28 Jan, 2022 by Chris
Attorney Abby De Blassio and her team were supportive and professional throughout my divorce process. They kept in touch, answered questions promptly and took a very positive, low-drama approach to handling the proceedings. All interactions were virtual because of the pandemic, but I nevertheless felt that Abby took a warm personal interest in achieving the best possible outcome for me. I highly recommend this practice to anyone who needs an efficient, professional and empathetic divorce attorney.
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26 Jan, 2018 by Melanie
My experience with Abby was a positive one. She and Julie handled my divorce seamlessly. She always returned my calls in a timely manner and had answers to all my questions. She advised me on planning for my mortgage refinance and was able to settle the case without going to court. I sincerely appreciate the level of service that was provided. I was recommended to Abby by a fellow attorney when I asked about Divorce attorneys in Greensburg. I am extremely satisfied with the handling of my case. I would definitely recommend Abby and her staff for domestic matters. You will not be disappointed.
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01 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
I retained Abby DeBlassio to represent me in a PFA and Divorce proceeding. I was completely dissatisfied with the her representation. I found her to be unsympathetic and at times condescending. I provided her with all of my financial information as requested to determine my portion of the marital estate. She gave all of my financial information to my spouse's attorney; however, we did not get all of his financial information in return. As a result, I never was given any substantive information as to even an approximate value of my portion of the marital estate. When asked about my portion of the marital estate, she told me she could not provide a figure because she does not have an accurate picture of my spouses's financials. To add insult to injury, i explained to her that I was looking for a home and I quote she said, "You should buy my home but you probably couldn't afford". I have paid her nearly $5,000 to represent me in my PFA and divorce proceedings and she just requested an additional $1,600.00 for a retainer. Nothing substantive has occurred in relation to resolving divorce proceeding.
Her firm consists of her and her paralegal. I have been told numerous times that either her or her paralegal are not available because of vacation or personal matters. Friday afternoons and the weekends not likely to get any response to a query.
My experience was not positive or favorable. I ended the professional relationship when she told me that she is not an attorney that is available 24/7/365 a year. I simply wanted an attorney that was available during Monday - Friday at least 9-5. That certainly was NOT my experience.
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04 Jul, 2024 by Matthew
Could not be more disappointed in the effort. It’s one thing to get a raw deal from a very broken system. It’s another to feel like your attorney couldn’t care less.
You would think that before a conversation with your client, you would have done some prep and know the broad strokes of the case…. When you have tell your attorney how long your marriage was over and over again, it just sends an “I don’t care” message to your client. At least the first 3 times we spoke I had to tell her the length of marriage. Dealing with the issue of spousal support, where length of marriage is a key factor, you would think that you would not have to answer that question repeatedly. I know this to be true, because it stuck in my mind. I started having 2nd thoughts during each of the first couple conversations. Didn’t get the sense she cared one bit about the case.
We had a meeting scheduled several days prior to a court hearing. 1pm she was to call me. I sat around for hours. No call. Now she claims that she called and nobody answered. Well I have no missed call. I have no voicemail. I have no email. No communication whatsoever until 7:30am, on the day of the hearing, 5 days later. Zero effort made to contact me in the 5 days between the scheduled call and meeting.
After that January date until the next scheduled hearing, in April, we did not have a single conversation. I wasn’t even sure I was still being represented at that point. I had already become indifferent as to whether or not she would be at the next hearing. I get a call at 4:30pm the day prior. It’s not her paralegal. It’s not my attorney. It’s another attorney from the firm who I worked with on a different case. I had more contact with him during the hearing than I did with my attorney of record. Matter of fact, from January on, even past that April date, we didn’t have a single conversation where privilege would attach. Because we never communicated.
Just absolutely unbelievable… you can’t guarantee results, but you will never get results if you fail make any effort. I know opposing counsel is digging into my finances and anything he can get his hands on. I couldn’t even get my attorney to request a copy of my wife’s unemployment claim, even with an easy in to the claim as a personal friend of mine is a supervisor with PA Unemployment office and I just simply needed to have an official request. Sounds like “inadequate discovery” to me….
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20 Jan, 2023 by Todd
Attorney Debra Henry is a wonderful attorney. She is very professional, knowledgeable and truly cares about her clients. I would highly recommend Attorney Henry for your legal needs. Her staff is also wonderful.
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15 May, 2020 by Jennifer
Debra was the most professional and kindhearted during one of the most difficult times in my life.
She went above and beyond measure to Assist me in the necessary action.
I felt extremely at ease once I placed what seemed so impossible into her hands.
She truly is a wise, tender, yet strong woman
I would recommend Debra to anyone.
She takes care of business. :).
Thank you Ms Henry and your staff :)
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15 Apr, 2024 by Trisha
Patricia helped me get my children back. She is an amazing attorney. She handled my case very professionally and she had confidence and grace in the court room. She was everything I needed in an attorney and a great human being all around.
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19 Nov, 2020 by Anonymous
Not happy with the level of service I received. Slow to respond to phone calls. I would not reccommend!
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13 Sep, 2017 by Lauren
Patricia handled a sensitive case for our minor child. I could not have been more pleased with her. She handled the case sensitively and professionally. I appreciated that she didn't look at our family with dollar signs in her eyes, but with genuine desire to help our child achieve happiness. I highly recommend her.
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Child Custody Lawyer Can Do for You
A child custody lawyer specializes in helping parents navigate legal matters related to the custody and care of their children, particularly in the context of divorce, separation, or other family disputes. These lawyers assist with determining custody arrangements, drafting parenting plans, and advocating for your rights in court. They also help resolve disputes over physical custody (where the child lives), legal custody (who makes decisions for the child), visitation rights, and modifications to existing custody orders.
Whether you're going through a divorce or need to change an existing custody arrangement, a child custody lawyer can help you understand your rights and protect your child's best interests throughout the legal process.
When Should I Hire a Child Custody Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a child custody lawyer in several situations, especially when disputes arise or complex legal issues affect your parental rights. Some common reasons to hire a child custody lawyer include:
- Divorce or separation: If you're going through a divorce or separation and need to establish custody and visitation arrangements, a lawyer can help ensure the custody order reflects your child's best interests.
- Disputed custody cases: If you and the other parent cannot agree on custody or visitation terms, a lawyer can advocate for your rights in court and help you develop a strong case.
- Modification of custody orders: If you need to change an existing custody arrangement due to changes in circumstances (e.g., relocation, changes in the child’s needs), a lawyer can help file a modification request.
- Parental alienation: If the other parent is interfering with your relationship with your child, a lawyer can help address these issues through legal action.
- Domestic violence or abuse: If there is a history of domestic violence or abuse, a lawyer can help protect you and your child by requesting restraining orders and advocating for appropriate custody arrangements.
- Grandparent or third-party custody: If you are a grandparent or another relative seeking custody or visitation rights, a lawyer can guide you through the legal process.
- Paternity disputes: In cases where paternity is in question, a lawyer can assist with establishing or challenging paternity, which may affect custody and visitation rights.
Hiring a lawyer early in the process can help protect your parental rights and ensure that the custody arrangement is in your child's best interests.
What Does a Child Custody Lawyer Do?
A child custody lawyer provides a variety of legal services to help parents resolve custody disputes and secure favorable custody arrangements for their children. Their responsibilities often include:
- Filing custody petitions: Helping you file the necessary paperwork to request custody or visitation rights and ensuring all legal procedures are followed.
- Negotiating custody agreements: Assisting in negotiating custody and visitation arrangements, often working toward a mutually beneficial parenting plan without going to court.
- Representing you in court: If you and the other parent cannot agree on custody terms, representing you in court by presenting evidence and making legal arguments to support your case.
- Drafting parenting plans: Helping you draft a comprehensive parenting plan that outlines the schedule for physical custody, decision-making responsibilities, and visitation.
- Handling child support issues: Assisting with related issues such as child support, ensuring that financial obligations are properly calculated and enforced.
- Modifying custody orders: Helping you request a modification from the court if you need to change an existing custody arrangement due to significant life changes.
- Mediating custody disputes: Acting as a mediator to help both parents reach an agreement on custody and visitation without the need for litigation.
How Are Child Custody Lawyers Paid?
Child custody lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the case, the time involved, and the nature of the legal work. Common payment methods include:
- Hourly rate: Most child custody lawyers charge by the hour, with rates ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer's experience and location. The total cost depends on the time spent preparing documents, negotiating, and representing you in court.
- Flat fee: For simple custody matters or uncontested custody agreements, some lawyers may offer a flat fee for specific services, such as drafting a parenting plan or filing a custody petition.
- Retainer: Many lawyers require an upfront retainer fee, which is billed against as the lawyer works on your case. The amount varies based on the expected complexity and duration of the case.
- Sliding scale or pro bono services: Some lawyers may offer reduced fees or pro bono (free) services for clients with limited financial means, particularly in cases involving domestic violence or other serious issues.
It’s important to discuss fees and payment arrangements with your lawyer during the initial consultation to understand how much you will be charged and what services are included.
How Much Does a Child Custody Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a child custody lawyer depends on various factors, including the complexity of the case, whether it’s contested or uncontested, and the lawyer’s experience. General cost estimates include:
- Uncontested custody cases: Legal fees may range from $1,500 to $5,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the paperwork and any negotiations.
- Contested custody cases: Legal fees can range from $5,000 to $40,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the issues, the need for expert testimony, and the time spent in litigation.
- Hourly rates: Lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour, with higher rates for more experienced attorneys or complex custody disputes.
- Mediation services: If both parents agree to work through mediation, costs typically range from $1,000 to $5,000 or more for the mediation process.
Always ask for a clear cost estimate during your consultation to ensure that you understand the total legal fees and payment structure.
Top Questions to Ask a Child Custody Lawyer
Before hiring a child custody lawyer, it’s essential to ask the right questions to ensure they are the best fit for your case. Some key questions to ask include:
-
What experience do you have with child custody cases?
Ensure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, especially if your case involves complex issues like domestic violence, relocation, or paternity disputes. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, offers flat fees for certain services, or requires a retainer, and ask for an estimate of the total cost. -
What is the likelihood of success in my case?
Ask for an honest assessment of your case, including potential challenges and expected outcomes. -
How long will the process take?
Inquire about the expected timeline from filing the petition to reaching an agreement or going to trial. -
Will you personally handle my case?
Ensure you know who will be managing your case and representing you in court. -
Can we pursue mediation or alternative dispute resolution?
Ask whether the lawyer recommends mediation or other forms of dispute resolution to avoid a lengthy court battle.
How to Check the Credibility of a Child Custody Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable child custody lawyer, follow these 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 and has no history of disciplinary actions.
- Look for family law experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in family law and child custody cases.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for client reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to gauge the lawyer’s professionalism and success in child custody matters.
- Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have worked with them on custody cases.
- Check for certifications: Look for lawyers who are board-certified in family law or have memberships in organizations like the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML) or local family law sections.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a child custody lawyer, come prepared with relevant documents and information:
- Court orders or existing custody agreements: Bring copies of any existing custody or visitation orders for the lawyer to review.
- Communication with the other parent: Provide copies of emails, texts, or letters regarding custody, visitation, or disputes.
- List of your child’s needs: Prepare a list of your child’s specific needs, such as medical care, education, and extracurricular activities.
- Timeline of the case: Outline key events related to your custody case, including changes in living situations or parental involvement.
- Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions about the custody process, legal fees, and the lawyer’s strategy for your case.
By being well-prepared, you can help the lawyer assess your situation effectively and receive the best possible advice for protecting your rights and your child’s well-being.
