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04 Apr, 2023 by Ernie beidleman
Tom Cares…thats what makes Tom Snyder different from the rest of the pack..
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06 Jun, 2022 by Adrianna snyder
30 Mar, 2021 by Todd mulloy
Great lawyer. Very clear and concise communication.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Dave tevis
I live west coast, they are east coast. I needed law for an incident way out of my location and knowledge. They were professional and handled everything, not pushy, just got the job done. Should i be in the state again and need help they are on speed dial!
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22 Jan, 2025 by Nathan brown
Handled my case with care and insured that I got the best possible outcome.
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21 Jan, 2025 by Dave rau
When looking for an attorney to represent me regarding a serious automobile accident with injury, I did not know who to turn to, even though I have used my share of lawyers throughout my 72 years. I was looking for someone that had a network of well-respected doctors, therapists and other associates. Above all, an attorney that would have my interest at heart and that was ethical. Josh Schmerling exceeded those expectations. No empty promises. I wasn't looking for a pool shark lol! I was well taken care of and represented from beginning to end. This is what you want from an attorney, right?
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15 Jan, 2025 by Charles whitlow
Great company even better people
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15 Jan, 2025 by Raymond raymond
Very professional and knowledgeable concerning the Law. At no point was i left without the reassurance of receiving a Five star representation. Very well done!
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15 Jan, 2025 by Ugonna chima
If you are seeking an attorney who is not only highly skilled but also genuinely cares about their clients, look no further. I wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone in need of exceptional legal representation.
- Expertise: 5/5
- Professionalism: 5/5
- Outcome: 5/5
- Overall Satisfaction: 5/5
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27 Feb, 2025 by Joelle
05 Feb, 2025 by Greg deickman
Nicholas was top notch. He explained everything very clearly in the beginning and throughout the process. His team kept me updated throughout the process with new documents and the progress of the case. I would definitely use Nicholas and his firm again.
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05 Feb, 2025 by Branddi jackson
On Christmas eve I was rear ended by someone driving a rental car. The rental company was not responding to me. It was recommended I call Mr. Parr. Best Decision! He and his staff were patient, prompt, and polite. Most of all they were knowledgeable and they really fought hard for me and my family. I'm so very grateful. He made a bad situation so much better. Thank you Mr.Parr!!!
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27 Feb, 2025 by Joelle
05 Feb, 2025 by Greg deickman
Nicholas was top notch. He explained everything very clearly in the beginning and throughout the process. His team kept me updated throughout the process with new documents and the progress of the case. I would definitely use Nicholas and his firm again.
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05 Feb, 2025 by Branddi jackson
On Christmas eve I was rear ended by someone driving a rental car. The rental company was not responding to me. It was recommended I call Mr. Parr. Best Decision! He and his staff were patient, prompt, and polite. Most of all they were knowledgeable and they really fought hard for me and my family. I'm so very grateful. He made a bad situation so much better. Thank you Mr.Parr!!!
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18 Feb, 2025 by Fire3421
A wonderful experience assisting my wife and I will preparing our wills. Definingly would recommend.
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21 Dec, 2024 by Lauren jolin
Thank you Adam Davey for being my voice when no one listened and standing up for what was right. This was a very emotional event in my life and it was handled with such respect. Excellent communication and a fair outcome. Appreciate all you do.
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10 Dec, 2024 by Joseph davis
An exceptional experience dealing with this law firm. Our Attorney Jacob Dorfman is an exceptional professional and was quite helpful.
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18 Feb, 2025 by Fire3421
A wonderful experience assisting my wife and I will preparing our wills. Definingly would recommend.
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21 Dec, 2024 by Lauren jolin
Thank you Adam Davey for being my voice when no one listened and standing up for what was right. This was a very emotional event in my life and it was handled with such respect. Excellent communication and a fair outcome. Appreciate all you do.
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10 Dec, 2024 by Joseph davis
An exceptional experience dealing with this law firm. Our Attorney Jacob Dorfman is an exceptional professional and was quite helpful.
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18 Feb, 2025 by Fire3421
A wonderful experience assisting my wife and I will preparing our wills. Definingly would recommend.
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21 Dec, 2024 by Lauren jolin
Thank you Adam Davey for being my voice when no one listened and standing up for what was right. This was a very emotional event in my life and it was handled with such respect. Excellent communication and a fair outcome. Appreciate all you do.
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10 Dec, 2024 by Joseph davis
An exceptional experience dealing with this law firm. Our Attorney Jacob Dorfman is an exceptional professional and was quite helpful.
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18 Feb, 2025 by Fire3421
A wonderful experience assisting my wife and I will preparing our wills. Definingly would recommend.
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21 Dec, 2024 by Lauren jolin
Thank you Adam Davey for being my voice when no one listened and standing up for what was right. This was a very emotional event in my life and it was handled with such respect. Excellent communication and a fair outcome. Appreciate all you do.
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10 Dec, 2024 by Joseph davis
An exceptional experience dealing with this law firm. Our Attorney Jacob Dorfman is an exceptional professional and was quite helpful.
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20 Sep, 2024 by Maxsuper 57
I haired Mr Voss to help me with resolving my child custody issues with my ex husband, who had been dragging me in to court for 10years. It wasn’t until Mr. Voss got involved that I was finally able to conclude my case , resulting in a ruling 100% in my favor. I am beyond satisfied with the results and Mr. Vos was extremely helpful, often responding to my questions on weekends and after hours !
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18 Apr, 2024 by Helen diamond
Mr. Ron Voss is fantastic!
He is professional, kind, and reliable.
From a 1-10 stars; I’d give him 12 stars!
I recommend him without reservation!
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10 Apr, 2024 by Tiff jones
Ron’s compassionate expertise and in-depth understanding of Maryland family law proved invaluable. His services far exceeded their cost, delivering results that surpassed expectations.
I also really appreciated how Mr Voss helped keep me calm and collected while on the stand. I’m so grateful for his services and wholeheartedly recommended him to anyone in need of a family law attorney.
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21 Oct, 2024 by Anne roy
Having difficulty with a property management group, we contacted Mr Cohen on the referral of a friend. He worked diligently to explore our options and advised us, we felt, realistically and wisely. He is an excellent listener, thorough, has a sense of humor when needed at times, and is very competent.. Altogether, we felt he was exactly what we needed.
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16 Sep, 2024 by Jaylin rideout
10/10 amazing staff !
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16 Sep, 2024 by Jessica jackson
Mr. Adam Sean Cohen is an expert in his field with over 27 years in law but has been exposed to law all his life.
He encompasses everything you want in legal counsel: professional, knowledgeable, tenacious, respectful, and passionate.
Once you sit down with Mr. Cohen, you instantly will feel better about your problem and he alleviates some of your stress. You will have his utmost attention and he is fully invested in helping you.
Even with over 27 years experience, and many caseloads, he makes you feel like you are his first and only priority. He thoroughly does his research and comes up with an action plan. He communicates in a clear and concise manner. He looks at the situation from all possible angles to make sure all the bases are filled. He is intuitive and knows how to read the room.
What sets Mr. Cohen apart from everyone else is that is he truly passionate and empathic about people and helping them. He will be totally invested in your case mind, body and spirit.
It was a pleasure working with him.
Mr. Adam Sean Cohen is a credit to his profession.
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17 Mar, 2023 by Made man vaughn
18 Jan, 2022 by Aleah catron
05 Nov, 2020 by Marsha lucas
Luke Woods went above and beyond for my son-I wish we had him at the beginning of his case. We will always use him for an Attorney!
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26 Feb, 2025 by Harlisha jones
The firm demonstrated a consistent lack of professionalism, failing to address client concerns with appropriate empathy or urgency. The attorney's abrupt termination of a client call was unacceptable. This firm's disregard for client input is egregious. I will not recommend this firm to anyone.
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06 Feb, 2025 by Delphine achombom
They are amazing to work with please I recommend this Law office
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29 Jan, 2025 by Charles muse
04 Dec, 2024 by Elizabeth o. blizzard
My siblings and I recently engaged this firm to represent us following my mother’s tragic death. I was so impressed by the professionalism and the sensitivity with which they handled every stage of our legal proceedings. Our emotional state was taken into consideration and the team took great effort to support us, giving freely of their time and attention. My family was happy with the process and with the settlement.
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04 Dec, 2024 by Lee ordeman
We felt well treated by Brown & Barron. Throughout the long and sometimes painful process of our lawsuit, their team was personable, kind, determined, and authoritatively professional. When I was looking for a firm to represent my family, I asked a friend who is a top Baltimore lawyer who he would go to if he were in my shoes. "Brown & Barron," he told me. We made the right decision.
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23 Nov, 2024 by Phillip campbell
Very patient and personable. Great team.
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18 Aug, 2023 by Tania stevenson
Mr. Tomko fought for my husband and took his case immediately. He gave us reassurance and hope. He’s professional and knowledgeable. Thank you for your service!
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19 Jul, 2023 by Dalereka savage
He is, an amazing Lawyer; who, get's the Job done.
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23 Jun, 2023 by Tanita waters
I used Tomko for 2 cases on the Eastern Shore Kent County, MD and let me tell he did his thing. I'm going to give him 5 stars.
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02 Jan, 2025 by Margaret flores
My experience with Justin Lerche, Esq., over the last 2 ½ years has been outstanding. I came to Ashcraft & Gerel LLP, seeking a personal injury attorney with experience in these cases. I was impressed with Justin’s biography on the firm’s website. From the initial call with him, I felt confident in his talents to represent me after a car accident I endured on January 14, 2022, to the final settlement on December 5, 2024, achieving a favorable outcome.
Throughout this exhaustive and stressful time, Justin handled my case with utmost professionalism, attention to detail, care, and effective communication, making a world of difference to me. His expertise and knowledge of personal injury law are to be commended. He always made me feel I was in great hands, reassuring me that everything would be okay from day one. He promptly answered all my questions on the case and offered solace to the emotional tears I experienced during our calls.
I highly recommend Justin at Ashcraft & Gerel LLP to anyone seeking exceptional legal services and results in personal injury cases. I’m profoundly grateful and cannot thank Justin enough for his support, services, and personal injury expertise, which made this overwhelming process bearable. Laura Harmon, his Paralegal, was also courteous and prompt in her responses. Thank you both!
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08 Dec, 2024 by Sean foddrell
Ashcraft & Gerel, LLP recently assisted me after I was injured in a car accident. Mr.Lerche and Ms. Rizzo were extremely professional and communicative throughout the entire process. I appreciate their support and highly recommend their services.
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05 Nov, 2024 by Carolyn randel
Justin and Kable are very professional and did their best in getting my case resolved as well as seeing that I received the best offer. I highly recommend Ashcraft and Gerel.
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02 Jan, 2025 by Margaret flores
My experience with Justin Lerche, Esq., over the last 2 ½ years has been outstanding. I came to Ashcraft & Gerel LLP, seeking a personal injury attorney with experience in these cases. I was impressed with Justin’s biography on the firm’s website. From the initial call with him, I felt confident in his talents to represent me after a car accident I endured on January 14, 2022, to the final settlement on December 5, 2024, achieving a favorable outcome.
Throughout this exhaustive and stressful time, Justin handled my case with utmost professionalism, attention to detail, care, and effective communication, making a world of difference to me. His expertise and knowledge of personal injury law are to be commended. He always made me feel I was in great hands, reassuring me that everything would be okay from day one. He promptly answered all my questions on the case and offered solace to the emotional tears I experienced during our calls.
I highly recommend Justin at Ashcraft & Gerel LLP to anyone seeking exceptional legal services and results in personal injury cases. I’m profoundly grateful and cannot thank Justin enough for his support, services, and personal injury expertise, which made this overwhelming process bearable. Laura Harmon, his Paralegal, was also courteous and prompt in her responses. Thank you both!
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08 Dec, 2024 by Sean foddrell
Ashcraft & Gerel, LLP recently assisted me after I was injured in a car accident. Mr.Lerche and Ms. Rizzo were extremely professional and communicative throughout the entire process. I appreciate their support and highly recommend their services.
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05 Nov, 2024 by Carolyn randel
Justin and Kable are very professional and did their best in getting my case resolved as well as seeing that I received the best offer. I highly recommend Ashcraft and Gerel.
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01 Dec, 2023 by Jennifer godlove
Mark Atas assisted in my sons case. He is very knowledgeable and works hard to get what his clients deserve! He keeps you informed along the way and let's you know what is currently being done and what is yet to come. He doesn't hold back on anything. I highly recommend him! I'd give him a 20 star rating if I could! Thank you again for everything!
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26 Apr, 2023 by Andrea lee
04 Mar, 2023 by Bobby wisner
Great lawyers William Purpura, and his son Chris. They represented my father35 yrs. Ago then me twice.
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09 Jan, 2025 by Scott brooks
I had a few options for choosing a lawyer. I’m glad I went on my gut and chose Brandon Taylor to represent me for my case because he was the exact person I needed. His professionalism and truthful insight made me feel comfortable with him taking on my case. He delivered on all requests and went above and beyond to get me home with my family. He is definitely a top notch attorney and I am forever grateful for the Taylor law firm for representing me in my extreme time of need.
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17 Jun, 2024 by Rose bleiweis
I’ve worked with Jordan Savitz for several business related matters. He’s been great- thorough, responsive, kind, and advocates for his clients at all costs. He is real with me but also supports my decisions. I have been so pleased with him and highly recommend him for business matters.
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13 Jun, 2024 by Yasmine haughton
The Taylor law firm has proven to be professional and caring about the needs of the people. I spoke with Mr Taylor and other staff members over the phone regarding a paperwork that I needed to submit to the court and they were very patient and kind to handled the paperwork. I am very pleased and grateful for their time, and the guidance that they provided. You will not be disappointed with their services.
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27 Oct, 2024 by Fatima ahmed
Mr Michael is an excellent Lawyer. He is a great listener and very detailed oriented. he was very attentive to all the details of my case and was able to guide me make excellent decisions. he is a great human, and very positive. his interpersonal skills are outstanding, and his staff is very friendly.
Mr Michael proves to me day by day that he is an emotionally intelligent lawyer and his advice is sincere and honest and is really caring about the best thing for me as a Human.
He has high values and one of the best Lawyers I have ever met.
Thank you Mr Michael, I'm so grateful to you. Fatima
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24 Oct, 2024 by Mohammed mehboob
Very experienced & competent attorney. Has saved me a tremendous amount of aggravation with moving violations. He gets results! Highly recommend him!
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08 Aug, 2024 by Karen r h jackson
27 Oct, 2024 by Fatima ahmed
Mr Michael is an excellent Lawyer. He is a great listener and very detailed oriented. he was very attentive to all the details of my case and was able to guide me make excellent decisions. he is a great human, and very positive. his interpersonal skills are outstanding, and his staff is very friendly.
Mr Michael proves to me day by day that he is an emotionally intelligent lawyer and his advice is sincere and honest and is really caring about the best thing for me as a Human.
He has high values and one of the best Lawyers I have ever met.
Thank you Mr Michael, I'm so grateful to you. Fatima
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24 Oct, 2024 by Mohammed mehboob
Very experienced & competent attorney. Has saved me a tremendous amount of aggravation with moving violations. He gets results! Highly recommend him!
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08 Aug, 2024 by Karen r h jackson
30 May, 2024 by Areen al.ghalaini
Chirag Patel is an extremely professional and caring lawyer. Contrary to the common belief that law firms just want to take your money, this one is run by people who actually care about you and want to help out. They follow up and very responsive to your inquiries. Highly recommend using their services
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10 Apr, 2024 by Jeany
The Patel Law Group was amazing to work with, my husband and I were mostly assisted by Viviana, Danny and Nick and they were so helpful, they answered all our questions and always got back to us in a timely manner. Please don’t hesitate to give them a call for all your immigration needs. Excellent job!
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27 Mar, 2024 by Dimpi patel
we had initial disagreement with Mr. Patel's office regarding the scheduling. Mr. Patel personally took the matter in hand, and now we just finished the consultation. If I have any immigration need or case to be filed future, it will be with Mr. Patel. I did lot of internet research about my immigration case and there were so many elements that were confusing, but Mr. Patel has reasonable explanation for how it works. I apologize to Mr. Patel for premature review.
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09 Jan, 2025 by Bee johnson
Had a custody battle in 2021! I was having a conversation with someone today about how OUTSTANDING David was and I wanted to come here and leave a review. I’m in Houston and not only did he get the jurisdiction back here he assisted my incompetent Harris county lawyers and ensuring I got my son back home safely with me. It’s been 3 years since but I’ll never forget how great this lawyer was. 😭 THANK YOU Mr. Zerivitz!
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08 Nov, 2024 by Kiara brown
Very pleased with the decision to retain Mr. Zerivitz. He’s a great communicator and he set very realistic expectations. He delivered on every promise that he made. It’s unheard of to call a law office and actually speak to your attorney without getting the run around. I never had any problem getting in touch with him, he was always ready and willing to answer all questions. Would absolutely recommend.
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31 Jul, 2024 by Racco bjj
Very good reliable lawyer! Been coming for almost 12 years
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23 Jul, 2023 by Dat nigga suave
14 Jul, 2020 by Mira ramahi
24 Nov, 2019 by Helen white
3.7
6 Reviews
5.0
4 Reviews
17 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
She would call me and leave a message for me than immediately send a letter to me so she could send a bill for both. She didn't give even 24hrs to return her call. She changed me over 30 thousand dollars for a non contested divorce. She is a money hungry lawyer who cares nothing for her client
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26 May, 2022 by Anonymous
She’s not worth a single penny, If you wanna wast your money hire her .
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06 Sep, 2020 by Robert valentine
Richard Winelander has to be the best post conviction attorney in the State of Maryland.
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24 Jan, 2025 by Lady dane
Mr David Jackson is the attorney with Robinson & Associates, he helped me win my case with Social Security Disability. He was kind, informative and professional. Mr Jackson stuck in there to the end I am greatful for Mr Jackson.
Raina Bischer is also amazing she always found time to answer all of my questions, and help me especially when I was a nervous reck from worrying about the case.
Raina Bischer is very much on point and the two of them together got me what I needed.
Thank you to Mr Jackson don't loose Raina she is the perfect Paralegal for the perfect Attorney. Stay Blessed
Ms Braxton
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23 Jan, 2025 by Holly
My experience with Robinson & associates was nothing short of amazing! Their team is truly dedicated to providing excellent service, making me feel confident that my case was in the best possible hands. Walda was courteous and prompt in her responses, which made the whole stressful process much more bearable. I highly recommend her to anyone seeking legal assistance
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23 Jan, 2025 by Aj robinson
Walda was really nice to work with. She kept good communication and was really helpful.
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20 Jan, 2025 by Brianna ford
24 Sep, 2024 by D b
My family and I are thankful for Dimitri. Dimitri was referred to us by my older daughter and of course there's always one child that you have to side-eye when they say things; she did well with this recommendation. Dimitri fought hard and used his expertise to get me and my younger children what we felt was fair. Actually we got a little more, which was great.
Through this situation we learned that some things take time and that you have to have patience. I absolutely recommend Law Office of Dimitri Donnik.
Thank you!
-The Little Red Camaro
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18 Jul, 2024 by Dasha vlad vershov
Dimitri is a fantastic attorney who helped my husband, Vladyslav, with two tough car accident cases where he got injured. Dimitri got us great settlements and made the whole process smooth. He also helped my friend Anna a few years back, and she had a great experience too. We're really glad we chose him and highly recommend his services.
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03 Jan, 2025 by Maya dbd
Could not be more grateful for Cuomo ! Highly recommend him , he represented me for criminal traffic charges & made my life so easy ! was such a relieving experience, thank you again !
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24 Nov, 2024 by Craig neuberger
11 Nov, 2024 by David “dave” brown
18 Aug, 2023 by Tania stevenson
Mr. Tomko fought for my husband and took his case immediately. He gave us reassurance and hope. He’s professional and knowledgeable. Thank you for your service!
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19 Jul, 2023 by Dalereka savage
He is, an amazing Lawyer; who, get's the Job done.
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23 Jun, 2023 by Tanita waters
I used Tomko for 2 cases on the Eastern Shore Kent County, MD and let me tell he did his thing. I'm going to give him 5 stars.
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26 Dec, 2024 by Gustavo ponce
Excelente servicio, amabilidad, responsabilidad, dan seguimiento Paso a Paso en el proceso.
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20 Dec, 2024 by Bertina angeles
La Licenciada Collazo nos ayudó con los trámites para obtener la ciudadanía y a mi mama la residencia, de una forma muy rápida y sin contratiempos. Su equipo fue muy atento y ella muy profesional. Hoy es un día muy feliz para nosotras! ¡Muchas gracias por sus servicios! Bertina Angeles y Bertina Cuellar
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17 Dec, 2024 by Fredy de paz
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
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.
