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12 Jan, 2023 by Anonymous
My divorce was contentious, and I needed an attorney who was knowledgeable, compassionate and willing to explain the many options available for a favorable settlement. Going to court can be daunting, but I felt Cheryl brought a unique perspective with her previous experience as a Master. Cheryl kept me informed, was quick to return emails and her staff is superior. I am so grateful she accepted my case, and I am happy to say, we had a great outcome! I would highly recommend her services as a family attorney.
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10 May, 2021 by Conroyc
We had an awesome experience going through our will process. My wife and I went through a very busy point in our lives during the process and they stayed in contact with us all along the way and made the process extremely easy. They answered all of our questions and explained options based on our thoughts. Awesome!!!
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08 Jan, 2021 by Matt shaffer
Very friendly and extremely helpful with living will matters. Solid, knowledgeable attorney!
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30 Dec, 2024 by Shannon amspacher
It was great working with Phil to put together our wills and POAs - very easy to communicate and clear instructions provided. Thanks!
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18 Dec, 2024 by Rich hurlbrink
Phil Simon from Simon Hyde Law was excellent! He met with us a couple of times, answered all of our questions during the calls and via emails, and provided guidance and explanations that we easily understood. Thanks Phil!
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28 Nov, 2024 by Erin duffy
Worked with Phil for our legal documents. He was very efficient and a pleasure to work with.
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30 Oct, 2024 by Gretchen byrne
Ashley and team were simply amazing! Straightforward, professional and were always available with any questions I had while going through my divorce. They made the process quick and easy. Highly recommend. Thanks Ashley and Team!
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30 Oct, 2024 by Frederick anderson
Ashley helped me through a difficult divorce. She not only navigated through a plethora of paperwork but did so with a sympathetic ear at a reasonable cost. She and Lindsey are a great team. The kind you want on your side.
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30 Oct, 2024 by Christopher munyan
I worked for over a year with Ashley Eckert on my divorce. She is a phenomenal lawyer and person. She guided me with patience and kindness through what is a challenging and stressful process. I would highly recommend Ashley and her firm.
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12 Feb, 2024 by Kira boros
Christin is the best, and she is the most diligent, efficient, and professional. Please go with her.
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03 Jan, 2022 by Susan c
Christin Kubacke is an expert. She is compassionate, she is professional and she listens. She is respected, informed and ready help her clients in their life changing circumstances. She is the best.
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28 Jul, 2021 by Jean
Hired Christin for a divorce case. She was very helpful, gave great counsel and was understanding throughout the process. I felt informed when making all decisions. Thank you for your help.
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12 Feb, 2024 by Kira boros
Christin is the best, and she is the most diligent, efficient, and professional. Please go with her.
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03 Jan, 2022 by Susan c
Christin Kubacke is an expert. She is compassionate, she is professional and she listens. She is respected, informed and ready help her clients in their life changing circumstances. She is the best.
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14 Oct, 2020 by Mario d
Attorney Kubacke was excellent. She took my case seriously, was efficient, professional, and steps ahead of opposing counsel. Attorney Kubacke was a true advocate for my case. I am truly grateful for the successful outcome she orchestrated.
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24 Apr, 2023 by Patrick sees
Barbara Schneider represented me in my divorce and custody hearings and she has exceeded all of my expectations. She is smart, responsive, compassionate and goes the extra mile. She's also tough as nails and always looks out for your best interests. She has years of experience and knows the system inside and out. If you're looking for the best lawyer in Chester County you can stop looking. You've found her.
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10 Apr, 2023 by Bea rogo
Barbara Schneider is an excellent attorney who really goes above and beyond for her client. She is extremely knowledgeable, caring, and lets you know what you can expect every step of the way, without sugar coating anything. She came highly recommended to me from a fellow colleague and I'd trust her with anything. Do not hesitate to call her!
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31 Mar, 2023 by Chanel glover
Barbara Schneider has been a bulldog for my case. She understands what's at stake, is always present to answer any questions, and explains her strategy before moving forward. Barbara is also very personable and caring, and has deep family law knowledge.
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12 Feb, 2024 by Kira boros
Christin is the best, and she is the most diligent, efficient, and professional. Please go with her.
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03 Jan, 2022 by Susan c
Christin Kubacke is an expert. She is compassionate, she is professional and she listens. She is respected, informed and ready help her clients in their life changing circumstances. She is the best.
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14 Oct, 2020 by Mario d
Attorney Kubacke was excellent. She took my case seriously, was efficient, professional, and steps ahead of opposing counsel. Attorney Kubacke was a true advocate for my case. I am truly grateful for the successful outcome she orchestrated.
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08 Nov, 2024 by Crystal
Thank you for helping with my parents divorce. Other attorneys kept siding with the wrong party in this matter. They have advise which was more of an opinion than what law says. I’m so grateful to have found Ryan!! Ryan was honest, said what best made sense and did what was best in my parents situation. He explained his reasoning as to why he felt what was best and made sure we understood him. Ryan is a blessing to me in this situation!
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30 May, 2023 by Karen
I had a very unusual divorce. I was saving up for a divorce when my husband had a massive stroke and he became disabled. I had a difficult time locating a lawyer who didn't want to charge me a massive retainer to take on my case. Ryan was very clear about the process and tried to help it move smoothly along. We ran into some issues with opposing counsel but he managed to find a workaround. He kept me informed the entire process and was wonderful to work with.
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28 Jun, 2021 by David
Ryan was excellent throughout my entire divorce process. He was always available, communicated things very clearly, and was someone I trusted thoroughly. He has a wonderful ability to be very knowledgeable about the legal situation while simplifying things when he discussed options with me so that I clearly understood everything that was going on without any legal background myself. I highly recommend him.
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30 Jul, 2024 by Chris bruno
Over the past several years I hired 3 different firms to represent me in support and custody cases. Irene Levy, thankfully was my last attorney. We were able to come to an agreement after several years of fighting and Irene was supportive and provided all the necessary paperwork we needed to finalize. Was always available to answer questions and help navigate the process. Highly recommend her and her firm.
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26 Jul, 2024 by Paige rubenstein
Irene is a phenomenal lawyer! She is thorough, attentive and has done an amazing job with my complex custody case. Would highly recommend!
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25 Jun, 2024 by Kasey tyler
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30 Aug, 2016 by Dan
Hiring Tiffany was one of the best decisions I made during my custody battle. She is very knowledgeable in her field and had plenty of great suggestions for me along the way. Any question I had I would just send her an email and she responded very quickly with an answer. She is very organized and on task and an extremely nice person. She always told me when she thought what I wanted was plausible and when she thought that I might not have much of a leg to stand on. This was all new to me so I went with what she thought and I do not regret it. Everything I originally wanted in my custody agreement I was granted and I could not be happier. As bad as things were I always knew I had someone with the know-how that I could trust in my corner.
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17 Aug, 2016 by Tammy
I had Tiffany for my Support Hearing. She was EXTREMELY organized and very knowledgeable with the rules. I would HIGHLY recommend her as your lawyer. She is very down to earth and honest. I had a great experience with her as my lawyer. I was very nervous with going to Court. She was very calm and confident. Having her represent me in Court was a blessing. I would recommend her to anyone. She made my time in Court much easier. Thank you Tiffany !!!!!
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30 Jul, 2013 by Lisa
Melissa represented me in a divorce and custody dispute. Her relentless work in the courtroom awarded me full custody and a sizeable alimony to help support my two sons. Every phone call to her office was promptly returned and she was always available to answer questions. Melissa is an excellent attorney and was an emotional rock during the worst time of my life. I will be forever thankful and would recommend her to anyone.
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09 Dec, 2024 by John spadaro
MacElree Harvey is a great place to work full of thoughtful, competent attorneys who work tirelessly to get the best possible outcome for their clients and provide mentorship to younger attorneys.
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08 Oct, 2024 by Fred l
The attorneys at MacElree Harvey really care. They are exceptional at what they do. I highly recommend Joe Bellinghieri for estate planning, estate taxes, and accounting. I also highly recommend Mary Kay Gaver for business law. She really took care of me and my Mom during business buyout negotiations. All of the attorneys and paralegals are great. Thank you to Brian Nagle for recommending these great lawyers.
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15 Feb, 2024 by Lou mincarelli
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09 Dec, 2024 by John spadaro
MacElree Harvey is a great place to work full of thoughtful, competent attorneys who work tirelessly to get the best possible outcome for their clients and provide mentorship to younger attorneys.
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08 Oct, 2024 by Fred l
The attorneys at MacElree Harvey really care. They are exceptional at what they do. I highly recommend Joe Bellinghieri for estate planning, estate taxes, and accounting. I also highly recommend Mary Kay Gaver for business law. She really took care of me and my Mom during business buyout negotiations. All of the attorneys and paralegals are great. Thank you to Brian Nagle for recommending these great lawyers.
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15 Feb, 2024 by Lou mincarelli
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03 Jun, 2021 by William
If you want your family destroyed, broke and to make a tough time already harder. Julie Potts is it, She is horrible with a horrible haircut and think she knows everybody and everything she will destroy anything you have left with your family during the divorce. Not to mention everybody will be broke at the end!
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27 Dec, 2018 by Shalene
I have worked with several attorney’s in Chester County, and hands down, Julie Potts is the best. She was recommended to me, by another attorney - who said, he would hire her over anyone else. I would not recommend anyone else for a family law matter.
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15 Dec, 2018 by Christina
Julie was the attorney that brought my prolonged, nearly 2.5 year Court Master-involved divorce case to resolution. After two previous attorneys had gone on maternity leave, it could have been easy to become frustrated at the prospect of having the case transferred for a third time, however Julie assumed the case seamlessly and confidently assured me the case would continue to move along without disruption. As a client who actively participated in the case, I appreciated Julie's attention to detail and responsiveness, her promptness and accuracy in preparing documents, and the wealth of knowledge and experience that she brought to the case, always offering thoughtful options and suggestions as we navigated the various phases of the case. It was also very reassuring for me, as a client, to witness during our scheduled appearances at the Courthouse, the extremely high level of respect that others in the legal field have for Julie. Since the resolution of that specific case, I have continued to engage Julie's services for the preparation of other legal documents and have recommended her services to friends in the local community. Based on my experience working closely with Julie on matters that spanned a wide range of family law matters including: spousal support, alimony, divorce, pre-nuptial agreements, equitable distribution, exclusive possession of property, and child custody, I can state without reservation, that she is the attorney you want by your side to bring a case to resolution.
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01 Nov, 2024 by Jerry gao
John was a pleasure to work with, very professional and knowledgable with his responses
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10 Jun, 2024 by Andrew - gunzonedeals.com
John V. Rafferty is extremely knowledgeable, compassionate, and sharp! It was a pleasure to work with him! We will be using Gawthrop Greenwood for all future needs!
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14 Mar, 2024 by I-regen llc
Work with Attorney Lauren A . Nehra on an eviction filing. The professionalism and speed is outstanding on how Lauren handle this matter. Will definitely work with this law firm in the future.
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15 Sep, 2020 by Anonymous
It was obvious he didn't care about anything but payment, he spent more time looking at his phone than listening.
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22 Oct, 2018 by Peter
Steven was the 3rd attorney I'd hired during my divorce and the one whom I stuck with to help me navigate through my divorce. I did have to do some leg work myself, but in my opinion that's normal to have a personal stake in the outcome. Steven's experience in law and his ability to stay empathetic but separate from emotions and facts with respect to the law served me immensely. He's someone I'd recommend even if you are up against a real bulldog on the other side of the fence. He will serve you well.
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11 Jan, 2018 by John
Steve helped me get a tempory custody order in place and will be representing me during appeal. He was knowledgeable and compassionate through this difficult process. I was truely grateful and would highly recommend.
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16 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
Rami was not fighting for my case, he took a back seat. He ran through the $15,000 retainer in just one month of hire. He wasted so much time sending b.s. emails, phone calls just racking up unnecessary fees, dragging this case out. Hiring him only put me in more debt, and furthest from my child.
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25 Aug, 2021 by Anonymous
Definitely a lawyer you want when going through divorce/custody matters. Highly recommend should you ever need a divorce lawyer. Very patiently answers any questions. 10/10 would hire I the future should I need to.
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03 Oct, 2018 by Carolyn cott
I’ve worked with Rami Bishay twice on domestic law matters. Rami is extremely intelligent, knowledgeable, strategic, ethical, and influential. His understanding of the law is comprehensive and detailed, and he was able to find a relatively unknown but precedence-setting case that was pivotal in bringing my case to justice. His knowledge of Chester County judges was also key in shaping and streamlining our presentation to the preferences and characteristics of the judge who presided over my case. I highly recommend Rami Bishay.
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What a Child Support Lawyer Can Do for You

A child support lawyer specializes in legal issues related to the financial support that one parent provides to another for the upbringing of their children. These lawyers assist with establishing, enforcing, and modifying child support orders, ensuring that the financial needs of the child are met, including housing, food, healthcare, education, and other essentials. A child support lawyer can also represent parents in disputes over the amount of support, ensure fair calculations based on income, and handle legal proceedings if one parent fails to meet their obligations.

Whether you're seeking to establish child support, modify an existing order, or enforce payments, a child support lawyer can help you navigate the legal system and protect your rights and the well-being of your child.

When Should I Hire a Child Support Lawyer?

You should consider hiring a child support lawyer when you need assistance with any of the following child support matters:

  • Establishing child support: If you are going through a divorce or separation and need to establish a child support order, a lawyer can help ensure that the support amount is fair and accurately calculated.
  • Modifying child support orders: If there has been a significant change in circumstances, such as a job loss, income change, or a child's financial needs, a lawyer can help you request a modification to the existing child support order.
  • Enforcing child support payments: If the other parent has failed to make court-ordered child support payments, a lawyer can help enforce the order through legal means such as wage garnishment, property liens, or even legal action.
  • Disputing child support calculations: If you believe the child support amount has been incorrectly calculated based on your income or expenses, a lawyer can help you challenge the calculation and seek a fair adjustment.
  • Paternity disputes: If paternity needs to be established before child support can be ordered, a lawyer can assist with DNA testing and legal proceedings.
  • Interstate child support cases: If the parents live in different states, navigating child support laws can be complex. A lawyer can help ensure the proper jurisdiction is established and that child support is enforced across state lines.
  • Child support during custody disputes: If child custody and child support are being determined simultaneously, a lawyer can help ensure that both issues are resolved fairly and in the best interest of the child.

Hiring a lawyer early can help ensure that your child support case is handled effectively and that your child's financial needs are met.

What Does a Child Support Lawyer Do?

A child support lawyer provides a variety of legal services to help parents secure, modify, and enforce child support arrangements. Their responsibilities often include:

  • Filing for child support: A lawyer can help you initiate the legal process to obtain a child support order, ensuring that all necessary documentation is submitted and deadlines are met.
  • Calculating child support: A lawyer can help ensure that child support is calculated fairly based on both parents' incomes, the needs of the child, and other factors such as healthcare and education costs.
  • Negotiating child support agreements: If both parents are willing to negotiate, a lawyer can help facilitate an agreement on child support outside of court, which can then be approved by a judge.
  • Representing you in court: If negotiations fail or the other parent contests the child support amount, a lawyer will represent you in family court, presenting evidence and making legal arguments to support your case.
  • Modifying support orders: A lawyer can help you file a request for modification if circumstances change, such as a loss of income or an increase in the child’s financial needs.
  • Enforcing child support: If the other parent is not making court-ordered payments, a lawyer can take legal steps to enforce the order through wage garnishment, property liens, or other measures.
  • Handling complex cases: In cases involving high incomes, self-employment, or complicated financial situations, a lawyer can help ensure that all relevant factors are considered in determining child support.

How Are Child Support Lawyers Paid?

Child support lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the case and the type of legal work required. Common payment methods include:

  • Hourly rate: Most child support lawyers charge by the hour, with rates ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and location. The total cost will depend on how much time the lawyer spends on your case, including preparation, negotiations, and court appearances.
  • Flat fee: For more straightforward cases, such as uncontested child support agreements or basic modifications, some lawyers may offer a flat fee that covers all services related to the case.
  • Retainer: Many lawyers require a retainer, which is an upfront payment that is billed against as the lawyer works on your case. The amount of the retainer depends on the expected complexity of the case.
  • Sliding scale or pro bono services: Some lawyers offer sliding scale fees based on income or provide pro bono (free) services in cases where clients cannot afford to pay full legal fees, especially when children’s needs are at stake.

It’s important to discuss fees with your lawyer during the initial consultation to understand how much you will be charged and what services are covered.

How Much Does a Child Support Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a child support lawyer varies depending on the complexity of the case, whether it's contested or uncontested, and the lawyer’s experience. General cost estimates include:

  • Uncontested child support cases: Legal fees may range from $1,500 to $5,000, depending on the complexity of the paperwork and the lawyer’s fees.
  • Contested child support cases: Legal fees can range from $5,000 to $20,000 or more, especially if the case involves significant court time.
  • Hourly rates: Lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour for child support cases, with higher rates for more experienced attorneys or cases that involve complex financial issues.
  • Modification or enforcement: Fees for modifying or enforcing a child support order may range from $2,000 to $10,000, depending on the complexity and the need for court intervention.

Always ask for a detailed cost estimate during your consultation so you can plan your budget accordingly.

Top Questions to Ask a Child Support Lawyer

Before hiring a child support lawyer, it’s important to ask questions to ensure they are the right fit for your case. Key questions to ask include:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

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