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Shaleika Vargas, experienced Child Custody, Criminal Defense attorney in Cleveland, OH with 193 reviews
Average
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44,99
star star star star star
4.8/5
Avvo
5.0
22 Reviews
Google Maps
4.7
171 Reviews
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01 Jan, 2025 by Tracy collyer
A Big Thank You to Issa and the Elkhatib Law team. God sent you to us in our family's time of need and we couldn't be more grateful 🙏. I would give Issa and his team a thousand star review if possible. 💯
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30 Dec, 2024 by Mohammed suleiman
Issa is an exceptional lawyer who has provided invaluable assistance with numerous business legal obligations. His unwavering support and availability through phone calls have been greatly appreciated. It is comforting to know that I can consult with someone who genuinely cares. I extend my sincere gratitude for your unwavering dedication and hard work.
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17 Dec, 2024 by Anthony collyer
This man helped prove my brother's innocence and saved him from a felony!
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Ashley Lenore Jones, experienced Criminal Defense, Domestic Violence attorney in Cleveland, OH with 282 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
43,76
star star star star star
4.8/5
Avvo
5.0
29 Reviews
Google Maps
4.8
253 Reviews
star star star star star
07 Feb, 2025 by Stephen
Ashley Jones is an outstanding attorney who truly goes above and beyond for her clients. She successfully got my assault charge expunged and worked tirelessly to have a criminal damaging charge expunged as well. From the beginning, she was extremely knowledgeable, patient, and dedicated, working withme for a long time to ensure I got the best possible outcome. Her law firm is the real deal—they took the time to explain everything clearly and eased my concerns throughout the process. I highly recommend Ashley Jones to anyone in need of a skilled and committed lawyer!
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06 Feb, 2025 by Aaliyah davis
He is very straight forward and honest about the situation at hand. He presents you in innocent light and feels for your case. I highly recommend him for any criminal case. He is very professional and cares about his clients.
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29 Jan, 2025 by Vertex_3201
Awesome very profesional and honest I will recomend him 100 percent
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Lori A. Zocolo, experienced Criminal Defense, Domestic Violence attorney in Cleveland, OH with 258 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
43,66
star star star star star
4.9/5
Avvo
4.7
13 Reviews
Google Maps
4.9
245 Reviews
star star star star star
03 Mar, 2025 by Paul houseman
"I had an exceptional experience working with Brenden Kelley Law on my business litigation matter. Their team provided clear, strategic guidance every step of the way, making a complex situation feel manageable. The professionalism and genuine care they demonstrated not only resolved my case efficiently but also instilled a great deal of confidence in their approach. I would highly recommend Brenden Kelley Law to anyone in need of expert legal assistance."
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24 Feb, 2025 by Jada copeland
Jessica was very helpful the entire time.
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17 Feb, 2025 by Kwanda m
Luis Great working with
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Jack W. Abel, experienced Child Custody, Domestic Violence attorney in Cleveland, OH with 4 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,12
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
4 Reviews
star star star star star
14 Apr, 2017 by Jordan
Jack Abel was my primary attorney for my divorce and I could not ask for anything more. Jack has been doing family law for 40 years and he knew every dirty trick that would be tried before the other side tried it. He researched the other side's attorney, knew that attorney would be super aggressive, and he basically judo'ed them to make them look unreasonable (they were unreasonable) which made the other side almost weak in negotiating. I felt like we were a step ahead of the other side every step of the way - Jack would tell me when to bring pictures in, when to bring family in, when to look my tip top best, what the hangups were and how we would handle them - he knew where we wanted to go, and he got us there a step ahead the entire time. Jack is a soft spoken man, slow to speak and eager to listen, a real example of wisdom. As quiet as Jack is, he has a team of absolute pitbulls around him - they go in and do the negotiations during the phase when nobody wants to give an inch, then every few sessions he would come in, a 40 year legend in the courthouse, and make an offer that the other side just couldn't refuse - and we would land exactly where he said we would. It was the perfect dichotomy and the results speak for themselves. At settlement, I had talked to my ex in private and walked back a few of the concessions that Abel and Zocolo had gotten for me. I was so satisfied that I actually gave up ground, which meant I got everything that I wanted AND was able to part ways amicably from a tough battle. A truce which lasts to this day - and was worth the give back in spades. It would not have been possible without that aura of quiet power that followed Jack when he walked into a room. The type of lawyers the other side had would have run over any average attorney - Jack was really the difference that made them know things would not go well with their unreasonable demands if they actually went into a full hearing. I won't even say some of what Jack told me - but this man has handshake power in Cleveland. Jack, Lori and the entire Team at Abel and Zocolo are everything a great team of lawyers should be - and they actually cared about me as a person, they listened to my story, and they adjusted their tactics to leverage my strengths - and it worked perfectly. My divorce was 5 years ago, and I still talk to Jack, Lori and Lisa several time a year to this day - and he refuses to send me a bill, they actually want to know how things are going, just good people. I can't say enough about the quality of Jack and the Team at AZ Law. I would't just use them again - I'd never use anybody else.
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19 Nov, 2016 by Tim
Jack was my divorce attorney almost 20 years ago. He provided excellent guidance along the way and kept me focused on the important issues instead of dwelling on the background noise. As a father working to get custody of my children, his advice was spot on and led to a successful outcome. When the case was re-opened 3 years later, Jack guided me through a custody trial, which again had a successful outcome. Could not recommend Jack more highly.
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06 Sep, 2016 by Mary
I have known Jack Abel for over 20 years. He was my divorce attorney. From the beginning, I felt that I could trust him. He has the skill to explain options in plain English and then helped me make the decisions that were right for my situation. My current husband and I have been married for 15 years now and continue to call on Jack for a variety of legal advice. We have never been disappointed with results. Jack's capable ability as an attorney is only surpassed by his integrity and character. I have recommended him to other family members. If you want an honest, highly competent and caring attorney, I recommend Jack Abel to you also.
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Melanie Rachel Giamaria, experienced Child Custody, Domestic Violence attorney in Cleveland, OH with 2 reviews
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info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,06
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
26 Jul, 2018 by Michelle
After two years of unprofessional and uneducated legal representation by two other attorneys, we were referred to Attorney Giamaria. I cannot express enough how thorough, knowledgeable, and professional she was with our case. She returned all phone calls and emails, she took time to walk us through every step in our case. Due to her kind nature, diligence, and belief that the children should be the primary focus she was able to orchestrate an amicable solution. I cannot begin to explain how grateful our family is to her and would strongly recommend her for any of your legal needs. She will not disappoint!
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02 Aug, 2013 by Marcela
This attorney is very professional and informative. She finds the best solutions to your matters. This attorney helped me out at the last minute and I am very thankful for her efforts in assisting me with my legal matter. This attorney didn't have to help me like that. But she did. You wouldn't regret if you'd allow her to prove her professional skills
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John Dryden Zoller jr, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Cleveland, OH with 1 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,03
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
02 Mar, 2017 by Lori
I would highly recommend this law firm to anyone considering divorce! Integrity, Compassion, Professionalism are just three adjectives I would use to describe the entire team at Zoller/Biacsi. I was already a year into me divorce process and was extremely frustrated when I hired them to take on my case as it was not progressing. Hiring them was most definitely the best decision I made! I had a very complex case and a very uncooperative ex which made it difficult to get anything accomplished. The entire staff at Zoller/Biasci took off running on getting the information we needed to build our case. They helped me stay focused on the goal as the stress levels were off the charts. I think that for most of us, making that final decision to file for divorce can be very scary and you feel very alone. From our first consultation, I knew right away that they would always have my back which was a huge comfort and load off of my shoulders. They truly care about their clients and getting them the best possible resolution. They are very good at what they do and are extremely detail oriented, organized and conduct themselves with class. Unfortunately my case was settled without going to trial as I was really hoping to see Mary and John in action in a trial setting as they are the dream team of lawyers! A big huge THANK YOU to John, Mary, Kirsty, Lisa and Landon - you all helped to give me back my life and I will always appreciate the extremely hard work you did on my case! Lori
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James Lee Lane, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Cleveland, OH with 67 reviews
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info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
38,02
star star star star star
4.6/5
Avvo
4.0
12 Reviews
Google Maps
4.7
55 Reviews
star star star star star
13 Jan, 2025 by Anonymous
You have been warned. Jim Lane has no idea what he is doing. My case dragged on for YEARS and he accomplished nothing. My daughter was being abused during the process. His response was to "file motions". He would get very upset anytime I tried asking him simple questions. His firm is now "coincidentally" down to just him and Rosenthal... many of his staffers have left and his former partner. He will not advocate for you. He will play games with the other attorneys intentionally causing you more stress and loss of money. Seriously, you have been warned. If you made the mistake of hiring him, I would drop him ASAP before you screw up your case any more. There is zero possibility the 5 star reviews of him are legitimate.
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30 Apr, 2024 by Robert remali
This firm means so much to my family. The attorneys were really sharp and worked very hard. It's true, not every hero wears a cape, sometimes they wear suits.
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13 Mar, 2024 by Amie p
Attorney Nicholas DiCello and the entire law firm have done an outstanding job representing me. They not only were hard working, very responsive and caring, they listened and always treated me with the utmost respect and empathy, as though I were family. I cannot say enough about this group of people and the kindness they've shown to me these last 2 years and will never forget my experience with them.
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Eric William Dysert, experienced Criminal Defense, Domestic Violence attorney in Cleveland, OH with 152 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
37,87
star star star star star
4.4/5
Avvo
5.0
23 Reviews
Google Maps
4.3
129 Reviews
star star star star star
12 Feb, 2025 by David lundgren
Got be better than I thought was best case. How do you do better no jail. He took that I needed to be home for my kids seriously and got it done. Thank you sir
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12 Nov, 2024 by Tammara hill
Navigating the justice system ( cops, courts , and corrections) is not for the faint of heart. Once a person becomes a defendant the ball is no longer in their court and trusting the process is tough. I am so grateful for the guidance and legal representation that my family received from Attorney Bret Jordan. Yes, being in this space is frustrating over all but he worked diligently to get the best outcome for our family. He was highly recommended and now I will also recommend him when issues arise. Bret, thank you for your service.
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09 Oct, 2024 by Quan marley
Thanks to Mr. Jordan I got a chance at a new life. He's helped in more ways than he can imagine
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Erin Adams Armstrong, experienced Adoption, Child Custody attorney in Cleveland, OH with 26 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
35,88
star star star star star
4.2/5
Avvo
4.3
16 Reviews
Google Maps
4.2
10 Reviews
star star star star star
12 Jan, 2025 by Brittany mcleod
I highly recommend Armstrong Law Offices. Erin was extremely helpful and persistent in helping me in a long court matter. She is very knowledgeable and compassionate in helping with these legal matters.
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18 Jun, 2024 by Jenny brady
Google Maps
star star star star star
10 Mar, 2023 by Sam br
Erin is absolutely amazing, kind, considerate, knowledgeable, and beyond helpful. I've been going through a fairly routine custody situation after a divorce and Erin has helped every step of the way. Myself, my son, and even my ex wife all benefit from her being there to help guide the way. I cannot recommend her enough Thank you so much Erin!! Your assistance is appreciated more than words can say!
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Russell Alexander Gates, experienced Child Custody, Domestic Violence attorney in Cleveland, OH with 20 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
35,02
star star star star star
5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
20 Reviews
star star star star star
11 Oct, 2024 by F t
Mr Miller is a solid attorney in the Cleveland area that you can't go wrong with. When in doubt, attorney Thomas Miller is the guy you want for help.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Barry arvie
Losing a loved one is incredibly challenging, and navigating the legal aftermath can feel overwhelming. Nadas Law stepped in during our family's time of need, taking charge of the entire legal process while we focused on our grief. From start to finish, my siblings and I were kept informed every step of the way. They patiently explained complex documents filled with legal jargon and guided us through the often frustrating task of coordinating with multiple departments at our bank. Words can't express our gratitude for Nadas Law’s unwavering support and commitment to managing our mother’s estate. They made an incredibly difficult time a little easier for our family, and we are truly thankful. Thank you team, Nadas! We are forever grateful.
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25 Jul, 2024 by Lynne szabo
My experience with this amazing Attorney was very satisfactory in many ways. Mr. Nadas helped me through a very difficult court situation by keeping me informed , and always available for consultations involving my case. His knowledge of the laws exceeded all of my expectations of confidence of his abilities going above and beyond to help me through this ordeal. If anyone is seeking for an attorney that has integrity and the ability to take action I recommend contacting this attorney. I am forever grateful for everything he accomplished .
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Christopher Gregory Thomarios, experienced Consumer Protection, Criminal Defense attorney in Cleveland, OH with 48 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
34,41
star star star star star
4.5/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
Google Maps
4.4
47 Reviews
star star star star star
02 Jul, 2024 by Lisa stevens
Google Maps
star star star star star
17 Jun, 2024 by Leayah hanson
Google Maps
star star star star star
10 May, 2024 by Ian zollos
This guy is the ABSOLUTE WORST ! He is an utter crook and will have ZERO regard for your case. He will take your money and he will then be a ghost. I had a case that should have been resolved within two weeks. It ended up taking SIX MONTHS. You will be lucky if the guy shows up to court. RUN AWAY AT ALL COSTS !!!
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Jerome Anthony Milano, experienced Criminal Defense, Domestic Violence attorney in Cleveland, OH with 6 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
29,14
star star star star star
4.3/5
Avvo
4.3
6 Reviews
star star star star star
16 Dec, 2021 by Anonymous
Couldn't be happier with Jay's representation of my uncle in his criminal matter. Thank you
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01 Jun, 2020 by Tony
I hired Jay Milano to represent me at a trial but he was not adequately prepared for court. He also charged me a "flat fee" but asked for additional fees later. I do not recommend using this attorney and suggest you shop around.
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06 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
Couldn't be happier with Jay's representation of me in my criminal matter.
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Leslye Maria Huff, experienced Domestic Violence attorney in Cleveland, OH with 5 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
28,90
star star star star star
4.2/5
Avvo
3.7
3 Reviews
Google Maps
5.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
26 Aug, 2021 by Juandedios ibarrafernandez
Google Maps
star star star star star
16 Jul, 2021 by Tammy young
Adam parker represented me in a felony case he made sure that I understood what was going on in my case and advised me the best way to go about my case. I didn't go to jail but for the one day the day I was arrested he also helped me get a in lieu of conviction and got me probation for two years and cost and fingers he was also a fair attorney and reasonable retainer fee
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07 May, 2015 by Anonymous
Attorney Huff is no babysitter; she is an excellent attorney. My case was one that many of my friends and my insurance agent told me I was not likely to win. Attorney Huff drilled down to the essence of the evidence and found a nugget that saved my case. We won. If you are willing to follow her instructions & do the client's part, she can move mountains as a advocate. for example, she asked me to make a timeline of the issues pertaining to my case, at first, I was slow in creating one, but she insisted. Doing the timeline cleared & organized my thoughts so our time together was far more productive and we won! She does not.give free.consultations and that's fine by me; if you are.serious about your case, Attorney Huff will seriously be your advocate!
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Sherry Ann Naegele, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Cleveland, OH with 3 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
22,25
star star star star star
3.7/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
Google Maps
3.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
04 Jun, 2024 by Family odetallah
*STAY AWAY!* Pamela J. MacAdams DESTROYED our lives. We are the Odetallah children (4), that were the victims of lies, with emails to prove against her deception withheld from court. Macadams vouched for an absent, neglectful, and abusive father, that influenced the judge to reallocate custody to a monster. My stay at home mother of 20 years, has been receiving NO CHILD SUPPORT. We continue to live with our mother since birth. MacAdams biased swaying of the judge has been a direct cause of: -NO CHILD SUPPORT FOR THE 4 MINOR CHILDREN -Severe health emergencies -Numerous preventable police reports from We The Children towards our father, of his physical, psychological, and emotional abuse -No food for the children -No annual glasses for 2 kids -No driver’s license -No gas -No clothing -Living with no money to repair mold
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28 Jul, 2020 by Gregg kaufman
Paul Grieco helped my family thru a very troubling time in our lives. He is a pro's pro and very responsive to your needs. He is very responsive and will listen to what you have to say. Just remember, the wheels of justice turn slowly and things take time. I am proud to call Mr. Grieco my friend.
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13 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
Helped me out alot with advice on my childsupport...very knowledgeable in all aspects in her field, actually cared and listened... saved me money too with her free advice .
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Eric Joseph Cherry, experienced Child Custody, Criminal Defense attorney in Cleveland, OH with 12 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
16,49
star star star star star
3.0/5
Avvo
3.0
12 Reviews
star star star star star
08 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
Used for a business case in 2019. Took my retainer & did not file forms correct time. Did not keep me in the loop. Case got thrown out & he refused to return my retainer.
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23 Sep, 2024 by Tomas o’dell
Not to be trusted. You will be screwed. Not unscrupulous attorney that ever walked the earth.
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16 Jun, 2023 by Lewis
I hired Eric J. Cherry to represent me in my child custody case. I was not pleased with my first lawyer and found Eric. I liked him from the start. It was a long process for me. (2years) Eric Cherry was very reasonable with billing me. I thought he was excellent in everything he did for me. I was pleased with the outcome of my case and don't believe I would have gotten the same results without Eric and the GAL I had on the case.
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Manav Hari Raj, experienced Divorce, Domestic Violence attorney in Cleveland, OH with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Natalie Laszcz, experienced Criminal Defense, Domestic Violence attorney in Cleveland, OH with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Lauren Kathleen Gilbride, experienced Domestic Violence, Elder Law attorney in Cleveland, OH with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Carol Beth Adelstein, experienced Child Custody, Domestic Violence attorney in Cleveland, OH with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Edward Ralph Jansen, experienced Appeals, Business attorney in Cleveland, OH with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Brian Richard McGraw, experienced Business, Consumer Protection attorney in Cleveland, OH with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Robert James Triozzi, experienced Criminal Defense, Domestic Violence attorney in Cleveland, OH with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Joan Marie Bascone, experienced Domestic Violence attorney in Cleveland, OH with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Patricia Fleming Krewson, experienced Domestic Violence, Family Law attorney in Cleveland, OH with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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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:

  • 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.
  • 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:

  • 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.
  • 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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. What is the likely outcome of my case?
    Ask the lawyer for an honest assessment of your case, including potential challenges and expected outcomes.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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:

  • 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.
  • 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.

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