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06 Apr, 2021 by Bruce
I recently went through a divorce and had Michael and his team represent me. Obviously, divorces are not fun, however, Michael helped me through the entire process and thoroughly explained things to me along the way. If you think you can represent yourself...DON'T. Michael was worth every penny !!! He was thorough, knowledgeable, and truly cared about my best interests. I highly recommend Michael and his team.
Thank you Michael !
I truly appreciate you and all that you did for me.
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09 Apr, 2020 by Katrina
I just got off a 30 Minute phone consult with Michael Shew and I am so incredibly impressed. Michael was professional, he listened to me and eventually advised me not to retain him but gave me some tips and pointers. Michael is ethical and that means the world. I hope that I will be able to work things out with his guidance but if I can't, I will certainly be coming back to retain Michael.
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30 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
Mike is an amazing attorney and fights for his clients rights as well as child/children that are involved in the case. He keeps you informed as well as explains things when you don't understand legal terminology. Mike has not only represented me but my family and I have referred him MANY times to other people and all have been more than happy with him. I you are looking for an attorney that will fight for you and is fair and will lead you in the right direction he is your man. I am a single mother and he was willing to work with me on his fees. He is companionate, fair, and will not lead you wrong.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Christian garcia
14 Aug, 2024 by Shereda velasquez
06 Aug, 2024 by Karla chacon
02 Oct, 2020 by Melody
Tom saved my life and protected myself and my child. HE IS THE BEST! It was my first time fighting in court. I was scared and lost. Tom gave good support and straight forward directions. The only thing I had a problem with is his response time back to me sometimes. Later learning it was my impatience. Also to save me money and both of us from nonsense time. Due to me over asking questions stemming from fear and anxiety. Questions that were answered in dew time. We were up against another tough lawyer. Tom stood strong, tough, firm, honest and confident. When I thought Tom was quiet in his responses to me. He truly was hearing me. When it came to time in court. Those little concerns were blasted right back at apposing council. Ammo I didn't even expect due to my naiveness. He fought toughly for me 100%. I received everything I was asking for, with a few compromises. He worked with me on payments that I could afford. I would highly recommend Tom and would use him again! He truly saved mine and my child's life! Thank you Tom!
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09 Jul, 2019 by Jenny
I had Tom to represent my case during my complicated divorce and child custody. My case lasted longer than expected. He explained to me the family law clearly and he understood my situation. As I went through my divorce, I had tendencies to become subjective and wished the law could grant everything I desired. Tom was very objective in discussing to me what is possible and not possible according to the law. I went through with the process of my divorce not with a very clear understanding of what I can have and what I can not have and Tom was always there to explain to me whys of the process. He was very clear to explain to me that there was no guarantee that I will get what I wanted but the guarantee was he would do his best to get me and my son what is fair and he DID. My divorce and my child custody was done and I did not get what I wanted but I did have what is fair. I also had a clear understanding of why things work that way because Tom had educated me along the process. During the process, I also felt that I had somebody who truly care and would always be there to defend me and my son from the abuses. In the manner of communication, we did everything through email and only very minimal phone calls. However, I never felt that Tom and Tawsha missed to communicate with me. There was always an effective communication and when I was confused, I just sent an email and even if he was in vacation, I always got the answers from Tom or from his paralegal. I am forever grateful to Tom and Tawsha for guiding, educating and walking me through that very difficult and complicated process. I highly recommend Tom because he is the type of a lawyer who is very straight forward and realistic about his cases.
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03 Sep, 2018 by Wendy
Thomas Alongi is a complete professional who is brilliant in his understanding and interpretation of family law. I came to him in a desperate state where a previous attorney had completely botched my case by untimely filings. My first encounter with Tom’s firm was a very compassionate and understanding conversation with his assistant/paralegal Tawsha.
My case was complicated . I hired The Alongi firm at the eleventh hour. Tom was able to dissect and reconstruct years of information and get positive results in a short week. He kept me and my children safe from domestic violence and completely turned my nightmare situation into the results I desired. He and his staff have a deep and profound understanding of domestic violence and the Law.
I could only say that my children’s lives and mine were protected through the courts only because of Tom Alongi’s just and fair way of dealing with a very complicated court system.
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06 Jun, 2018 by James
Deborah Levine help me through a very difficult divorce very understanding very sympathetic and was there whenever I needed her to make sure things was going good I would recommend her because she's a people person
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16 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
He always looked out for the best Interestfor my child and I . Always get truthful and honest . Being in a mother leaning state he fought that as a father have equal and fair rights. Always looking for the truth . To the point I asked once if I’m doing wrong please tell me . He helped me grow as a man and how to handle situations better with my child mother. I would always recommend but come as prepared as possible . He is very detailed and honest . The more info the better I felt things went . He always went above and beyond . Worth every dollar invested.
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04 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
Unfortunately this lawyer was extremely disorganized and inadequate. Mr Lowen Jones neglected to bring in reports during court and did not represent and fight my case. Due to his lack of efficiency as a lawyer to represent me, my life for the past several years has been changed for the worst. He did not fight for my rights as a mother. It’s a very sad disheartening experience that I don’t wish upon any mother. I would not recommend this lawyer.
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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:
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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.
