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22 Oct, 2024 by Paulo calazans
Fantastic job. Mrs. Hershey was very attentive, professional and efficient.
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01 Sep, 2024 by Maria creel
Excellent experience. Staci was very thorough and professional, went over all details and patiently answered all our questions. We definitely recommend her services.
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24 Jul, 2024 by Elizabeth mauro
We highly recommend Staci Hershey for your estate planning needs. She was very knowledgeable and did a great job in helping us understand the complexities of the law to ensure we were protected and made the best decisions for our family.
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22 Aug, 2024 by Jade
My experience with Cindy Vova and her legal team has been a life-changing one and choosing Cindy to represent me in one of the hardest moments of my life, was one of the best decisions I have ever made. Not only is Cindy, Vicki, and Jaclyn a pleasure to work with, but they all genuinely care about you as a client and have gone above and beyond the call of duty. Most lawyers are very transactional, not with Cindy. If you’re looking for someone with the expertise, the technical chops, someone who operates with high integrity, the embodiment of professionalism, and overall someone you can trust to champion for you in one of the darkest times of your life, you better call Cindy Vova and don’t bother looking elsewhere.
Not only will Cindy get the job done, but she’ll get the job done right, and done right properly, no shortcuts, and she will educate and empower you along the way. She is not shy with offering real perspectives and is very transparent with expectation setting. I have never met anyone who works as hard, as diligently, as strategic as Cindy, and she is the best person to have on your side when things are not so great. She will guide you through the intricate workings of the legal system and her brain is one of the most powerful ones I’ve ever encountered. Cindy’s prowess and command of the legal ecosystem is incredible. She anticipates moves that are 10 steps ahead and the saying “Playing chess not checkers” is personified with Cindy.
My high praise, and immense gratitude falls short because what Cindy has done for me and my family have been monumental. She’s humble and won’t toot her horn as much, but my goodness, if you ever find yourself in a sticky situation, call Cindy right away.
And I’d also like to extend my warmest wishes and gratitude to both Vicki and Jaclyn. Since the first day I called to inquire, Vicki has set the right tone and trajectory of the kind of legal representation I was looking for. Vicki asked all the right questions, made me feel at ease, and I didn’t know how someone could establish trust so quickly especially prior to meeting in person, but Vicki earned my trust that day. I have enjoyed working with Jaclyn and her strategic mentality. She helped me understand the nuances of legal procedure, helped me comprehend the intricate details and steps of what’s to happen next. She made me comfortable with the things I was not familiar with, educated me, and for that, I am eternally grateful.
All three - Cindy, Vicki, and Jaclyn have always returned phone calls promptly, responded to my emails even late at night, through the weekends, and for something so emotionally taxing that I was going through, they always found the time to share valuable insights, make astute recommendations, and always had my back (and sides and front). They are simply the best in the business.
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09 May, 2024 by Chris
Cindy is an excellent attorney who is tough in advocating on your behalf and knowledgeable while being understanding and sensitive to your situation.
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12 Feb, 2024 by Jeremy
I am not easy to please but was blown away by the knowledge, professionalism, and kindness Cindy gave during our consultation. She gave me extra time to go over anything and even followed up with me later in the day. Would definitely recommend this luxurious, friendly firm. Highly recommended.
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5.0
20 Reviews
22 May, 2024 by Carmen
Wonderful lawyer. Great communication. Always available, prompt return to calls and messages. Discussed all things with me.
Thank you Ms. Loochkartt!
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10 Sep, 2022 by Elizabeth
Wonderful lawyer. Always available for me,prompt return calls
Discussed all things with me. Open, upfront and compassionate
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10 Aug, 2022 by Marla
I met Ms. Loochkartt at the recommendation of another client 24+ years ago and she coddled me through a long treacherous divorce and child custody battle. Long before the internet! Her kindness and grace and caring were none to be compared. She moved mountains to be fair and accommodating and to help me through the hardest time in my life. All these years later my son went to her to file for a divorce she has been there every step of the way, nights, holidays, weekends, questions like you would never even believe. Always a smile through every obstacle you could possibly imagine, her unremarkable knowledge of the law and her personality, caring and abilities have always shown through. The pandemic didn't stop her form letting us know she was always here for my family. A true "bulldog" when she needs to be (I am an animal lover so I don't say this with malice about a breed of dogs) and she never gives up. I would recommend Ms. Loochkartt to anyone. There truly are no words to properly thank her for being the smart and down to earth person and attorney she is. This combination is not always that easily found. She doesn't just talk the talk, she walks the walk. We are forever grateful for this wonderful lady!!!!! I hope no one goes through bad times, but if you do, Ms. Loochkatt is the most amazing person to have by your side!!!
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04 May, 2022 by Mark
I used Kelley for my divorce back in 2004. I then had a parental alienation case against my ex-wife that spanned from 2018-2021 where I rehired her. There were about 40 motions in family court and we did not lose one. Kelley also was successful putting together a plan where I was awarded 100% of the court fees and sanctions we requested throughout the three-year period. I have learned the amount awarded (and subsequently collected) was 'historic' for family court proceedings. Kelley is an outstanding and appropriately aggressive attorney that knows the law inside and out. In these years of hearings she remembered minute details of testimony we were able to leverage in the future. I have and continue to recommend her highly.
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24 Jun, 2013 by Jay
Kelley Joseph is smart. She knows the judges and the court staff. She was always a professional - inside and outside of court. She always returned my calls. I did a lot of research before hiring her and was impressed with her written client recommendations on another business networking site, where you have to Include your first and last name. All her recommendations were flawless and her clients said exactly what I was looking for. That's the thing I don't like as much here. Anyone can write anything anonymously. I believe what I can prove, and she is a high caliber attorney. I work in import/export and have a lot of assets. I don't have kids but had some complex financial issues and retirement assets to divide. She spent the time needed to explain to me my options, and how assets are not valued the same way. She got me a great forensic accountant. My only complaint was that she hired a terrible secretary for a few weeks then got rid of her, but that caused some delay. Once she was gone it was smooth sailing.
Ms. Joseph could've turned my case into a very expensive long term case. Instead she focused on what I wanted - speedy resolution. Ms. Joseph guided me through the divorce process and made it painless. Her assistant Laura helped me do discovery along with the expert. I would recommend her to anyone looking for a "top notch" attorney in Broward. She's the best.
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22 Nov, 2011 by Anonymous
I hired Kelly after my original attorney did nothing for a year while my daughter lived with my ex who is an addict. Kelly filed and got her drug tested and got me sole custody after she found a supervisor for visitation who finally saw the truth and told the judge. She also found me a sliding scare therapist for my daughter. Kelly knows all the supervision and drug testing people the court used, I highly recommend Kelly...she knows how to help kids. I hired her because my friend used her as a guardian ad litem in his case.
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5.0
23 Reviews
4.9
141 Reviews
13 Sep, 2024 by Elizabeth
I have known Sheryl for almost 10 years. She took me on as a client while in the middle of a divorce battle. She was attentive to me from the start. She fixed all of the crazy mistakes my previous attorney made and turned around everything-getting me a great settlement.
Then when the ex acted badly again, she won the lawsuit.
Well, he gambled a second time and we ended up in another litigious situation. Needless to say, Sheryl was dynamic with her ideas and professional and direct with her delivery towards the OC and the judge.
What I love the most, is that she’s not one to be submissive. If any counsel tries to strong handle her, her classy yet “Pitbull” side comes out and the opposing side starts whimpering back to their corner. This isn’t just because of how she delivers her response but because of her legal expertise in Family Law! She will rattle off a bunch of legal statutes and case study law to support her argument that she leaves the OC looking like the wide-eye emoji-mic drop!!!
I love Sheryl! She cares about my family situation as if it were her own. She was always compassionate towards me and would check in just to see how I was handling the long journey we were on.
I don’t know what I’d do without her. She is truly a beautiful person inside and out….but don’t cross her!
If anyone is in need of a really incredible Family Law attorney, she’s the one!
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28 Aug, 2024 by Mike ruiz
I highly recommend Mr. Shea for his professionalism, consistent follow-up, and clear communication regarding the clients case I assisted with. Most importantly, he achieved positive results for him, demonstrating his expertise in his area of law.
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07 Aug, 2024 by Josephine nankya
What can I say, this is the most organized office I know. The staff is amazing, they are kind and very understanding. When dealing with Mitch the attorney you feel like you are part of his family. Mitch is very, very patient. He looks out for your needs and understands what you are going through and how hard that change in life is affecting you. I would recommend him to anyone in a heart beat. Mitch I thank all of you for your understanding, patience and your kindness. AMAZING TEAM.
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09 Apr, 2024 by Loretta gabay
Phil Snyder was absolutely amazing handing my father’s car accident claim. Always answered the phone and was extremely helpful with answering my father’s questions!. He came highly recommended from a forum that I follow and I’m so glad I called him! Martha was extremely helpful also and always answered the phone or my texts. Very professional and caring with a speedy settlement! Highly recommend!
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22 Feb, 2024 by Karen loncharich
I was certainly hesitant to make a phone call after my auto accident to Lyons and Snyder but so happy I made that decision to call. Phil gave me the best knowledgeable information to proceed with my case. Guided me through all my medical decisions for my injury. Phil always eased my worries with his knowledge and bits of laughter. Trust him to give you the outcome you would so rightly deserve. Never hesitate to call and ask questions as knowledge is your power. Great work!!!
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08 Feb, 2024 by Bianca olave
Phil & Martha were such a joy to work with through my car accident. It was my first time being an accident where a lawyer needed to be involved and it was extremely intimidating. Phil made me feel like no matter what happened everything would be ok and we would work through it. Martha is super communicative and she is on her P’s and Q’s you can’t ask for anything better from a law firm!
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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.
