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25 Sep, 2020 by Anonymous
Read their stance on a few topics on Facebook I don’t know if they could be trusted. Hmmm
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24 Mar, 2011 by Timothy
Back in July, circumstances necessitated my need for a custody lawyer. Having no references, I checked Craigslist and was extremely fortunate to get in touch with Marissa. Over these past several months, she has been more than helpful to me. I have complete confidence, not only in her ability, but in her integrity. She is sincere, straightforward, honest and very easy to work with.
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25 Jul, 2010 by Courtney
I have known Merrisa as a family attorney for years. I have witnessed her skill in and out of the courtroom. Not only a fearless defender of her clients rights, but someone who makes the client part of her team.
When I received a subpoena to appear at a deposition, my first call was to Merrisa. The prospect of being stuck between two very powerful, very well funded sets of attorneys, in case I had knowledge of both sides, put a bit of fear in me.
Merrisa immediately put me at ease. She took command and managed the demands of the requests that both side were making on my time and knowledge. She sat down with me and explained her role, my role, and the roles of everyone involved in the deposition. This preparation made the event go off smoothly.
Merrisa worked with the defendants counsel, and left me to answer the questions without any worry or anxiety. The 7 hour ordeal would have been far more difficult without the calm, direct, and firm hand that Merrisa used to get me through the day.
Whether you are looking for a Family Practice attorney, legal advise, or counsel that can guide you through the maze that is the law, I can say that Ms. Coleman-Bishop is the attorney you should bring to your side. I witnessed a local attorney stand up for my rights in front of some the best lawyers that the entertainment and internet industry can hire. She did not flinch, back down, or take bait when they tried to knock her off her game. She stayed on task.
I am honored to recommend Merrisa Coleman-Bishop.
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01 Jan, 2021 by Stefani
I hired attorney Medaris in my child custody case after reading his reviews & speaking to him on the phone during his free consultation. The man was rude, embarwssned me in front of the judge, wasn’t prepared on my case to go before the judge, which was embarrassing, and you have to pay him a substantial amount of money (cash same day) for literally saying 3 words, that were not helpful and quite frankly embarrassing. When asked questions about what this document meant or what did the judge just order? He rudely would make it well known he didn’t want to be there. Maybe he is burned out and looking forward to retiring.
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31 Jul, 2017 by Christine
Attorney Medearis was very knowledgeable and informed me of my rights and discussed the best strategy. His paralegal held my hand, guided me, comforted me and dealt with my ex when he called their office. Attorney Medearis chose the Mediator known for getting results. What I wanted most was freedom and a chance to live the rest of my life in peace. Thanks to Attorney Medearis I have that chance. He also recognized the financial hardship and allowed me to set up a payment plan I could afford.
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29 Jun, 2017 by Christy
I contacted Attorney Steven Medearis’ office from a referral from a family member. I want to thank and
recommend Mr. Medearis for guiding me through a very trying time in my life. Mr. Medearis and his
staff really know what they are doing and made this process effortless. I initially thought my divorce
could be handled amicably, yet financial support issues quickly arose with my uncooperative ex.
Mr. Medearis sincerely had mine and my children’s best interest in mind. He explained everything
clearly and with precision of what to expect in the process. Mr. Medearis impressed upon me that while
no one wants divorce to happen to them because this process can be extremely trying, he would be
there to support me through this stressful time.
Throughout the process, Mr. Medearis and his office staff were so amazing. They made the process
seem easy and communicated every step of the tiring process. The office gave me information and
confidence in the process. I cannot express my gratitude enough and would recommend him to anyone.
Having someone who is your advocate during this difficult chapter in your life will alleviate so much
stress and is really worth it.
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09 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
She’s only out for the money.
Comes across nice in the beginning but things change fast!
She refuses to try and settle with the only party. She only wants to go to trial where she will take all your money!
After draining me of every dime I had I found a VERY COMPETENT helpful attorney who helped me and my x settle out of court.
Then after we sold our home and I went to pick up the check Andre refused to sign off claiming I owed her money. I couldn’t get the check from the house until I paid her an additional 25,000 on top of the thousands I had already paid her, She’s a money shark. RUN THE OTHER WAY!
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20 Jun, 2022 by Felicity
Caring, kind, honest and helpful!!! This is the attorney I will hire when and if I need one! She walked me through fear and confusion. She explained things to me and made a game plan with me. She did not try to fear monger me into hiring her prematurely! Much respect for this attorney. She has also allowed me to contact her and ask questions. Thanks Andrea!
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31 May, 2018 by Timothy conery
Andrea represented me in a child support case. Once the State of California was involved my support payments tripled! With Andrea's experience and her teams great forensic research my Child Support payments returned back to what I had originally been paying! There is no doubt that Andrea Whitehill made a significant change in my life for the better...
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14 Sep, 2022 by Amber
I came to Darci in panic as my ex-husband and father of my 2 kids was loosing all self control. He had already been effecting us for a decade due to his uncontrolled mental illness, however it had now turned to death threats, stalking and harassment in a consistent way. After hearing from other lawyers that I did not have enough to be awarded a DVRO, Darci assured me I had plenty of documentation and sure enough she got me a 5 year domestic violence restraining order which also gave me sole custody of the kids with only supervised visits between the kids and their dad. Later she helped me turn my legal separation into a divorce and after that she helped me get my Move Away request put through the court once I remarried and moved away to a different state. After my ex requested unsupervised time with the kids, something I knew was unsafe and both kids did not want, Darci helped me argue against a terrible court mediator who did not look at any of the 100+ pages of documentation showing the father was not safe and suggested I obtain a Custody Evaluator to more thoroughly review the situation and facts and make more informed and safer conclusions. I paid the money to that evaluator, which was not cheap, but so worth the money. Now their dad has substantive tasks he must accomplish before either me or the courts are OK with unsupervised time (26 weeks of anger mgmt, weekly therapy, psychiatry for meds, requiring more visits on his part to show effort, reunification therapy with the kids, etc). Beware of bad court appointed mediators, however Darci helped me immensely to sort through the tough decisions and emotions of the events and come to a conclusion that was safe and in the best interest for the children. This process was not cheap, but children never are and if you are going to pay for anything it should be for the well-being of your kids. I would definitely recommend Darci McKean for anyone dealing with the issues I mentioned above.
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29 Nov, 2021 by Carly
Darci was my attorney for a messy custody case that also involved DV and a protective order. She was amazing, and made THE difference in winning our case. She was able to grasp the situation quickly, understood the proper steps to counter his tactics, and handled them like a BOSS! Her declaration drafts and responses were always perfect and succinct, and she was extremely efficient with her time. She masterfully managed our case and I could not have asked for a better attorney. She is absolutely one of the very, very best!!
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24 Jan, 2020 by Sima
I usually dont write bad reviews but I know how painfull could be to have an incometent lawyer.In a few words Darci Mckean is incompetent with no care and empathy. She was my lawyer for more than a year in a case with no custody ,no fight over assets involved and could not finalized my divorce. Due to errors in filling my case was denied many many times.At he end with once consultation with another lawyer my divorce was finalized in a month without a lawyer.
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11 Dec, 2019 by John j. covas
Direct to the point listens carefully and gives you options - gives the client an understanding of options. He returns phone calls usually within minutes. Highly recommend Peter
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13 Nov, 2019 by Sheri bienstock
I work with Peter Haven for more than 10 years now and I find him to be smart, professional, objective, and an incredibly caring human being. I highly recommend him as a lawyer.
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02 Nov, 2019 by Isaac h
I was referred to Peter by a friend and I couldn’t be happier with choosing him as my attorney. He has helped me in my case tremendously and has been professional, prompt and supportive every step of the way. I highly recommend him and am grateful for what he has done for me.
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11 Sep, 2024 by Latrina moore
Absolute recommend that you visit this particular law firm for your Workmen’s Comp. Yazdchi law P.C my lawyer was amazing he listen to my testimony and gave me great advice supported me through my whole case! His office was clean and secretary and business partner was absolutely wonderful. You have any questions they get back with you at a timely matter. they say he worked like the dream work and with Yazdchi law I absolutely agree. Thank you guy’s for everything!
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22 Aug, 2024 by Mayra smith
If i could give this guy no stars i would. He’s Irresponsible with keeping appointments, misses updates to provide the judge, and jeopardizes family reunification because he is unprepared. You don’t believe me? Feel free to reach out and I’ll provide you with the proof. Save your time and money. Don’t higher this low quality law firm.
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21 Aug, 2024 by Lorena castillo
09 Nov, 2024 by Rocky d
Jeff has been represent me with post divorce legal issues for the past 6-7 years. He is very patient, caring, aggressive in doing right by his clients, and he is always easy to reach when I have questions. I highly recommend him to anyone who is feeling overwhelmed by their divorce. You will be in great hands with Jeff and feel protected and safe.
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20 Oct, 2024 by Randy dwyer
Mr. Hoffer handled my case exceptionally. He is kind, understanding, meticulous, and methodical in his approach to family law. Mr. Hoffer and his staff made me feel heard, and were extremely caring during every step of the process. I cannot recommend Hoffer Family Law Firm any more highly, and hold them with the deepest regard.
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27 Aug, 2024 by Nick
Horrible service. Terrible communication and follow up skills. He promises to call me back and never does. I followed up multiple times with assurance from Mr. Hoffer personally along with his receptionist that Mr. Hoffer is not available today but would be calling me back urgently since this is a custody issue and as of today 8/27/24, Mr. Hoffer has yet to return my phone calls or handle any of my concerns. If I could leave “0” stars ⭐️ I would. I would not recommend this attorney to any family or friends. Stay clear of Mr. Hoffer. Please don’t let his website impress you. Mr. Hoffer definitely lacks communication skills and compassion for his clients. This so called “attorney” is super flakey and can’t be trusted.
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15 Jul, 2024 by Torry heard
Attorney Aja Mann, was my lawyer for 13 years. In those 13 years of representing me, she was outstanding! Not only did she advise me with wisdom and grace, she taught me that you must be fair and compassionate when it comes to difficult situations while co-parenting. Because of her I was able to obtain full custody of my son, and I thank her every day for in some form or fashion for bringing me joy and peace.
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14 Jul, 2024 by Emerson depaz
After visiting my son who lives out of state, I was deeply concerned by his emotional struggles and the difficulties he was facing at home with his mom. As a divorced parent living in another state, I felt powerless to advocate for him and feared I was failing as a father. My visitation rights and other arrangements had always been unfair, dictated by the terms of the other party.
From our first conversation, Aja reassured me that I had parental rights and a voice in my son's well-being. Her exceptional negotiation skills and unwavering advocacy led to more equitable arrangements for our family, prioritizing my son's health and happiness. We are incredibly grateful for her efforts and highly recommend her to anyone in need of a sharp, dedicated attorney who will fight for you.
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13 Jul, 2024 by Iman abron
Aja Simplis was very attentive. She helped me from start to finish and is very professional.
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07 Oct, 2024 by Herman
I was in a car crash and I was at fault, I have anxiety and panic attacks, so I left the scene. So they charged me with hit and run with injury. My Lawyer Rick Worsfold was great, explained to me very well what I was up against and my options. Also told me what he could do in MY case. He kept his word went beyond my expectations !! Thank you Rick.
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04 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
Jeremy, Ricky, and Arianna,
I will be forever grateful for your tenacity to seek justice for me !
I could not have asked for a better team to navigate me through a very stressful time.
Thank you for believing in me and for fearlessly fighting for the full DISMISSAL of my case.
You are truly the A team.
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16 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
Ricky helped liaise with local law enforcement over a child custody dispute matter. He was clear in explaining possible legal outcomes in our initial intake call, and expedited queries to law enforcement once I retained his services. In particular, I found that there was a need outside of traditional family law services in my custody issue that Ricky and his team helped address; addressing law enforcement’s response to child custody hand-offs, disputes with a co-parent that could involve municipal services…there was not a lot of clarity from our local jurisdiction when I tried to personally find out case status and outcome, and eliciting responses from my city and law enforcement was much easier (and faster) using Ricky and his team. Ricky and his legal team were transparent on cost, and he sought to make himself available to me even after working hours. I would absolutely turn to Ricky again.
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20 Jun, 2023 by Kimberly easley
17 Nov, 2019 by Nikki z
30 Mar, 2019 by Kristen koeller
Nick Tooliatos and his team have been beyond supportive with my father's conservatorship. They are caring, precise, and have helped to keep me on track with my dad's care and support. Nick has been mindful to minimize unnecessary costs and offered expert advice that has lessened the stress on my family and me. For years, as my dad declined, I was told that it was nearly impossible to get conservatorship for a loved one, but Nick and his team made it happen. Thank God they did because my dad is in a much better place now. I highly recommend Nick and am grateful for his support and expertise.
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11 Oct, 2024 by Nima ardabili
Virginia is very honest person and actually cares. Great to work with
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18 Sep, 2024 by Doug ellsworth
I hired Virginia law firm 5k and got no results from her she would not tell me what happened after my court date and she did not help with the dmv part of the case waste of time and money hiring her
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08 Aug, 2024 by Evan “sirlaggs” jackson
You won't find a better attorney than Virginia. Her and her team put their best efforts into your troubles
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10 Sep, 2024 by Danny chu
10 Sep, 2024 by Amanda t.
24 Jul, 2024 by Celestial being
26 Apr, 2024 by Aaron g
I deeply regret my decision to hire this law firm to represent me in court, as they failed to fulfill their duties. Initially, they demanded a retainer fee of $5,000, which they quickly depleted within a month without any tangible progress. To make matters worse, they then requested additional funds. It took them two weeks after our initial meeting to even file the necessary documents stating that they were my attorneys, and even that was the extent of their efforts in court. If it were possible, I would rate this firm with negative scores. I strongly advise against wasting your time with them, as all the positive reviews are deceitful. This firm should be permanently closed down and prohibited from assisting anyone. I simply needed one task accomplished for my divorce, but instead, they consumed all the retainer fees by excessively communicating through emails and phone calls, which proved to be fruitless. I find myself in the exact same situation as when I first started, having wasted an entire month that I can never retrieve.
It is crucial to seek out genuine lawyers rather than unscrupulous individuals.
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29 Jan, 2024 by Gabby suthakar
27 Sep, 2023 by Erik mickelson
Friendly staff, hard-working and diligent attorneys
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30 Apr, 2024 by Padmaleena kabita
Richard and Pamela are the most amazing and knowledgeable people to work with. Richard was patient with all my queries, explained me the process in details and made it very seamless. I really liked their communication portal and prompt message responses while setting up my trust.Highly recommend!
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06 Feb, 2024 by Paul bulski
Richard and Pamela were amazing people to work with. Explained the process and details in simple terms and helped us navigate this challenging time with ease. Highly recommend!
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15 Jan, 2024 by Aditya dani
We had an excellent experience with Richard. He assisted us in drafting a will and trust, ensuring a smooth process throughout. His clear explanations of concepts made it easy to understand, and he patiently addressed all our questions. Overall, a five-star service that I highly recommend.
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15 Apr, 2024 by Crystal m
Currently unable for my fiancée to even get into contact with this man. Or his assistant in which he told him to contact. He then proceeded to lie in court stating they haven’t had any prior contact after we’ve been dealing with this arrest since 08/2023. It’s now almost May of 2024. It’s now only a few days until his next court date and still not able to get into contact with Taj. To where my fiancée has had to request time off from work to walk into his physical office in person to try and get some information on his case and an update on possible charges or what he’s going to push for etc. I’m frustrated for him as he’s trying to better himself since one stupid mistake. This man needs to do better at contacting his clients. Not just the once’s that are physically locked up in jail
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15 Mar, 2024 by April broussard
I am great full to have had Tahj Gomes to represent my case. You can tell by his demeanor that he cares and will do what ever he can to help. Any body that doesn't respect him and follow his advice or instructions will not understand the ramifications of that.
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06 Mar, 2024 by Doug strongheart
I have never had a public defender work with me on a case as well as tahj did he will go above and beyond to help you as long as you are willing to put in the effort as well and if i ever need a public defender again he will be who i go to
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12 Aug, 2024 by Gabriela zermeno
Working with the legal team at Cullen Family Law Group has been a great experience- from the clerk, to the paralegals and lawyers- any issue or question I've had has been swiftly, thoughtfully and thoroughly explained and I truly feel taken care of.
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07 Aug, 2024 by Sara koslow
30 Jun, 2024 by Pauline batiste
Fast. Fair. Thorough. Modest? The Cullen Family Law Group's motto is quite the understatement, for this firm provides so much more. These exceptional women handled my case with sedulous care proving that they were the only firm suitable to tend to my case. The way they fought for me while shielding me from the worst one could ever imagine, was both delicate and honest all while maintaining complete professionalism. Attorney Naqvi was vigilant, sharp, and incredibly keen to the unseen; knowledgable beyond any opponent, and always armed for every attack. Attorney Huss was quick and steadily prepared with concise responses, the ultimate strategist; between her scholarly astuteness and natural instincts, she always kept us bounds ahead of opposing counsel. Now, don't allow their beauty to fool you, these fierce females are an absolute force, consistently rigorous with their advocacy. And though it is said that a chain is only as strong as it's weakest link, I am honored to state that there is nary a weak link within this organization. Lori, Katie, and Rachel each played an intergral role in helping me navigate the most difficult season of my life. The Cullen Family Law Group is a team of diligent individuals that truly exercise discipline and proper deportment in all arenas. Professional, considerate, firm, yet kind, I am pleased to say that God paired me with the only legal team equipped to carry me through. The Cullen Family Law Group: Fast. Fair. Thorough. Complete.
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03 May, 2024 by Raxa ali
Justin Ward is one of the best lawyer in town. He helped one of my family member in their case and he has shown exceptional commitment. We are very grateful to have him for his unwavering support throughout the case.
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18 Feb, 2024 by Robyn fleming
Justin has represented one of my family members as well as friends I have referred. Justin always starts with listening to your issue or question then providing honest and thorough suggestions for next steps. His knowledge of the law, persistence, and follow through are excellent. Justin is trustworthy and has been recognized by his community and peers for his servant leadership. I highly recommend hiring Justin to represent you.
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24 Jan, 2024 by Damon jennings
Justin and his Staff are excellent people. Justin is my go-to person whenever I have a legal matter. One of the best! Reliable, honest and works with integrity.
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28 Mar, 2024 by Sandra ledesma
Mi experiencia la comparto en este review porque igual que tú que estás aquí leyendo si son abogados confiables, que si toman en cuenta los detalles de tu caso, que si malgastarás tu tiempo y/o dinero, entre otras cosas yo también lo hice, yo también leí estos reviews de otras personas y gracias a estos mismos reviews me animé a confiar mi caso en manos de ellos. En particular con el abogado Fernando G, te escucha, aconseja, en verdad es un apoyo confiable. Recomiendo ampliamente este bufete, agradecida por el trabajo que se realizó, ademas tienen varios plus positivos que otros no lo tienen. Uno de ellos que para mí destacó mucho es la confianza que te brinda abogado Fernando para comunicarte directamente con el sin intermediarios, muy profesional.
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22 Feb, 2024 by Maria jose diaz
Fernando Guzman Jr es un abogado con etica y muy bien preparado. El fue un gran apoyo para mi desde mi embarazo ya que el papa de mi bebe no ha estado presente y tuve que demandar. Fernando ha estado presente desde entonces ayudandome con sus conocimientos legales sobre derecho familiar. Actualmente pude lograr obtener una orden de Child support en California siendo Mexicana gracias a el.
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19 Jan, 2024 by Froylan munoz
I have been represented by Gustavo in a very high conflict case. He has always been professional and relentless in defending me from false accusations and getting the best outcome for our child. He has really helped me navigate the intensity of my divorce. I would absolutely recommend his office for a family law case.
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05 Oct, 2022 by Jennifer blackmore
If I could, I’d humbly provide Tammy with the Universe of stars. Tammy Mercado is a miracle-working Super Hero! She did in less than 10 days what my four prior “top rated” greedy, patronizing lawyers could not even comprehend over multiple years.
Unlike all of my other attorneys, she didn’t take advantage of my massive distress to treat me like an ATM. I never say this kind of thing but, I truly felt like she was a best friend, a sister even, in lock-step who fought fearlessly for me when I had no fight left to give. My goals and her goals were One. She clearly and kindly reminded me of my real goals when I got blind-sided and upset. She kept everyone in line including my ex’s devious attorney and got the job done faster than Flash, the Marvel character who travels faster than the speed of light.
The other “top-rated” attorneys just patted me on the head, some offered thoughts and prayers. All of them told me to basically do nothing and wait. despite that my health and credit score - due to their abuse and exploitive fees - were rapidly collapsing.
Tammy achieved more with me in our first quick call than a allegedly super star attorney took $45,000 in fees and over 9 months to Not Comprehend, despite that divorce should have been easy, it was just assets, no children.
After 2+ years of pure hell with those “top-rated” thieves, I was panicked, traumatized and often inconsolable. Tammy handled me with the greatest of care both efficiently and highly effectively. She was tough on me when I really wanted to fight losing battles. She always had the perfect and reasonable quip to say to inspire me when I succumbed to doom and gloom. She had more compassion in one sentence then all of the other $700 attorneys did with their endless, expensive and exploitive proverbial pats on the head, with no sense of direction or purpose.
The fact that Tammy could do all that and get conceptual agreement with the devious other side in less than a week was ecstatically surreal. My ex’s attorney usually took weeks to acknowledge receipt of an email. Then at least another four weeks to hurl epithets, throw tantrums and chip away agreements that were already made. Him doing the red lines was like a very hot walk starting in purgatory.
None of that stopped Tammy from bringing him to his knees and tackling him him so we can get the deal done! He was so caught off guard that he had to take a sudden vacation to drag it out and come up with new tricks. Not only was she running circles like Flash Gordon around him, she also runs circles around any of the best attorneys you can find in San Francisco, East Bay, South Bay and Marin.
To my own shock, with her representing me now, I honesty want and am confident enough to restart the entire process because I know I would get a lot more benefit, relief and joy going through this with her.
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28 Jul, 2021 by Lani jackson
I would like to express my appreciation to Whipple, Mercado & Associates LLP. I knew I was going with them as soon as I hung up after our consultation. The whole thing was so scary just because I don't know anything about family law and the whole process can be completely overwhelming and intimidating. Every time I spoke with Tammy or Mary it was reassuring. All interactions with them and the paralegals were encouraging. The court process was the best. That was so scary and Mary totally nailed it. She said all the right things at all the right times. I'm incredibly grateful and highly recommend Whipple, Mercado & Associates LLP. I'm. Because of their hard work, my brother has a shot at happiness and might have saved his life.
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17 Feb, 2021 by Kim
I can honestly say that Mary Whipple made this experience comfortable and easy! I put off going to court for many years for child custody orders etc. The main reason was fear.
Mary put my my fears to rest.
She was honest, very knowledgeable, gave great advice, fought hard for me and my family! She is kind, and wants the best outcome for all involved.
Mary is very skilled, and up to date on child custody, support and mediation. Mary offered ideas that worked for me in the end. I am so pleased to have had Mary represent me in court. I would 100% refer anyone to her.
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07 Apr, 2022 by Erica
They lied and did not defend me or even provide me with the proper papers. WARNING these guys are lame you will get better help from a public defender. WARNING
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16 Apr, 2021 by Daniel
They or no good on coming on time only good charging money that they good at I’m sorry but not recomendable
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18 Nov, 2020 by Miguel
This guy will see me in all his reviews because he sucks so much pathetic lawyer what kind of lawyer has car problems and can’t show up to your court date???? Worthless this guy is a joke of a lawyer a jokeeee am laughing at his title job man I guess I’ll be next lawyer if that guy can do it so can I.
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05 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
The circumstances of my case were such that they required a minor level of effort to approach the nuances of the situation. From my conversations with other Santa Barbara lawyers, in my first case he could have pushed for a better decision through increased communication and effort with the District Attorney. When I received a DUI, a more serious offense than my first charge, he was misleading in his role as an attorney. I did the required programs through Zona Seca and participated actively in all activities as dictated by the Santa Barbara Superior Court. After all of that, I was told by the DMV that I had to spend another 16 months at Zona Seca before I could get my license despite legal decisions surrounding my case. Pearlman was non-responsive on multiple occasions even after I had become aware of this information. When I finally got in contact with him, he informed me that I had no options other than to take the non-legally dictated decision of another 16 months at Zona Seca. In that same vein, he offered no legal advice nor action to approach or alter the decision, which was eventually determined to be a simple clerical error. Through other local Santa Barbara attorneys, I was luckily able to get the legal support I deserved. They were able to draft me a writ certiorari for a nominal price and worked to ensure I had my license back within a few months. The lack of Pearlman's willingness to help rectify my situation was remarkable. Had I not worked with other great attorneys in Santa Barbara, I would have been under the impression that I had no other options and was hopeless in responding the inadequacies of the DMV. If you have any nuances or complex components to your DUI, I would highly advise you continue to do your research and look elsewhere for consultation.
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28 Jun, 2018 by Anonymous
I can't express how grateful I feel to have hired Mr. Pearlman. He is an extremely experienced and thoughtful attorney. Moreover, I believe his long experience and reputation with the DA's office was critical to my success.
I was arrested for suspected DUI and multiple substance related charges. I was expecting the worst as this wasn't my first offense. In the end he got the multiple counts down to one possession charge leading to an informal probation which is so much better than I was expecting. I paid him a single very reasonable fee (not going to trial) and I always felt that I was getting a service consistently worth every penny I paid. I can't say that of other lawyers that have represented me at all. In fact, he kept to our contract without charging more even though the case unexpectedly dragged on for more than a year (solely due to the red-tape of the county).
I could tell that he really cared about my case and his office gave me the personal attention and time that I needed. He answered all my questions very promptly and professionally. Moreover, his office and administrative staff were just as helpful, polite and kind. They always dealt with any issues, paper work, court dates or appearances in a quick, detailed and professional manner.
I thought my career, life, license and professional certification were all going to be over & ruined. Instead, because I followed his advice and instructions, I'm getting a second chance and learning a serious lesson. I would 100% recommend Mr. Pearlman first for any criminal defense needs.
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12 Dec, 2016 by Anonymous
I contacted Mr. Pearlman due to being arrested after I was assaulted. I had no prior record and was the victim in this case looking at felony assault charges on myself and the other party. Mr. Pearlman assured the case would get dropped because of circumstances that I was the victim and assured me he knew people in D.A. Office to help expedite this matter. I gave him the retainer fee and signed paperwork. The day of my trial he was late and did not show on time before the judge to address my case. The case was dropped none of which was addressed by Mr. Pearlman to the courts. I emailed Mr. Pearlman that he did not represent me in court like he said, nor did he make any kind of reasonable attempt to discuss getting this arrest taken off my record like we discussed during consultation. Mr.Pearlman wanted more money to discuss helping me get the arrest taken off my record, which I found out fromD.A. Office I could do on my own without a lawyer or fee needed. Mr. Pearlman had poor communication with me following retainer fee received and contract signed. His office assistant was the only professional in this whole situation. She was lovely. Thanks to Mr. Pearlman I now feel like I was victimized twice. Please consider many other lawyers that hold true to their word that will show up to your court date. A phone call to someone he may or may not have known was never verified nor did it help my case. Mr. Pearlman knew it would get dismissed and took my money anyway without making much effort.
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4.2
16 Reviews
03 Jul, 2024 by Steinberg8
I interviewed a number of different lawyers and while all were knowledgable. Rachel distinguished herself with her friendly but very practical demeanor. She was efficient, empathetic yet realistic, extremely easy to talk to, and honest. Compared to the other lawyers that I met with, I found her easy to relate to and felt she understood my situation and challenges very quickly. We ended up using a mediator but Rachel provided excellent counsel when I needed it, especially towards the end of our process. Importantly, however, she prepared me well to enter into mediation. I feel the mediation process was more efficient because I got great advice from Rachel in the one hour consult we had prior. Prior to our meeting, I had sent her a lengthy e-mail outlining the issues and my priorities. She took the time to read through this and had questions for me when we met. I felt this was respectful of my time and resulted in a much more productive, focused discussion with clear action items for me as a result. At the end of the day, divorce is a business transaction with a lot of emotion attached. Rachel made it a more pleasant experience throughout. And while I did not need her as much as I anticipated (thankfully), I have heard others give her extremely high marks for getting the job done. In fact a friend of mine had a few lawyers before connecting with Rachel and once connected, her divorce was expedited. Our mediator, who is very well known in our county, spoke highly of Rachel too which gave me a lot of comfort.
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12 Nov, 2021 by Anonymous
Asked Rachel about how to process a modification to child support. She said she could fill paperwork out and do this. Turn out, she is completely wrong and I have to go through court. Not only did she cost me time and money, but she delayed the modification dramatically. Terrible and unprofessional.
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11 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous
I was extremely pleased with Rachel Castrejon. Of course, divorce is a very difficult time in ones life. The process can be alien and intimidating. However, Rachel guided me through extremely well. Of course, she knows the law and various courses of action very well. She was technically very proficient, but more importantly, she did an excellent job of answering my questions and giving helpful and prudent advice. I honestly never once felt Rachel was "in this for the money" and appreciated that she was looking for the optimal outcome for me, for the least amount of legal fees. I would unhesitatingly recommend Rachel Castrejon to anyone.
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02 Aug, 2023 by Dongkyu kim
26 May, 2023 by R k
The phone call service is horrible, treating you like a scammer for no reason
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10 Oct, 2021 by Peter park
02 Aug, 2024 by P
I hired Attorney Tina Abdolhosseini for a domestic violence case in April 2024. My experience included:
Misrepresentation of Coverage: Ms. Abdolhosseini falsely claimed limited coverage by ARAG to obtain a larger retainer.
Lack of Communication: Emails and inquiries were often ignored, leaving me uninformed about my case. Tina never consulted with me-- she always made me work with paralegals instead, while charging me attorney rates.
Unprepared Court Representation: I received an unfamiliar attorney with little knowledge of my case just days before court.
Missed Court Date Change: My request to postpone a hearing was mishandled, potentially jeopardizing my restraining order.
Due to these issues, I terminated services and filed a complaint my prepaid legal service provider. Seek alternative representation.
Disclaimer: This is a summary of my personal experience.
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04 Apr, 2024 by Pejman
I engaged Tina to handle a case I had against a furniture store. Initially, she was prompt and responsive in her communication. However, after I paid for a demand letter, her communication dwindled, and her assistant took over correspondence. When the demand letter yielded no results and I proceeded to file a lawsuit against the store in small claims court, Tina ceased responding to my inquiries altogether. This lack of professionalism was unexpected and disappointing. It appeared that Tina was content with the initial payment and showed no further interest in assisting me. I felt abandoned in the midst of my legal battle. Regrettably, I cannot recommend engaging Tina or her office for legal matters.
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13 Dec, 2023 by Jenny
Tina and the staff were super amazing. If you are looking for a good honest lawyer I would highly recommend you to go with Tina. The process was super efficient and smooth and she explained everything in details.
Thank you again for all your hard.
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14 Mar, 2024 by Noralea gipner
I used Roberta‘s services years ago for a family matter and the issue was resolved very successfully. When you hire Roberta, she’s your friend for life. Recently, I had to reach out to her for referrals and she was very accommodating to my needs. She referred me to two attorneys who are helping me with my problems. Roberta, is conscientious, goal oriented and gets the task done. Thank you so much.
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27 Jul, 2021 by Tk
Called to get some help & immediately felt like I was being treated poorly! No professionalism whatsoever! The lady who I had spoken with had no empathy & I didn’t even get a full two sentences out before feeling stupid! Once I stated that I didn’t like how she was talking to me she changed her whole demeanor! I’m dealing with a lot already & asking for answers & help but to have someone not sincerely wanting to isn’t where I want to spend my hard earned money! Please take this review into consideration for your own or your loved ones sake!
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05 Feb, 2021 by Jos. cebuano sr
Roberta Brooks is very nice and does her best..
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19 Aug, 2024 by Ruben talamantes
Michelle is amazing,
Having to deal with my legal issues was stressful. I don’t know what to expect. When I met Michelle for the first time she was easy to talk to, answered all my questions and explained how things would go each step of the way. She was always available to answer my questions. I feel like she worked really hard to help
the judge understand my situation and took time to write an extensive client report that was helpful and supportive to my case. I often refer her to my friends and family. I hope I never need her again, but if I do I would definitely work with Michelle!
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16 Aug, 2024 by River tepetla
Ms.Reynoso advocates fearlessly and is dedicated to her clients. During very difficult times she assisted in walking me through the legal process with clear and expert advise. Reynoso Law made me feel safe and protected and I highly recommend to anyone needing their services
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29 Aug, 2023 by Kimberly
Awful phone consultation experience. Divorce is a stressful experience but to have an attorney debate the abusive reality you experienced and be insentive to the concerns you have in regards to the other parent with young children was traumatizing. I felt belittled and dismissed . I expressedbriefly my abuse with my Russian husband as a black individual and was downplayed “ the courts don’t care about that unless you have proof” with out hearing me tell my full story. She then said well “I’m hearing your side and I don’t know what his side is so …” I’m reaching out to you to be my attorney it does not matter what his side is ! Maybe you don’t want to go against your own Russian people once you realized I’m a black person. She was asking me whether I was Russian or not that shouldn’t even be a factor !I do not recommend this lawyer and will be searching for another lawyer that can listen to my situation with out rudely interrupting me as I’m speaking.
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24 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
I was visiting San Jose for a few months when I got into some unexpected trouble. I was freaking out big time because I didn't know anyone there or how the system worked. A friend of a friend recommended Ruben and gave me his number. I'm sooo glad I called him. He completely had my back the whole time. He walked me through step by step what was happening and what I needed to do next. He explained stuff in a way I could get as someone unfamiliar with the courts there.
When it came time to deal with the DA and go to court, Ruben went to bat for me 100%. He made sure I was protected. Since Ruben has been a lawyer there forever, he knew his stuff inside out and all the players.
I'm super appreciative of the help he gave me during that stressful time. I highly recommend calling him if you're in trouble. He really came through when I needed it. -B
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11 Aug, 2022 by Chor
Ruben Munoz was kind, pleasant and funny at the same time. Ruben is a thoughtful person and get straight to the point when it come to my case with no time wasted. Good lawyer and fantastic in his words, very clear and quick to response to the judge. Well recommended and will hired again.
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11 Aug, 2022 by Fernanda
Estoy muy contenta con el servicio que nos brindo el abogado Ruben T. Muños es muy amable y profesional, teníamos un familiar en la carcel ya abiamos hablado con otros abogados ellos no nos daban buenas noticias, cuando decidimos contratar al abogado Ruben Muños el en tan solo 1 semana saco de la carcel a mi familiar, les recomiendo 100% al abogado Ruben muños
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01 Jan, 2020 by Farallon gardens
We have been working with Zachary Epstein for over 10 years and we cannot recommend his services and professionalism enough. Zachary has assisted us with tax preparation, annual returns as well as quarterly estimated tax payments. We recently incorporated our company and Zachary handled everything for us seamlessly.
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08 Feb, 2019 by Uncle p _
Zachary Epstein handled a case for me with the IRS a few years ago. He quickly put me at ease by calling them and getting them to route all communications through his office since he would be handling my case. It was a difficult process to maneuver me through the lengthy hoops and we made a game plan. He surrounds his practice with other specialists that got me to the finish line. Everyday that goes by, I thank him for getting me out of my jam. Highly appreciate and recommend The Law Office of Zachary Epstein. Give him a call.
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30 Jun, 2017 by Breeann wilcox
03 Apr, 2022 by Anonymous
My experience working with Faune and this firm had a negative impact on my case. She doesn't return calls and always told me to email her. Faune ignores calls and emails so how do you work with someone you can never talk to? Trying to set a time to meet with her was impossible because she was never around.
This was such a stressful time and you think she would make time to meet her clients. It made sense on why it took so long for anything to happen in my case because I had to always ask her to do the work. Even when you ask to speak to Steve Dinneen he doesn't respond or get involved. I wouldn't recommend her to anyone unless you never want your case to move forward.
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11 Aug, 2021 by John
From the day that I met Faune, I felt a certain calmness with my case, as she reassured me that this would not be a problem to resolve. Asking questions and paying close attention to the details, every time I contacted Faune in regards to my case, she was always willing to discuss my concerns and addressed them with the utmost professionalism. I felt satisfied after every conversation that the case was not only moving in a positive direction, but in a timely manner as well. Returning not only my calls, but my emails as well, she was constantly communicating with me, the information I needed. She took control of the case from day one and through the process was always updating me with the progress and the next steps that were involved. She was always patient and very understanding which was important to me. She is a hard worker, intelligent, empathetic, and professional, and for that I would highly recommend her! How she handled the case and that her words were true from day one until the case closed, her integrity is amazing!
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18 Dec, 2020 by Helen
AWESOME!!! THOROUGH!!! DEDICATED!!! OPTIMISTIC!!! PROFESSIONAL!!! Faune is nothing, but great across the board. I could not have asked for a better lawyer than Faune to handle my case. She has been with me from the beginning when I first started my child custody case, and despite all the challenges that came along with it, she knew what I wanted. In the end we came out with a victory, and it is because of how thorough she was with the preparation, and her commitment to the case that got us the win. It has truly been a pleasure working with her. I know I can count on her if I ever need legal advice/help in the future. Thank you so much for everything!!!
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01 Nov, 2022 by Stephen turnbull
Jennifer was terrific at representing me in Los Angeles County. My divorce case originated in Hawaii, with my ex-wife fighting over visitation with my 2 daughters and demanding large alimony and refusing to settle. It took 5 years, but it is finally over and I am free of alimony in CA. Jennifer wrote successfully and researched past case law to make a successful argument and get my ex-wife to settle. I thought my divorce would never be over, and finally it was. I would certainly recommend Skolnick Family Law.
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11 Oct, 2019 by Kathy
My story is probably nothing new and will sound very familiar. Phil and I met and married in Dallas. I worked during our marriage and my husband was the primary source of income with consideration to our lifestyle. I also helped with his financial problems early in our relationship, before and after marriage. I had more in savings, a steady job, and an A rating credit report. After three years of marriage he wanted to move back to Los Angeles, where he was working in the entertainment field, and restart his career that collapsed due to a substance abuse problem. With reluctance, I quit job and career path and moved from Dallas to Los Angeles for my husband’s career, which increased his income substantially. My career however faltered in Los Angeles and I had to start over again in a different field and work my way up. After 12 years of marriage we divorced.
Two years after the divorce was final, my ex came back requesting to stop support claiming health issues was causing him to work less. I contacted my original attorney and he could not take the case due to his workload and traveling and he sent me several referrals. After contacting all of them I felt confident with Jennifer Skolnick. She returned my calls, was communicative of the process and gave me realistic expectations of possible outcomes. She didn’t sugar coat the realities of court proceedings which I appreciated.
Part of the legal process required financial disclosure on both parties, and this is what scared me most. I was diligent about saving my money for the future and I thought a judge would side with my ex-husband and say that I didn’t need his support any longer. With a fine-tooth comb, Jennifer reviewed my financials and my ex-husband’s and determined that there were no significant changes in either of our income’s and he did not work less or make less since his visits to his doctor. But still noted that a judge will make the final decision. She then reviewed his medical reports and tests and found a statement buried in the reports that Phil admitted that he did not believe that his health was affecting his work and was able to work full time-even though he claimed his health was the reason he was requesting to stop spousal support. I believe it was Ms. Skolnick’s diligence in reviewing years of financials and medical reports that helped our case for spousal support to continue. In writing my declarations and memos of opposition Jennifer wrote with a logical and concise flow, had facts to back up statements of Phil’s financial stability, my contribution to my marriage, giving up my career for his, and his ability to continue to work and that his health improved with medication. There was no comparison with Ms. Skolnick’s declarations and memos of opposition and my ex’s attorney’s. My documents were factual and well written whereas his attorney had no facts to back up any of their grievances.
Ms. Skolnick’s attention to detail was valuable. She asked several questions about my marriage, asking about subjects and details I never thought would make a difference in defending my case. Her questions made me think about what I did for my husband financially before and during our marriage, where he was in his life before we met and when we met, our lifestyle habits, his spending habits and mine, and the responsibility of taking care of our home. It was an emotional 5 months of gathering documents and remembering the beginning, middle, and ending of a relationship but Ms. Skolnick was able to help and keep me on track with her “to do lists” for me that helped me get through this process.
Ms. Skolnick is an exemplary attorney and I would strongly recommend her.
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10 Sep, 2019 by Steve
I hired Jennifer Skolnick as my attorney for a divorce case in Los Angeles County, and she did a fantastic job and I would highly recommend her. My goal was to settle out-of-court, and Jennifer is very good creative suggestions to reach an out-of-court settlement. Jennifer writes beautifully, both brief and clear for the Judge: I could tell that the Judge had read and understood Jennifer's well written court documents submittals, and I believe that it clearly helped the ruling, especially in getting visitation with my daughter. She also never, ever over-billed on my case. I can certainly highly recommend Jennifer as an excellent Family Law attorney.
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Domestic Violence Lawyer Can Do for You
A domestic violence lawyer provides legal assistance to individuals involved in cases of domestic abuse, whether you are a victim seeking protection or someone accused of domestic violence defending against the charges. These lawyers help with obtaining restraining orders (protective orders), representing clients in criminal court, and handling related family law issues such as child custody, divorce, and visitation rights.
If you are dealing with domestic violence, a lawyer can help protect your rights and navigate the legal system to ensure your safety or defend you if you’re falsely accused.
When Should I Hire a Domestic Violence Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a domestic violence lawyer if you are:
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A Victim of Domestic Violence:
- Filing for a protective order (restraining order): If you need immediate protection from an abuser, a lawyer can help you file for a protective order, which legally requires the abuser to stay away from you and refrain from contacting you.
- Divorce or separation due to abuse: If domestic violence is a factor in your relationship, a lawyer can help you pursue a divorce or legal separation and ensure that you are protected throughout the process.
- Child custody and visitation issues: A lawyer can help you secure custody of your children and limit or restrict the abuser’s visitation rights to protect the safety of your children.
- Filing criminal charges: If you are pursuing criminal charges against the abuser, a domestic violence lawyer can work with law enforcement and prosecutors to ensure the case is handled properly.
- Assistance with safety planning: A lawyer can advise on the legal steps to create a safety plan, including securing temporary housing, and taking steps to protect you and your family.
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Accused of Domestic Violence:
- Defending against criminal charges: If you’ve been accused of domestic violence, a lawyer can defend your case, challenge the evidence, and represent you in court. If possible, the lawyer can help get charges reduced or dismissed.
- Challenging a restraining order: If someone has obtained a protective order against you, a lawyer can help you contest the order to prevent it from negatively impacting your life, including your employment and child custody rights.
- Dealing with family law issues: Domestic violence allegations can affect child custody, divorce, and property division. A lawyer can represent your interests in family court and ensure that your parental rights are protected.
- Avoiding criminal record implications: A lawyer can work to minimize the impact of the allegations on your record, which can affect your employment, housing, and future legal matters.
Hiring a lawyer at the earliest stages can help ensure your rights are protected and the case is handled effectively, whether you are seeking protection or defending against accusations.
What Does a Domestic Violence Lawyer Do?
A domestic violence lawyer provides various legal services depending on the specifics of your case. These responsibilities often include:
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For Victims:
- Filing for protective orders: A lawyer can help victims of domestic violence obtain temporary or permanent restraining orders, which provide legal protection by restricting the abuser’s access to you and your children.
- Representing you in divorce and child custody matters: Domestic violence often leads to divorce or separation, and a lawyer can represent you in family court to protect your assets, secure custody of your children, and arrange spousal and child support.
- Criminal representation: Lawyers work with law enforcement and prosecutors to pursue criminal charges against the abuser, ensuring that you are informed and supported throughout the legal process.
- Safety planning and legal advice: Lawyers provide advice on how to stay safe legally and can assist in securing temporary housing, providing guidance on how to leave abusive situations safely.
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For the Accused:
- Defending against charges: A lawyer will build a defense by investigating the case, gathering evidence, and challenging the claims made against you. If necessary, the lawyer can negotiate with prosecutors to reduce charges or penalties.
- Challenging protective orders: If a restraining order has been placed against you, a lawyer can contest the order and present evidence to defend against it, aiming to minimize its impact on your life and reputation.
- Handling related family law issues: Lawyers help defend against domestic violence allegations in divorce, child custody, and visitation disputes, working to protect your parental rights and reputation.
- Preventing long-term consequences: A lawyer will work to protect you from the long-term consequences of a domestic violence conviction, such as a criminal record that could affect employment, housing, and more.
How Are Domestic Violence Lawyers Paid?
Domestic violence lawyers generally charge for their services in different ways depending on the case's complexity and the type of legal work involved. Common payment structures include:
- Hourly rate: Many domestic violence lawyers charge by the hour, with rates ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and location. Hourly rates are common for both criminal defense and family law matters.
- Flat fee: For specific tasks, such as filing a restraining order or defending against a straightforward domestic violence charge, some lawyers offer a flat fee that covers all legal work related to that service.
- Retainer: In complex cases, such as those involving criminal charges, divorce, and custody disputes, a lawyer may require a retainer fee, which is an upfront payment that covers future legal services.
- Pro bono or reduced fees: Some domestic violence lawyers provide pro bono (free) or reduced-fee services to victims of domestic abuse who cannot afford legal representation.
It’s important to discuss fees during your consultation to ensure you understand how much your case will cost and what payment options may be available.
How Much Does a Domestic Violence Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a domestic violence lawyer depends on the complexity of your case, the lawyer’s experience, and the type of legal work required. General cost estimates include:
- Restraining orders: The legal fees for filing a protective or restraining order typically range from $500 to $2,500, depending on whether the case requires a hearing.
- Criminal defense: If you’re defending against domestic violence charges, legal fees may range from $2,500 to $15,000 or more, depending on whether the case goes to trial and the severity of the charges.
- Family law issues: Legal fees for divorce, child custody, and other family law issues related to domestic violence can range from $3,000 to $15,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the case.
- Hourly rates: Domestic violence lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour for their services, with more experienced lawyers charging higher rates.
Always ask for a detailed cost estimate during your consultation to understand the total cost of legal services.
Top Questions to Ask a Domestic Violence Lawyer
Before hiring a domestic violence lawyer, it’s important to ask key questions to ensure they have the right experience and approach for your case. Key questions to ask include:
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What experience do you have with domestic violence cases?
Ensure that the lawyer has handled domestic violence cases similar to yours, whether you’re a victim or the accused. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, flat fees, or a retainer, and ask for a detailed cost estimate. -
What is the likely outcome of my case?
Ask the lawyer for an honest assessment of your case, including potential challenges and expected outcomes. -
How long will the process take?
Domestic violence cases vary in length, so ask the lawyer how long they expect the process to last and what might cause delays. -
Will I need to appear in court?
Ask if your participation in court is required, and how the lawyer plans to represent you during hearings or trials. -
What steps should I take to protect myself or my rights?
Whether you’re a victim seeking protection or defending against allegations, ask the lawyer how they will help you navigate the situation.
How to Check the Credibility of a Domestic Violence Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable domestic violence lawyer, take the following steps to verify their credentials and track record:
- Check their bar status: Verify with your state bar association that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing with no history of disciplinary actions.
- Look for domestic violence experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in domestic violence cases and have successfully handled cases like yours.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients say about their experience with the lawyer.
- Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have been involved in domestic violence cases.
- Check for memberships in relevant organizations: Look for certifications or memberships in family law or domestic violence advocacy groups, such as the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV).
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a domestic violence lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:
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For Victims:
- Details of the abuse: Prepare a detailed account of the abuse, including dates, locations, and descriptions of any injuries or threats.
- Police reports and medical records: Bring copies of any police reports, medical records, or photographs that document the abuse.
- Legal filings: If you have already filed for a restraining order or been involved in any legal proceedings, bring copies of those documents.
- Questions about your safety and legal options: Be ready to ask about the best steps to protect yourself and your family, as well as what legal actions you should pursue.
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For the Accused:
- Details of the allegations: Prepare a detailed account of the incident or allegations against you, including any evidence or witnesses that support your defense.
- Legal documents: Bring any legal documents you have received, such as a restraining order, criminal charges, or child custody filings.
- Questions about your defense: Prepare questions about the legal process, possible penalties, and how the lawyer plans to defend your case.
By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your situation and provide the best possible legal advice.
