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26 Aug, 2024 by Robert grant
Great service
Very attentive
Will always use them
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22 Aug, 2024 by Laura wood
Anthony and his staff worked extremely hard to assist with a difficult case. I am impressed by their perseverance and professionalism. Andrew provided timely updates and was always courteous. This team helped to ensure that I received fair compensation.
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19 Aug, 2024 by Eric boyce
Excellent and fast work! I am more then pleased with this team and will be look forward to future work!
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5.0
22 Reviews
4.7
12 Reviews
14 Dec, 2024 by Beth
Lee helped me immensely through a very difficult and new experience. My case was due to negligence on a medical professionals part and I was unsure if I should move forward with this case. Lee did not push me into this suit but listened to my case and simply stated he would take it on. He didn’t leadme to believe it was a fast and easy win yet he definitely made me feel validated.
Lee answered every question within a reasonable amount of time. He stayed in contact with me letting me know next steps throughout this 22 month process. I found him to be personable and explained everything in layman’s terms. He guided me yet let me make my own decisions. He wasn’t pushy and really listened to my concerns. He didn’t hurry me off the phone or out of his office. He honestly took the necessary time to explain things and wasn’t pushy in his advice.
And again, he really listened to my fears and concerns and gave great feedback, even if it was feedback I wasn’t ready to hear. He approached it professionally and honestly.
I’m glad I listened to Lee and glad he took my case
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30 Sep, 2024 by Roger
Sister brought bogus charges against me in court in MD. because of family disagreements on minor child. I live in Alabama and was very blessed to find Lee Eidelberg. His knowledge and expertise were top notch! Dismissal! Thanks Lee!
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20 Aug, 2024 by Gino
Mr. Eidelberg was excellent from start to finish. He was thorough and communicative. He was clear as to what the outcome of my case could be and did not give false hope. With the 6 charges they tried to give me, I left the courthouse with 0. I'm so grateful for finding this lawyer and will not hesitate to call him again if needed. Thank you Mr. Eidelberg!
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05 Sep, 2024 by Dee scott
Steve Shepard was truly amazing!! He is the best attorney I have ever known. If you are in need of an attorney that knows his stuff, Steve Shepard is the man you want! He’s professional and affordable. He will work with you and do his best to take care of you in your situation. Thank you Steve for everything!!
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21 Aug, 2024 by Jason
Steve Shepard is the best attorney I could have ever asked for. But what I hold dear to my heart is that he is even a better person. I had been falsely convicted of a serious crime and facing life in prison. I hope no one ever has to go through what I went through. I fired my original attorney after being convicted. I was living the worst nightmare imaginable, as I had given up hope. But then Steve Shepard came into my life for good. Steve learned of my situation from outside family members, and the next day came to jail to talk to me, and that day was on a Sunday of all days. Mr. Shepherd was able to get me out of jail and on home detention while awaiting sentencing. He cared and realized the horrible crisis I was in and the toll it was taking on my family. From that moment on, he worked for me morning, noon and night. First and foremost, Steve immediately cared about my family and I… and it wasn’t all about money as it is for so many attorneys. It was about justice and a family and community who were suffering over someone they loved. For over a year Steve worked every day on my case leaving no stones unturned, even while working on other cases… and this is not a stretch, believe me, I KNOW. The scariest day of my life, my day of sentencing finally came. As I said earlier, I hope no one ever knows the feeling. Steve’s expertise shined, and the worst day of my life was handled masterfully. Every second of my three hour hearing went flawless. Our year long preparation and sleepless nights was rewarded with justice. My life sentence which the state so desperately pursued, FAILED. Although I was already falsely convicted, (because of my first attorney) Steve presented a case that was so strong by evidence-based experts testifying, all the way through to character witnesses, and finally to my sentencing speech… I received a suspended sentence and left through the same door I entered. Justice prevailed! I am now home with my beautiful wife and my Doberman, instead of a life behind bars, for some thing I did not do. I no longer sit in the dark with tears in my eyes thinking I may never be with my loved ones again…Today everything‘s a little brighter. I have life again… and it’s all because of Stephen Patrick Shepard. Through my family members most notably, my brother and sister-in-law, I believe God and my loved ones in heaven, found a way to get me to Mr. Shepard. His wife also played a crucial role in my freedom. She was always there for me from start to finish as well. I am so grateful. They are now family and always will be. When the judge handed down my sentence, and I knew I was going home, I embraced Mr. Shepherd… THE GREATEST HUG I EVER HAD
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16 Aug, 2024 by Tom moore
Thank you Steve for all of your hard work, time, perseverance and compassion. You provided excellent communication and guided us every step of the way.
Thanks again Steve and may God bless
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5.0
12 Reviews
4.7
128 Reviews
24 Jul, 2024 by The prolific maryland kid
12 Jul, 2024 by Shelley-rose moghrabi
That won't happen to me, I said. I am not of that race, nationality, or ethnicity, and so I did not speak out. That won’t happen to me, I said, I don’t practice that religion, and so I did not speak out. That won’t happen to me, I said, I’m not of that sexual orientation, and so I did not speak out. That won’t happen to me, I said, I’m not part of that income bracket, and so I did not speak out. That won’t happen to me, I said, I don’t have that disability, and so I did not speak out. That won’t happen to me, I said, until it was physically in my face, had me backed into a corner, and was spewing utter vitriol at me. That won't happen to me, I said, he'd never lay a hand on me, until one day the physical aggression caused me physical pain and injury. That won’t happen to me, I said, until thirteen months ago, when I found myself on the phone with a domestic violence hotline. That won’t happen to me, I said, until thirteen months ago, when I found myself hurriedly packing a bag and fleeing my home, and boarding an aircraft out of state, because I feared for my life and safety. Fifty years ago, when my mother and her family escaped their war-torn country with nothing but the clothes on their backs and one bag per person due to religious persecution, I never imagined that one day, fifty years into the future, that I too would one day find myself following in her footsteps, quite literally.
I never imagined that I would one day find myself fleeing my home with nothing but the clothes on my back and one small carry-on bag, and boarding a same-day aircraft bound for 1,000+ miles away, because I too feared for my life and safety. Thirteen months ago, when I found myself on the phone with a local domestic violence agency in my state, I never imagined that the proverbial door would get slammed in my face, on the basis that I earned too much money to qualify for any help or support. Since I was born and raised abroad, and with my own family still living halfway around the world, it was in that moment that I truly realized, and that it genuinely sunk in, that I was going to be completely and entirely alone in the process of escaping the cycle of violence.
In 1848, divorce was practically unheard of. Most states had fault-based divorce laws outlining the requirements and criteria permitting divorce: lunacy, adultery, desertion, or cruelty. This meant that couples could only pursue divorce IF they could prove, in a court of law, that one or the other had committed one of these offenses. However, given the laws (or lack thereof) governing women's rights and freedoms at the time, divorce was far more complex for women, as they remained at risk of being unable to regain their last names, unable to retain property acquired prior to their marriage, or unable to obtain custody of their children. These fault-based grounds are in stark contrast to the no-fault system that exists across most states today. Today, after decades of tireless advocacy, and thanks to incredible attorneys like Laurie Wasserman and Virginia Yeoman, people are no longer required to remain shackled to their spouses, and have the freedom to escape the cycle of violence. Thanks to the fabulous support of Laurie and Virginia, I've not only been able to survive, but I am slowly on my way to thriving again. The words "happiness" and "divorce" are the last two words you'd expect to see in the same sentence, but that is exactly what Virginia and Laurie have facilitated for me.
For anyone considering engaging the services of Laurie Wasserman and her team, from the bottom of my heart, I wholeheartedly recommend them and their entire office. They'll not only save your life, but they will also help re-unlock your door to freedom, health, independence, and joy again.
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07 Jul, 2024 by Sandy beres
Before I hired Martha, I was working with another attorney for my divorce process, and I just didn't feel like they were on my side and looking out for my best interests. Someone referred me to Martha White, and once I met with her, I made the decision to end my retainer agreement with my current attorney and hire Martha White. Martha White listened to me and to my concerns and what I wanted out of dissolving my marriage. She was always responsive to my calls or emails and took the time to explain things to me, so that I understood all of terms and possible outcomes of this process. I feel that she helped me reach a fair settlement and I was happy with the final settlement agreement. I wish I would have hired her in the first place. She didn't drag the process out any longer than it needed to be. I was very pleased with her representation of me in my divorce case. If I ever would have another family law issue, she would be the first attorney I would contact. You can't go wrong having Martha White as your attorney.
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02 Apr, 2024 by Dennis badham
Kathleen and her entire team made a tough divorce and custody situation a lot easier. Kathleen was knowledgeable and honest about the entire process, and kept me informed throughout the duration. I highly recommend this group.
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20 Mar, 2024 by Mary ellen jacobs
Kathleen and her staff were integral in the reason why I was finally able to sign my divorce papers this week. She answered all my questions, was kind with difficult messages and even picked me up on morning when I was experiencing a panic attack before a court date. I would recommend her to anyone in MD for divorce. Thank you so much!
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19 Sep, 2023 by Deedee t
Ned wasn’t bad. He cared I could tell. Kathleen didn’t. I paid over 20,000 in less than 6 months. Our court date came and I had no attorney to stand by my side. I was told I had a balance of another $4000. This was days before our hearing. Take that for what’s it worth. Don’t come here.
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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.
