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Robert Wayne Lukow, experienced Criminal Defense, Domestic Violence attorney in Syracuse, NY with 41 reviews
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19,46
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3.7/5
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3.7
41 Reviews
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17 Jan, 2025 by Em lh
VLP provides access to legal assistance to individuals and families who might otherwise have no access to justice, particularly in civil legal matters. They are incredible! The staff at VLP are organized and supportive, providing volunteers with resources and guidance needed to help clients. Their commitment to pro bono work helps people in vulnerable situations, and also fosters a sense of community among the legal professionals involved. If you are a paralegal, attorney, or community member looking for an opportunity to contribute positively, Voluntary Lawyers Project is an outstanding organization making a realtime impact. VLP is an organization where you can contribute your focus, time, and other resources and you will see and feel lives change in profound and meaningful ways.
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09 Dec, 2024 by Richard wertman
Can't judge their services. Left my name & number and never got a call back.
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03 Dec, 2024 by Joan booth
I spoke with Kristin and she was more than helpful, she went above and beyond to find me the right lawyer that I needed. Just speaking with her I knew she would point me in the right direction and she did. Very professional and helpful.
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Penny S Slomovitz Glaser, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Holtsville, NY with 6 reviews
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19,10
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3.6/5
Avvo
3.6
6 Reviews
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08 Nov, 2020 by Jackie
Penny is a very professional lawyer. I like that she responds right away to texts or email. She knows her stuff!
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22 Jun, 2019 by Gary
I highly recommend hiring Penny S. Slomovitz-Glaser. I called Suffolk County Bar Association asking for a Real Estate Attorney in my local area. Having met with Ms. Penney, I was very pleased to hear how she was going to solve my problem and how diligent and efficient she was. I am grateful for all her help in this matter.
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15 Dec, 2016 by Lynda hickey
I first retained Penny back in 2001 when I separated from my husband of 20 years. Penny prepared our separation agreement which eventually was to become our divorce agreement. Fast forward 15 years and my ex-husband filed against me to be relieved of his maintenance payments. Penny had prepared an iron-clad agreement which held up. She was there every step of the way as my advocate, always responding quickly and professionally to all my questions and calls. We won a three-tier motion which gave me the leverage to negotiate a very positive result for me. I would recommend her whole-heartedly and sincerely appreciate all her hard work and persistence. She was also very fair with her fee schedule and I would use her again in a heartbeat.
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Bradley Jay Rooke, experienced Adoption, Child Custody attorney in Johnstown, NY with 3 reviews
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19,04
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3.6/5
Avvo
3.6
3 Reviews
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15 Dec, 2021 by Philip krikszens
He was an excellent attorney. If I had a problem he got right on it. I would recommend him to anyone.
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14 Dec, 2021 by Kathleen
Attorney Rooke is knowledgeable and responsive but also kind and empathetic. I would highly recommend him.
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25 Jun, 2018 by Bill
Bradley literally admitted he didn't know how to handle my case. That should have been my wake up call to fire Cordell & Cordell. I think he was literally fresh out of school, so in all fairness, if he's gotten some experience at a good firm, he might become a good lawyer, but I'd steer clear.
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Peter Paul Charnetsky, experienced Child Custody, Criminal Defense attorney in Vestal, NY with 3 reviews
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19,04
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3.6/5
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3.6
3 Reviews
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28 Sep, 2018 by Dan
This guy collected more than $6000 from me and did not even glance at the notes I provided him prior to walking into court. The guy shows up to a rural county court 45 minutes late and blames "traffic". Then he got owned in the lone hearing which he represented me by kid-lawyer with no case but who was prepared. He then tells me that opposing counsel has a new proposal which he'll forward to me - turns out the proposal was not new, I already received it two weeks prior, and provided him with detailed notes related to the proposal immediately. He neither read my notes or recalled that he already sent the proposal. He was either wrong about, lied about or simply took no action related to the only two important legal questions I asked him during the consultation. He's either incompetent, dishonest or lazy. My guess is lazy. I'm now on the verge of losing my children, home and career and have been forced to find new representation. You are better off representing yourself. If you are in the market for an attorney then you have too much at stake to roll the dice on this guy or this firm. Had I done so I'd have and extra $6000 and no worse off legally.
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09 Nov, 2016 by Peter
Peter is a skilled matrimonial and family court attorney. His years as a Judge, combined with his years of practice, make him one of the best in the state. I have found him to be a go-to guy for any questions that I have in the area. I recommend him enthusiastically.
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07 Mar, 2015 by Susan
Received advise on client confidentiality and subpoena issues. As a professional it is important that I receive accurate information. Peter was very responsive to my questions and was prompt with his responses. I would highly recommend him.
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Valerie Hope Tocci, experienced Domestic Violence, Family Law attorney in New York, NY with 3 reviews
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19,04
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3.6/5
Avvo
3.6
3 Reviews
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03 Aug, 2018 by Anonymous
I spoke to Valerie about my prenup yesterday and was impressed with her knowledge and practical yet heartfelt approach. She was brilliant and gave me clarity and ideas on how best to move forward while being kind and empathetic rather than cold and purely business-like. I learned that sadly she cannot represent me as my boyfriend drafted the prenup under NJ law and she is licensed in NY so my search continues, but if this wasn’t the case then I would have been honored for her to take on my case, feel like she genuinely cares about the wellbeing of women and protects her clients from all angles. Wish we could have worked together and will recommend her to my NY friends.
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22 Jun, 2016 by George
I highly recommend Mrs. Tocci and her team. She did an excellent job, meticulous about keeping me well informed of critical dates and helped me in sorting out and assembling the necessary data needed for my case. It was a complicated divorce between assets, family trust and a very emotional custody negotiation but at every turn she and her team were professional, accommodating, efficient, trustworthy, and not intimidated by any situation that came up. I could not be happier with the final outcome.
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11 May, 2016 by Anonymous
Valerie, and Michael Stutman, represented myself in a nearly three year divorce (from a seven year marriage). She is passive, doesn't know case law, gives false promises and allows 'the other side' to push her around at every turn. She isn't organized, lets things wait until the last minute. And as a result of what I deem to be pure negligence, has potentially landed me in a situation where I may go to jail on contempt charges. Avoid at all costs. This is a very nice woman. However, she is unfit to represent as a litigator if you are looking for a fair settlement/juedgment.
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Christopher Matthew Tunney, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Corning, NY with 4 reviews
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18,93
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3.0/5
Avvo
3.0
4 Reviews
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05 Oct, 2021 by Joshua
If you have any kind of trial you'd be better off throwing your money away. Very little prep work, very meek in litigation, and puts up little to no fight. According to multiple other attorneys he failed to inform me of a very common law practice and actually suggested the bribe the other attorneys offered for me to drop the case.... this man took money and refused to even return a phone call after he lost the most important moment of my life!
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19 May, 2021 by Tyler
spoke with him about a year regarding a speeding ticket, he said he will take care of it paid him and everything and with covid going on he kept telling me the courts are closed finally a year later tells me i have court date and he will handle it ever since then i haven't heard from him
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12 May, 2021 by Mario
Chris is the man! I got pulled over for doing 15 over the speed limit just entering Chemung County on my way to Horseheads while passing another driver on I86 and the officer cited me for 10. It was Good Friday that day and this wasn’t the best Friday for me to get pulled over lol. I am a PA (out of state) driver so even though the points wouldn’t affect my PA driving record, my auto insurance would have spike if I would have plead guilty to the ticket. Plus I will be moving to New York State shortly so I had to take care of this somehow. I talked with Chris Tunney who assured me that he would able to talk the ADA into reducing the points. And he did just that. In New York state, 10 over the speed limit is 3 points. Chris got my speeding ticket reduced from 3 points to 0 points and a non moving violation. He came through for me like he said he would. If you ever get pulled over, Chris is the man to talk to.
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Edward Charles Northwood, experienced Business, Domestic Violence attorney in Buffalo, NY with 16 reviews
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18,54
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3.5/5
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3.5
16 Reviews
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02 May, 2024 by Scott wilcox
I have worked a very complex case with this firm (and Hogan-Willig before it) for over a decade. The case had it is ups and down but throughout it I was impressed by the professionalism and care that they showed me as a client. As the case draws to a close, I wanted to leave a review to say I would definitely recommend them and the staff to others and say thank you for sticking with me.
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18 Mar, 2024 by Ciji vandyke
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03 Oct, 2023 by Mario avarello
Barb, is old school with pad and paper she knows her stuff.. made progress while the 2 other attorneys stumbled and were more interested on”in their bills then moving the case along…I would recommend her … honest and fair attorney…
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Michele Lynne Bermel Esq, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Chappaqua, NY with 10 reviews
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16,45
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3.0/5
Avvo
3.0
10 Reviews
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01 Dec, 2023 by Amber
She’s an awful person and only cares about making money and playing with the big boys. She’s part of the Marc Abram’s and Carol Most network.
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22 Jun, 2023 by A
From my experience, she skewed our conversations to support her decisions. Often she wouldn’t follow parent coordinator protocols; she’d rehash issues that were already decided, engage in lengthy one-one conversations, and broach topics that weren’t hers to decided all of which ended up costing me $20,000 a year. She’d regularly bill three months late and repeatedly promised to bill more timely and never did. She became irate with me when I couldn’t pay and told me that I could open up another credit card to pay her because her husband was out of work and she needed a new roof. She was friends with the other sides attorney and never disclose that to me. They were even Facebook friends. The judge called into question her decisions which she had no supporting evidence for and reprimanded her several times. Thankfully, the judge removed her. Michelle asked if she could stay on even after the judge removed her. Both sides said no. She have to make up that income elsewhere maybe actually work for it.
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19 Mar, 2022 by Rachel
Ms. Bermel was thoroughly dedicated to my son and daughter and very available at all times. Her knowledge of custody and visitation and parenting in general is amazing. Even my ex admitted that she was terrific. I strongly recommend her.
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John N Clo, experienced Domestic Violence attorney in Gloversville, NY with 17 reviews
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14,09
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2.9/5
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1.0
2 Reviews
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3.2
15 Reviews
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07 Oct, 2024 by Patrick st.pierre
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08 Jan, 2024 by Scott horan
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04 Sep, 2023 by Jean lee
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Nicole Marie Mariani, experienced Domestic Violence, Family Law attorney in Goshen, NY with 2 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.
13,69
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3.0/5
Avvo
3.0
2 Reviews
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27 Feb, 2019 by Jeanette
I had Nichole as my lawyer requested from the courts ..nichole doesnt answer my questions ,when call her and ask her about my situation im told she didnt receive anything yet is unsure if she be at my next court date. I still haven't received any copies of my last court date showing i have physical custody of my son .Im truly at my point where i am about to request a new lawyer as well..a Lawyer is supposed to help you threw a situation not guided you to the wrong situation..
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13 Feb, 2018 by Anonymous
Nicole, is a very honest person. Nicole is always with you every step of the way. I never had one issue ever. If I need to get a hold of her for anything that had to deal with my case I would leave her a message and she was always quick about responding.
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Lisa Ann Sadinsky, experienced Domestic Violence, Family Law attorney in Rochester, NY with 2 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.
13,69
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3.0/5
Avvo
3.0
2 Reviews
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04 Jan, 2020 by Vladimir udyak
Lisa Sadinsky represented me in child custody case and reached desired outcome. Very professional and straightforward. Easy to be reached either on the phone, via e-mail or in person. Fees were reasonable and statements of all charges were transparent and timely. Provided free advise on a few occasions even after the case was over.
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05 Dec, 2018 by Corey
This woman--whose "specialty" is Family Law--took $3,500.00 from me to merely enter my e-mail address into a Legal Chat Room, where I was subjected to daily forwarded e-mails from the Court and opposing counsel. She provided no legal context for these messages, insulted me and my family by e-mail, and was woefully unprepared to accomplish anything positive on my behalf. A disaster.
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Helene S. Bernstein, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Brooklyn, NY with 3 reviews
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13,13
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2.3/5
Avvo
2.3
3 Reviews
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19 Dec, 2019 by Alexander
Helene Bernstein has been my attorney for the past four years on multiple court cases in Brooklyn family court. I give the highest recommendation possible for the work she has done for me as well as her demeanor and professionalism. Helene has the unique ability to be paradoxically empathetic and understanding and yet commanding and resolute when needed; I believe these are the personality traits that make for the best of attorneys. What initially drew me to Ms. Bernstein’s practice and proved to be true over the years was that she also works as a mediator and looks to resolve contention rather than to win conflicts. In the long run, this proved extremely worthy as well as valiant and likely contributed to her winning my case for me. Our conversations were always about what is just and fair and most importantly, what was in the best interest of my children. Helene is well organized, communicative, thoughtful, open-minded, reliable and is an extremely hard worker. She took great care in my case, with meticulous notes that she always shared with me. Ms. Bernstein prepared myself and the other witnesses properly when we had to testify and always patiently clarified legal procedures for me and advised me well, even when it was not in her own financial best interest. She was also completely upfront and open about both her fees as well as other legal costs that would impact my case. I am so glad that Ms. Bernstein has been my attorney and sincerely give her the highest rating of endorsement possible.
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19 Sep, 2016 by Anonymous
I contacted Helene for a consult on my divorce mediation. When she called me back, she came across as rude. I explained I was looking for the consult plus a review attorney, which she said was smart. Like every lawyer I speak with, I asked her about her caseload to determine if she could commit the amount of time I needed for my case. Her reply, "Why would I tell you that, I don't even know you." She can't even have a civil conversation with a prospective client, so that closed the door for me. I thanked her for her time and said I'll contact her if I want to schedule a time.
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13 Sep, 2011 by Anonymous
Initially looked for a collaborative atty but turned out I needed a litigating atty. Be careful if you seek litigating attorney. She charges reasonable rate but in her first bill charged almost triple the amount of time the plaintiff atty charged for the same task. Did not agree to negotiate the price down or even discuss it. Gave misdealing and misinformed advise that was very damaging in the early stage of the divorce proceeding related to forensic accounting, temporary support and visitation. I advise you to set up "do not exceed amount without approval" right from the start. Good luck
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Richard Peter Weinheimer II, experienced Domestic Violence attorney in Fort Plain, NY with 13 reviews
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13,05
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2.5/5
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3.0
2 Reviews
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2.0
11 Reviews
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29 Aug, 2023 by James hughes
Most useless lawer ever. Went to court for dna test found out that the kid was not mine and he still made it where I had to pay. And the other person didn't even show up to court he didn't fight for me at all. He's the most useless lawer ever. Don't waste money going to him at all.
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07 Aug, 2023 by Anthony minissale
Absolutely dishonest! A disgrace. Check out his criminal record as well. Tried using him for mediation and he was as bad as the crooks I`m dealing with,Robyn and David Huckans of Huck reality. 2 pees in a pod!
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17 Feb, 2023 by Danielle tesiero
Absolutely don’t earn any stars to be honest. I hired a lawyer less than a year ago and that lawyer did a great job and now needed another lawyer. And family court is expensive! I tried to see how court appointed lawyers were for court instead of paying a lot of money again. This lawyer was my court appointed lawyer and treated me like I was absolutely not worth his time. Only heard from him 30 minutes before court and was told we had to make it quick because he has things to do. Told me it wasn’t his job to get in the middle of my custody battle and everything I told him he had a poor excuse behind it. Example; I said my child was hitting me and calling me names and threatening me at 6 years old because his father does the same thing. His response was well kids can miss behave and I have children and all kids have behavior problem. Absolutely disgusted. I’m happy I got a new lawyer. For having kids of his own he would know what it’s like to want what’s in the best interest for ANY child! I asked him if it was about money he told me no. But if I hired him as an attorney privately he would do his best, I would assume.
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Luigi Vigliotti, experienced Criminal Defense, Domestic Violence attorney in Garden City, NY with 0 reviews
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12,00
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0.0/5
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Robert Tsigler, experienced Criminal Defense, Divorce attorney in New York, NY with 0 reviews
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12,00
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Ms. Norka M. Schell, experienced Business, Divorce attorney in New York, NY with 0 reviews
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12,00
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Julie Rendelman, experienced Criminal Defense, Domestic Violence attorney in New York, NY with 0 reviews
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12,00
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Jeffery L. Greco, experienced Cannabis Law, Criminal Defense attorney in New York, NY with 0 reviews
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12,00
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Scott J. Limmer, experienced Criminal Defense, Domestic Violence attorney in Mineola, NY with 0 reviews
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8,00
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Michael Cirigliano, experienced Civil Rights, Criminal Defense attorney in New York, NY with 0 reviews
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Kaitlin Foley, experienced Divorce, Domestic Violence attorney in Syracuse, NY with 0 reviews
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8,00
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Elena Fast, experienced Criminal Defense, Domestic Violence attorney in New York, NY with 0 reviews
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8,00
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Jeffrey Lichtman, experienced Criminal Defense, Domestic Violence attorney in New York, NY with 0 reviews
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8,00
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Michael Arbeit, experienced Criminal Defense, Domestic Violence attorney in Freeport, NY with 0 reviews
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8,00
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Jason Eldridge, experienced Criminal Defense, Domestic Violence attorney in Brooklyn, NY with 0 reviews
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8,00
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Benjamin Notterman, experienced Civil Rights, Criminal Defense attorney in New York, NY with 0 reviews
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8,00
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Ghenadie Rusu, experienced Divorce, Domestic Violence attorney in New York, NY with 0 reviews
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8,00
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Jeffrey Einhorn, experienced Criminal Defense, Domestic Violence attorney in New York, NY with 0 reviews
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8,00
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Nicholas Joseph De Martino, experienced Criminal Defense, Domestic Violence attorney in Syracuse, NY with 0 reviews
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8,00
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Michael Liptrot, experienced Divorce, Domestic Violence attorney in New York, NY with 0 reviews
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8,00
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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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