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10 May, 2023 by Justin
Adam went above and beyond for my case to fight to ensure I was treated fairly and got the best deal. He was patient and kind and understanding of my situation. He had not had a case like this before and was fast to adapt to changing situations and new details. He was prompt and fast at getting responses for me and ensured I was able to travel internationally while on probation. I highly recommend Adam if you are seeking high quality representation.
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17 Aug, 2020 by Anonymous
Adam gave me a professional opinion on a question I had regarding liability for my church. He communicated clearly and explained the reasoning behind his analysis. I felt very confident that I had received good advice.
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13 Aug, 2020 by Sylvia
We hired Adam to handle a case against our former landlord in civil court. He was professional, met with us before the trial to prepare us and ensured we had the best chances possible for our case. Hopefully nothing similar happens again but if it does, we will be hiring Adam again!
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26 Aug, 2024 by Latisha
Attorney McCarl took the time and was patient with me in my divorce case. She was thoughtful and caring throughout the whole process.
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19 Jul, 2022 by Brittney
I retained Attorney Jessyca McCarl for child custody. We wanted to relocate to a different state. The very first time that I spoke to Attorney McCarl, she was very informative and knowledgeable. I felt that I could trust her with my case.
My case was an uphill battle, but Attorney McCarl did not give up. She fought very hard for my children and I. That did not go unnoticed. More importantly, I never had to reach out to Attorney McCarl to ask her about my case. She always kept me up to date on my case. If I had any questions, she always answered them truthfully.
My children are a priority in my life, I trusted Attorney McCarl with my case, and she delivered.
Attorney Jessyca McCarl has good vibes, a strong work ethic, she is very professional, and I can tell that she loves her career. I have no doubt that Attorney McCarl will continue to thrive, grow, and help families, like she helped mine.
I will always remember her. We will now be moving to a new state, and we cannot wait to begin the next chapter in our lives.
Thank you again Attorney McCarl, you are the absolute best!
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11 Apr, 2022 by Heather
Jessyca was so incredibly helpful during our time together. She helped me through the divorce process and made sure to clearly explain every step along the way. She was compassionate, kind, and understanding. I am so thankful for her knowledge and expertise. Highly recommend working with Jessyca!
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16 Mar, 2023 by Cheryl
Making the switch to Dan Joyce as my attorney was the best thing I could do for my custody battle and child support case.
He has been patient from the beginning with the high stress situation and has taken the time to listen to any concerns, and explain the result of anything in a way that I could understand. Quick to respond to any issues and questions too!
I could go on, as Dan has met anything you’d want to find in a lawyer. I highly recommend Mr. Joyce to anyone in need of an attorney!
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08 Mar, 2023 by A.b.
Dan was incredible with handling my divorce. My divorce seemed like it would have been simple (uncontested, no children) however it ended up being anything but! There was a battle with my ex over the house value and vehicle(s), plus a bunch of nasty behavior thrown-in. Dan handled everything like a pro and had a solution at every turn. I would hire him 100x over again, but hopefully won’t need to again :)
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16 Jun, 2020 by Ally
I contacted Dan and hired him as my criminal defense attorney. He was kind, fast, and made himself available to me whenever I needed him. He ended up getting all of my charges dismissed which completely lifted a large weight off of my shoulders. He fought hard for me and thats the best thing I could have asked for in an attorney!
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17 Mar, 2021 by Rhonda
In the middle of a pandemic I faced with some hard times bad needed an attorney Melissa was able to help me by providing me with the correct information to be able to feel comfortable with my case I had
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05 Oct, 2020 by Klara
If I could give her 10 stars, I would. She is compassionate, professional, knowledgeable, and flexible! I would highly recommend Melissa!
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04 Oct, 2020 by Barbara
Professional, intelligent, beautiful and kind hearted are a few adjectives I’m using to describe of Attorney Lewis.
I highly recommend Attorney Melissa Lewis not only is she beautiful both inside and outside, but she is also a remarkable young lady. She has helped me on several different occasions, and I appreciate her wisdom and knowledge. Attorney Lewis has a heart of compassion she is always giving back to community by being a role model to the youth. I highly recommend you give Attorney Lewis a call if you’re in need of an attorney.
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18 Oct, 2024 by Robb bunde
14 May, 2020 by Angela schroeder
03 Oct, 2017 by Krista sipos
As a local Realtor, I have worked with this establishment on an ongoing basis and am more than thrilled with the way they do business. Whether the work is centered around getting a home sale transaction to closing, or dealing with a complicated estate process, the folks at this company are prompt, professional, and consistent. I refer them all the time to colleagues and clients alike.
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15 Jun, 2017 by Sourabh
I am so happy, that he helped me get my child get back with me after I and my wife planned for the divorce but both of us wanted to have the kid. My wife was never a capable lady who could take care of the upbringing of my child and therefore I wanted my child to be with me. Thanks to Joseph who helped me winning it.
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01 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
If you have a divorce or custody situation, you MUST retain this guy. I had two very bad experiences with family law attorneys (had never hired one before) and Joe completely turned my case around. He is very aggressive in court, promptly returns your calls and emails and somehow does all of this stuff while still being FUNNY and making you actually like hearing from your divorce lawyer!!!
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12 Oct, 2010 by Anonymous
I always had a negative view of attorneys. When I retained Pollock Begg and Joe became my lawyer, I realized that there are attorneys who will respond to your calls, address your concerns and be an aggressive advocate on your behalf. Although Joe has only been practicing for a short period of time, he makes up for it in his dedication to his clients and his preparedness.
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21 Jul, 2023 by Eliza wick
Keep it up Mark
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26 Sep, 2014 by Anonymous
I hired Chas to handle a case for me after a previous attorney had screwed it up. Chas was willing to trust my view of things, without automatically siding with the previous attorney just because he was an attorney. He was also willing to let my husband handle filing all the documents, analyzing complicated estate accountings, preparing spreadsheets, and providing potential arguments to advance, which saved a ton of money on paralegal work. Chas was open with me, explained everything, and even allowed me to frequently argue with him (he claimed to enjoy it). He's a really nice guy and totally honest. The one thing I'd fault him for is that he isn't good at scheduling. Chas tends to let cases slide a bit till trial time (he loves trials), and then, since three trials had piled up consecutively, he was unable to spend enough time preparing for mine. However, he later hired an assistant and that seemed to help a lot.
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08 Feb, 2024 by Amritpal nat
I m truck driver got traffic tickets in Pennsylvania Ashley saved my license got tickets dismissed they are professionals highly recommended.
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20 Nov, 2020 by Capo thedon
Ashley represented me today in a matter where i was facing jail time plus a license suspension. Not only did she keep my freedom but also saved my license. The odds were against me but she persevered. She is a very professional, attentive lawyer. HIGHLY recommend.
Josh G.
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08 Nov, 2017 by Stephen p.
I would recommend and refer potiential clients for family law to Shah Law Firm .The staff is excellent they're always prompt and on top of everything . Kristen A. Bojarski is a top notched family law Esquire that really helped me resolve my family legal matters with favorable results .
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21 Jun, 2017 by Ashley
I would highly recommend Kristen as an attorney! She is very knowledgeable, experienced, and professional. She fought hard in court for me during my divorce trial. Shah Law Group's staff is also very helpful and organized. They are there to support you on daily basis! Thank you!
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31 May, 2018 by Ann
I fired my first attorney for his lack of communication. I hired Mr. Voelker and got a a real attorney and partner in my case. I was completely satisfied by his attention and candor regarding my situation. His realistic approach and his advocacy for my position resulted in a civilized and positive result. I highly recommend Mr. Voelker.
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06 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
The Shrager law office gave my case to Heather Kelly. Do NOT hire Shrager... they talked down to me, like I had no brain, yelled at me for following up when they told me to, treated me like I was a criminal and the office smelled of ego. I had no choice. So glad they "sold" the case to Kelly. She treated me the EXACT opposite. Took my phone call, listened to me (every time I needed her too), treated me like an innocent (I was) human being! My case was not complicated and the end result 95% would have been the same without her but Im so pleased she was there by my side. She has a calming presence about her.
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29 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous
Tyler is a well educated and well spoken attorney. He always took the time to answer all of my questions and was very knowledgeable. He was quick to take care of any issue I was having. If you choose Tyler as your attorney you will be in good hands.
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05 Apr, 2011 by Anonymous
I've been using Carla Schiff for years through my very contentious divorce. She has always been very responsive and is up to date with all of the child support guidelines. I would recommend her for any type of family matter.
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26 Aug, 2020 by Jessi
My case was extremely complex with a lot of history that needed thoroughly understood. Effie was patient, listened to all of the details, was kind and compassionate. She was dedicated to getting the result that I wanted and needed and came up with creative ways to solve my issue.
Effie respectfully helped me understand the court process that was ahead of us and gave me peace of mind during a very stressful time. In court she was prepared, quick-thinking and extremely professional.
Because of her hard work, I received the outcome I wanted and that allowed me to be able to move forward with my life.
Without hesitation, I highly recommend Effie Alexander.
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08 Nov, 2020 by Jeff jones
The lawyers employed here are incredible!
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08 Jul, 2020 by Eddie sisler
Mr. Cipriani represented our family business admirably in early 1980's. Very good experience!
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15 Feb, 2020 by Karen allgeier
24 Oct, 2024 by Dana rizzo
From the experience I had with John Morris, I would not recommend to anyone. I was told at the beginning of my son’s divorce that should be know more than $3000. Only because he doesn’t have any assets at all nor did his ex wife. There are no children involved. Two years later after the ex finally decided to sign the paper work, we get an invoice of an additional $3500 dollars. They said he spent 16 hours on a divorce that had no assets, absolutely no property and no contest. It was just sitting on his desk waiting for the ex to sign. My son was charged $6500 for this. This is unethical.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Benjamin vranish
Garrett Trettel turned a very unfortunate situation into as positive an experience as it could've been. He was polite, friendly, knowledgeable, easy to talk to, and he really helped me get back on my feet. I really appreciate all the hard work from everyone here, especially Garrett. Thank you.
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27 Sep, 2024 by M.j. vee
We have seen Carol over the last few years several times. She is courteous, knowledgeable, and very helpful . We are confident in the service she provides.
Joyce and Vitelli.
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03 Oct, 2024 by All praises
Mr Spivak Law Affirm was awesome for just giving me understanding on how to go about custody for my family to be one again so blessings to you and ur family and may there be more lawyers like your self to continue to give guidance. Thanks for reaching back out Donnell S.Jr
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02 Oct, 2024 by Rahul sinha
Attorney Spivak is a force of intellect you’d rather have on your side than not. It was a pleasure working with him and I especially appreciate his brutal honesty, logical thinking, clear explanations and authority in his field of expertise.
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11 Sep, 2024 by Dana
I found Attorney Spivak through a Google search with the criteria, “impossible PFA cases”. His name popped up and I gave him a call. Long story short, he literally won an impossible PFA case. This man is legit. My fiancé has been in custody courts for 3 and a half years, and this man proved his case with one PFA hearing. I would also say that anyone who may have very complicated custody cases, to talk to Mr Spivak. He’s highly knowledgeable, and this man actually CARES about his clients. He will go to bat for you, he is very direct, and he will tell you what to expect.
I say this with the most sincerity, I do not trust, like or even respect most attorneys. I have never had good experiences with most of them. I feel like they take your money , and that’s it. But this man is the real deal. I would highly recommend Attorney Spivak for any custody/PFA related cases. If I could give ten stars, I would.
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10 Sep, 2024 by Doug ament
I use Elliot and Davis for all my legal needs. Eric Davis always takes the extra time and makes sure I have no questions and I appreciate that more than you can know. I have been exceptionally pleased with their service.
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09 Sep, 2024 by Robert burack
Incredibly helpful team of smart, communicative lawyers who have helped my business with a number of contractual issues over the years.
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07 Sep, 2024 by Jacqueline sakala
Mr. Elliott is handling a serious injury claim for my friend, but he also helped me with a claim against my former landlord and made sure I was fully protected. I would strongly recommend him to anyone needing a lawyer.
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24 Oct, 2024 by Dana rizzo
From the experience I had with John Morris, I would not recommend to anyone. I was told at the beginning of my son’s divorce that should be know more than $3000. Only because he doesn’t have any assets at all nor did his ex wife. There are no children involved. Two years later after the ex finally decided to sign the paper work, we get an invoice of an additional $3500 dollars. They said he spent 16 hours on a divorce that had no assets, absolutely no property and no contest. It was just sitting on his desk waiting for the ex to sign. My son was charged $6500 for this. This is unethical.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Benjamin vranish
Garrett Trettel turned a very unfortunate situation into as positive an experience as it could've been. He was polite, friendly, knowledgeable, easy to talk to, and he really helped me get back on my feet. I really appreciate all the hard work from everyone here, especially Garrett. Thank you.
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27 Sep, 2024 by M.j. vee
We have seen Carol over the last few years several times. She is courteous, knowledgeable, and very helpful . We are confident in the service she provides.
Joyce and Vitelli.
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24 Oct, 2024 by Dana rizzo
From the experience I had with John Morris, I would not recommend to anyone. I was told at the beginning of my son’s divorce that should be know more than $3000. Only because he doesn’t have any assets at all nor did his ex wife. There are no children involved. Two years later after the ex finally decided to sign the paper work, we get an invoice of an additional $3500 dollars. They said he spent 16 hours on a divorce that had no assets, absolutely no property and no contest. It was just sitting on his desk waiting for the ex to sign. My son was charged $6500 for this. This is unethical.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Benjamin vranish
Garrett Trettel turned a very unfortunate situation into as positive an experience as it could've been. He was polite, friendly, knowledgeable, easy to talk to, and he really helped me get back on my feet. I really appreciate all the hard work from everyone here, especially Garrett. Thank you.
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27 Sep, 2024 by M.j. vee
We have seen Carol over the last few years several times. She is courteous, knowledgeable, and very helpful . We are confident in the service she provides.
Joyce and Vitelli.
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24 Oct, 2024 by Dana rizzo
From the experience I had with John Morris, I would not recommend to anyone. I was told at the beginning of my son’s divorce that should be know more than $3000. Only because he doesn’t have any assets at all nor did his ex wife. There are no children involved. Two years later after the ex finally decided to sign the paper work, we get an invoice of an additional $3500 dollars. They said he spent 16 hours on a divorce that had no assets, absolutely no property and no contest. It was just sitting on his desk waiting for the ex to sign. My son was charged $6500 for this. This is unethical.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Benjamin vranish
Garrett Trettel turned a very unfortunate situation into as positive an experience as it could've been. He was polite, friendly, knowledgeable, easy to talk to, and he really helped me get back on my feet. I really appreciate all the hard work from everyone here, especially Garrett. Thank you.
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27 Sep, 2024 by M.j. vee
We have seen Carol over the last few years several times. She is courteous, knowledgeable, and very helpful . We are confident in the service she provides.
Joyce and Vitelli.
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13 Sep, 2024 by Luis m
Great group of attorneys! They treat you like family and will fight for your rights.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Darla kay jobkar
Steve Townsend is the best!!! Trustworthy, Experienced, Super Efficient and Responsive. I highly recommend!
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23 Jul, 2024 by Ricky reyes
Absolutely thee best legal representation in all Pittsburgh, Pa. Forget the rest. Mr. Townsend is the best. Trust me, I know and this comes from someone out of Philly, Pa. Mr. Townsend gives his all and his word is as solid as gold and it's weight. If ever someone needs legal representation on any level, do yourself a favor call Mr. Townsend, trust me. It's worth a phone call to get the best representation.
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26 Sep, 2024 by Brittany tkac
From the very first time we talked with crystal and sometimes Bethany they took care of every need, concern, and obstacles! They explained everything to us in our terms so we clearly understood every step. Always got back in reasonable timely manner. They drafted a divorce didn’t matter the other party refused to sign. Every single motion got returned in the mail (anything to make this more difficult) so we also had the pleasure of dealing with CSI serving papers for us at least 5 times and again very fast and easy to work with! We have friends that started a divorce before us and ours is final and they are still in the process! Also at the end we were crunched on time trying to sell a house (couldn’t until we had the paper) and again crystal said I don’t care if I have to walk it over to the judge we will get this done! They did not disappoint any obstacle they quickly had the next step in motion!
THANK YOU CRYSTAL
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22 Sep, 2024 by Marc duchin
17 Sep, 2024 by Charles mupamombe
09 Apr, 2024 by Robb
I will say that after I had been through 3 other attorneys I met Jenn and she stepped into a disaster of a case worked together with my wife's counsel and in after 2.5 years of no progress, had it resolved and closed in 6 months. Feel it needs to be added that attorneys are people and can't make a decision go your way at their will. You as a client need to hold up and handle your part of the deal. Thank you again Jenn.
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14 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
I had a custody battle that was drug out for FOUR years. Jennifer is very unprofessional as far as appearance and work ethic. She would not respond to things in a timely manor and when my case finally could’ve went to trial she decided it was best if I found different representation knowing I only had 20 days to file and she waited 5 days to even give me the new custody order, which I may add gave me LESS than I did before I started fighting for my daughter. She would use profanity and would show up to hearing looking like she just rolled out of bed. My evidence was not even presented on my side of the case that would disprove the opposing party. I will never recommend her to anyone, let alone ever use her again. Biggest waste of money ever!!!!!
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08 Feb, 2023 by George
The first time I met Jen, she gracefully went out of her way. Something I was not used to because, I assumed like most of my court appointed lawyers I was just a docket number. I could not have been more wrong. Right then I realized she is very charismatic and was not going to stand around waiting or expecting me to give up. I truly feel like if you are ever in my position, back against the wall nowhere to go but forward or fall, don't give up your Jen might be around the corner!
Jennifer I cant thank you enough! We may have met by chance or blessing, as long as you practice law in the area your number will be the first I call.
Thank you God bless
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10 Oct, 2024 by Karen consentino
I have been in an extremely difficult divorce case that has spanned close to three years. After over two years of no progression I found DeRiso Law Group and was blessed to have JP Senich represent me. He moved the case forward and with a very good outcome. Not only is JP a great attorney he is a wonderful person. I highly recommend JP Senich and DeRiso Law Group.
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10 Oct, 2024 by Stephen fleishauer
Very pleased with every aspect of the firm. Everyone has been very professional and courteous. Got good results for my situation. Highly recommended.
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09 Oct, 2024 by Alena esposito
You're doing it wrong if you don't go with DeRiso Law Group! Mike, and the group in it's entireity, was absolutely amazing in helping me go through the entire process. They made the whole things so much easier and took care of everything in the most professional manner.
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10 Oct, 2024 by Karen consentino
I have been in an extremely difficult divorce case that has spanned close to three years. After over two years of no progression I found DeRiso Law Group and was blessed to have JP Senich represent me. He moved the case forward and with a very good outcome. Not only is JP a great attorney he is a wonderful person. I highly recommend JP Senich and DeRiso Law Group.
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10 Oct, 2024 by Stephen fleishauer
Very pleased with every aspect of the firm. Everyone has been very professional and courteous. Got good results for my situation. Highly recommended.
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09 Oct, 2024 by Alena esposito
You're doing it wrong if you don't go with DeRiso Law Group! Mike, and the group in it's entireity, was absolutely amazing in helping me go through the entire process. They made the whole things so much easier and took care of everything in the most professional manner.
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12 Sep, 2024 by Eddie jay
They really work and you get real results
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31 Aug, 2024 by Matt dee
Mr. Paletta was excellent and professional when it came to assisting me with a matter regarding my nursing license. He showed great expertise and was able to help me get the issue resolved quickly and without incident. Would absolutely recommend.
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18 Jun, 2024 by Terry meadows
1.0
3 Reviews
4.7
554 Reviews
12 Sep, 2024 by Eddie jay
They really work and you get real results
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18 Jun, 2024 by Terry meadows
12 Jun, 2024 by Luis rodriguez
12 Sep, 2024 by Eddie jay
They really work and you get real results
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18 Jun, 2024 by Terry meadows
12 Jun, 2024 by Luis rodriguez
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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:
-
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.
