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28 Sep, 2021 by Desiree betancourt
Arie was so helpful and gave me so much advice I highly recommend them I appreciate all the advice and help I got
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20 Jul, 2020 by Juan rodriguez
Attorney Are answered my question and gave me a Juge relief ..... Other lawyers were charging me 4,500 just for a question I'm so proud I found him 🙏🏻🙏🏻
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14 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
There arent enough words to express how much of an AMAZING Attorney Michael is. He sets the bar on the level of communication he has with his clients. He takes so much pride in his ability to fight for his client, that he studies each and every word in your case. There were details he remembered that I had informed him of, and as I thought I was notifying him for the first time, he finished my update all on his own, remembering every little detail, as if it happened directly to him. I forgot I had already relayed the update, but I cant even begin to describe the overwhelming feeling of comfort to know Michael was not just my attorney, he was someone who genuinely cared about me and my kids. We went to our hearing, Michael all prepared and excited to represent me, evidence and notes in one hand and confidence in the other. Michael is not a very tall man by any means, but the fight he had inside of him, the fight he used defending and representing me, was one of an army from Sparta!! As a mom, going through court against my kids father, who instigated constant chaos, is that last and the hardest situation you ever want to face in general, however, just to know that Michael was in my corner fighting with and for me and my kids, made this situation a bit easier to handle. Thank you Michael, from the bottom of my heart. You will surely be missed at Westover!!
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01 Dec, 2024 by Kenneth santiago
Hello, my name is Kenneth Santiago. I just want to share my experience I had at Tyler Law Firm. The folks here are so friendly but most of all extremely professional, knowledgeable and very attentive to my legal situation. Particularly from the attorney that handled my case, Myla Sarmiento. Talking about someone who really had my interest at heart with my legal issue, she was beyond outstanding and did a tremendous job.
My legal case was extremely complicated but Myla stuck to her goal and displayed very creative ways to help me and solve the legal issue which she greatly accomplished. Thank you so much Myla for your dedication and hard work.
Kenneth Santiago
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09 Sep, 2024 by David lopez
I am pleased to share my experience with Nic Cocis, who represented my son in a very challenging legal situation. Last year, my son was involved in a serious car accident while driving to a pool hall on game night, which resulted in significant injuries and felony charges. Faced with up to six years in prison, we were desperate to find the right attorney.
After extensive research and interviews with various lawyers, we found Nic Cocis, and it was one of the best decisions we could have made. Nic’s has a solid 5.0 rating and its well-deserved. From the outset, he was incredibly kind, attentive, and responsive to all forms of communication. His calm demeanor and exceptional communication skills reassured us throughout the process.
Nic’s preparation was meticulous. He gathered comprehensive evidence, including pictures, character letters, and my son’s personal background life resume, to build a compelling case. His ability to present my son's story with such depth and empathy was impressive. In the courtroom, Nic's performance was outstanding—his handling of the case was as captivating as watching a rock star in concert.
Thanks to Nic’s expertise and dedication, we were able to negotiate a 3-year probation deal, a significant reduction from the initial charges. This was my son's first DUI and his first encounter with legal issues. We are immensely grateful to Nic for his hard work and exceptional representation. Thank you, Nic!.
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25 May, 2024 by Cory mandas
Great lawyer and team. Highly recommend!
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29 Jan, 2025 by Robert
Charles Gorian Attorney At Law was there when I needed him, in one of my darkest moments & he delivered! The sooner you contact The Law Office of H. Charles Gorian for legal council the better. With over 26 years of legal experience Chuck Gorian has what it takes to have your run in with the law endin a positive! 5/5 Stars
Recommended
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18 Jan, 2025 by Anonymous
Chuck and heather were very communicative and kept me up to date on whole process. They would respond to emails promptly. Very please with service and would recommend for anyone in any legal situation.
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19 Dec, 2024 by Abraham contreras
Really helpful understanding my case was easy all I can say is I really recommend him for any case he is and A class attorney
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28 Sep, 2021 by Desiree betancourt
Arie was so helpful and gave me so much advice I highly recommend them I appreciate all the advice and help I got
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20 Jul, 2020 by Juan rodriguez
Attorney Are answered my question and gave me a Juge relief ..... Other lawyers were charging me 4,500 just for a question I'm so proud I found him 🙏🏻🙏🏻
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14 Jan, 2025 by Juan e. rose iii
I cannot recommend Andrei Lapine highly enough. If you're looking for a trusted, responsive, and truly passionate attorney who goes above and beyond, Andrei is your go-to lawyer. I've had the privilege of working with him on two separate cases over the years, and in both instances, he has proven time and time again to be an expert in his field.
What sets Andrei apart is his unwavering commitment to doing the right thing and his deep understanding of the law. He is incredibly proficient, always prepared, and fully invested in his clients' well-being. His expertise in the Military Diversion Program in Riverside County, CA, is unmatched, and it's clear that he's become one of the most respected professionals, if not the most respected, in the eyes of the Veterans Court.
If you need legal assistance, particularly with matters related to the Military Diversion Program, I would highly recommend Andrei Lapine without hesitation. He is not only a brilliant attorney but also someone who genuinely cares about the people he represents. His passion for justice and his dedication to his clients make him a standout in the legal community. I will always trust Andrei to handle any legal matters, and while I hope to not need his services again, I will continue to recommend him well into the future.
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17 Dec, 2024 by Destiny ariel
My experience With Iapine law has been a great experience it was fair and lawful he sticks behind what’s right is right and what’s wrong is wrong this was a long journey, but we got everything done and he makes sure his clients are on point so that he can better assist when it’s time to go to court shows love care & concern I would definitely use him in the future and you should too !!!!!!!
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17 Dec, 2024 by Joshua brunson
Andrei is an incredible attorney and will help you to the ends of the earth for your case. He does a great job in simplifying the situation and has a good footing in the Riverside court system to fight for your case. I recommend Andrei and his team to anyone who needs help. He is also a veteran as a plus.
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22 Jan, 2025 by Nick m
Waste of time! They got all my info and said I will have appointment with a attorney but that never happened! They set up appointment with a assistant that wasn't a lawyer!
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22 Jan, 2025 by Marco salinas jr
I hired this law firm to assist me on a very important family custody regarding my ex taking my daughter out of state. As a first responder and a military veteran, I am very well aware on how attorneys function. Such as opposing counsel trying to have my case continued for several months. I informed this law firm of not only my situation but also the play by play that opposing counsel was going to do. I hired this firm in October 2024 and my hearing was held in December 2024. Within those 2 months they charged me just under $9000 and no work was done. This law firm failed to complete my case in December, as they did not work on my case and made mistakes of not serving opposing counsel. The lack and negligence of their concern to my case allowed opposing counsel to have my case continued until February 2025.
After they had the case continued, I told them about my concerns and all they cared was about more money. I told them that I was not going to provide them any more money and if they would like to drop my case to let me know and I would hire another law firm. This firm did not notify me of the standings and only notified opposing counsel that they were no longer representing me. When they notified opposing counsel, this firm had not filed a substitution of attorney. When opposing counsel told about this matter, I was lost and confused at first. I then searched for a better law firm. At this time they have done way more work than this law firm, such as ex partes and visitations (too early to rate them). However, when my new firm started the substitution of attorney, this law firm provided my new attorney false information and filed their own substitution of attorney. The immature act of this law firm delayed my new attorney to take over in a timely manner and it also caused me to lose Winter break visitation days with my daughter.
I called this law firm out on their actions and once again they did not care. All they wanted was more money. I am currently in the process of getting them for legal malpractice. I just want to warn those that are truly fighting for their child(ren) to look for another attorney and not waste your money. If this law firm is capable of stealing from a first responder and military veteran after being provided a play by play, I can only imagine for the hardworking single parents that do not know about the court and custody system.
My case was a simple custody battle with no domestic violence, CPS and/or police contact. All I needed this law firm to do was to complete court documents properly and have them serve those that needed to be serve properly. Especially since my ex alone had violated state laws by taking our daughter out of state without my consent.
Feel free to reach out to me if any questions arise and other documents you would like to see from this horrible law firm.
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04 Jan, 2025 by Lou ross
Horrible with communication and representing clients. The Bar will be contacted against a specific attorney in this firm. $$$ and no legal representation in a timely matter.
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07 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
I hired Michelle during one of the most vulnerable and traumatic times of mine and my children’s lives. She made big promises, didn’t deliver, and drug things out for billable hours, while she knew my kids were going through hell when with their dad. I was never in the courtroom with her, always made to wait outside of it. I remember one court date, where I became very frustrated as the court was once AGAIN postponed, and she turned around, away from me, and said to her associate, “She’s so I unappreciative”, referring to me. Very unprofessional at times. I finally had to fire her and retained another lawyer who had my children’s best interest at heart and got results and resolution, and always had me in the courtroom with him. If you can, try to work things out in your marriage. If you can’t, try to keep it out of the courts, and work out an agreement that’s good for the kids.
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10 May, 2021 by Ryan
Being a business owner, I typically only leave reviews for one of two reasons; Either what I experienced was above average, exceeded expectations, & the business deserves the shout out. Secondary, as a forewarning to others the business was such a letdown & did so horribly, avoid wasting your money. Unfortunately, my experience with Michelle & her firm was the latter.
Custody is never easy and conflict was high with my case as I was barely able to see my kids for almost 2 months. I reached out to Penna Coker Law & spoke with Michelle, once & only once with an initial free consultation. After listening to my case, she provided pieces of an aggressive game plan & some guidance that gave me hope. I retained Michelle's firm & she assured me along with her team, she would be there to continue providing legal guidance. She couldn't have been more wrong.
I spent the next 3 weeks with unanswered questions, confused, afraid, & completely left in the dark without a single word from Michelle until I terminated her firm. Things started off rocky with over 20 misspellings on the initial filing, including several of my son's name which would be correct on one line, incorrect on another, correct, then incorrect. Other misspellings included commonly used words or incorrect grammar. If you're going to charge $350/hr for a paralegal's work, at least have them run spell-check. Even Windows 98 had spell check... After that, they filed a document I never saw until after they filed with court & misspelled CALLIFORNIA. The state they're practicing law in. I emailed my attorney directly 6 times & called 6 times requesting to speak with Michelle over a 3 week period. I always got the same excuses of why she wasn't available & after taking my money, Michelle didn't see my case fit enough to take even one more second of her time on me.
Michelle was so uninvolved & out of the loop, in one of her final emails to me she made several references to my "child". I have two children Michelle. After being fired, Michelle was so kind as to take the liberty of filling in my new attorney, then bill me for her time. Neither my new attorney nor I requested Michelle to inform my new counsel how to do their job. $4,500 initial retainer, then Michelle informed me "there was so much work done on my case" & then I got another $3k bill a month later. I just hit the same total amount with my current attorney after 7 weeks, who also got me custody orders & overnight alternate weekends with my kids after 11 days.
Michelle advised me to file an aggressive restraining order, then admitted to me in an email (after termination) that evidence wasn't concrete enough. Had I pursued what Michelle advised with fantastic odds of losing, I was potentially liable to pay the opposing side's legal fees if I hadn't decided to drop the case.
If you're looking for help with your family law case, I would recommend any firm but this one.
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19 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
Michelle Penna and her staff all worked very hard to help resolve my issues. When looking for an attorney, you want to find one that will be fair and is capable of providing you with accurate information. Michelle and her staff will go above and beyond to help you find a fair resolution. If you want an attorney that has no heart and will just crush the other party then don't go to her. If you want someone that will help you through a tough situation and do everything possible to provide a very fair result, then Michelle Penna is who you want to hire. As angry as we can be with our former partners, at one point we loved them. It can be difficult to remember that, especially in the heat of battle. For me, the most important thing was getting though my custody situation with a fair outcome. Michelle made that possible for me! Now me and my ex both feel good about the situation and are able to communicate well again and work together on matters regarding our daughter. Everyone's situation is different, and it wasn't an easy road getting to this point. It took us over a year to get to where we are today. On the other hand, I have recommended people to Michelle that were able to resolve their issues in a matter of weeks. I would recommend Michelle and her staff to absolutely anyone I know. Thank you very much Michelle, for everything you did for us!
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22 Jan, 2025 by Nick m
Waste of time! They got all my info and said I will have appointment with a attorney but that never happened! They set up appointment with a assistant that wasn't a lawyer!
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22 Jan, 2025 by Marco salinas jr
I hired this law firm to assist me on a very important family custody regarding my ex taking my daughter out of state. As a first responder and a military veteran, I am very well aware on how attorneys function. Such as opposing counsel trying to have my case continued for several months. I informed this law firm of not only my situation but also the play by play that opposing counsel was going to do. I hired this firm in October 2024 and my hearing was held in December 2024. Within those 2 months they charged me just under $9000 and no work was done. This law firm failed to complete my case in December, as they did not work on my case and made mistakes of not serving opposing counsel. The lack and negligence of their concern to my case allowed opposing counsel to have my case continued until February 2025.
After they had the case continued, I told them about my concerns and all they cared was about more money. I told them that I was not going to provide them any more money and if they would like to drop my case to let me know and I would hire another law firm. This firm did not notify me of the standings and only notified opposing counsel that they were no longer representing me. When they notified opposing counsel, this firm had not filed a substitution of attorney. When opposing counsel told about this matter, I was lost and confused at first. I then searched for a better law firm. At this time they have done way more work than this law firm, such as ex partes and visitations (too early to rate them). However, when my new firm started the substitution of attorney, this law firm provided my new attorney false information and filed their own substitution of attorney. The immature act of this law firm delayed my new attorney to take over in a timely manner and it also caused me to lose Winter break visitation days with my daughter.
I called this law firm out on their actions and once again they did not care. All they wanted was more money. I am currently in the process of getting them for legal malpractice. I just want to warn those that are truly fighting for their child(ren) to look for another attorney and not waste your money. If this law firm is capable of stealing from a first responder and military veteran after being provided a play by play, I can only imagine for the hardworking single parents that do not know about the court and custody system.
My case was a simple custody battle with no domestic violence, CPS and/or police contact. All I needed this law firm to do was to complete court documents properly and have them serve those that needed to be serve properly. Especially since my ex alone had violated state laws by taking our daughter out of state without my consent.
Feel free to reach out to me if any questions arise and other documents you would like to see from this horrible law firm.
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04 Jan, 2025 by Lou ross
Horrible with communication and representing clients. The Bar will be contacted against a specific attorney in this firm. $$$ and no legal representation in a timely matter.
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22 Jan, 2025 by Angela dube
22 Jan, 2025 by Nathan perry
Best Family Law Attorney in the area.
Mr Westover is truly a life saver who knows the family law. The cost was reasonable and he delivered everything that I wanted in my divorce case. He was unbelievable and know his way around the courtroom which is very reassuring. Highly recommend Mr. Westover.
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29 Nov, 2024 by Tierra trembley
Avoid at all cost unless you want to waste your money. I retained Taryn to help in the custody battle that I’m been going through with my ex husband. The court date finally came and I never seen the judge. We sat in a room outside of court where she proceeded to hand write what my ex should pay in child support and health insurance. She came late, spent 45 minutes with me (talking about her kids) explained nothing, the billed me for over 2 hours of time that she was not there for. She didn’t address the back child support, the attorneys fees, or the scheduling adjustment that I was wanting. She had me show up in court to complete something that could have been done in her office months earlier. I had to call her pissed off for her to explain why nothing got addressed that day, just for her to bill be for the conversation that should have happened when we were in court
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19 Mar, 2024 by Zack
I would like to share some details in regards to an ongoing case that daniel was handling for us. However, due to our complaints of his ineffectiveness. And his paralegals' inability to create professional documents, he decided we were too much of a hassle and could earn easier money somewhere else. If you have hired this firm and they have not delivered on anything that they have said or promised And have continuously just taken money from you. Please reach out to me so we can put a stop to this together. Family court is hard enough. We should have an attorney that is on our side.
Update: I've requested a refund for services because of the lack of work and have been ignored. I filed a bar complaint.
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02 Aug, 2022 by Pamela gonzalez
I strongly recommend that you do research before hiring this firm. I spoke with Catherine Vincent originally and my case was handled by Daniel "Rat" His inexperience has shown throughout my case and I feel like everything is a wreck because of him.
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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.
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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:
-
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.
-
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.
