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24 Feb, 2018 by Gerard
Ok- consider this a ‘word of mouth’ recommendation: I received Ms. Aiello’s Name from another top-level attorney (who does not do family/divorce law)
- I stopped mediation immediately as she saved me thousands of dollars for knowing what’s realistic and respectful to the other “aide”
- she uses calm knowledge to counsel instead of emotional demands
- she was outstanding in negotiating the final agreement
- she knows the processes and systems well and doesn’t cut corners or some such silly things
- she is highly (!) respected by the judges from what I saw and heard about her
- remember when you engage and hire an attorney it’s a two way street: if you or the other side is not reasonable and reapectful - How can you expect a favorable outcome? Sounds like common sense but I have seen people trying to do a ‘“show of force -let alone ‘retribution’ “ - and everyone loses then.
- Ms. Aiello is super transparent, knowledgeable and her team is equally professional - never heard any excuses - like other offices I have witnessed.
Hope this helps a bit.
I was totally or more than satisfied.
Great recommendation!
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24 Feb, 2018 by Michael
Mary Ann Aiello is an outstanding divorce attorney. She was attentive to my needs, knowledgeable and highly experienced. She is well respected by the court and her peers. Her ability to be practical and sensible while simultaneously advocating vigorously for her client was well appreciated. Mary Ann was readily available and typically responded to all communications in a very timely manner. I would recommend Mary Ann Aiello without reservation.
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20 Feb, 2018 by Maryellen
Mary Ann Aiello is an excellent attorney. She is an extremely knowledgeable and skilled attorney. She is fair, and practices with extreme moral and ethical principles. I have already recommended her to a few of my friends who also love her. She made sure that I received a fair and extremely lucrative settlement. She does not give up until your case is settled. She always answers your email or phone calls in an extremely timely fashion. She is the best attorney!!!
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27 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
Mr. Vance came highly recommended to me and was my second Lawyer. Unlike my first attorney, Paul was smart, efficient and honest. He took the time to explain exactly what my options were and was a force of nature in the courtroom.
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29 Sep, 2014 by Benjamin
Mr. Vance is a consummate professional. He is sincere and honest in his dealing
with me. He is extremely patient and smart. I feel so confident that my interests are
protected!
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29 Apr, 2015 by Joey
I had the good fortune to meet Mrs. Levitan when she and my mother, Dr. Jeanne Pizzo, were working with the New Democratic Coalition. A few years later an "Rx Drug Abuse Issue" led to my own brush with the criminal justice system and Mrs. Levitan and her associates handed it brilliantly. I did what I was mandated to do and, consequently, I do not have ANY criminal record at all. I learned from my mistakes and am now a successful career English educator, complete with a PhD from Mrs. Levitan's alma mater, NYU. I recall observing her in Court. Now that I've been honored by my colleagues as a "Master Teacher" and "Teacher of the Year" several times, I KNOW what peer recognition feels like — and that's what I felt when Mrs. Levitan was arguing a case. She negotiated with the DA's office and then negotiated some more and achieved a plea bargain (Disorderly Person) that was a galaxy away from the original charges, provided I did what I was mandated to do. I did and I can honestly say that without this outstanding attorney, I would have had a Felony record and forever have been ineligible to obtain teaching or administrative credentials. Inspired by her example, I've always out my students or the teachers and administrators I supervise first, ahead of the political miasma the DOE and it's inept Chancellors prefer. Mrs. Levitan taught me me to stand up for children as she does for her clients. I did counseling internship at Covenant House and used the research and reporting skills learned as a Journalism major and a reporter on one of the "top 10" circulating dailies to work around the system. I'm proud of my work in counseling, teacher education and the teaching of English. None of his would have been possiblewithout Mrs. Levitna;s intervention
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21 Mar, 2023 by Mitcheal masih
Where to even start... ive been taken advantage by other lawyers who took my profession as a pay day, past two lawyers did nothing but take money. 1yr of family court and they didnt file any paperwork they were hired for, i contactes Mr.edwards firm explained my situation best way i can.. Mr.Edwards understood my position, said and i qoute "we're getting your son back" this statement was made exactly 48days ago..since then Mr.edwards has eliminated Supervised visits leaned against me. Where i was subject to see my son 2hrs on Thursday and 2hrs on friday. Total travel time was 7hr to 8hrs. For those 2 days. I did that for almost a yr.
Mr.edwards understood the importance of my case and how much my son means to me.. how my son has been in foster house for almost a yr.. as i qouted Mr.edwards... he eliminated the supervised visits in his 1st court date, i get to spend the entire weekend and every weekend with my son, i even have the rights to drop my son to school... im so thankful for Mr.edwards expertise, Legit the Best Lawyer..
My case isnt over yet. But i know Full victory is in sight by may/june i will have full custody.
All the praying landed us to Mr.edwards.
Im legit happy. My son counts the days. Hrs when we can see each other.. soon that will be exact what what my son and i want.
I wasted $17,500 with other lawyers and almost a yr with no results.. Mr.edwards did so much in 48days. Best decision for the fight.
If this was a boardgame Mr.edwards would be the strongest character on the board.
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30 Jun, 2022 by Lori
Mr Edwards cares about his clients and prides himself in efficiency and getting results . I would highly recommend . He is seriously the best ! No lawyer stands a chance against Mr Edwards ! He also makes his clients feel comfortable . He has incredible communication and a great team . I’d give him 100 stars if I could . Worth every penny !
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06 Dec, 2021 by Debbie
Jonathan Edwards was truly dedicated to my mom's matrimonial and other family matter cases. He is honest, professional, thorough, caring, personable, knowledgeable and has a great recall for details. He kept us informed along the way and always got back to us quickly. We will always be grateful for his help!
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05 Mar, 2014 by Anonymous
Elena is my attorney in a complex divorce with custody and financial issues. She is excellent both in and out of the courtroom. I have recommended her to a lot of people and they have all been pleased. I have only positive things to say about Elena and her firm.
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04 Mar, 2014 by Anonymous
Dynamo in the courtroom. Experienced trial attorney...however I felt I had very little control with my divorce and was not happy with final result. Two and only things I wanted in divorce I did not get. I wish I had went to someone in a smaller firm with less of a caseload.
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23 Sep, 2016 by Shari e layton-ferreiro
Mr. Klar is an expert. He was beyond fair with my divorce proceedings. He is very respected by the Court as well. I highly recommend him.
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30 Jul, 2015 by Joan
Very fortunate to have had Michael as my attorney in the resolution of a very long time marriage. Michael was wonderful to deal with and almost responsive to my calls and requests. Could not have asked for a better matrimonial attorney.
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21 Jul, 2015 by Joel
Michael Klar is representing me after my soon to be ex son in law took out a Order of Protection against me.
The allegations are completely made up and Michael has helped me through the process.
He has always been available to me via phone to advise on any issues I have. I could not have gotten through this without Michael Klar's help.
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22 Oct, 2018 by Rachael
Attorney Michael Fried took my case after my original divorce attorney chose to overbill rather than complete my non-contentious divorce. This attorney was thorough and solution-focused. His concern was bringing my case to a conclusion. He and his staff are professional, kind, and warm. It was such a relief to meet someone who was compassionate and caring. I knew I was in good hands.
I recommend that anyone bringing a divorce go no further than Attorney Michael Fried. You will have no worries.
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16 Dec, 2017 by Douglas
I was fast tracking a mediation for divorce. With Micheal's help it was done in three months. Each document I sent was thoroughly reviewed and turned around in days. He had identified issues that I never would have considered.
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14 Oct, 2017 by Thomas
In a time of Divorce,emotions and confusion can run high. Michael Fried immediately made me feel more comfortable, informed, and cared for. He is very experienced and knowledgeable on all aspects of a Divorce. His personal demeanor put me at ease throughout the whole process. He explained every step in the process in a very simple and understandable way. Divorce is a terrible time in someones life, but with Michael Fried, you will be able to get through this difficult time with all the information,understanding and compassion you will need
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07 Nov, 2019 by Janet
It is my privilege to recommend Jennifer Coden as an excellent and trustworthy divorce attorney. I believe her work would not only meet your expectations but exceed them. Jennifer Coden and her team were caring, honest , reliable, professional and got the job done. She not only represented me in court with skill and professionalism but was there for me emotionally. She can guide you through the process. I was very impressed with Jennifer's ability to state my case. I was represented better than I could have imagined. My needs were put first and I was treated with compassion. My opinions were valued and my doubts were reassured while being informed of the law. She calmed my nerves and the process was always explained. Her team, Lorie,Nicole, and Matt, always had her back when she was in court and were available for me. They kept me informed and I thank them for that. I couldn't have asked for a better attorney. I will recommend her as she was recommended to me. Thanks so much Jennifer for all you continue to do! You will not be disappointed if you hire her.
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06 Nov, 2019 by Joe
Most, to the best of my knowledge plan on getting divorced. I did not after many years of marriage. When that ugly day arrives one searches for the best attorney they can have. I interviewed several and knew I made the right choice when I chose Jennifer Coden. She held my hand all to often and understood what my needs were. There were many hurdles as my EX went through four attorneys, each one more incompetent than the next. Jen and her associate, Nicole Silver and their staff kept them all in check. Their professionalism, expertise in the law and often the need to educate the opposing attorneys, led to closure of my marriage and allowed me to move on. I thank them always.
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20 Jun, 2018 by Anonymous
I hired Jennifer a year ago after interviewing numerous attorneys to go through a very emotional divorce. As soon as I met her I knew that she was the attorney for me. She is warm, caring, friendly, patient, thoughtful and extremely knowledgeable. She made me feel better immediately. Many times I have had emotional days and I knew I could call her up and she would talk me through whatever it is that was bothering me. When we had to appear in Court I had full confidence in her as she was always prepared and got us in and out with no time wasted. I felt that she was very reasonable as she did not waste any time when dealing with the other side. I have recommended Jennifer to many people and they all felt the same and have thanked me for recommending her through the difficult time in their life.
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06 Jul, 2024 by Anonymous
Jill Stone is money hungry, has more regard for her ridiculous hair style than here clients. Extremely dismissive of women in need trying to leave an abuser. Only to run into her abusive arms. She says all the right things at first. Till your billable hours are almost triple of what they should be. Not only that, but after asking around Long Island and doing research on her cases I discovered she enables both of her sons (Josh and Troy) to get away with criminal actions such as, fraud, conspiracy to commit fraud, harassment, mental abuse and many other criminal acts.
What’s scarier is Troy Stone is not only involved in criminal activity, but is an attorney for her firm as well. They should both be disbarred and reviewed by Nassau county bar association.
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08 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
This woman is rude, nasty, dismissive a liar and BEYOND money hungry, she charges you for breathing. She will send you ridiculous bills be aware and will drain your retainer after one appearance: she is a scammer !!!! She will complicate your case just to charge you more. Doesn’t listen or want your best interest just all about money. Takes advantage of women in bad situations and is a horrible person.
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05 May, 2022 by Janai
From the first time I spoke to Stone Studin Young & Nigro Law Group, I knew I had the best team for my child custody battle ahead. Jill Stone was simply phenomenal from start to finish. I could not have had a more motivating and well versed lawyer by my side for the most stressful time in my life! The whole legal team was responsive, professional and empathic throughout all my court needs. Highly Recommended!!
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11 Dec, 2024 by Anonymous
Don't be fooled. She was threatened by spouse's narcissitic lawyer. She did me wrong.
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28 Oct, 2018 by Claire
Allison was my divorce attorney , she is absolutely the best attorney ever !!She got me everything I deserved and more !!My X. Husband didn’t want to get divorced so I got divorced alone with Allison Rockmore , she got me my house , health insurance , child support all paid for by x husband also , x husband put on stay away family court ,
I get 1/2 his pension , and now 3 years later she got me an extra year of child support and health insurance for my self ,
Allison goes to bat for you whatever it takes , she knows her stuff , I would reccomend her 100% best divorce lawyer there is , she is always there for you when you need her , if she is busy , you get a text , email or call within a day !!Hire her , you will be very pleased!!!
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11 Nov, 2014 by Anonymous
I never thought I was going to find myself in the situation where I would need to fight for my child, but unfortunately I did. Allison had been referred to me from one of my friends who Allison helped get custody of her children in a very poisonous relationship. Throughout my entire ordeal, Allison was very attentive to my needs and fought zealously for my children. She was determined to get a positive outcome and she did. I am very thankful I retained her.
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16 Oct, 2016 by Anonymous
Hiring Breiter is a mistake I will have to live with forever. She ruined my life and my children's lives. She is incompetent. She does not do her due diligence. She tries to be a social butterfly. I had to go to court for my divorce!!! She shows her hand to the other attorney. Instead of serving my husband with the divorce papers she sends him a letter advising him that I have retained her...WHAT? I had a bad feeling from the get-go but lack of funds and emotional state forced me to stay with Breiter. DON'T DO IT, FIND ANOTHER LAWYER!!! Don't give her and her staff ruin your life too.
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07 May, 2015 by Anonymous
I hired Jeanne Breiter to represent me as my collaborative divorce attorney last summer. Divorce is obviously never easy, and mine became an extremely stressful event at times as my wife and I had trouble reaching an equitable settlement.
Jeanne and the entire law firm were understanding and compassionate and offered great advice along with sound legal council. They assisted me greatly and helped guide me thru a very difficult time. Thankfully, I was able to obtain my divorce without having to go to court.
Without a doubt, this was a very confusing time and probably the most difficult period of my life. Going through a divorce is stressful but Jeanne and the entire staff really showed their care and concern for me during this time. I would absolutely recommend Jeanne Breiter if you are looking for a divorce attorney.
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03 Sep, 2013 by Anonymous
I don't usually write comments on these sites but I am sitting here reading negative comments about Jeanne Breiter, who is my divorce attorney. I absolutely disagree! Jeanne was enormously successful in recently representing me. My husband and I had very difficult financial issues, and we were both out of work. Jeanne focused on my needs and helped me achieve a fair and amicable resolution as a collaborative divorce, keeping me from having to go to Court. As people will agree, going through a divorce is stressful but Jeanne and her friendly, helpful support staff made the process smooth. I strongly recommend Jeanne Breiter if you are going through a divorce.
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07 Sep, 2021 by Anonymous
My initial impression upon consultation was positive, so I hired Mrs Sokolich. Unfortunately, covid happened and things were moving slow. Too slow. It seemed as though Mrs Sokolich put me on a back burner. Further, for court dates, she failed to tell the judge some critical health information about me that would potentially save me thousands of dollars. The straw that broke the camels back is when she didn't put up an argument or resistance to outrageous demands from the opposition. Instead she told me nonchalantly that this is what they want and will probably get.
There was no fight in her. I felt like she was not on my side. I immediately consulted 5 separate attorneys (3 recommendations from friends and 2 from Avvo) and they all told me that I was correct about the demands being outrageous and even assured me that the demands would not stand up if my case went to trial. Further, they agreed that if Mrs Sokilich had first told the judge about my health issues that the pendulum would have surely swung in my favor. I ultimately hired an ace of an attorney off of Avvo and dismissed Mrs Sokolich.
I am not bashing Mrs Sokolich. She is a very nice person and I am sure she has and will serve many people well, but she is not the right attorney for me.
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21 Nov, 2021 by Anonymous
Ilene was my lawyer. I now need to go back to court several years later due to all the errors she made. Allowed my ex husband to have a cap and follow all standards of the nys child support laws. She told me she made sure was my son was well taken care of and she made stipulations to the divorce agreement as she had me sign every page. $50k later I find my ex has truly been gifted by my lawyer to just follow Nys child support act. What was I paying all this money for to negotiate when she basically followed all Nys standards for college, no sports, and allowing him to maximally pay $2100 per month towards child support when his salary is now over $300k. That’s not even 10 percent when I was the one left paying all of the bills. Now need to return to court to fix all of the courtesies she left for my ex to take. I assure you, she never would have signed the agreement she handed me with a smile.
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14 Nov, 2013 by Anonymous
She was my lawyer, along with Warren Hoffman many years ago. They did absolutely nothing for me and yet left me with a huge bill. I would definitely not recommend them.
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18 May, 2009 by Anonymous
Ilene represented me in my divorce 4+ years ago. Her name was given to me as a referral by a professional-whom I respected. They knew someone who used Ilene and recommended her. She was kind, honest and alway kept me informed. Not something you ususally hear about a lawyer. My ex was HORRIBLE and went after everything-trying to leave me penniless and childless. Ilene fought for me and got everything that mattered to me. She always told me the truth. To this day, I continue to call her with questions. She is ALWAYS available for me. Just as kind and honest as when she represented me. I continue to give her name out as a referral. Not one person who has used her because of me has regretted it. Everyone has nothing but good to say about her. She is very respected in her field. I would recommend Ilene to anyone. She may not be the cheapest- but for a decision that will last the rest of your child's future, SO WORTH THE MONEY.
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19 Jan, 2023 by Anonymous
Bad advice, makes typos, cost client a lot of money with no resolution. Nearly half a million in legal fees and nothing to show for it. Linda does not fight for her clients and causes major distress while continuing to charge and then threatens to “ lay down their pens” when the bill approaches $50,000 mark again. Forget the fact that $400,000 was already paid. This woman should be dis barred for incompetence and price gouging. Lets her opponent walk all over her. Guess lawyers are all about billable hours. We have to get together to get her out of this parasitic profession
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04 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
I hired this Linda for my divorce case, I had to fire her and went to a different lawyer.
Looking back, I noticed how unprofessional she was. She took advantage of my situation: I was in shock and desparate. She not only did not help me, but also gave ill advices to me and cause me dearly on my divorce case. She did not really do anything. The paper she filed for me had typos and I had to go back to her to have the errors corrected. (of course, I still had to pay the time she "correct" her own msitakes that I spotted).
After I fired her, my new lawyer immediately made "sound" decision and took and "quick" actions and made the situation much better. The advise she gave me was proven totally "wrong".
Still, she charged me the time she was not doing anything. She represents the worst of lawyers.
Do not go to her. I will file a complaint at Bar Association. This type of lawyer is the shame of the law community!
Do not use her!
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06 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
If you are looking for a lawyer who is impersonal, extremely difficult to reach, condescending and keeps you in the dark in your most vulnerable state of divorce, passive, defensive and certainly not proactive, greedy, and ultimately inflexibly overpriced - this is your man. Although very cordial at first, you will find that when he told you he would be present in all court appearances for you, that meant an associate of his would actually be representing you in court and he would theoretically only be present during a trial if that ever happens. Otherwise, don't expect even a nod from him when you happen to see him in court with his other clients. Everything I heard about him and his reputation was unfortunately far from reality during the time his firm was representing me, stay away.
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28 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
I hired him to collect from my ex, I thought he was experienced and would be effective. However, I realized he was not used to using computer and conducted most of his correspondence with phone. The worst part was he became friends with my ex's lawyer. Did not know what he did but my ex stopped paying even more two months after I hired him. He did not respond to my phone calls and emails after my ex stopped paying. I have to advance thousands of dollars.
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08 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
Mr Jeniffer Shenker I will never recommend her to anyone she doesn’t takes her clients seriously She only cares about money She doesn’t listen to her client and she doesn’t address anything to the judge. They all sitting in a court and getting paid from clients big amount money ! When we are emotionally stressed waiting for the court date hoping this will be resolved on that date ! Jenifer has no time for her client she is too busy looking at the Burberry bags on her phone I will never recommend To anyone They should take her license away
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16 Jul, 2014 by Anonymous
This woman was an absolute horror show during my divorce. I don't think she means harm but she has no sensitivity to the stress of going through a divorce, she actively yelled at me at least twice for giving answers she didn't like. Even though she knew I was a victim of, among other things, verbal abuse from my spouse. She made me cry at least three times for things no client should be made to cry over . I was traumatized by my experience with her, she is completely insensitive to what it is like being someone going through a divorce. It got to the point where it was more stressful being with her than the husband I was trying to divorce so in an act of desperation I settled with him just so I would not have to see her anymore.
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21 Oct, 2023 by Rose
Worse dovorce
attorney ever. Did not care about his client's case. He might have as well represented the opposing party. He let the opposing counsel an attorney with very bad reviews run circles around him. He is a disgrace to the legal profession.
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27 Oct, 2014 by Anonymous
The worst decision I ever made in my life was to hire Paul Miklus to represent me. My spouses lawyer ran circles around him. He handed most work over to his assistant & spent most of his time golfing. Paul made sure to stretch my case out as long a he could & so collect the maximum fees. To say he was incompetent is being kind. I actually believe he was completely self serving & greedy. He did all he could to maximize his fees.
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Questions? We have answers
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.
