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04 Feb, 2019 by Ashley
I received excellent advice regarding my case along with prompt attention to details and very reasonable pricing. I would recommend that you call Gerard Falzone with your legal needs. You won't be disappointed.
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12 Oct, 2012 by Anonymous
I met with Mr. Falzone last week for a consultation at his Alameda office, which was most convenient for me. After our meeting I have no reservations about referring his family law practice to other locals. He was very welcoming, I'd almost say soothing in a way, as I felt a lot better leaving than I did going in.
He was able to answer all of my questions clearly without making me feel dumb for asking, and let me take more of his time than I expected. I'm not ready to hire him on retainer yet, but when the time comes, he's the guy I'll call.
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04 Oct, 2012 by Leslie
I saw Mr. Falzone for help with a long-term child support issue. My child support has been in arrears for more than four years. I was concerned about my children and my relationship with my ex-husband. He helped resolve the situation and helped me get the child support arrears from my ex. This allowed me to assist my daughters with their college expenses. At every step, he explained my options and kept me informed. I was able to resolve this issue with a minimum of expense and his counsel helped to keep communication with my ex civil and direct. Until I worked with Mr. Falzone I was certain attorneys were only concerned with their retainers and generating bills. As the sole support for my daughters costs were a concern. I did my research and was fortunate to have him represent me. I was and continue to be very satisfied with his service and I strongly recommend Mr. Falzone for assistance in resolving marital and support issues. He cares about what is best for you and for your children. The fees I paid was truly a great value and money well spent. I had tried to handle my situation on my own without success. Mr. Falzone delivered, and he listened to my concerns.
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11 Jan, 2017 by Sara
Robyn Ginney took over my case from her partner when he became ill. She was able to walk into a very messy divorce as if she and I had started the divorce from the beginning. She always presented my case in a strong clear manner and had great arguments to rebut the other attorney. She also had extreme patience during the three years it took to get the divorce finalized. I would strongly recommend her because of her advice and perseverance she was able to make the outcome of the divorce very favorable to me
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25 Jul, 2024 by Reggie ayala
This dude is not a good lawyer don’t be fooled I hired him and multiple I know I was incarcerated with he will play u out your money he’s a liar and someone out his law firm that represented me told me they hate working for him he’s a shark … I paid for his service and sent a public defender that was trying out for his law firm to represent me saying he was good in that division … Do not hire this dude he’s money hungry because his daughter have cancer so he’ll do anything for money if see your looking for a lawyer
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07 Jul, 2024 by Matthew messias
They deadnamed me and quoted my REAL legal name, and told me it was because they weren’t “woke”. It’s bad enough they took 40% of my earnings after being hit by a car. Not doing business with them again.
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30 Mar, 2024 by Chikako hall
My experience in leaving a high conflict marriage (with a litigation attorney) has been nothing but frightening. Feeling confused, dismissed, deflated and defeated by a marriage I had put so much of my efforts and energy into left me lost and lacking any belief things could improve. Meeting Greg Silva was intimidating as I had lost faith and trust in attorneys after contacting many throughout the Bay Area - all dollar driven (watch out for those ads). Learning my rights which is never clear in our present society and putting faith into a stranger was my biggest growth and lesson thus far. David Falik is someone who can hold this with care, class and grace. The cost is high, however, their level of expertise and the safety I felt in my experience thus far has been priceless. I’m slowly getting my life back. Mr. Falik (and Silva & Associates) are ready to fight for your rights and if not well-verse in an area, they continue education to prepare. Mr. Falik has phenomenal listening skills and shocking expertise in handling high conflict personality types to an unbelievable degree. Mr Falik also is able to keep a wonderful sense of humor about unexpected obstacles, which has been imperative for me. Mr. Falik and his team are truly a light in such a dark place. He can put your words into an eloquent beautifully written respectable request (particularly when we cannot). In this industry, where a massive hurdle is finding ethical, cost conscientious and grounded attorneys, they are the firm fighting the “good fight”.
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25 Jul, 2024 by Reggie ayala
This dude is not a good lawyer don’t be fooled I hired him and multiple I know I was incarcerated with he will play u out your money he’s a liar and someone out his law firm that represented me told me they hate working for him he’s a shark … I paid for his service and sent a public defender that was trying out for his law firm to represent me saying he was good in that division … Do not hire this dude he’s money hungry because his daughter have cancer so he’ll do anything for money if see your looking for a lawyer
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30 Mar, 2024 by Chikako hall
My experience in leaving a high conflict marriage (with a litigation attorney) has been nothing but frightening. Feeling confused, dismissed, deflated and defeated by a marriage I had put so much of my efforts and energy into left me lost and lacking any belief things could improve. Meeting Greg Silva was intimidating as I had lost faith and trust in attorneys after contacting many throughout the Bay Area - all dollar driven (watch out for those ads). Learning my rights which is never clear in our present society and putting faith into a stranger was my biggest growth and lesson thus far. David Falik is someone who can hold this with care, class and grace. The cost is high, however, their level of expertise and the safety I felt in my experience thus far has been priceless. I’m slowly getting my life back. Mr. Falik (and Silva & Associates) are ready to fight for your rights and if not well-verse in an area, they continue education to prepare. Mr. Falik has phenomenal listening skills and shocking expertise in handling high conflict personality types to an unbelievable degree. Mr Falik also is able to keep a wonderful sense of humor about unexpected obstacles, which has been imperative for me. Mr. Falik and his team are truly a light in such a dark place. He can put your words into an eloquent beautifully written respectable request (particularly when we cannot). In this industry, where a massive hurdle is finding ethical, cost conscientious and grounded attorneys, they are the firm fighting the “good fight”.
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08 Sep, 2023 by Nora wong
Very professional and they know their stuff. Willing to have a consultation and very straightforward. Good trial lawyers if that is what is needed.
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08 Aug, 2024 by Michael chatham
Extremely poor communication skills here, they set you up with a so-called case manager in which will rarely have a paralegal degree or certificate. Took a couple calls to get a person who stated they’re a manager but ended up hearing idle threats about me paying them whether I terminate my attorney/client relationship or not. A case manager cannot provide legal advice but sure can stop you from speaking to an actual lawyer, should’ve done my homework. Open/shut case, could’ve represented myself 🤣 for the same value. Case managers come and go and I’ve already had 2 requesting the same documents. Please respond to my Termination Request !
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19 Jul, 2024 by Alan d singletary
After my bicycle accident on Park Street, I was referred to Karns & Karns in Alameda. Alexis was incredibly helpful and supportive throughout the process. Attorney Mia's expertise in personal injury law was evident, and she fought tirelessly to get me the compensation I deserved.
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01 Jul, 2024 by Curtis k kelly
When a distracted driver rear-ended me on Webster Street, I turned to Karns & Karns in Alameda. Diana was always there to answer my questions and provide updates. Attorney Darren's negotiation skills were impressive, and I was very satisfied with the settlement he secured.
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31 Jan, 2022 by Mckenzie
I have worked with Joe for over a year now. I initially contacted him for legal advice during a difficult time and ended up retaining him as counsel. Joe explains all the legal jargon in a way that is easy to understand. He is patient, empathetic, and an all-around good guy. I would highly recommend Joe Kaiser to anyone seeking quality counsel!
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13 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
I initially hired Joe to handle my divorce because he advocated for minimizing conflict, and keeping expenses low by staying out of court. I deeply regret my decision to have him to represent me.
Joe understands most of the basics of custody however the finer points are lost on him. He can’t tell you anything about custody evaluations, which are standard practice during divorce, because he advises against them and avoids them at all cost. He advised me to allow my ex wife to have sole custody of our son, despite my telling him I would never agree to that, saying it would cost less and I could easily win it back later. This was a critical mistake that has cost me more than it would have to litigate at the time and years of pain. He told me it could be changed for practically any reason, which is not true, and never told me how difficult it is to change an existing court order. My ex wife’s attorney easily outmaneuvered him.
He doesn’t know the difference between a temporary custody order and a permanent one, and incorrectly argued in front of a judge for change in circumstances when the standard is much lower and that argument wasn’t necessary. Because he made that argument and lost that motion, what was a temporary custody order was found to be a permanent order by another judge. When in the courtroom he lacks the commanding presence or quick wit one would hope for. Joe doesn’t know anything about the judges he winds up in front of, for example that the judge we were assigned to has a reputation for not understanding family law and saying no to everything. We had one opportunity to change the assignment to another judge, which would have made all the difference on my first attempt to correct custody, but he didn’t seem to be aware of that process. Every other attorney I spoke with knew this.
When we lost he chuckled and offered to appeal the decision for twenty thousand dollars. He skips things with procedural importance, for example didn’t properly serve the motion to modify custody, and didn’t go on record with the court as being my attorney, didn’t keep to the page limit requirement. Because of his lack of knowledge and skill, everything takes more than twice as long and ends up being twice as expensive, versus an attorney who bills $400 an hour. I only know this because I later hired a skilled attorney at $400 an hour, who charged me half what Joe did for the same motion.
Joe has ruined my life and charged me for it. You would be better off representing yourself.
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13 Sep, 2019 by Shonna
29 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
My blind mother's trust was written by this attorney. He put that he would be the co-trustee upon her death. He had his secretary witness it with no other person present to ensure she knew what she was signing. He is now preventing the sale of trust stating he believes my brother needs a conservator. It is a money grab, he has not shown any interest in the trust until now. My mother never would have assigned him co-trustee, nor would she want her beneficiaries to have to fight for their rightful inheritance.
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Family Law Lawyer Can Do for You
A family law lawyer provides legal services related to family relationships, including marriage, divorce, child custody, and adoption. Family lawyers help clients navigate emotionally charged legal issues, providing guidance and representation in disputes that affect spouses, children, and parents. Whether you're going through a divorce, seeking custody of your children, or drafting a prenuptial agreement, a family law lawyer ensures your rights are protected and your interests are represented.
Family law attorneys often handle sensitive matters and offer objective legal advice, helping clients reach fair outcomes either through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.
When Should I Hire a Family Law Lawyer?
Hiring a family law lawyer is beneficial in several situations, especially when legal matters involve close personal relationships. Common reasons to hire a family law lawyer include:
- Divorce or separation: When ending a marriage, a lawyer can help you navigate issues such as division of assets, spousal support, and child custody arrangements.
- Child custody and visitation disputes: If you and your co-parent can't agree on custody or visitation, a lawyer can represent your interests and work toward a solution that benefits your children.
- Child support: Whether you’re seeking child support or defending against a claim, a lawyer can help ensure the appropriate amount is calculated and enforced.
- Prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: A lawyer can help draft or review agreements that protect your assets in case of divorce.
- Adoption: Family law lawyers guide you through the legal process of adoption, ensuring that all requirements are met.
- Domestic violence or restraining orders: If you're a victim of domestic violence or being falsely accused, a lawyer can help you obtain or challenge protective orders.
- Paternity cases: If there are questions about the paternity of a child, a lawyer can help establish or dispute legal fatherhood.
Hiring a lawyer early can prevent issues from escalating, and they can offer you the best chance of achieving a favorable outcome in emotionally charged situations.
What Does a Family Law Lawyer Do?
A family law lawyer provides a wide range of services depending on your specific legal needs. Their responsibilities may include:
- Advising on legal rights and options: Helping you understand your legal rights regarding divorce, child custody, support, and other family law issues.
- Filing legal documents: Drafting and filing petitions, motions, and agreements with the court, such as divorce papers, custody agreements, or support orders.
- Representing clients in court: Arguing your case in front of a judge if a settlement can’t be reached through negotiation or mediation.
- Mediation and negotiation: Assisting with alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, to reach agreements on issues like custody, property division, and support without going to trial.
- Enforcing court orders: Helping you enforce court orders related to child support, alimony, or custody if the other party fails to comply.
- Drafting prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: Creating agreements that protect your assets in the event of a divorce.
- Handling adoption proceedings: Ensuring that the legal process of adoption is followed, from filing paperwork to finalizing the adoption in court.
How Are Family Law Lawyers Paid?
Family law lawyers typically charge clients in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Common payment arrangements include:
- Hourly rates: Most family lawyers charge by the hour, with rates varying based on experience and location. Clients are billed for the time spent working on their case, including consultations, court appearances, and document preparation.
- Flat fees: For more straightforward legal services, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, some lawyers offer flat-fee arrangements.
- Retainer fees: In cases that are expected to require significant time and attention, such as contentious custody battles, a lawyer may charge a retainer, which is an upfront payment that covers the initial costs of legal services. The lawyer then bills against the retainer as they work on your case.
The exact cost will depend on the complexity of your case and the lawyer’s fee structure, which should be discussed upfront.
How Much Does a Family Law Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a family law lawyer varies based on factors such as the lawyer's experience, the location, and the complexity of your case. Here are some general cost guidelines:
- Hourly rates: Family law lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour, depending on their experience and the complexity of the case.
- Flat fees: For simpler cases, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, fees may range from $1,000 to $5,000.
- Retainers: For more complex matters, such as contested divorces or custody battles, lawyers may charge a retainer ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 or more. The lawyer will bill against the retainer for the work they do on your case.
- Additional costs: You may also be responsible for additional costs, such as filing fees, mediation fees, or expert witness fees.
Always ask for a clear breakdown of the lawyer’s fees and any additional expenses during your consultation.
Top Questions to Ask a Family Law Lawyer
Before hiring a family law lawyer, it's important to ask questions to ensure they're the right fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:
-
What experience do you have with family law cases like mine?
Make sure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it's a contested divorce, child custody dispute, or adoption. -
How will you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, a flat fee, or requires a retainer. Ask for an estimate of the total costs involved. -
What are the possible outcomes of my case?
An experienced lawyer should be able to give you a general idea of what to expect based on the facts of your case. -
What is your approach to resolving disputes?
Ask whether the lawyer tends to favor negotiation and mediation or whether they prefer to take cases to court. This can help you determine if their style matches your goals. -
How long do you expect my case to take?
While it’s difficult to predict, the lawyer should give you an estimate based on similar cases. -
Who will be handling my case?
In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may do much of the work, so make sure you understand who will be your main point of contact.
How to Check the Credibility of a Family Law Lawyer
To ensure you're hiring a reputable family law lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and reputation:
- Check state bar association records: Verify that the lawyer is licensed to practice in your state and is in good standing with no disciplinary actions.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on websites like Avvo, Google, or Martindale-Hubbell. Previous clients can give you insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and success in family law cases.
- Request references: Ask the lawyer for references from past clients who can speak to their experience with the lawyer.
- Review their website or professional profile: Look at the lawyer’s background, case history, and areas of focus to ensure they have substantial experience in family law.
- Look for professional memberships: Membership in reputable organizations, such as the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), can indicate a lawyer's expertise and dedication to family law.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a family law lawyer, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what you should bring:
- Relevant documents: Bring any documents related to your case, such as marriage certificates, prenuptial agreements, financial records, custody agreements, or court orders.
- List of assets and debts: For divorce cases, prepare a detailed list of all assets (e.g., homes, bank accounts, retirement funds) and debts (e.g., mortgages, loans, credit card balances).
- Details of the family issue: Provide a written summary of the situation, including key dates and facts related to your divorce, custody dispute, or support issue.
- Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions you have about the legal process, costs, and potential outcomes.
- Your goals: Be prepared to discuss your objectives, such as custody arrangements, property division, or spousal support, so the lawyer understands your priorities.
Being organized and clear about your situation will help the lawyer evaluate your case more effectively and offer the best advice for moving forward.
