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26 Jun, 2024 by Holly
Dedicated, meticulous, confident, steadfast, knowledgeable and unshakable are all words that can be used to describe Attorney Mark Tseselsky. The manner in which he handled everything, including my nervous bouts, is what made all the difference. His professionalism and vast knowledge insured the safety of my child as well as mine. I am so grateful I was referred to him.
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19 Jun, 2024 by Younan
Recommendation for Mr. Mark as an Exceptional Family Lawyer
I am writing to express my utmost satisfaction and gratitude for the exceptional legal services provided by Mr. Mark in handling my recent divorce case.
It was truly a pleasure to do business with Mr. Mark, and I am delighted that he represented me throughout the entire process. His depth of knowledge and expertise in family law were evident from the outset, and he consistently provided me with invaluable legal advice that guided me through this challenging time.
One of the things that stood out to me about Mr. Mark's approach was his ability to cut through the complexities of the case and get straight to the heart of the matter. He was always honest and transparent, never hesitating to tell me whether it was worth fighting for certain aspects or not.
Furthermore, I was impressed by the clarity and transparency of Mr. Mark's billing statements. Each statement provided a detailed breakdown of the services rendered, making it easy for me to understand and track the costs involved.
Based on my personal experience, I wholeheartedly recommend Mr. Mark as a family lawyer to anyone in need of expert legal representation in a divorce case. I have no doubt that his professionalism, integrity, and dedication to his clients will ensure the best possible outcome for anyone facing similar circumstances.
Once again, I would like to extend my sincere thanks to Mr. Mark for his outstanding service and support throughout this process.
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07 May, 2024 by Jasmine
I was referred to Mark by an attorney on a related matter as a trusted partner to discuss my concerns and current situation.
Before I was able to reach out to his office, he called me directly and asked questions to assess the landscape and provide a recommendation on how to proceed. He was unusually patient and thorough in his analysis, both speaking in simplified, non-Legalese terms without being reductive; realistic and objective without salesmanship. As a working professional, I deeply appreciated his 360° approach.
He additionally, without request, gave me thoughtful pointers that were directed toward not only how to position myself for a positive outcome, but in the best interests of creating a productive plan forward for myself and my family.
While it currently remains as a consult, he will be the attorney I will call when it's time.
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12 Apr, 2023 by Violetta
I hired Paul in my family law case and he was amazing. He actually cares about his clients and looks out for their best interest. He also won!! Thank you.
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05 Oct, 2022 by Anonymous
It has taken me some time to figure out what to write in regards to Mr Spear because no matter what I say its going to be an understatement of how amazing of an attorney he is. He joined my very difficult and dragged out dissolution case later on but picked up on the essence of the case, the issues and both parties strategies immediately and he started moving all matters forward. Mr Spear is fair, brutally honest, efficient, caring, very respectful and will represent his clients with integrity. He is very experienced and knew exactly how to proceed with the issues we had, he puts his clients first and will always ensure his clients are in good standing with the opposite party and the court. I can't rave enough about Mr Spear, I have spent more than 2 years fighting a lengthy complex battle against my ex husband and I am finally able to breathe knowing Mr Spear is handling my case. Best dissolution attorney out there.
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03 Jun, 2020 by Allen
I received exceptional service from Paul Spear of Family Law Support. His professionalism, compassion and attention to detail made a very difficult time in my life considerably less daunting. Furthermore, Family Law Support's legal fees were much less than any other attorney I interviewed. With sincerity I recommend him and his firm to anyone going through difficult family legal issues.
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24 Sep, 2020 by Annie
Esther represented me in the formation and signing of my pre-marital agreement. Throughout the process, she was extremely prompt, thoughtful, and professional. She followed up with me regularly when things were stalling with my fiancé's counsel. She explained the ins-and-outs of our agreement to me patiently and confirmed with me multiple times to make sure I understood what I was signing. She was timely in every response. If my fiancé's lawyer had been even half as conscientious as Esther, the process would have been much quicker. I highly recommend her.
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15 Mar, 2018 by Jennifer
Esther represented me on visitation Modification Hearing order. She took my case about two weeks before the hearing and worked with me to get the supplemental declaration that needed to be prepared and submitted before the hearing. With only two weeks to prepare she was amazingly over prepared, confident and aggressive and did a great job. She had things finished well before the deadline and made it, so I didn't have anything to worry about. I was really impressed. She was available immediately by phone and email she never hesitated to give 100%. Esther was good at listening to me and knowing what to say to get the judge to see what was really going on. she was genuinely concerned about what was in my child's best interest and was very fair. She explained step by step the paperwork and forms to make sure I was comfortable and confident in what I was saying and filling. Family court issues can be highly emotional and stressful, but I felt totally secure during my case. Esther produced the exact results that I required, skillfully and efficiently. Esther is a very professional attorney yet has a warm and approachable demeanor. She remained well-composed, professionally aggressive, consistently on task, and always with a clear focus. She is very passionate about what she does, and it really sets her apart because she really connects with her clients! She handled my case with exemplary professionalism and helped me get through a very emotional and difficult time in my life. She was never tardy in responding to any questions I might've had, she always replied in a timely manner and always had an answer for whatever question I had. She made me feel like I could trust her and had my child's best interest. I also learned from her, how to handle the issues with knowledge and wisdom. The court sided in my favor! I could not be more satisfied with the intelligence, professionalism, and sheer determination of Esther Bitar. I am very happy to offer my highest recommendation to Mrs. Bitar. Thank you!
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11 Mar, 2018 by Anonymous
Esther Bitar helped me with my divorce. During such a stressful and emotional time in my life, she was consistently supportive and professional throughout her entire service. She was accessible at all times no matter how ridiculous my questions were and was extremely knowledgeable which I was very grateful for. At the end of it all, I couldn't be more happy that she was the lawyer I had by my side. I will be highly recommending her to all my family and friends going through any legal trouble or anyone that needs legal assistance.
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What a Child Support Lawyer Can Do for You
A child support lawyer specializes in legal issues related to the financial support that one parent provides to another for the upbringing of their children. These lawyers assist with establishing, enforcing, and modifying child support orders, ensuring that the financial needs of the child are met, including housing, food, healthcare, education, and other essentials. A child support lawyer can also represent parents in disputes over the amount of support, ensure fair calculations based on income, and handle legal proceedings if one parent fails to meet their obligations.
Whether you're seeking to establish child support, modify an existing order, or enforce payments, a child support lawyer can help you navigate the legal system and protect your rights and the well-being of your child.
When Should I Hire a Child Support Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a child support lawyer when you need assistance with any of the following child support matters:
- Establishing child support: If you are going through a divorce or separation and need to establish a child support order, a lawyer can help ensure that the support amount is fair and accurately calculated.
- Modifying child support orders: If there has been a significant change in circumstances, such as a job loss, income change, or a child's financial needs, a lawyer can help you request a modification to the existing child support order.
- Enforcing child support payments: If the other parent has failed to make court-ordered child support payments, a lawyer can help enforce the order through legal means such as wage garnishment, property liens, or even legal action.
- Disputing child support calculations: If you believe the child support amount has been incorrectly calculated based on your income or expenses, a lawyer can help you challenge the calculation and seek a fair adjustment.
- Paternity disputes: If paternity needs to be established before child support can be ordered, a lawyer can assist with DNA testing and legal proceedings.
- Interstate child support cases: If the parents live in different states, navigating child support laws can be complex. A lawyer can help ensure the proper jurisdiction is established and that child support is enforced across state lines.
- Child support during custody disputes: If child custody and child support are being determined simultaneously, a lawyer can help ensure that both issues are resolved fairly and in the best interest of the child.
Hiring a lawyer early can help ensure that your child support case is handled effectively and that your child's financial needs are met.
What Does a Child Support Lawyer Do?
A child support lawyer provides a variety of legal services to help parents secure, modify, and enforce child support arrangements. Their responsibilities often include:
- Filing for child support: A lawyer can help you initiate the legal process to obtain a child support order, ensuring that all necessary documentation is submitted and deadlines are met.
- Calculating child support: A lawyer can help ensure that child support is calculated fairly based on both parents' incomes, the needs of the child, and other factors such as healthcare and education costs.
- Negotiating child support agreements: If both parents are willing to negotiate, a lawyer can help facilitate an agreement on child support outside of court, which can then be approved by a judge.
- Representing you in court: If negotiations fail or the other parent contests the child support amount, a lawyer will represent you in family court, presenting evidence and making legal arguments to support your case.
- Modifying support orders: A lawyer can help you file a request for modification if circumstances change, such as a loss of income or an increase in the child’s financial needs.
- Enforcing child support: If the other parent is not making court-ordered payments, a lawyer can take legal steps to enforce the order through wage garnishment, property liens, or other measures.
- Handling complex cases: In cases involving high incomes, self-employment, or complicated financial situations, a lawyer can help ensure that all relevant factors are considered in determining child support.
How Are Child Support Lawyers Paid?
Child support lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the case and the type of legal work required. Common payment methods include:
- Hourly rate: Most child support 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 will depend on how much time the lawyer spends on your case, including preparation, negotiations, and court appearances.
- Flat fee: For more straightforward cases, such as uncontested child support agreements or basic modifications, some lawyers may offer a flat fee that covers all services related to the case.
- Retainer: Many lawyers require a retainer, which is an upfront payment that is billed against as the lawyer works on your case. The amount of the retainer depends on the expected complexity of the case.
- Sliding scale or pro bono services: Some lawyers offer sliding scale fees based on income or provide pro bono (free) services in cases where clients cannot afford to pay full legal fees, especially when children’s needs are at stake.
It’s important to discuss fees with your lawyer during the initial consultation to understand how much you will be charged and what services are covered.
How Much Does a Child Support Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a child support lawyer varies depending on the complexity of the case, whether it's contested or uncontested, and the lawyer’s experience. General cost estimates include:
- Uncontested child support cases: Legal fees may range from $1,500 to $5,000, depending on the complexity of the paperwork and the lawyer’s fees.
- Contested child support cases: Legal fees can range from $5,000 to $20,000 or more, especially if the case involves significant court time.
- Hourly rates: Lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour for child support cases, with higher rates for more experienced attorneys or cases that involve complex financial issues.
- Modification or enforcement: Fees for modifying or enforcing a child support order may range from $2,000 to $10,000, depending on the complexity and the need for court intervention.
Always ask for a detailed cost estimate during your consultation so you can plan your budget accordingly.
Top Questions to Ask a Child Support Lawyer
Before hiring a child support lawyer, it’s important to ask questions to ensure they are the right fit for your case. Key questions to ask include:
-
What experience do you have with child support cases?
Ensure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it’s establishing, modifying, or enforcing child support orders. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, offers flat fees, or requires a retainer, and ask for a detailed estimate of the total cost. -
What is the likelihood of success in my case?
Ask the lawyer for an honest assessment of your case and any potential challenges you may face. -
How long will the process take?
Child support cases can take time, so ask the lawyer how long they expect the process to last and what factors may cause delays. -
Will you personally handle my case?
In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may handle parts of the case. Make sure you know who will be managing your case and representing you in court. -
What documents should I prepare?
Ask the lawyer what financial documents and other information you should bring to help them calculate child support and build your case.
How to Check the Credibility of a Child Support Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable child support lawyer, take the following steps to verify their credentials and track record:
- 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 have successfully handled child support cases similar to yours.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for client reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients have said about the lawyer’s professionalism and success rate.
- Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have worked with them on child support matters.
- Check for certifications: Some lawyers may have certifications in family law or membership in organizations like the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), which can indicate their expertise in child support and family law issues.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To make the most out of your first consultation with a child support lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:
- Income documents: Bring pay stubs, tax returns, W-2s, or any other documentation of your income and the other parent’s income, as this will be used to calculate child support.
- Existing child support orders: If there are any existing child support or custody orders, bring copies for the lawyer to review.
- Child-related expenses: Provide documentation of your child’s medical bills, education expenses, daycare costs, and any other expenses that should be factored into the child support calculation.
- Communication with the other parent: Bring any communication between you and the other parent regarding child support, whether through emails, text messages, or written agreements.
- List of questions: Prepare a list of questions about your case, the legal process, and the lawyer’s fees.
By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your case more effectively and provide the best possible legal advice on how to proceed.
