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24 Sep, 2021 by Sasa harriott
Donna Buttler is a caring, responsive, and wise attorney. I highly recommend this firm.
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03 Jul, 2021 by Anna goldblatt
Donna Buttler is a knowledgeable, experience, confident, and determined attorney. If you are looking for a family law attorney do not hesitate to retain Donna. She will fiercely fight for your interests. Just follow her advice and guidance, and the outcome will exceed your expectations.
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19 Nov, 2013 by Anonymous
"Thank you Donna. I am enjoying my new life immensely! Financial freedom is wonderful. I can't thank you [Donna] enough for the guidance, insight, and of course the alimony! I knew from our first meeting that I had made the right decision in hiring you. I'm a stronger, smarter woman because of you. There's no way I could have made it through this process on my own."
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18 Oct, 2021 by Alvaro noguera
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30 Apr, 2018 by Lm
The thoroughness and preparation with which Melissa approached my case was exemplary! That, along with the innovative strategies she incorporated, reduced the time frame of the divorce from a year to seven months. It was moving towards a trial which would have added another four to five months. In the courtroom, Melissa was sharp as a razor's edge. Respectful and amicable with the other side until they began personal attacks and bullying in and out of court. Melissa was not having ANY of that nonsense and the gloves came off both in and out of court! She was prepared for the other side to try that tactic and fought back with facts they weren't prepared to address. Ultimately, she did not allow my character to get decimated due to false accusations. She also read me as far as how much and which kind of information I could could take at any given time, she did not inundate me but rather waited until she knew I was ready to hear it. I could go on all day and write many more paragraphs. Simply put... the opposing attorney and ex-wife were on a mission to destroy my character and break me financially which is NO exaggeration. I know if I did not have a lawyer the caliber of Melissa, not only would these proceedings still be going on, the other side probably would've achieved their goal. You will not go wrong or regret retaining Melissa as your lawyer, it would be the smartest thing you could do!
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12 Jan, 2018 by Michael
I have know Melissa for more than 20 years and I have always know her to be an excellent advocate who is passionate about her client and innovative in reaching solutions to client's problems. I would recommend her to anyone that is in need of a divorce/family court attorney.
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16 Oct, 2020 by Elizabeth
I had a wonderful experience with Atty Jurkiewicz and his para-legal Aralinde. I came in emotionally stressed due to finances and they were able to clarify my situation and my options and let me choose a course of action. Going through the bankruptcy process with them was broken down to be straightforward and clear, and they were extremely timely in responding to any questions and concerns I had. I had guidance at all times. I would retain them again in a heartbeat for any future concerns, although that hopefully won’t be necessary! Can not recommend enough this responsible and conscientious team!
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10 May, 2020 by Eric
I reached out to this law firm from my Google search. A soft and friendly voice answered, it was attorney Edward Jurkiewicz. I nervously explained my financial situation to him and he patiently listened. Afterwards he gave me a general rundown of the process and requirements If I do decided to go with him. I wasn’t sure what to do or If I should continue to shop around for other assistance. During that conversation I felt comfortable with him so we agreed to meet in person to go over the details formally. Once we were done I agreed to take on his service. He introduced me to his paralegal Aralinde. She assisted with more of the paperwork and other documents I needed for the process. The worksheet they provided me was very thorough and had very comprehensive questions. I needed to list detailed information to complete my process. They were very thorough with the paperwork or the documents they needed do you start this process. Anytime I had a question I I ended up reaching out to them for answers. I get a really quick response, which is a great thing when when you need it immediately. When time came to do the actual filing it was done as stated. I was scheduled a date for the trustees hearing. Unfortunately because of a current Coronavirus situation the hearing was rescheduled twice. I wanted it to be over with as soon as possible but I had no control over the current situation so I have to be patient and waited. Finally there was a set date for the hearing it was to be done via phone conferencing. I didn’t know what to expect from this set up but Edward was kind enough to inform me of how to proceed. Both Edward and Aralinde were there with me during the hearing. They both were there early and explained the rundown of the hearing. After the hearing Edward asked me if I had any questions and explained to me what to be expected. Overall I had a really good experience with this law firm, Edward and Aralinde. They made this process for me very easy and painless. I truly recommend a service for anyone that is in the same type of situation I was in. Their service was very valuable to me. I can’t thank them enough for what they did for me. Highly recommended.
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07 Apr, 2020 by Anonymous
Attorney Jurkiewicz took his time to explain all of our options and walk us through the bankruptcy process. He and Aralinde went above and beyond to ensure we had all of our paperwork ready and their attention to detail ensured our stressful time was manageable.
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15 Sep, 2018 by Anonymous
Dave helped me after my injury on the job. I didn't know where to turn, and I'm thankful I found him. He went the extra mile for me and I got an excellent settlement. He knows his stuff and not only works hard on your case, but takes the extra time to help you feel better, too!
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19 Jan, 2016 by Elizabeth
Atty. Moore mediated my divorce back in 2008. He helped me again in 2013 with a motor vehicle case, where I had a broken knee cap and he got me everything that was I was due. We worked so well together that he hired me as his assistant.
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02 Aug, 2023 by Stacy
Dear Attorney Weiland, On behalf of the entire family, we extend our deepest gratitude for your incredible work on our case. Almost eight years have passed since you won, and we are still in awe of your impact on our lives. We genuinely believe that you saved our daughter, and we will always be grateful for that. Seeing our grandson and his mother standing before us today is a testament to your dedication and tireless efforts. Your professionalism and expertise are beyond reproach, and you have far exceeded our expectations. We understand our case's complexity and never-ending nature, but your accuracy and attention to detail have been truly remarkable. Your unwavering commitment to ensuring that every aspect of the case was cared for has not gone unnoticed. We cannot thank you enough for everything you have done for our family. Your hard work and dedication to our cause are genuinely appreciated. Warm regards, From the whole Family Stacy, Jose, Jenia, Yeliani, Mariana, and baby
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06 Nov, 2024 by Darryl blagrove
5 stars is a lot to give. However, my experience with Klien&Babbit was 5 plus stars. Buying a home is brutal. This team literally made it painless If house buying and selling is not your everyday life, you need to call this team for an assist. I've also needed legal representation in a pereonal matter and contacted "The" team .Once more, they came in and took care of business ! I don't know the laws , but I do know Klein&Babbit!
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29 Oct, 2024 by Wanda cruz
I was recommend by a close friend who also had a custody battle and used this law firm. I had such a great experience with Attorney Gill. She listened to all my concerns and walk me through the whole process of what may and may not happen. Her whole team was just wonderful to work with. Attorney Gill even went out her way to walk me to my car after court as long as she did not have another client with her, to make sure I wasn’t going to run into the other party. And she made sure I didn’t leave the court with any questions unanswered. I would recommend them to anyone who needs their services.
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26 Oct, 2024 by Hoosieronthemove
If you are a woman looking for an attorney in CT, I cannot recommend Klein & Babbitt enough. They’ve been with me every step of the way through my divorce case, and I am very appreciative and grateful to them. The paralegals & attorney Klein listened to all my thoughts and concerns and were never belittling, and not once was what I was saying dismissed. I was heard. Which is the most important thing I was looking for when it came to choosing legal representation, was a team that would be in my corner, and they were. They never interrupted, and never spoke over me. Whenever I had a question, it was answered as quickly as possible, and I was very impressed with their streamlined communications. When I had accounting questions too, the accountant was more than happy to answer my queries as well. I hope to never have to have a need for legal services again, but if I do, they are who I would trust. 100%.
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30 Sep, 2020 by John
Attorney Babbitt and her team worked with me in a very fair and transparent manner. I was distraught as a result of my recent divorce and in a difficult spot financially. I needed to access money from a 401K and could not do so until my ex-wife completed the necessary administrative paperwork. Despite several attempts to contact my ex-wife and her attorney directly, pleading with them to complete the paperwork, she ultimately refused my request. My only option was to sue for contempt and I really wanted to avoid the courtroom. Attorney Babbitt was able to work with my ex-wife's attorney and arrange for the paperwork to be completed quickly and without a lot of drama. The team at Klein and Babbitt was patient and understanding during this period and I truly appreciated that most of all. I would highly recommend this law firm. Thank you for your help.
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15 Jan, 2020 by Tim
Hired Attorney Babbitt for my divorce. Never once received counsel. Mostly got forwarded emails from my wife's attorney with "thoughts?" at the bottom. Never responded to numerous calls or emails. In the end I fired her and she charged me $75 for a copy of my file which ended up being just numerous copies of my financial affidavit. Cannot emphasize enough to look elsewhere.
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20 Jun, 2018 by Dave
I hired Beth to help get my children back when their mother took off with them. Beth and her team have been incredible, keeping me informed about the state of my case. They have handled my situation with a great deal of attention and care. Beth is always concerned with getting the best possible outcome for my children and myself. I cannot thank her and her team enough.
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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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

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