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29 Oct, 2024 by Saheim clybourn
24 Oct, 2024 by Mel “ms.morticia” terrell
I Love this Law Firm The Dion Family, The Solomon Family and the complete staff.
If I could give this Law Firm a 200 that is what they Deserve.
They are The Best Law Firm that I have Ever dealt with.
I Truly Appreciate you guy's On Purpose
Respectfully Ms. Terrell
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14 Oct, 2024 by Tiffany burton
I had the great Lawyers at Dion Solomon & Shapiro L.L.C kevin proud was the best her fight to get you wat u deserve Also Gray was the best I First getting into an accident and they fought there Hatdesy from me
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13 Sep, 2021 by Sharon smith
05 Jun, 2021 by Tf sch
Mike is a outstanding lawyer. He fought for my boyfriend and our son and reunited them after a year and a half battle with the system. We were able to beat this due to Mikes excellent skills in research and knowledge of the laws. He was straight forward and took the time to explain everything every step of the way. Mike cares about the cases he fights for and I could never thank him enough. I would definitely recommend him!
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04 Jun, 2021 by M. p.
Mr. Houghton is a first class lawyer, he is responsive, organized and respectful! He helped our family with a favorable outcome and he did so professionally.
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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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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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11 Feb, 2013 by Grant
To All:
Sarah Katz is prime choice attorney the above rating system is in no way a fair measure or comparison of the quality services that I received on my cases. The overall service was superb that why I nickname Mrs. Katz "SUPER LAWYER". The work ethic is tireless, thorough, and caring that the main point of this review the genuine compassion that Mrs. Katz have for the clients and their cases . SO TWO THUMBS UP and a BIG HIGH FIVE For Sarah Katz lawyer extraordinary.
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03 Jan, 2025 by Amanda daniels
If you need a lawyer that’s committed & determined to help you fight for what is best for your family. The Johnson firm is who you want!!! For 3 years the Johnson firm has worked hard & fought many battles for our family. Never backed down or told us they couldn’t do it they always find a way to help our family. These battles have not be easy long hours & lots of work. Mr. Johnson & his team are always a message a way & do everything in there power to make you feel like your important. We know when Mr Johnson & his team represent us we’re in amazing hands. When Mr Johnson walks in to a court room you know he’s going to fight hard & never have a worry in the world. They care about every situation don’t matter how big or small!!! Very professional, fierce, kind & over all amazing we couldn’t have asked for a better team to help our little family. They have made these last few years stress free & have done so much for us. We could never thank them enough for all they do they treat us like family not a client. Best law firm in Delaware I always recommend anyone who’s dealing with family court to contact the Johnson firm you won’t be disappointed. If I could give more then 5 stars I would give them #100 stars!!! We can’t thank the Johnson team enough for all they done for our little family. Thank you so much for everything it’s been a pleasure to be a client all these years!!!
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03 Jan, 2025 by Timothy watkins
The Johnson Firm has been incredible, they have represented me for years. My situation has been a very complex case for years, but Chris and all paralegals and staff stuck with me and fought their hearts out in court me my daughter and I. They never gave up and have been incredible and for years they have gotten me everything I have asked for in court they don’t miss a beat. The Johnson firm is by far the best firm in the area. If your look for a firm that is going to be detailed and get you anything and everything you want call the Johnson firm you will not regret it!
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23 Dec, 2024 by K j
Very satisfied with representation.
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26 Nov, 2024 by Shariese katrell
Stay clear of this unethical lawyer firm that don't file cases correctly
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24 Oct, 2024 by Jill cummings
After struggling for two years with my son’s school district to secure the services he was entitled to, I was fortunate to find Montgomery Law and Mary in particular. Mary was an absolute powerhouse! She fought tirelessly with incredible knowledge and expertise, ensuring my son received every bit of support he deserved. Her dedication and guidance were instrumental in propelling my son’s education in the right direction. I only wish I had found her sooner—it would have spared me so many sleepless nights of despair, trying to navigate the system on my own. Montgomery Law gets an A++ for their outstanding service!
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22 Apr, 2024 by Gioia valle
5.0
1 Reviews
4.3
32 Reviews
25 Feb, 2025 by Kianya whaley
What a great lawyer. Kevin Kelly was very professional and very informative helped me alot with my case. Would definitely recommend this law firm and attorney.
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16 Jan, 2025 by Anthony dorman
Kevin Kelly is a very reliable and professional lawyer when it came to handling my case. He always kept me updated as to where things were in the case and it was an effortless process. I would definitely use him again recommend him for you.
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15 Jan, 2025 by Nate rock
He did a great job he was up front and told me the truth and way time i call he call me back
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25 Jun, 2012 by Julia
Michael Nix is patient, courteous, and pleasant with his clients.He is punctual and honest. I love the fact that he takes his time to explain exactly what is going on with whatever heworks on for you..
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21 Feb, 2012 by Anonymous
michael has handled several legal matters. We were successful in every hearing and I could not be happier.
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14 Jul, 2009 by Anonymous
I have used Mike for almost 10 years now. He knows the courtroom staffs and has good presence in the courtroom. Do your homework first and give him a lot of ammo to work with and he can get you good outcomes. his prices are reasonable but he is one man so make sure you give help remembering dates a little in advance.
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16 Oct, 2024 by Hadietou silla
21 Jul, 2023 by Siobhan
01 Mar, 2023 by Charles thomas
Do not use this firm. They held money in escrow (in the $100s of thousands) for a domestic relations suit. However, they will now not releases the money according to the settlement Award and will not cooperate in distributing the funds. Now, I have to take further legal action against them to get my own money back. So unethical, unprofessional, and perhaps illegal....
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26 May, 2022 by Anonymous
I requested Jennifer's services to help me respond to a divorce proceeding and determine jurisdiction for a case. You expect a basic level of client service form any attorney, but this was severely missing from Ms. Dumin. I never received a briefing anytime before our court date. She was not readily available over email, as I had to send multiple follow ups. She came to court wholly unprepared and very flustered. She could not even answer basic questions on my behalf leaving me stranded and embarrassed. I understand that you are the legal expert but your clients are not idiots and it is your duty to keep them informed and step up as a professional. This was a disgusting experience through and through. I am surprised she is not immediately disbarred. The firm also had the nerve to try and charge me full price for the judge appearance knowing that I did not receive a proper deposition. I had to advocate for decreased charges. Ms Dumin, please don't practice law ever again, or work on your client service especially with "diverse" clients. We're not all stupid and you are not this god that is above approach. Humble yourself.
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28 Apr, 2015 by Ron
I cannot begin to tell you how incredible Jennifer Dumin is, she gives lawyers a good name. She is both knowledgeable and has a heart of gold! She explained the legal terms so that I could grasp not only an understanding of what was going on in the court room, but she explained what my options would be. I can never thank her enough for all she has done for my daughter and I. Even when the other side was unprofessional and attacked, she stuck to the facts and presented them professionally, honestly and fairly. I don't know what I would have done without her.
She is n
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09 Jan, 2015 by Derrica
I recently had the pleasure of having Ms Dumin represent me in my case. Even though I requested her services with short notice she still made herself available for me. She was very knowledgeable and informative, any questions or concerns I had she was able to answer or give me the best options. Having Ms Dumin as my attorney made my case so much easier and stress free. I walked out with the schedule and the things I wanted in my court order. I would definitely refer her to anyone having a custody battle and would like a great outcome.
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22 Nov, 2024 by Jacob altemus
My experience has been an outstanding one. Jaimie Collins is a wonderful attorney that is both effective and professional. I have no complaints.
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22 Nov, 2024 by Roy perry
Divorce was difficult and exhausting, not to mention complicated. Working with Bill Phelan of Cordell & Cordell turned uphill challenges into comprehensible processes and produced a solid conclusion, allowing me to move forward knowing the job was truly complete. Well done, Bill. Thank you.
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12 Nov, 2024 by Jing wang
14 Jan, 2025 by Anonymous
I hired Charlie at $700/hour to represent me in a high-conflict, high-net-worth divorce, and I cannot recommend him based on my experience. While highly regarded as a skilled litigator by peers and judges, Charlie failed to deliver in my case. Instead of advocating for my rights, he repeatedly advised me to concede to opposing counsel’s (Cheryl Young) demands, which appeared to be influenced by personal distractions and a lack of focus on my case.
I specifically hired Charlie to challenge a post-nuptial agreement I was coerced into signing under duress years earlier. Despite the agreement’s significant financial implications—over $10 million—he discouraged me, claiming it was ironclad and not worth the cost or effort to contest. When I questioned the logic of signing a stipulation agreement waiving my right to challenge the post-nup, especially without securing any concessions, Charlie had no satisfactory explanation. Beaten down by the process, my ex-wife, and her counsel, I reluctantly signed it, only to later learn from my new attorney that I should never have agreed to the stipulation in the first place. I felt misled, misrepresented, and unsupported.
Charlie’s lack of availability and communication compounded these issues. When I pushed back on his advice, he disclosed he was dealing with serious personal matters, including caring for a sick spouse and traveling extensively for his son’s lacrosse activities. While I empathize with his situation, he failed to notify me or ensure proper coverage of my case, leaving me feeling abandoned during one of the most difficult times of my life.
Adding to my frustration, Charlie demonstrated limited knowledge in key areas of family law, mental health, and addiction. He mishandled the use of a Soberlink breathalyzer in my case, tethering me to my abusive ex-wife and ignoring established best practices in addiction and family law. This decision exacerbated my PTSD and caused further emotional harm to me and my children. My alcohol dependency—minor and without legal or criminal complications—was disclosed in good faith, but Charlie’s poor handling of the situation made matters worse.
Finally, after I fired Charlie and hired a new attorney, he attempted to use my new counsel as a go-between to collect his outstanding invoice, which I felt interfered with her ability to represent me without bias. Ultimately, he waived most of the remaining balance after I wrote him a formal letter expressing my dissatisfaction with his representation and his inappropriate interference.
Divorce is a deeply stressful and complex process. The family law system is notoriously ill-equipped to address the mental health and emotional toll it takes on families, especially children. Clients deserve attorneys who are transparent, diligent, and fully engaged. Unfortunately, Charlie’s lack of focus, poor judgment, and inadequate representation fell far short of these standards. If you are navigating a high-stakes divorce, I strongly recommend seeking alternative counsel.
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23 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
Can't say enough about how Charlie has helped me through an emotionally and financially charged divorce. If you are seeking a candid and trustworthy attorney who is highly respected in the courtroom to advocate and defend you with unwavering determination and skill, then you simply won't find better than Charlie. Always one step ahead, Charlie expertly navigates the complexities of his case with remarkable foresight, strategy, decency, and resolve.
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17 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
Divorce isn't a fun process, but Charlie Meyer's knowledge and approach to a difficult situation made it a little easier. Unlike other attorneys I consulted, he didn't tell me what I wanted to hear but instead what was a fair and likely outcome (even if it wasn't 100% in my favor). He has a very patient, encouraging, and casual manner that put me at ease. Charlie always got back to me even in my most hysterical moments, often early in the morning, often on weekends. I believe he has a good sense of personalities as well-- understanding how much information a client needs and wants and knowing, too, when to keep some of the unimportant nonsense quiet. Needless to say he has extensive knowledge of the laws in quite a few counties in and outside Philadelphia, and he seems to have a good rapport with lawyers/ masters/ judges in a courtroom setting.
If you're looking for a fair and balanced approach to your case--and for someone to put a lot of fight and effort into getting you what you deserve-- Charlie is a good choice.
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01 Jul, 2024 by Gbrown221
Charged with speeding 94 in a 65mph on GSP. Raymond was able to negotiate a plea with no points and no loss of license. Ordered to attend driving school online within 30 days.
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03 May, 2023 by Alex
Raymond was nice enough to dedicate time to my situation, explained details to a very delicate / complicated situation, and he didn't "beat around the bush." I would highly recommend using him to assist in your legal matters, seeing as it's not an easy-to-navigate situation to be in. He was referred to me by John D.
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15 Oct, 2018 by Lana
I have been working with Raymond for four years regarding my elderly mother's estate and medical care issues.He is extremely knowledgeable as well as kind, caring, patient , and willing to listen.He always presents me with all of my legal options and then allows me to decide what I want to do. He will always go the extra mile. I highly recommend him to anyone in Pa or NJ needing a qualified attorney.
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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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25 Dec, 2024 by Agron
Im not happy for the work she did for me. In the end after almost four years back and forth in court when final decision was made i got screwed and i got less 10,000$ From my house by judge mistake error because she didn’t do her job correctly!!!!
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08 Apr, 2022 by Pamela
Jenny made my complicated situation manageable. She explained the laws and procedures and helped me navigate from beginning to end. She's the best example of a talented, professional, honest and clear thinking lawyer.
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04 Mar, 2022 by Ellen
Jenny responded to my initial inquiry with sound advice and then proceeded to file documents in a timely manner. She looked at the issues from multiple perspectives and gave guidance that was helpful to allow me to make all the necessary and final decisions. Her intentional steps led to a speedy and reasonable resolution to the case. Beyond her professional demeanor, she was kind, compassionate and enjoyable to engage with. I recommend her highly.
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24 Jun, 2019 by Kulbir
This attorney coordinated the referrals. I didn’t know what I needed to do to address a board discipline, and it was relatively new to her also. She had seen it before. How she helped was to get me to the right people. A comprehensive diagnosis for my medical issue, the right litigator for the hearing, consultations with specialists, getting reliable information from the right people in positions of authority. She put in the legwork by making calls and doing legal research, then tapped into her network to shore up resources. The process and procedures were uncharted territory for me and I certainly needed guidance. The road was long and slow. Eventually, it was adjudicated in my favor. Thanks to this attorney I was successful in proving competence and am able to restart the practice of medicine. Other attorneys did not and do not deliver this level of service.
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15 May, 2019 by Anonymous
Joan Feinstein is the absolute best attorney I've worked with. I don't know where I'd be without her help. She went above and beyond to help me and continues to help me. I would highly recommend her to anybody I know.
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09 Jan, 2019 by Katie
I would absolutely recommend her to any and everyone. She has helped my family out on so many occasions. If she can’t help she always directs to an attorney who can, then checks regularly to make sure everything is going well with the attorney she recommended. She is really the absolute best, she really cares about her clients!
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13 Dec, 2018 by Maria
So, I went to Elaine in a mess of a situation and needed a divorce like 20 years before I hit her office. she was understanding, compassionate, and knew her stuff. I liked her because she was totally concerned about my wellbeing. Well 3 years later and I'M DIVORCED and was able to gain the house and all my finances. Elaine and her staff are AMAZINNNNGGGG! Though the road was long, they were patient with me and I thank you all for all of your hard work. JOANN AND SARA, YOU GIRLS ROCK!!!!!! ELAINE THANKS YOU'RE AMAZINNNNGGGG!
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05 Dec, 2018 by Anonymous
Misplaced case info. did not move in a direction to help my child who was harmed, abused. She questioned me and kept saying claims made by my child did not make since. She kept inflating charges billing. She threatened to tell the judge, she had to drop me as a client for non payment. I gave her all I had. This woman as my lawyer, was no help, to a domestic violence survivor. She acted unethically. I chose this woman because she is Chair on the Philly Bar Association. Wrong choice. Not a good burromitor of her work. The case file was empty when I sought to retrieve my docs to give to my new atty and retain for my record. Why would she Elaine dissolve key info on an active case. I handed stacks of docs to her. Don't use Elaine. One truthful customer complaint with painful consequence is enough. Child best interest, with violence not focused too much risk. It appears there is another complaint. Similar actions. Over billing. Bully behavior, minimal result. Oppositional, not compassionate. I paid Elaine a huge retainer. She kept seeking more money.
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15 Nov, 2012 by Boris
Elaine handled my case since 2007 through 2009.
She did excellent job.
I just came back to consult her on a different issue.
My case was very complicated, and
she did the best possible in my case.
You can trust her.
She has outstanding knowledge and experience in all the areas: divorce, custody, support, alimony.
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27 Jan, 2016 by Mh
Brett helped me with a terrible situation with my husband back in July. Unfortunately in September we tried a reconciliation that did not last due to my husband's infidelity. A new Separation Agreement was prepared. Due to my fragility, he not only counseled me, but he tried to protect me in any way that he could. He answered every email and/or voicemail that I left him. He is an excellent lawyer and I give him an A++++
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21 Jan, 2016 by Bendu sheriff
My ex husband and I have been in family court for a while. Brett Zeitlin made sure my ex husband and I could come to a conclusion on the support of our daughter. I'm truly happy to have Brett Zeitlin as an attorney.
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22 May, 2015 by Father of child.
Brett J. Zeitlin panders to mothers in domestic court. If you find yourself in the unfortune position of his guy representing you against your child's mother, consider yourself without a lawyer, he will help your child's mother and leave you high and dry. I got Zeitlin thru my employment, after I initially saw how he was misrepresenting me, I asked to get another lawyer from the firm he's at. The firm refused to give me another lawyer, I spoke with his supervisor, got no satisfaction. Attempted to change to another lawyer, four times. He was horrible with my divorce. I wish I would have never met him or heard of William, Willig and Davidson.
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25 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
If you want solid, legal counsel, that will actually help you, look elsewhere.
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09 Oct, 2020 by Tom
I was terminated from my company after many years of service and I needed help! Faye and her team quickly reached out to my former employer and made sure that I received full retirement benefits including pension and health care, plus some severance pay. The legal process is long and tedious but Faye and Jim Cushing skillfully guided me through the process to a completely satisfactory result. Thanks Faye!!! You are awesome!
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29 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
Towards the end of a very difficult employment legal battle, I sought out another attorney to get a second opinion on my case and release documents. I am so lucky my search led me to Faye Riva Cohen!
Recommended by the Philadelphia Bar Association & highly rated on Avvo, Faye was quickly able to make sense out of all of the nonsense. She was understanding and patient…but more importantly she listened! She wants what’s best for her clients…not what’s quickest, easiest or best for the firm.
I highly recommend Faye Riva Cohen. I only wish I found her sooner! She will certainly be the first attorney I call should I find myself in another unfortunate situation & need legal advice or counsel. A breath of fresh air, in the legal world of doom & gloom.
Thanks Faye!
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26 Apr, 2012 by Anonymous
Maura was responsive and helpful to me every step of the way during my divorce and I can't say enough about her. She listened to me whenever I wanted to talk and I felt comfortable saying things to her that I haven't or wouldn't tell to anyone else. Divorce sucks but she made it manageable and kept me informed throughout the process. I would recommend her to ANYONE getting divorced
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06 Jun, 2011 by Joe k
This lawyer did not show up in court, sent another attorney in her place who knew nothing about my case. Maura said this lawyer knew my entire case; he didn't know anything. At my initial consultation she told me we needed an expedited custody hearing and that would occur within 2 weeks. We got the court date within 2 weeks as she stated; but then informed me she was off that week for a wedding and she would have to ask for a continuance. The continuance was a week later and again she was unavailable so she sent an attorney who is headquartered in Missouri; I'm in Pennsylvania. The court documents said to bring witnesses, all relevant documents, and anything else that would be vital to my case. She said we wouldn't need any of that; we needed it all. After the hearing she stated, and put it in an email, that it was not the real custody hearing and all the information would be brought up at the next hearing, which was 5 months away. The lawyer who replaced her in court knew nothing about me or the case; and the judge knew it right away. After the hearing when I complained about the representation she stated she wasn't aware of some of the things that were brought up. I sent her the email copies where she was informed of everything. This firm billed me for every email, phone call, and even things pertaining to the continuance that was 100% their fault and was avoidable by simply disclosing her vacation schedule to me. I was billed $250 an hour by an attorney at another one of their offices for a strategy conference, while simultaneously paying Maura Cunningham $190 an hour for this call. This firm Maura Cunningham works for, Cordell & Cordell, does nothing more than bill you while trying to drag your case out for as long as possible. In the end you will lose everything including your case. Dozens of complaints on the internet about them; all telling the same story.
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12 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
Very rude and dismissive towards me, had a hearing for custody , did not give me an opportunity to speak at all and had a nasty demeanor toward me. Also, was lied to and was told I got sole physical custody of my daughter. Not a proposed order! I will be filing a complaint
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07 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
I didn't like her attitude at all! She was very nasty. Didn't care to listen to either side. And started screaming and name calling for no apparent reason. I wouldn't recommend this woman to a dog!
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19 Dec, 2022 by Anonymous
Arrogant, dismissive, extremely rude & did not even try to hear either side. You would think because she’s a family court judge she would understand her demographic & have an open mind to different circumstances, but that’s not the case here. Maybe she should have remained a lawyer. Judge Judy Wannabe.
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19 Dec, 2021 by Anonymous
He was on my husband case for about 1 year and when I say he did ABSOLUTELY NOTHING… only time he answer your phone calls or questions is if it’s money involved he has a nasty attitude along with a smart mouth you literally have too stalk this man just too get a simple reply..His office looks like a hole in the wall and it doesn’t have a pleasant smell I don’t see how this man was a lawyer for all this time he’s HORRIBLE I would not recommend hiring him oh he even was suspended for fake signatures of one of his clients bail Look it up if you don’t believe me…..
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07 Mar, 2015 by Pissed
Mr Chisholm
At first seem to be very good. That is until he showed up late to every court case . Atleast two of the Times my case was postponed was because of him then he charged me extra for the the case lasting so long. Long story short, he beat the case but i had 4000 confiscated from me.he told me to sign the money over to him because it made it easier to get back the money and insure that he would get paid his cut once he got it back.well it's been two years i have not received a dime of my money. I haven't received a court date and he will not return my calls. I read another review that he did this to another women .I going to get another lawyer and sew Mr Chisholm for my money if this had happened to you contact me
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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.
