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21 Nov, 2024 by Pam eng
Ms. Miller is a reliable and efficient legal professional who is patient to explain the course of the divorce process and willing to work hard for a reasonable and fair settlement. Many thanks to Ms Miller and the office for their help during a difficult time.
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22 Aug, 2024 by Shaheed
Claire has represented me for several years in numerous cases that have gone through family court. There is no one I would rather have in my corner. She is kind, supportive and understanding of the emotions involved in family court cases (children, support and visitation). But once we are in court she is absolutely ferocious and within minutes you will thank God she is on your side. Her entire team, including Carrie, are amazing. They made me feel like family from day one and that was very reassuring. I can't recommend them enough.
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20 Apr, 2024 by Sean t cosgriff
5.0
22 Reviews
4.7
31 Reviews
23 Oct, 2024 by Justine kuna
I have been working with Mr. O’shea and his team for the past few years and am very happy with the work him and his team have provided. He is very supportive and very knowledgeable about the laws. He is always available to answer questions or gets back within a responsible time. He is very honest and tells it like it is. I would highly recommend Mr. O’Shea and his team.
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10 Oct, 2024 by James
The Law office of Joe O'Shea fought tirelessly for my case. It was an emotionally exhausting divorce case with too many complexities involved but Mr. O'Shea's strategic thinking and bold advocacy helped me achieve a favorable outcome. Exceptional service and results. The way they bill is extremely fair and I never felt like I was being taken advantage of. I highly recommend The Law office of Joe O'Shea.
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14 Aug, 2024 by Ana rosa
This attorney has 5 stars on most of his reviews because he tells clients he will reduce your bill by $500.00, if you write a good review of him on google to get more business. Guess what? After your 5 star review has posted, he charges You, the Client, triple. Stay far away!
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10 Jul, 2024 by Marlene kostrista
Benjamin Haber was such an amazing attorney i highly recommend him!
My previous attorneys were butchering my case and I was left in the dark lost and confused! so when I got Benjamin he was able to fight for me and for what I deserved!
The communication is great as well and that was important to me! I’m beyond happy with Benjamin and his staff ! Thank You
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17 Jun, 2024 by Christina debonis
12 Jun, 2024 by Stanley kingston
Benjamin Haber is an exceptional divorce lawyer. He handled my case with professionalism and empathy, ensuring I understood every step. His strategic approach and dedication resulted in a favorable outcome for me. If you're looking for a reliable and knowledgeable attorney in Staten Island, Benjamin Haber is the one to call.
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22 Oct, 2024 by Cheryl balzano
Kurt handled my divorce with hard work, integrity, knowledge, and empathy. He listened to what was important to me and went about accomplishing that as efficiently as possible. I was always kept in the loop about filed papers and every little step that needed to be handled. He was accessible and persevering, which led to a great outcome.
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19 Sep, 2024 by Donna
My experience with Kurt T Richards was nothing short of amazing during my divorce proceedings!! He helped alleviate my stress with his genuine care and empathy. I am deeply grateful for his service and highly recommend him.
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13 Mar, 2024 by Michael casella
I was using an attorney for my divorce before Kurt Richards. The attorney I was using wasn’t right for me. When I spoke to Kurt I instantly knew from his knowledge and wisdom that he was the real deal. Best switch I ever made! Kurt Richards is constantly on top of everything. You don’t have to ask any questions or worry about anything because he will let you know instantly! You are CONSTANTLY notified on emails or calls he does NOT leave you in the dark with ANYTHING, he works very hard and efficient for his clients as I saw. Kurt knew how much I wanted my marriage over with and he went above and beyond for me. I recommend him to anyone he is the absolute best. I will definitely use him again for other legal situations.
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12 Jan, 2025 by Rami “rara” zaki
10 Jan, 2025 by Crystal stridiron
Loved working with this company. They have helped and never judge anything and was always willing to help. Today I close this chapter with him. Thank you for everything
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07 Jan, 2025 by Vasley green
Waste of money, stay away, she will do nothing, except reschedule the hearing date, until you are found guilty!
I had a video from my dash cam which she told me she lost the day of the hearing. I had to provide the video again. She also said I would not have to attend the trial when hired, but then started calling me on the day of the trial asking when I will be coming?
This is unprofessional and doesn't give me any confidence in her ability to actually defend me. Maybe they do a good job with something, but having experienced these total gaffs how am I supposed to believe she defended me adequately.
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21 Feb, 2020 by Anonymous
Jay is attentive and thorough. He responds promptly and follows up with all parties in a timely manner. His attention to detail has made me comfortable during this process.
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26 Aug, 2019 by William
Jay wrote up an amazing agreement to protect my pension & keep our assets separate. Great guy & very knowledgeable
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25 Apr, 2018 by Anonymous
My girlfriend and I are expecting our first baby, and I wanted to know what my parental rights were. I had gone for a consultation with Jay Baum, and he was very thorough and helpful in advising me. He might be rough around the edges, but he was extremely upfront and truthful with me on every question I had. I would definitely hire him in the future, if needed, and I highly recommend him to any of my friends who are in the same situation. I appreciate all the help.
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23 Oct, 2024 by Justine kuna
I have been working with Mr. O’shea and his team for the past few years and am very happy with the work him and his team have provided. He is very supportive and very knowledgeable about the laws. He is always available to answer questions or gets back within a responsible time. He is very honest and tells it like it is. I would highly recommend Mr. O’Shea and his team.
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14 Aug, 2024 by Ana rosa
This attorney has 5 stars on most of his reviews because he tells clients he will reduce your bill by $500.00, if you write a good review of him on google to get more business. Guess what? After your 5 star review has posted, he charges You, the Client, triple. Stay far away!
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18 Dec, 2023 by Destiny maluagna
I can not put into words how amazing mr.O’SHEA and his team was to me.They became almost like family to me and mine.He was never just in it for the money like others in his field. This man is one of a kind and it truly TRULY was a blessing to work with!
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25 Aug, 2024 by Michael
I highly recommend Carolyn Halk as an attorney. She representing me in court for my divorce, custody and support and won each time. She is well respected by all court personnel, judges and all other attorneys.
I couldn't have had a better representation or outcome without her.
You'll be very satisfied with Carolyn. She's a step above in class, experience and the law.
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12 Sep, 2018 by Anonymous
I consulted with Ms. Halk in December of 2013. She walked me through the steps and beside me for 4 1/2 years. She was compassionate, educated, level headed and fair. She was the strength that helped me endure the worst. She did everything she could to help me get my fair settlement as we were dealing with a very vindictive ex. All my fears were put to rest with her knowledgeable advice. She never made me feel like I was bothering her and was very amenable when it came to my finances. Her fee is fair. She is not about the money like so many attorneys are. She is extremely kind but firm. If she doesn't think you are upfront with her she will refer you to someone who would be a better fit. She educates you as well. By the end of my divorce, I feel like I knew the law as well. She will never lead you astray. She even took the time to make my daughter feel comfortable at a very tumultuous time in her life. I would highly recommend Carolyn. Her staff is just as kind and helpful.....We are now friends.
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26 Mar, 2018 by Anonymous
I hired Carolyn for a custody order that was change on me after I left the courtroom. She had agreed to take my case she Drew up the motion but she never got us a date to get in front of the judge I spent 2 years after that trying to get in touch with them I called send emails I even went into the office but no one would ever see me or call me back. Finally over 2 years later I spoke to her she said that she defended me for what I hide her for and that she was done with a case but that is not true we never went to court. So I said give me my paperwork back and the rest of my retainer and I will move on she claims she sent me a bill two months before stating that my retainer was used but it was not true I was not in contact with them for 2 years why would they send me a bill 2 months earlier did not make sense so I spent 2500 wasted 2 years and I am back where I started user beware read this carefully and think twice.
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11 Dec, 2017 by Beth
I got divorced almost 10 yrs. ago, Mrs. Patrice Nichas was recommended by another attorney. I had to go back to court to modify a few thing. Needless to say I have NO money from the first lawyer. Mrs. Nichas knew that, she and her staff guided me step by step through the process. There were things she told me I could do on my own to save money. I would recommend highly .....
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15 Aug, 2017 by Kay
I highly recommend Patrice Genco Nichas. She is professional, knowledgeable, and compassionate. The decision to divorce is not an easy one but Ms. Nichas as well as her staff provide clear knowledge of the process and timeframe. From the initial consultation to the final granting of the divorce I was kept informed of the progress and my questions were answered clearly. I was very pleased and grateful to be able to trust and rely upon my attorney.
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08 Feb, 2017 by Fara
I would highly recommend Patrice Nichas to anyone going through a divorce. . Divorce is not an easy process and she help you guide along smoothly. She is extremely knowledgeable, trust worthy, compassionate, kind and truly cares about you and your family. Her experience and knowledge exudes through her confidence in the court room. She fights for what is right and will settle for nothing less. She is an outstanding attorney and someone I've come to call a friend.
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18 Sep, 2020 by Regina phlange
My ex-spouse is a narcissist, willing to lie, use our child as a pawn, no matter how shameless, no matter how long and even at our child's expense. The smallest decisions between us require a debate and very careful consideration much like a chess match. Intelligent narcissists can master manipulation and be almost impossible to get ahead of. Francine Cohen, consistently anticipated and was always prepared for whatever conflicts came our way. She listened to everything I was feeling and absorbed every historical detail I provided, she knew what I wanted to convey and then knew how to assure my thoughts would be clear, concise, effective, and most of all brilliant. Francine Cohen is a legal autocorrect, absolutely priceless. Unfortunately, so many times pressing matters requiring a quick decision would happen outside of the workday, on holidays, late hours moments before exchanges, etc. Fran never once left me waiting, I never had to make a decision without her providing her thoughts. So many divorces don't go to trial, mine did. Fran and Olga are militant when it comes to organization and preparedness during the trial. They have all documents available in seconds via Ipads as well as paper. if "God forbid the WiFi" stopped working or paper documents were not available, both ways were backed up. If the opposing counsel is unprepared, Fran and Olga would provide documents in order to prevent time from being wasted. Fran made hours of trial and questioning look effortless, she studied every detail of evidence, she picked up on so many things that I missed, she was fascinating to watch. A custody battle that becomes a war, requires weapons and a shield, Francine Cohen is the only weapon and shield you need.
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13 Jun, 2018 by John
My divorce, custody and child support litigation changed as the situation changed through the years (eg. Changes in child custody as to who was the custodial parent). In an atmosphere very unfamiliar and intimidating to me, I was so much in need of a stable support who was not only familiar with the court system but who could portray my needs and the multiple factors involved in my case to those making the decisions. Fran has been there for us as this support from the very beginning in 2006, through the years when I needed her legal support even to helping to facilitate a domestic settlement agreement last year. In my experience, it was always an instant relief when I'd see her on arrival to court and with Fran sitting beside me in the processes, I felt confident that I had a skilled advocate.
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23 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
My experience with Ms. F. P. Cohen is that she is a very nice woman but she was not a good lawyer. Firstly, for less than 6 months, I emptied my retainer and somehow ended up owing more than I could have imagined. And I was shocked because I probably only went to court about 3 or 4 times in that 6 month period. I later learned that she charged me for everything from phone calls to emails, meetings and so on and so forth. My services did not match all the money I wound up being responsible to pay. Also, in my opinion, she was not successful at upholding my image in court. She was not even able to portray my image in court and I have lived an upstanding life, all of my life. Basically, if your case is not cut and dry, and especially if it involves any serious accusations that require aggressive and direct representation ( namely custody-related court concerns), I would not recommend.
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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.
