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10 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
Attorney Bradley Enterline is someone I would also have represent my family, if needed, because of all the invaluable guidance I have received over the years. He is a lawyer who will listen to your story, summarize the facts by following up with focused questions, and will try to find amicable long term solutions while also advocating for your priorities. Attorney Enterline will set fair expectations and provide knowledgable counsel about how and when to give a little and when to take a more firm stance. His understanding of the courts in Erie, PA has proved beneficial over and over again through the years for separation and divorce, child custody, and child support for myself; it has been a long process and it's not over yet in my case but I am very thankful to be working with Attorney Bradley Enterline!
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05 Jan, 2023 by John
Attorney Enterline was attentive, thorough and patience throughout my entire case. His years of experience gave me comfort when issues became difficult and he could reassure me of how we should handle each step. He handled my case very well!
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30 Jun, 2021 by Erica
Brad Enterline was very professional and helpful to me and my kids .He has helped me get full custody of my kids and I am very happy that I hired him !
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21 May, 2024 by Kyle harris
Great lawyer!! Great price!! 5 star Ken handles business in the court room, helped me establish custody. speedy responses to any questions I had, I’d recommend him for any legal issues u might have! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
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13 Jan, 2024 by Chris re i n e l t
We entrusted Ken with our custody needs and he did not let us down! He was easily accessible and thoroughly invested in our case. He made our concens and needs a priority and used our time efficiently. He is well recieved and respected in the courtroom. Having him by our side alleviated our stress & anxiety and he genuinely cared about our situation and outcome. He involved all parties necessary and did the research to get the job done. His presence in court is professional and to the point. We will forever be thankful & grateful for Kens dedication to our family!! Our community is blessed to have him!
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10 Jan, 2024 by Sam sackett
ERIE'S ABSOLUTE FINEST! Ken puts his heart and soul into his work. He REALLY cares about his clients and their situations. That being said, Ken is the most knowledgeable I've ever worked with! Intelligent, professional, personable and always a safe place. *With myself being a part of the LGBT community, Ken has always been welcoming to any, and considerate to all.* Heaven sent, & money well spent! Thank You Bickel Law office, you've protected me for many years now. I would give him 10 million stars if reviews would allow.
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01 Mar, 2021 by Caitlyn
Zanita was a tremendous asset during a very tumultuous time for my family. She took the time to understand my situation and she provided good practical advice, beyond just legal advice, through the entire process. In a rapid exchange with another lawyer, Zanita demonstrated knowledge of the law that clearly surpassed the other lawyer. My custody case had some unique challenges but Zanita expertly navigated the situation to the best possible resolution. It was a difficult time in my life, but I will always be glad that I had Zanita on my team.
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27 Jun, 2017 by Sarah
Zanita or Z as she likes to be called, took me through my divorce with a great deal of concern for me as well as for my children. Z didn't let my "hurry up, I just want it over" emotional responses to the divorce proceedings cost me in my sanity or in my settlement. She certainly is not the stereotypical lawyer yet with a combination of compassion for all sides (children have a side with her), toughness at the negotiation table and experience practicing law she is a lawyer I wouldn't hesitate to recommend to family and friends going through a divorce.
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21 Jun, 2017 by Heather
I could not have been more pleased with Zanita. She was very professional and made me feel very comfortable and secure. She helped to guide me through the entire process and made a not so desirable thing to have to go through very, very manageable. She put together an absolutely fabulous collaboration team. With this set in place, the process went quickly and smoothly and most importantly gave the utmost support to our children.
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29 Jan, 2019 by Jen
Attorney Martone helped me through a very nasty custody battle with my ex husband. He was very diligent and helped guide me in the right direction. I cannot thank him enough.
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07 Mar, 2011 by Lonn
My letter to Joseph, still waiting on a repsonse from him:
Dear Joseph,
I wish to express my concerns about your last representation. In no way am I upset about the outcome of the recent custody conciliation. What I am very disappointed in is the total lack of guidance you had offered me when I had presented at your office in January. As a matter of fact, we never truly discussed the current situation in your office prior to the conciliation paperwork even being completed. I truly believe that had you took the time to go through my documents with me, and properly guided me as to the criteria for the request I was making, that we would have reached the same recommendation back in January that I am facing now.
I know that there are no guarantees in legal proceedings. I do expect proper guidance and representation a month before the fact when I present for it and not in a quick twenty minutes just before the custody conciliation is to take place and be left to defend myself. I view these circumstances as unprofessional conduct and expect more from such an honored attorney.
It is therefore I believe I should be entitled to reimbursement for some of the legal fees I have incurred. These proceedings could have been timed more effectively had you given this matter the attention it deserved for the fees I have submitted for your time and services.
.....In short, Joseph didn't have the time for the prior consult I scheduled with him and he just took my check and filed the papers without knowing a single fact. Once we did talk just twenty minutes before the conciliation (a month later), it was all so clear that Joseph initiated the action way to fast and just blew my time and money which was completely avoidable had he done things in the correct order. Why any lawyer would file a case before talking to his client is just beyond me????? I will be finding a new attorney..................
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3.6
3 Reviews
4.3
14 Reviews
22 Apr, 2022 by Optimus grime
"If you want someone to take thousands from you, then be discussing your case with the "opposing" lawyer from the DA's office and go into court and say absolutely nothing.....Then Andy Sisinni is the attorney for you"👎🗑
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13 Sep, 2021 by Joe radwany
Top of the line Profesional, Service & Team Work on relatively small issues at reasonable rates.
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24 Aug, 2021 by John fiebelkorn
great attorney
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10 Aug, 2024 by A w
Best place to go if you need a lawyer and paralegal help
I had a great lawyer and a great paralegal.
Just want to say thank you to Maggie Merritt for helping me out so much in 2021,
She is the best paralegal in this world.
Thank you.. Thank you.. Thanks,
Alan
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08 Jul, 2024 by Matt shafer
Complete scam this firm is the issue. Not there lawyers
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11 Mar, 2024 by Matt shafer
Att. Spry has been very helpful and caring.
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10 Jul, 2019 by Dawby
Peasley charged me over $30,000. Forced me to sign a divorce settlement agreement, behind closed doors. The agreement was dated incorrectly and notarized without the notary having witnessed my signature. The MSA was never filed. Peasley entered me into a child custody agreement (never filed) without my consent and charged me billable hours. Child support was based on joint custody, but my child resided only with me his entire life. Peasley did not specify any amount of my settlement which constituted child support. She told me she was retiring and may not be able to finish my case and then withdrew as my attorney immediately after settlement, leaving me and my minor son unrepresented, broke and disadvantaged. When I last saw her to retrieve my disorganized and partial files, Peasley was consulting with a new client. Certainly not retired.
This attorney is not a family law attorney, as she did not represent me or my son to the best of her ability.
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16 Oct, 2009 by Jeff t.
A very good lawyer and fair as well, I spent time with another lawyer who was not very productive and let my x walk all over me. When i hired paige she got things moving along. She was very fair to all parties and made sure that fair and eqaule treatment came from the other side as well because before paige that was not happening. Once again could not be more pleased if you can get her for your lawyer I would recommend you do so .
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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.
