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05 Feb, 2025 by Cole better
Wonderful law firm they’re honest. I say that because, they been trying to refund me my money being that the case was not eligible for an appeal, it closed. So I truly ignored the emails for 2 years but they were consistent and we finally squared that away. I feel like most organizations wouldn’t do that. I Thank you and recommend them.
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15 Nov, 2024 by Zakariah luna
Nicole and Roxanne have been the best legal team I've worked with. I've done IT consulting for legal firms and I can tell this firm runs a tight ship. I'll definitely use this firm in the future!
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30 Oct, 2024 by Kelsey
Nicole and Roxann were great to work with during an incredibly stressful time. They provided rockstar service, and both were darling personalities.
However, the firm pricing was steep, and I wasn't notified when my first legal representative was swapped. It was jarring to go over everything again with two new people.
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29 Mar, 2024 by Mike b
17 Mar, 2024 by Faysal ahmed
22 Mar, 2019 by Linda
My husband and I hired Jacqueline in 2013 to emancipate two of his adult children (from his previous marriage). Jacqueline went above and beyond our expectations. She got the courts to emancipate not only his two adult children we had requested, but also had his third adult child emancipated. It was a difficult case to say the least yet Jacqueline persevered and we won on all angles. We are now hiring Jacqueline again to prepare him for his retirement . We would highly recommend Jacqueline (and Tanya) as they are worth their weight in gold!
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17 Jan, 2025 by Carlos soares
This place is a joke! I'm currently unemployed and about to ship out with the military. I called looking to see if I could set something up that was within my means to pay this down but they said the "creditor" isn't willing to give me the same "deal" as previously stated. I got a letter saying I'm being "sued". I'll challenge it in court, these people never reached out to me when they took over my account. I have a family to provide for and they don't care. See you in court.
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16 Jan, 2025 by Erik rodriguez
Me llaman cuando digo español me cortan la llamada qué tipo de personas son esas
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16 Oct, 2024 by Thomas t
He was hard to reach when I needed clarification or support
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22 Sep, 2022 by Andy
After having a falling out with my partner, I started exploring legal representation to discuss a divorce. I met with a number of attorneys in the area and decided to move forward with having representation from Megan Clark. I couldn’t have asked for better services provided through the divorce process. As this was a difficult time for me, Megan was able to keep me focused on what is most important. So much happens through a divorce process that it is easy to get lost but Megan is incredible at knowing what the important issues to focus on are. She was patient with me, listening to my situation and hardships. It was difficult not to react to every issue that arose during my divorce but having support from Megan kept things clearer. Keeping it simple and educating me gave the confidence I needed to get through my divorce. Megan kept my best interests at heart and cared for me as a client. I would highly recommend Megan Clark to all friends, family, and anyone else that is in need of reliable legal advice. After a lengthy legal battle, Megan provided me with his superb legal skills that eventually ended my divorce in success.
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30 Jan, 2022 by Peter
I hired Ms. Clark years ago due to a dispute in my divorce settlement. $7000 later, I wouldn't say I was fully happy but could've been worse. 4 years later, I have $600 left on credit and now trying to get that measly bit back is impossible. No one is answering my emails or voice-mail. I got her secretary FINALLY on the phone last month and was told "Invoices will be mailed out in January". Wait... no... that's not what I'm calling about. Too late; she hung up.
I am truly and honestly confused. Am I not entitled to any monies on account? At least answer me and tell me that. I wouldn't recommend this firm being that my ex's attorney got everything they asked for and very little went my way... But that's not why the 1 star. Not only did I draw the short straw in the end, but lost the $600 crumb leftover as well.
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14 Jun, 2019 by Sherriann bessette
This woman represented my late husband. It was awful. She was terrible to me in the court room. But she cares. I realized when all was said and done that the reason I hated her was because she is amazing at her job! If you are looking for a shark and a lawyer who actually cares she is it! A Laywer like her is hard to find!
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26 Feb, 2025 by Mark gonzalez
Don't waste your time and/or money with this lawyer. Mrs. Noris is incompetent. Anyone looking for legal representation should look for a lawyer with a better track record, someone who really cares about her clients -she cares about getting your money, but not about giving you the best representation.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Tania solis
28 Jun, 2024 by Fernando valerio
I do not recommend her, she gave me unacceptable treatment. I give it ZERO STAR.
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25 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
Ms. Zoschak did not do discovery, did not prepare for my MESP and refused to talk to me about the panels conclusion. I was not told until after it already started that I couldn’t attend. She was supposed to call me right afterwards, but never did. I called and emailed her for 9 days until I finally went down to her office. She wasn’t in. She never is. Another lawyer called her and told me while she was on the phone that it wasn’t a good deal and not to take it. Jen didn’t even have the decency to talk to me herself because she knew she messed up, big time!
After that I pleaded with her to at least get my rightful amount of child support. She lead me on for months, but never actually applied. I’ve lost out on thousands of dollars of support. I make 1/5 the income my husband does. I have a permanent restraining order against him and she refused to help me get my support and also refused to get him to pay the kids court ordered medical bills. My children’s primary doctor refuses to see them since his share of the balance is so outstanding.
Jen doesn’t care that my kids and I are struggling. I wanted a lawyer who would fight for me. She won’t even return my phone calls or emails. Jen let me down. I would have been better off representing myself.
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07 Mar, 2014 by Anonymous
Jennifer was an amazing legal resource and a tremendous source of support. She listened to all of my concerns, addressed each of them, talked me through the pro's and con's of all actions, and then executed our plan just as we had discussed. I would recommend her to anyone who is going through a tough situation: domestic violence or divorce.
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09 Dec, 2013 by Anonymous
Jennifer is the most caring lawyer I have ever had the priveledge of knowing. Going through a divorce was the hardest thing I ever had to do and I know I couldn't have gotten through it without her. Jennifer makes sure that you are always informed with what is going on, she is very prompt in answering back phone calls and will go the extra mile for you. She is open and honest and looks out for your best interests. She made sure everything was done as promptly and accurately as possible, she never made me feel uncomfortable about anything. I couldn't thank her enough for everything that she has done for me. When you go through a divorce your emotions are all over the place and she understood that, and was very patient and caring with what was going on. She will make sure you get the best legal advice possible!
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17 Sep, 2019 by Walter
I HIRED MS. VANLEUVEN TO TERMINATE PERMANENT ALIMONY. SHE TOOK MY RETAINER AND AFTER ONE YEAR HAD NOT SUBMITTED THE CASE. SHE WOULD NOT RETURN MY CALLS, VOICE MAILS, OR TEXTS. I FINALLY GOT TO TALK TO HER AFTER I FILED A ETHICS CHARGE AGAINST HER. IN ALL MY DEALINGS WITH MS. VANLEUVEN I HAVE FOUND HER TO BE VERY UNPROFESSIONAL AND UNETHICAL
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24 Sep, 2015 by Kj
After a lot of soul searching and lawyer searching - I found Dana Van Leuven. She was very forthcoming with initial information on my search. I had questions that she answered without hesitation (other attorneys I probed didn't do that) - she seemed honest and easy to talk to and I appreciate that. One never knows if it's the right time or the right thing to do, when making life changes. I hired her and am hoping to have an "easy go" with my case. - I trust she will have my best interest in mind while guiding me through my legal journey.
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25 Jun, 2015 by John
Dana is an exceptional lawyer. In my case not only do I need advice, I need support. She has provided that to me. She is understanding of those times when I want to lash out at the system for lack of progress in my case. She explains why and shows me paths I can take to allow me to move on to the next steps. For me the fact that she cares about me is a very big positive.
On the lawyer side she is fantastic. I love that she can put in a couple of sentences what another lawyer needs to use paragraphs to explain. She does not waste time on frivolous issues even when as a disgruntled person at times I might ask for it. She shows me the best path(s) to take.
She works at her craft. She works for her clients. I usually find that she has already thought of the things I might ask her to do and has a ready plan.
In the process I am in she is not the first lawyer I used, but she will be the last and the one that I remember for the quality of service I received.
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10 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
This attorney handled all landlord-tenant affairs for my building in Jersey City, Nj. He eventually assisted me in the sale of the property with great competency and dedication. He is well versed and knowledgeable in this area.
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22 Mar, 2019 by Anonymous
Mr. Jimenez won my custody trial in court which took three years. He worked very hard and got me the result I wanted. He still represents me to this day in my family matters. I highly recommend him.
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02 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
I can only speak for the outcome of our child custody case. In the early stages of our case, prior to hiring him, he told us there was the Tender Years Doctrine that he could use an an argument in our case. Having never heard of that, and going online to Google it, found out that has not been used in many years, because it was deemed to violate the equal protection clause of the Fourteenth Amendment. When we questioned him on that, he backed away from it.
It seemed as though he was attentive, and he spent time with us going over all our notes. But in the end, on the most important day in court, it was like he just wasn't 'there'. He didn't much object to anything from the other side, didn't challenge the important evidence, and overall left us to flounder.
We cannot speak for other cases he handles, for which he may be perfectly fit. But in our personal experience with him on an important child custody case, we felt he was a poor choice for our situation.
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12 Aug, 2022 by Tessa
First - know Lyons’ firm charges by 0.2/hr versus the normal 0.1/hr. So say she’s $575/hour — a one-line email that’s 30 secs to read & a 20 min phone call cost the same ~ $114. And raises hourly rates WHILE you still have $ from initial retainer. Apparently she “can,” but most just don’t. Especially in FAMILY LAW! Reviews I just read here describing Terry drawing you in with “charm,” TRUE. With reassurances that you are already and will be her absolute priority and then…didn’t even remember impt details of my case. And yes, my case was pawned off to brand new associate too, to save ME money. Knowing I’m a disabled, single mom who’d been bankrupted by lawyer fees to fight false allegations (as in hundreds of thousands) by children’s father, and referred to by her respected peer, when I saw the invoice charging me over $250 for the time I called just to ecstatically let her know EVERYTHING was dismissed, I felt nauseous. That’s repugnant. As the firm’s owner, I believe that’s her choice. Then, in the middle of what she said was “near the end,” she actually demanded my balance in full, saying not another word would be written on my behalf until fully paid. Pretty sure that’s not or is not fully legal, but what? Sue my lawyer who I need to finish an order? I had to BEG several times for huge (for me) lump sums then monthly payments that are the same as my rent (I had to move as a result). STILL paying off, but guess what hasn’t changed? My family court case for which she was retained.
Probably redundant, but I do not recommend.
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20 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
Talked with Terry in first meeting, who I thought was great, then was assigned to an associate. She was the worst. Spent more time on the billing, or should I say overbilling then she did my actual case. For one sentence emails I would be charge a half hour. I had to learn more about the law because she was so incompetent. The missed over 100k in hidden assets, all because the would not file a subpoena like I requested. Everything was terrible, communication, the way they handled thing. I understand that Terry didn't handle my case, but when you name is on the door, your ultimately responsible.
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28 Jan, 2020 by Nonja
Ms Terry worked hard for my divorce case with my difficult ex, she did her homework in presenting information to the court, she was compassionate and all my expectations were met. I am very happy with the quality of her work.
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09 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
En la consulta stanziola no deja que uno hable y hacé qué firmar por 10.000 dolores,pasan los meses y el no te representa en la corte ni se registra,no regresa el dinero y te llaman la POLICÍA,GRAN ESTAFADOR.
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10 Feb, 2017 by Mariana
Mr. Stanziola and his paralegal were extremely helpful with my adjustment of status process. He was very clear with the entire process, and what should i expect. Once the ball got rolling, they kept me updated with any changes. I was surprised with how fast everything went! I recommend him to all my friends that need any immigration, municipal, real estate and family law help
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10 Aug, 2021 by Victoria
Extremely thorough. Very responsive. Excellent office staff. Stayed on top of a very tough real estate transaction. Didn't miss a beat. Will be using him when we purchase our 'forever' home, hopefully next year .
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03 May, 2021 by Anonymous
If you’re ever in a pickle, you’re screwed. Misplaced home survey, he has no record
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15 Feb, 2022 by Anonymous
This is my second lawyer and I regret not picking her years ago. I’ve been in a battle with my ex for over a year. My case is extremely difficult and has a lot of pieces to it. Rebecca listened to every detail and was able to direct me properly. She explained everything in English and was extremely patient. She really looks out for your best interest. She won’t steer you wrong. From the first conversation I had with her, she made me feel safe for once. Prior to her I was robbed by another lawyer who put me in a worse situation than I was before. Rebecca is not only confident but she carry’s herself with class, yet aggressive for the fight. I was extremely anxious prior to my CS hearing. Literally in tears and extremely anxious. She reassured me that everything was going to be ok and it was. I’ve never felt this safe with anyone in a long time. She made sure that my voice was heard and I was going to win my case. Although we still have more work to do, I will always choose her. I’ve recommended her to several friends too because of how amazing she is. I trust her with my life.
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14 Sep, 2021 by Brenda
I went to Rebecca in March 2021 for an issue of recovering Child Support arrears. I had a phone consultation (re; COVID) where she outlined what my options were & the steps she recommended to take to to recover the arrears. Her office staff emailed me a retainer agreement which i signed & paid. As agreed, she wrote a letter to my ex-husband that struck the exact tone and tenor I was looking for to motivate him to become current on his child support.
Rebecca was very responsive to my follow up emails and i was successful in my recovery.
Only con was the billing process... I never received a 1st bill which included the drafting of the letter. In fairness, the postal service hasn't had a stellar performance in my neighborhood during/since COVID. In any event , once I received the 2nd months bill, I was able to figure out the cost of the letter ($300.00).
Rebecca is calm, professional, honest and polite. I feel she was an active listener and heard my concerns.I easily give Rebecca my highest recommendation.
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25 Jan, 2018 by Sonny
Well, I can't say enough about this lawyer. After seeing a higher priced lawyer, with NO 'bedside manner' we were referred to Rebecca by a friend. From the first 5 minutes in speaking with her we knew we had our lawyer. She listened and was patient and empathetic. We needed to answer these questions that were very in depth. She then wrote her OWN questions to fire back and they were SO great! After submitting those questions...the opposing party was then willing to negotiate. Again, she is beyond helpful and very thorough. This is the ONLY lawyer I will speak to in the future. It's too bad you can only give 5 stars because I would give 100!
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14 Feb, 2024 by Chris
Retained Mr. Elias to work on an estate affair. He did not follow up on anything and we would have to call for weeks before he returned a phone call if at all. Had to hire another lawyer to represent us. Traumatized after having to deal with this after the death of a loved family member.
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05 Oct, 2009 by Jeff
Top notch in every single respect. From the moment I met him, he became a very valuable, trusted member of my team of advisors. I've worked with many attorneys and by far this is the premier one. I view him as far more than attorney, more so an advisor in the area of trust and estate planning. I've brought many family members to him and referred friends and associates.
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09 May, 2013 by Lori
Terrible attorney took my money promised to go to court and get my back due rent and never did any work besides a phone call to my advisory.
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03 Mar, 2013 by Anonymous
He is very knowlegabe about the law. I was charged with unregistered handgun. I was facing prison but he got my probation. I would definately recommend him.
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19 Jul, 2018 by Ed connors
Used this firm personally so I can honestly say it was not a god experience. Be forewarned, smiling faces making promises but in their own words "We have a hard time with transitions" cannot get billing out in a reasonable time frame and estimates for legal fees double. Horrible results. Only gave them 1 star because there are no negative stars
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03 Oct, 2017 by Louisa borell
25 Oct, 2021 by Peter flower
Bill Waldman was the attorney that handled a closing for Lakeland bank whom held an SBA loan I had. After closing the deal in December 2020 and wanting to pay off the balance in the first 6 months I sent 3 requests starting in June of 2021 requesting a pay off balance after I had paid down a large amount of the loan. It was not until OCTOBER that he finally got back to me and Fedex me out a demand letter saying I owed almost twice the amount money and I needed to satisfy the loan in 10 days. In addition, he continued to add interest on the loan which I had planned to pay off in full back in June. After a bit of back and forth I had to do his job and correct him on his $70K error because he was asking ME to show him where he had dropped the ball. Makes you a little nervous that these banks have lawyers that represent them and they make such huge errors. I guess this is what you get from K&L Gates LLP.
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28 Jan, 2021 by Paola disla
02 Aug, 2021 by Julianna
She’s great and her secretary Meilyn is phenomenal. I always had an answer to every question. No matter what it was.
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10 Jun, 2021 by Eliza gonzalez
Ms. Roman has a disgusting demeanor and poorly represents her very own community, not only as an attorney, but also as a “judge.” Her court hearings should be reviewed for mistreatment of individuals with disabilities and also those with language barriers.
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08 Jun, 2021 by Ginna
I questioned her invoice and she started to scream "people think I do this for free" It's a shame that someone who is supposed to guide and help reacts that way.
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06 Apr, 2021 by Xedible autopsyx (xedibleautopsyx)
She doesn't do Private classes apparently and told me she couldn't help me with a Family Case. Which I heard otherwise.
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03 Nov, 2018 by Kathy haley
Excellent attorney. Well versed in the issues that our family faced. Jane showed great attention to detail, kept us informed and achieved a highly favorable outcome.
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22 Mar, 2018 by Jerry fox
Did an awesome job for me, definitly knows every detail of Landlord Tenant law.
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23 Aug, 2023 by Cathy nasiuta
She doesn't care about winning your case, it's about running up the bill and dragging your case out as long as possible so she can make as much money as possible. When you're all out of money she will drop you like yesterday's paper and put liens against your assets.
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11 May, 2023 by Anonymous
My case was post judgment and there was very little to be settled. Toni dragged out my case with never ending letters instead of calling opposing counsel. She prepared inaccurate correspondences that wasted my time and a lot of money. She was rude and condescending. These negative reviews are all accurate as they reflect my exact experiences. My new attorney resolved my case within two phone calls to opposing counsel.
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20 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
Toni Damiano does not care about her clients, she only cares about getting your money and doing absolutely nothing for it. If you want to pay $400 an hour for one line emails to go back and forth Toni Damiano is the one to hire. She refuses to answer questions, she is completely unprofessional using intimidation and humiliation toward clients. Then she will sue you for work she has not done.
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01 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
Very unprofessional person, she couldnt fet an agreement on a decision to have my buy out more money and i deserve more being married for a long time, not to mention she just got up and left her practice and didnt tell me about it , Gave her 4, 000 for what she didnt even finished my case.
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06 Sep, 2024 by Yasmen
If you want to be homeless - robbed - rapped - hospitalized go to Ronda - me and my daughter were used and abused by her and her “paralegal” “Elia Schneider“ who probably didn’t even graduate from high school. There is more to come for a detailed book review written by me and my daughter.
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23 Jul, 2015 by Robert
I was a client of his. And he was my divorce attorney before he petitioned to depart my case and left me without an attorney. He was very responsive, and very good when speaking and relating to all the judges. He gets the job done. But I can never figure out if he understood my physical, mental, and financial situations while preparing for court documents. I must admire that he got the job done whenever we attended the mandatory court sessions, but the undertone of all his work has to do with how he and his firm gets paid. He tend to build a course of plan and chore based on billing and financial potential.
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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.
