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09 Dec, 2024 by Imre berta
22 Nov, 2024 by Jeffrey woody
Michelle Ellerin and the staff at J&G Law, LLC were very professional and extremely knowledgeable. They were able to successfully help me navigate through my family matters. Cheryl Copeland walked me through the process step by step and ensured that I was abreast of all aspects from beginning to end. Michelle Ellerin used her experience and knowledge to create a trusting relationship which was not one sided. She listened to my viewpoint and implemented where possible. I highly recommend Michelle Ellerin and Cheryl Copeland of J&G Law, LLC.
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22 Nov, 2024 by Brenda cathrall
I used Michele Ellerin as my attorney for my divorce. She was OUTSTANDING!!! She was very thorough, detailed, and kept in touch will all steps going through the divorce. Her Paralegal, Cheryl Copeland was AMAZING!!! She as well was very detailed and every process was done in a timely manner and very professional. I honestly could not have gotten through this horrible experience (divorce) without them. I felt confident in them and the outcome of what I got out of my divorce was better than I imaged. Michele fought for me - she is a shark - and I received everything and more than what I was asking for. I would HIGHLY recommend Michele Ellerin to anyone. You will not be sorry. It's not an easy process to find the right attorney but I will promise you, you are in great hands with Michele Ellerin and Cheryl Copeland.
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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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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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04 Jan, 2025 by Rebecca capone
Stacy was helpful at explaining the mediation process and remained impartial yet encouraging throughout.
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03 Jan, 2025 by Matheo carrasco
I regret not starting my process with this firm, after dumping my old attorney for Kristen and her team, I know I was in good hands. They are always on top of your case and defend you till the end! They always keep you informed of what’s going on and keep you at ease. If you’re thinking about getting divorced, choose this law firm! You won’t regret it!
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27 Dec, 2024 by Katie daily
This firm has tremendous experience with dedicated attorneys and staff to handle cases with care. Kristen Farris and Erika Rush handled our custody modification with thoughtful dedication and absolutely rigorous work. They are tireless, patient, and fair. I could not have asked for a better or more effective team!
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02 Mar, 2022 by Karen
Veronica Mandel was an exceptional attorney during a lengthy and messy child support case. She did extenstive discovery and was instrumental in my favorable judgements. I'm deeply indebted to her for her trusted and valuable expertise and legal advice. Forever Grateful Karen and Joelle
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08 Jan, 2019 by Alassane
Veronica Mandel, is an incredible family lawyer who deeply cares and connects with you. Veronica, helped to to get my life back my children. She fearlessly represented when my ex wife alleged a bogus domestic violence against me just for the sake of getting an apartment in NYC. She helped me get back my children and dismissed all the cases of bogus domestic violence.
I would highly recommend Veronica for anyone who looking for a fearless, caring and competent lawyer.
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22 Aug, 2017 by Liamson
I would highly recommend her to anyone. She is so attentive and assertive in what she does and takes her job very serious. During my custody case, my son was being majorly abused being in the company of his mother and her associates. The home was a very negative environment and toxic to my son and the custody case was only brought about because of his constant running away from home and ending up at my doorstep. I had no experience in the transitional phase of obtaining custody but Mrs. Mandel made it so easy for me. So easy that on the first court appearance Veronica was so prepared and was so determined, I got temporary custody of my son on the first go!! As a dad I didn't think it was possible that quickly. It brought me to tears. She even took the time out to make calls whether it was 4 in the afternoon or 10, 11, 0r 12 midnight to check up on me and make sure everything was ok with me and my sons transition. She has a beautiful soul and never backed down to anything in court that was thrown at her. I felt so protected by her will to make sure my son remained in safe environment. She made sure I knew my court dates, made sure i brought the proper documents to court and never ever made me feel I was alone in this fight. My son had it rough in the beginning but after her advice to seek therapy for him, 5 years later he's doing extremely well. I can't thank her enough for what type of impact she's had on me and my son's life. She's a game changer and I love her to death!!!! Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!!!!
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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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10 Mar, 2023 by Gloria moises machava
27 Feb, 2023 by Koffi franck aka
24 Feb, 2023 by Janet zaki
07 Oct, 2024 by Aaron tamaddon
*Writes two sentence email*
*Bills for 20 minutes*
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02 Feb, 2023 by Peter clevenger
25 Mar, 2020 by Alix hamilton
Peter Stambleck and his team did an excellent job
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25 Mar, 2014 by Anonymous
Lorraine is a fair and knowledgeable attorney. After dealing with a few different attorneys that were only concerned with making money and could have cared less about my kids, I was referred to Lorraine by a colleague and consider myself lucky to have found her. Lorraine did in 3 months what my previous attorneys failed to do in 3 years and at the cost tens of thousands of dollars. She is fair, caring and was genuinely concerned for the best interest of the children involved. She did what it took and was not intimidated to stand up for what she believed in. She was prepared to fight and fight she did.
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01 Apr, 2012 by Sherri
I thought, oh no, not another newbie or someone that is so aweful that they cant sustain a practice and is working for support collections. Was I ever wrong! She was sharp, articulate and a viper against the stuffed shirt from Saratoga. She not only got what my child needed but also cared about our situation.She went above and beyond my best expectations . I really thought I would leave in tears, once again, with whoever was supposed to be doing the right thing merely agreeing to whatever the opposition demanded. Not this time, Lorraine went in like a mama bear and she did the demanding, getting every penny owed to us and a better deal for the future and putting them to shame in the process. She understands because she is a mom and more importantly has morals. She knows what it means to do the right thing and keeps in mind who her client is and thats whats important.She crosses her t's and dots her i's and knows what to do and unlike others I have expirienced, remembers to actually file the paper work.Her name totally suits her.Whats more precious than a Diamond? I am sure she would say your child is.
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15 Oct, 2014 by Zach
Retained Wayne on a personal injury matter.
Very smart and knowledgeable, one of the few lawyers who actually knows his information and did great in my court case. Resulting in a heft settlement
Experience was also great i highly recommend him for any matter
He is now helping me with my sons ongoing criminal case.
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16 Apr, 2013 by Anonymous
I used this attorney for all of my divorce matters, and also a few criminal matters. He has handled my divorce very well. He is a very smart man and always knowledgeable. He will treat you like you are the most important case to him. He also put a lot of time and work Into each client. I have recommended him to family and friends and they all say the same thing. This man KNOWS HIS STUFF! I will never use anyone else.
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14 Jun, 2022 by Melissa
I would highly recommend Steven Grocott to anyone looking to hire a divorce attorney. He is extremely knowledgeable in all aspects of the law concerning divorce. He is very good about educating the client regarding all of the options to be considered and presents them in such a way that you can make the best decisions in regards to your own situation. He does all of this very professionally with compassion and the space to thoroughly think through your decisions. Divorce is not easy, but Steven walked me through the process feeling as though he always had my best interest at heart and I would walk away with a fair outcome which I did.
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07 Nov, 2012 by Anonymous
If you are looking for an attorney who puts 100% of his time and effort into your case look no further. Mr. Grocott was able to untangle one the most complicated custody cases in history that involved multiple jurisdictions in four different states. In addition to being trustworthy and knowledgeable he is compassionate, which is a rare quality for the legal profession these days. I highly recommend Mr. Grocott's services.
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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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17 Jul, 2019 by Frank
I was refer to Ms Puleo from a different lawyer.
When I talk to Ms Puleo on the phone she understood and hear me.
She took my case. I did everything she requested of me.
She kept an eye on the court date.
The court date change and she was on top of it and notified me. I change my plan to the new date. - I read of nightmare when lawyers don't know if the court date change - it was not the case with me.
The case got dismiss ( yes you read correctly)
I still pay child support voluntarily. I believe a child should be taking care of with a fair amount.
If the child mother decide to take me to family court again, I will hire Ms Puleo again.
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08 Dec, 2013 by Jonathan
my presumption on the legal profession has always been that of Charles Dickens (read his first chapter of Bleak House) but I am pleased to report that Andreea has changed this impression dramatically. she gave me the opportunity to work collaboratively, working as a team to meet court deadlines systematically and effectively. Her approach is combative (when needed) yet compassionate to her client's situation -- wholeheartedly recommended.
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28 Oct, 2014 by Anonymous
Robert Wallack was the second divorce lawyer I hired after spending a full year with another lawyer. He is one of the most passionate, knowledgeable and adept lawyers I have ever encountered (and I know many). And he's particularly good in the court room which is where my case ended up.
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29 Jul, 2011 by Anonymous
Robert Wallack is not only a shark in the courtroom, but he's a fierce negotiator and he handled my case with great care and compassion. My ex and I were involved in a long and draining litigation and Rob was with me every step of the way, acting as my advocate and champion. He really helped me through the most difficult time in my life.
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24 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
She was kind undstanding honest , She fixed my legal problem in a timely matter . I would only use her in future and would recommend to everyone I know .
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17 Sep, 2014 by Anonymous
I like when an attorney isn't for the court and represents the client the best of her ability. Mrs. Talerico did an excellent job with representing me in front of Judge Skane..thank you. If you need an attorney she is the best at what she does, and she will do her best. This attorney was court appointed, either way she is nice, does her job. Thank you!! Satisfied client.
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11 Oct, 2019 by Anonymous
Brad did a great job with very short notice and in a tough situation. I would recommend him to anyone in need of a family law attorney
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09 Feb, 2016 by Greg
Mr. Maccarini has helped me through a divorce, and the custody issues that come with it, with a compassion and dignity I did not think I could ever find in a lawyer. I have relied on him several times since 2008, and he has never failed me in any way.
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25 Mar, 2021 by Brendan
Adam is as smart and meticulous as he is caring. If you are on Long Island and need counsel with matrimonial, family law, or child-related issues, call Adam. Your matter will receive the care and attention it deserves.
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16 Nov, 2016 by Wendy
Amazing lawyer. Couldn't have done a better job for me and my children. Never want any other attorney.
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08 Oct, 2011 by Queenesther..
Christina Farrell Is very calm cool and collective. She got called on my case through CSEB from the county. Ms. Farrell started on the case 7 months into it. I was being railroaded by Kathryn Tusa And Magistrate Buse. Tusa and Buse both live in St. James and are very good friends. Ms. Farrell presented herself as a lady with fairness. Low and Behold " Kathryn Tusa" had no respect and was a 2 face turkey neck backstabber and I know the repondent paid her more than 700.00 and she is still on his payroll representing his wife in Nassau. Other than that Ms. Farrell has far more class and intelligence than either one, she made the mistake by trusting Tusa " Ursula" to show regard for the same profession. I have FAITH in Farrell, my soul tells me to, And yes Tusa some of us didnt take money over godly souls.TRUTH will be heard. I know you typed the Fact and Finding for Buse and Buse wrote a letter of recommendation for your daughter to go to Hofstra Law....... God is For me and MY DAUGHTER.. If you want an HONEST ATTORNEY with class and integrity and intelligence , Christine Farrell is the gal.
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19 Aug, 2022 by Thomas
Scott represented me on a custody case after being chosen as my assigned counsel by the Family Court. Although, I ultimately chose not to pursue my preferred custody arrangements by having my case proceed to a trial, instead settling the case for the time being, from beginning to end, Scott’s presence in my case made a dramatically positive difference both in and out of the court room. Prior to Scott being assigned as my attorney, I was represented by three other paid attorney’s who over-charged, underperformed, and actually contributed to influencing the stressful nature of a custody proceeding by their inability to empathize with the stress- inducing circumstances of the case, exercise patience, or consider my wishes above what they thought was best for my case. In contrast, with Scott as your attorney, you will be paying for (or in my case assigned at no cost) an attorney who is of unwavering integrity, exhibits steadfast patience, and always willing to place himself in your shoes when times get tough in your case. Uncomfortable, intense, and enduring emotions are central to the majority of Family Court Proceedings. Litigating a custody case is an experience than requires far more than an attorney with years of experience in a court room or an inflated ego. It requires an Attorney who is able to relate to the human element of the case, and be a source of wise and compassionate support while simultaneously contending with the legal component of the case with talent, skill, and ability to negotiate. Scott embodies this balance of empathy, knowledge, and expertise. I say with confidence that anyone who decides to retain Scott as their attorney will be stronger and more properly prepared to both fight and tolerate the litigating of their legal case. Considering this attorney was my assigned counsel, he was ‘underpaid yet over-delivered.’
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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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08 Apr, 2015 by Paula
In the toughest court in the land, Manhattan Divorce court, where the majority of lawyers play couples against each other, using children as pawns. Seth stepped in and put our kids mental well being first and expedited a speedy end to an extremely emotionally painful case. Thank you Seth M. Kaufman.
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10 Mar, 2012 by Anonymous
He helped me a lot with the case. I recommend him a lot
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27 Sep, 2010 by Greg
Joe and staff (Deb) handled my divorce with professional and personal attention for me. They always answered my calls and were always availble. They did a great job.
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06 Jun, 2019 by Rustam
I won in court with Ray. Ray is an amazing attorney. On the first communication he spent about 25 minutes with me on,the phone, giving me enough time to express the matter and the concerns. I was perfectly satisfied with his answers and the willingness to provide care for my issue. I immediately felt a great sense of relief, and was able to relax that night, as it felt that I found someone who will guide and be by my side me through the upcoming court battle. In the following weeks Ray, again gave me an additional hour and a half of free consultation, wherein I was perfectly settled in my quest as soneone who found a knowledgeable and caring attorney. Ray forgave me some payments, my final expenses were actually lower than initially we agreed. It was clear he was not a greedy person, as unfortunately is oftentimes the care with other attorneys. I went through a few attourneys before finding Ray. As we worked on the hearings preparations , Ray welcomed my information and various arguments that I desired be expressed and addressed in the courtroom. I was able to submit a packet of various notes to Ray, which he clearly read and took into account, provided feedback on, discussed and modified for the best of advantages in the courtroom. Ray trully worked with me, and the result was amazing we won in court! I recommend Ray, he is a good person, a great attorney, and he got me through tough times with the ultimate outcome - a victory in court. Thank you, dear Ray, for being there for me!
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22 Jul, 2013 by Suzana
Ms.Aragona represented me during a child support modification process last year (2012). I was lost and she made all the difference in the world. She was thoughtful and sensitive to the painful aspects of my case. I was able to get the help I needed in resolving long-standing problems. Ms.Aragona's knowledge of the system and relationships within the legal community were invaluable. I would recommend her to anyone who need a great lawyer
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05 Nov, 2017 by Anonymous
What a wonderful experience! Richard was patient with me during a long conversation and forthcoming with the pros and cons of my situation. I'm sorry to say I could not hire him because of the location of my court requirements, but would highly recommend this kind, intelligent man to anyone need a family law attorney.
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25 Apr, 2013 by Salimah
Arthur Greig represented me in a child support case. He is an excellent and very fair attorney. I absolutely recommend him to anyone.
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FAQs
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:
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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.
