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11 Oct, 2024 by Darryl brooks
EXCELLENCE in their knowledge and application of the law. EMPATHY for the life changes I was going through with losing my sister, marriage, and job within 6 months, and EFFICIENT in their communication and filing of documents with me, my ex-wife's attorney, and the court. My legal team at Petrelli Previtera helped me navigate a better financial outcome than if I went through my divorce alone or with a less capable team.
In spite of my ex-wife's delay tactics and attempts to hide marital assets during discovery, I was able to work with my legal team at Petrelli Previtera to get my divorce done in 9 months!
Peace on the other side of divorce has been great and makes me hopeful I will find happiness again. Starting with myself.
Thank you, Alicia and Maureen!
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07 Oct, 2024 by Girl 75
these Lawyers are scam artists overly priced don’t answer emails and take forever to complete a case ridiculous
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15 Sep, 2024 by Robert novelli
Outstanding firm! Attorneys are the best. Excellent client services. The staff is pleasant and just as knowledgeable and Joann the paralegal couldn’t be more helpful. I highly recommend this firm!
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28 Aug, 2024 by Kimberly hills
My friend went to them because he fell and injured himself
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27 Aug, 2024 by Omar tho
16 Aug, 2024 by Natasha ingram
He saved my career.
5 stars is not enough to describe John or what he does. He went out on a limb under less-than-ideal circumstances to help me navigate and settle my case extraordinarily quickly. He took the time to understand me and my case, then got straight to work communicating directly with the DA's office. He advocated for me in every breath and ensured they understood how important timing was in this case. What I thought was impossible, John made into reality. If you ever find yourself in need of a defense attorney, call John. There is no one better to help you navigate the legal system and understand what is happening at every step.
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11 Oct, 2024 by Darryl brooks
EXCELLENCE in their knowledge and application of the law. EMPATHY for the life changes I was going through with losing my sister, marriage, and job within 6 months, and EFFICIENT in their communication and filing of documents with me, my ex-wife's attorney, and the court. My legal team at Petrelli Previtera helped me navigate a better financial outcome than if I went through my divorce alone or with a less capable team.
In spite of my ex-wife's delay tactics and attempts to hide marital assets during discovery, I was able to work with my legal team at Petrelli Previtera to get my divorce done in 9 months!
Peace on the other side of divorce has been great and makes me hopeful I will find happiness again. Starting with myself.
Thank you, Alicia and Maureen!
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07 Oct, 2024 by Girl 75
these Lawyers are scam artists overly priced don’t answer emails and take forever to complete a case ridiculous
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15 Sep, 2024 by Robert novelli
Outstanding firm! Attorneys are the best. Excellent client services. The staff is pleasant and just as knowledgeable and Joann the paralegal couldn’t be more helpful. I highly recommend this firm!
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11 Oct, 2024 by Darryl brooks
EXCELLENCE in their knowledge and application of the law. EMPATHY for the life changes I was going through with losing my sister, marriage, and job within 6 months, and EFFICIENT in their communication and filing of documents with me, my ex-wife's attorney, and the court. My legal team at Petrelli Previtera helped me navigate a better financial outcome than if I went through my divorce alone or with a less capable team.
In spite of my ex-wife's delay tactics and attempts to hide marital assets during discovery, I was able to work with my legal team at Petrelli Previtera to get my divorce done in 9 months!
Peace on the other side of divorce has been great and makes me hopeful I will find happiness again. Starting with myself.
Thank you, Alicia and Maureen!
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07 Oct, 2024 by Girl 75
these Lawyers are scam artists overly priced don’t answer emails and take forever to complete a case ridiculous
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15 Sep, 2024 by Robert novelli
Outstanding firm! Attorneys are the best. Excellent client services. The staff is pleasant and just as knowledgeable and Joann the paralegal couldn’t be more helpful. I highly recommend this firm!
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15 Oct, 2020 by Christopher
Met Gary through a reference and he has been up front direct and empathetic to all matters , he is very honest and cost effective. He is jvery knowledgeable in his field . I retained him multiple occasions for Father's advocacy especially when a father is doing right by her is children this attorney is productive on speaking on your behalf.
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03 Dec, 2019 by Anonymous
There are no words to express how good Gary Feldman is as a lawyer and friend. Gary has for over 20 years assisted me and my family in multiple situations. Gary first assisted me with my license and traffic court and has grown to handle all my personal business including cases for friends. You will not find a better, honest and knowledgeable lawyer.
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25 Apr, 2019 by Michael m.
Words can’t describe how thankful I am for the services provided by Gary Feldman. It is a very stressful situation when you have to search for legal help, and it was such a blessing to find such a professional. Gary was upfront and honest, he communicated frequently with me, and he keep me well informed of all possible outcomes throughout the entire process. Gary is trustworthy and is genuinely here to help people. It is great to see this especially in a day and age where everyone seems to be in business for the wrong reasons. If you are searching online and scrolling (to find good reviews) for legal counsel, you need to scratch out the other 3-4 names you have written down and call Gary Feldman. I highly recommend Gary for anyone who is seeking an attorney who actually cares about his clients. You will not be disappointed!
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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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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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30 Sep, 2024 by Reggie bridges
Jeff and his team at Killino Law Firm are truly exceptional! They took on my daughter’s challenging case when no one else would, and their dedication, expertise, and compassion made all the difference. Thanks to their amazing work, we can now take care of our daughter for the rest of her life. Jeff handled everything with professionalism and kept us informed every step of the way. If you’re in need of a personal injury & accident lawyer, look no further—Jeff is your guy. I can’t recommend him and his exceptional team enough!
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30 Jul, 2024 by Lauren myers
The legal team has been responsive to concerns and we are very pleased with Attorney Johnson’s counsel. Great firm to work with for family court matters as well.
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29 Jul, 2024 by Natalie wipf
I can't say enough about how well I was treated by this law firm. I needed help with a custody/ visitation matter and the firm made the whole thing peaceful and painless. It can be an intimidating process but they were with me every step of the way and I knew they had my daughters best interests and wishes in mind throughout the whole thing. I highly recommend the Johnson Firm for all your family court needs
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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 Brianna
It was a pleasure having Jennifer represent me for a child support case I was involved in. She was extremely knowledgable and made me feel confident and comfortable about my circumstances and the overall outcome. I am very pleased with her work and the end result and would highly recommend her for someone involved in a child support/custody case.
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22 Apr, 2024 by Gioia valle
23 Mar, 2024 by Connie pickhaver-drumm
I was so impressed with Linda. She is a true professional. We need more attorney’s like her who truly care about her clients. Knowledgeable, efficient, professional, result oriented, caring, dependable, are a few words I would use to describe Linda.
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22 Mar, 2024 by Steve pickhaver
I have to say after a very very long drawn out divorce. With appeal after appeal. Linda was the constant professional dealing with an extremely difficult opposing counsel. She knew the law and exactly how to apply it to my circumstances. I couldn't have been happier with the results. I have recommended and will continue to recommend this constant professional. I will never get married again but if for some reason that shall happen I will definitely have Linda draw up a prenuptial for me (lol). She is the top of the line when it comes to attorneys. Thank you Linda for the outstanding work and outcome.
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05 Aug, 2024 by Benyamin niknam
This guy is the best!
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30 Mar, 2024 by Michael freeman
The Henry Law Firm is a blessing!!!!!! I have no complaints
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01 Mar, 2024 by Shurell brown
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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01 Feb, 2023 by Florence harris
Taking care of Business
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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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5.0
1 Reviews
3.4
13 Reviews
26 Apr, 2024 by Jonathan salas
Russell and Adam you guys were amazing! I was completely out of my element but you guys made me feel comfortable and also like i was part of the team. The work put in on the weekend really helped a lot, preparation was on point! Thanks again I appreciate you guys and it’s definitely something I’ll never forget.
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11 Mar, 2024 by Samuel loux
This lawyer is a class act his compassion for resolving issues of litigation concerning the well being of his clients loved ones is highly demonstrated in his approach and his ability as a human being, He's an awesome,talented professional with a heart.
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06 Mar, 2024 by Darius roper
Whatever you do! Don’t not hire this law firm! My fiancé used him for a custody hearing and he didn’t present her evidence nor did he do any prep work for her case. It was 900 for retainer and it was a complete scam!
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13 Aug, 2024 by Divakar sharma
Shout out to the team. They went above and beyond to solve my immigration problem and got the work done.
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08 Aug, 2024 by Emma hart
Jackie DiColo guided me through my divorce expertly and efficiently. I always felt like she was in my corner and gave fair advice. During court appearances she was excellent. I would recommend her to anyone enduring divorce as a trustworthy lawyer who will guide you through the complexities of divorce law.
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13 Jul, 2024 by Manoj das
I had an excellent experience with my H1b and Green card filling with Klasko. They are very receptive and response time to any query’s is phenomenal.
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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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03 Oct, 2024 by Me8mgp
Who would have thought that my google search for an injury lawyer would lead me to Ron Clearfield & Associates. Well it did and it was a worry free and great experience.
The staff are very knowledgeableand professional. They were kind and we even had a couple laughs. If I had any questions or concerns they handled them in a timely manner. I felt confident knowing I had chosen the best law office. They had my whole interest at state, The end resul proved it. I can’t thank them enough. Five stars⭐️ Hands down
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30 Sep, 2024 by Kisha o
Awesome firm! Andrew and Ron were absolutely awesome! From the initial phone call to the close of my case they were polite, professional, patient and understanding. I let them do their thing and was always advised on the best course. Very satisfied with the outcome. I would highly recommend Clearfield and Associates! Thank you Ron and Andrew.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Khasan amridinov
The team at Clearfield & Associates was always available to help and answer my questions. Their helpfulness and expertise were outstanding. Highly recommend!
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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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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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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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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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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.
