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Pat Carey, experienced Criminal Defense, Domestic Violence attorney in Torrance, CA with 152 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.
48,06
star star star star star
4.9/5
Avvo
5.0
20 Reviews
Google Maps
4.9
132 Reviews
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05 Dec, 2024 by Hung tran
Matthew beat my DUI charges, he got the charges dropped. Great Attorney, highly appreciated and recommend him
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17 Nov, 2024 by Mike kleinman
These attorneys never disappoint. Thank you for your assistance in handling this matter and a great result.
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23 Oct, 2024 by Roland harmon ii
I am writing to express my enthusiastic endorsement of Matt as an exceptional lawyer. From the moment I engaged his services, it was clear that he prioritizes the best interests of his clients above all else. His dedication to understanding my unique situation and advocating on my behalf made a significant difference in my experience. Matt's responsiveness is truly remarkable; he is always available to answer questions and provide updates, ensuring that I never felt left in the dark. His excellent communication skills not only made complex legal concepts easy to understand but also fostered a strong sense of trust throughout the process. Moreover, Matt's extensive knowledge of the law is unparalleled. He approaches every case with a depth of understanding that is both impressive and reassuring. I have no doubt that he is among the best in the field, and I would wholeheartedly recommend him to anyone in need of legal assistance.
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Soheil Levy, experienced Criminal Defense, Domestic Violence attorney in Torrance, CA with 68 reviews
Average
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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.
44,02
star star star star star
4.9/5
Avvo
5.0
25 Reviews
Google Maps
4.8
43 Reviews
star star star star star
15 Dec, 2024 by Cliffyplays
It’s been great to have been recommended to this law firm and to discover in such a short period of time how great has been. He’s friendly, efficient, very responsive, and does daily follow-ups.
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13 Dec, 2024 by Marvin raval
I am so satisfied with this firm in Torrance. From the bottom to the top, they treat you with so much respect. There hasn’t been a time that if I call, either I talk to someone or get a return call back soon. This law firm makes you feel like you picked the right choice.
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07 Dec, 2024 by Crystal trinh
They helped me get through everything I needed to get done in a timely manner.
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Bruce Balinger McGregor, experienced Criminal Defense, Domestic Violence attorney in Torrance, CA with 119 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.
43,32
star star star star star
4.8/5
Avvo
5.0
20 Reviews
Google Maps
4.8
99 Reviews
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12 Nov, 2024 by Ruben munoz
Matthew Rinaldi never filed A Motion For New Trial and scammed me for $15,000 and committed Fraud. He made a deal with The Prosecutor in my case. I’m a innocent wrongfully convicted man, and now I don’t have any money left to challenge or appeal my wrongful conviction because The McGregor Law Firm stole all of my money. Matthew Rinaldi is very unprofessional and thinks he knows it all. Matthew Rinaldi also acts like A Prosecutor instead of a Criminal Defense Attorney. Matthew will cross examine you like a Prosecutor, instead of talking about how to build your defense. Matthew Rinaldi doesn’t care about his clients. In my opinion he seems like a Undercover Detective working for The Prosecutors Office.
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12 Nov, 2024 by Billy buckman
I paid Matthew Rinaldi $50,000 to defend my innocent son in Trial. After The Verdict came back guilty on all counts, he walks up to me sitting on the bench and says, “What’s done is done!” and then he starts laughing uncontrollably. I have never in my 62 years witnessed a attorney do this. DO NOT HIRE THESE PEOPLE.
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12 Nov, 2024 by Xz iii
Matthew Rinaldi accepts bribes to screw over his clients. I witnessed a Prosecutor give Matthew Rinaldi a envelope with money inside of it, there was so much money inside the envelope, that the envelope was about to pop and the envelope was sticking out of his suit.
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Matthew Arthur Rinaldi, experienced Criminal Defense, Domestic Violence attorney in Torrance, CA with 113 reviews
Average
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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.
43,14
star star star star star
4.8/5
Avvo
5.0
14 Reviews
Google Maps
4.8
99 Reviews
star star star star star
12 Nov, 2024 by Ruben munoz
Matthew Rinaldi never filed A Motion For New Trial and scammed me for $15,000 and committed Fraud. He made a deal with The Prosecutor in my case. I’m a innocent wrongfully convicted man, and now I don’t have any money left to challenge or appeal my wrongful conviction because The McGregor Law Firm stole all of my money. Matthew Rinaldi is very unprofessional and thinks he knows it all. Matthew Rinaldi also acts like A Prosecutor instead of a Criminal Defense Attorney. Matthew will cross examine you like a Prosecutor, instead of talking about how to build your defense. Matthew Rinaldi doesn’t care about his clients. In my opinion he seems like a Undercover Detective working for The Prosecutors Office.
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12 Nov, 2024 by Billy buckman
I paid Matthew Rinaldi $50,000 to defend my innocent son in Trial. After The Verdict came back guilty on all counts, he walks up to me sitting on the bench and says, “What’s done is done!” and then he starts laughing uncontrollably. I have never in my 62 years witnessed a attorney do this. DO NOT HIRE THESE PEOPLE.
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12 Nov, 2024 by Xz iii
Matthew Rinaldi accepts bribes to screw over his clients. I witnessed a Prosecutor give Matthew Rinaldi a envelope with money inside of it, there was so much money inside the envelope, that the envelope was about to pop and the envelope was sticking out of his suit.
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Lisa Victoria Houlé, experienced Criminal Defense, Domestic Violence attorney in Torrance, CA with 29 reviews
Average
info
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.
40,35
star star star star star
4.8/5
Avvo
4.5
8 Reviews
Google Maps
4.9
21 Reviews
star star star star star
05 Nov, 2024 by Alyssa williamson
Google Maps
star star star star star
20 Jun, 2024 by Solty investments solt
I used this firm to assist in the acquisition and bill of sale of a small business. They were awesome. Our close cycled was with in 45 days and Richard was always available for questions and new drafts. (We worked weekends when needed, but not sure this is always available). Richard is intense and very keen on the details. I wont need another firm in the future!
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04 Jun, 2024 by Gurpreet kaur
Nowzaree Law has an excellent team of attorneys. They are very competent professionals and highly compassionate individuals. I'm beyond grateful for their support and services. If you are looking for value for the money that you would be spending, then this is the right law firm for you!
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Nancy Kardon, experienced Criminal Defense, Domestic Violence attorney in Torrance, CA with 132 reviews
Average
info
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.
40,22
star star star star star
4.6/5
Google Maps
4.6
132 Reviews
star star star star star
14 Dec, 2024 by Jennifer weber
I would highly recommend Rona Law Firm, they helped my fix my crazy IRS issue. The IRS claimed that I owed an insane amount of money that I did not owe and they were able to get it corrected. When you feel hopeless and can't get anywhere with the IRS, you can trust them to get the job done for you.
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11 Dec, 2024 by Ashley morgan
Narges truly cares about doing right by her clients. Very honest and always accessible to address your concerns.
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04 Dec, 2024 by Bob burke
Zach was superb. We have an extremely tough case re conservatorship. He took every question keeping us on focus and provided a comprehensive answer for each one. He was generous with his knowledge, time and brought to our chaotic situation clarity and order giving us a realistic and informed perspective. We feel we know what to do now. When we proceed we will call Legacy to engage their services.
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Karen Barbara Miller, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Torrance, CA with 12 reviews
Average
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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.
39,37
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
12 Reviews
star star star star star
19 Jul, 2014 by Andy
I now realize why they call it a custody battle. I went to war with my former spouse to get custody of our children. We did take a few blows in the battles, but I had a great commander and chief keeping me out of harm's way, her name is Attorney Karen Miller. The worst thing in the world is that our children's college money was used to finance this war. The problem is not with the attorneys but with the system. Many times we went to court, the Judge would ask us to return. I just want readers to know that I wanted to give up on many occasions; however, Attorney Karen gave me positive reinforcement to not give up on my children. We finally have our victory, and I am grateful that I stuck it out with Attorney Karen. If you do what she says, you will do well in court. It does not happen overnight to get out of your troubles, but I had to realize that our legal woes did not happen overnight either. Bless you Attorney Karen and your wonderful staff for always offering me and my family hope that we would prevail. I still owe you and your staff that dinner by the ocean.
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28 Dec, 2013 by James
Ms. Miller cares about her clients. I have been a client for the last 15 years since my eldest son was 3. Fortunately he just turned 18 and is no longer a victim of his mother. I have 2 younger children, 16 and 14. We are still going to court everytime their mother wants to make a change in their stable program. Everytime their mother looses thanks to Ms. Miller's superior skills as an attorney. The children's mother has hired over 6 attorneys in the last 15 years and all have of those attorneys have been defeated mainly because I have had Ms. Miller at my side. Thank you for being a winner for my chikdren and saving them from their unstable mother. If you have a horrible ex who keeps taking yiu back to court, I would highly recommend Ms. Miller. She is a great attorney who fights throughout the years for her clients.
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23 Dec, 2013 by Roseann
My friend highly recommended Karen after I told my friend the problems I was having with my now former attorney. My former attorney was called a pit bull, but turned out to be a pussy cat. Karen was in my corner day one. She knows the system and how to win this game. From the very first time we stepped into court, it was apparent that this is her home at court. She takes on her opponent and gets excellent results for her clients. I thank Karen for helping me win a long drawn out case due to my ex's attorneys and an unreasonable ex husband. I highly recommend Karen to anyone having trouble with their current attorney and need to make a change with the best attorney around. Thanks Karen for always being there for me. Sincerely, Roseann
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Britney Lee Mark, experienced Child Custody, Domestic Violence attorney in Torrance, CA with 12 reviews
Average
info
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.
38,31
star star star star star
4.9/5
Google Maps
4.9
12 Reviews
star star star star star
04 Jun, 2024 by Tay tay
Wow Working with the Law Office of Daniel A was a great decision that I made. They knew so much really helped out so much , always getting back to me quickly. They also explained things in a way I could understand definitely if I didn't understand something, I really do recommend them to everybody. You guys are the best!!!!! Thank you so much again nice working with the law office of Daniel A all smiles
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16 Dec, 2023 by Lillian wee-barbatto
Daniel and his staff are amazing! Very professional, knowledgeable and pleasant to work with.
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08 Dec, 2023 by Ryan korbian
Working with the Law Office of Daniel An was a great decision. They were super attentive and knew a lot, always getting back to me quickly. They were also really patient and explained things in a way I could understand. I definitely recommend them!”
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Angela Rena Swan, experienced Appeals, Car Accident attorney in Torrance, CA with 43 reviews
Average
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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.
37,64
star star star star star
4.8/5
Google Maps
4.8
43 Reviews
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15 Dec, 2024 by Cliffyplays
It’s been great to have been recommended to this law firm and to discover in such a short period of time how great has been. He’s friendly, efficient, very responsive, and does daily follow-ups.
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13 Dec, 2024 by Marvin raval
I am so satisfied with this firm in Torrance. From the bottom to the top, they treat you with so much respect. There hasn’t been a time that if I call, either I talk to someone or get a return call back soon. This law firm makes you feel like you picked the right choice.
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07 Dec, 2024 by Crystal trinh
They helped me get through everything I needed to get done in a timely manner.
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Stuart Edward Bruers, experienced Domestic Violence, Family Law attorney in Torrance, CA with 4 reviews
Average
info
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.
33,02
star star star star star
4.7/5
Avvo
4.7
4 Reviews
star star star star star
16 Sep, 2020 by Kenya
I've known Mr. Bruers for over 18 years now. He handled a few family matters for me and I was very happy with his services. Not only is he knowledgeable in the legal field but he is also very attentive to us clients going through such a sensitive matter. I have recommended him to several friends and other family members and they have all been very happy with his services. If you are looking for an Attorney that sees his clients as more than a fee, look no more. Mr. Bruers is a honest, caring and will fight for your rights.
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23 Dec, 2015 by Enna
Mr. Bruers represented me in my divorce. He was compassionate and understood all custody issues in my case. I wold strongly recommend him.
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13 Jun, 2012 by Margaret
I was working with a Paralegel, whom was just doing a half Job. Stuart took my call on a day I was truely upset by my case. He was very attentive and quickly gained my trust with on the spot knowledge of the law, before I even paid him. I spoke to other lawyors and they were just worried about their retainer. He knows the ins and outs to family law. He, also, has a great relationship with the court. He told me he was going to find information about my case and made sure to inform me in a timely manner.
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Bruce Allan Mandel, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Torrance, CA with 16 reviews
Below Average
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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.
21,77
star star star star star
3.7/5
Avvo
3.0
6 Reviews
Google Maps
4.1
10 Reviews
star star star star star
17 Oct, 2024 by Maryanne
I am writing this to give the highest review to Bruce! He is an extremely experienced and supportive attorney who has a very affordable rate. Bruce proposed the simplest and quickest solution to my custody case, so I felt at ease and knew that he wasn’t milking me for billable time. Yolanda, the paralegal who also worked on my case, is incredibly responsible and supportive. She frequently reassured me that everything would work out and gave me great advice. The bottom line is that Bruce and Yolanda aren’t just great legal professionals, they are great PEOPLE.
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26 Sep, 2024 by Dan weber
If I could give negative stars of Bruce A. Mandel, I would! This was the WORST experience I've ever had with an attorney, or any professional, by far! Issues include: - A crucial missed deadline, even though I supplied all necessary information 2 full days in advance. - 2 more almost-missed deadlines. My counsel literally asked me to sign documents at 11pm twice, with midnight deadlines, even though I had supplied all requested information far in advance. - Several unanswered emails, miscommunication and lack of communication for months. - Bad advice from Bruce that almost cost me 50/50 custody of my son. - Bruce was absent during the only scheduled court hearing we had, and it was not caused by an emergency, he simply booked 2 cases at the same time on the same date, even though he told me his calendar was clear on my scheduled court date. - Extremely low quality work product in general, largely due to the constant last-second scrambling. - Incorrect / unethical billing. - Complete failure to follow-through on the things we discussed, and he even failed to execute a 50/50 Custody Order for more than 4 months after a judge ordered him to write up that order, and I reminded him multiple times! - A massive misunderstanding regarding a 3rd court continuance, even though I emailed Bruce 4 times and called him once to make sure he understood the issues, he ended up making a massive blunder that essentially gave up our advantages entirely. - Bruce finally illegally withdrew from the case while the case was still ongoing, resulting in extremely damaging client abandonment less than 24 hours before a scheduled call with opposing counsel. I have filed a complaint with the CA State Bar, and demanded Arbitration of fees already. I am also in talks with a malpractice attorney, as I believe Bruce's failures to perform basic attorney functions have cost me more than just his fees at this point. Run, don't walk, to any family law attorney OTHER Than Bruce A Mandel!
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26 Sep, 2024 by Dan
If I could give negative stars of Bruce A. Mandel, I would! Issues include: - A crucial missed deadline, even though I supplied all necessary information 2 full days in advance. - 2 more almost-missed deadlines. My counsel literally asked me to sign documents at 11pm twice, with midnight deadlines, even though I had supplied all requested information far in advance. - Several unanswered emails, miscommunication and lack of communication for months. - Bad advice from Bruce that almost cost me 50/50 custody of my son. - Bruce was absent during the only scheduled court hearing we had, and it was not caused by an emergency, he simply booked 2 cases at the same time on the same date, even though he told me his calendar was clear on my scheduled court date. - Extremely low quality work product in general, largely due to the constant last-second scrambling. - Complete failure to follow-through on the things we discussed, and he even failed to execute a 50/50 Custody Order for more than 4 months after a judge ordered him to write up that order, and I reminded him multiple times! - A massive misunderstanding regarding a 3rd court continuance, even though I emailed Bruce 4 times and called him once to make sure he understood the issues, he ended up making a massive blunder that essentially gave up our advantages entirely. - Bruce finally illegally withdrew from the case while the case was still ongoing, resulting in extremely damaging client abandonment less than 24 hours before a scheduled call with opposing counsel. I have filed a complaint with the CA State Bar, and demanded Arbitration of fees already. I am also in talks with a malpractice attorney, as I believe Bruce's failures to perform basic attorney functions have cost me more than just his fees at this point. My advice is to run, not walk, to any family law attorney OTHER Than Bruce A Mandel.
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David Dastrup, experienced Criminal Defense, Domestic Violence attorney in Torrance, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
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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.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Matthew J Ruff, experienced Criminal Defense, Domestic Violence attorney in Torrance, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
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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.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Katherine Paradero, experienced Domestic Violence attorney in Torrance, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
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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.
0,00
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0.0/5
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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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