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15 Dec, 2021 by Joseph
We hired Jennifer after releasing our prior attorney who had only complicated and tactically lost us a large amount of precious time. Jennifer immediately took action, readdressed all of our concerns, filed all appropriate legal request upon the court, as well as communicated effectively with all concerned parties. We can only say we received above and beyond care for our difficult situation, she fought for our cause, and brought us the outcome we strongly desired and can't thank her enough......
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30 Nov, 2021 by Anonymous
I believe a higher power directed me into the hands of Jennifer Lippmann as I was a naive, innocent 30 year old woman who had never seen a courtroom or even knew their were people aka lawyers that could not only “win” your case but essential to getting your life back on track. I was so naive that a lawyer was a lawyer…. If I had done nothing wrong and had nothing to hide , I shouldn’t have to search high and low for a way out of my short lived, highly volatile marriage. Thank god the first lawyer I called who I found via Google search bar by entering “lawyers near me” didn’t just see dollar signs or a new case, she heard my voice, listened to my story and honestly told me she she wasn’t the type of lawyer my situation needed, and kindly referred me to Powers Law specifically Jennifer Lippmann. I was a little confused but grateful for any guidance. The day I called Powers Law was when I decided to also Google 2020 cheating apps and downloaded about 6, finding my husband by his cell phone number on every one. I’d known for months something was different and wrong but couldn’t get an answer. After I messaged him on one, he came home from work early, entered our apartment, grabbed a pair of jeans and a shirt and left without a word. I was working remotely and we had a 6 month old son. I remember being so confused because I didn’t even flip out like I should have. I actually said their is obviously your unhappy with, let’s try therapy but he told me I was a “mentally ill, drug addict” and he never wanted me to begin with. I remember I transferred like $400 of our money into a savings account because he had previously kept his paycheck from our account when we’d get into an argument knowing I’d have no choice but to forgive him when we had no money. He told me I stole money from him and I would be penalized when the time came. I called the number of the lawyer i was referred to and I’ll never forget getting a man (John Powers) who spoke to me for 30 minutes reassuring me I absolutely did not steal money, it was our own account and I remember him saying “if he is already pulling this crap, I assure you that you have called the right place” and informed me on important decisions i should immediately make for my safety and my childs & arranged an appointment with Jen a few days later. Ironically that weekend after I met her , I had to call 911 over a domestic incident and before i was even a client John has called me back as did Jen who specified how important it was that I take my child and myself and I go to my parents (which I naively thought was illegal) because of the threats and fears my husband had filled my head with. Once I had this team on my side, my life slowly turned around and in the beginning it felt like my life would never be okay again. Their were accusations of my husband leaving our child in an unattended car for an unsafe period of time, women sneaking into our apartment while I was in the hospital after a car accident, almost a dozen verbal and domestic incidents and even a CPS investigation. I remember feeling so helpless at one point, I just wanted to give him what he wanted to stop the torture but that would mean my son and that was not an option. Jen has been a powerhouse of strength, smarts and just human morality within such a tumultuous series of events. Today, although my case isn’t over I can tell you my husband has zero control over my life when a year ago he controlled the whole thing. She has put safety measures into place and been the voice i didnt have for myself, but grew when my son was born. She knows every answer to every question the judge asks and it’s exactly how I would respond. She doesn’t just people please me through my case but is honest and fair and i am never surprised with any outcome because of this. I made a choice to marry a man who lived a whole life I never knew existed until I had to. At a time where trust was the most confusing word in the dictionary, I hired Jen & relearned it
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19 Apr, 2021 by Patrick engel
Rachel was amazing (In one word!) Extremely responsive, professional, knowledgeable and tough. I never won a case in family court before I retained her for my most recent case. She knew how to navigate negotiations with opposing counsel and when we didn’t come to terms we were comfortable with, knew to not give in and be comfortable with the fact that we had a strong argument to present. (She was right). Very pleased with her and her staff!
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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.
