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12 Aug, 2010 by Anonymous
Assisted us with our guardianship and home sale. Responded regularly especially once we helped him to understand what we needed.
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20 Feb, 2012 by Ulbert
I retained this attorney for a family matter a 2 months ago at the recommendation of a friend. Although he seems a bit intimating at first, when it came down to business he was no-nonse. I was very satified with the outcome (although is was not what I wanted) but he represented and fought for me the best he could. I would highly recommend.
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08 Dec, 2023 by Marry
Unprofessional and useless attorney. Should have retired a long time ago.
I do not recommend
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22 May, 2022 by Anonymous
Absolutely useless Legal Aid Society scam clown. Absolutely allergic to work, like most of 18B attorneys… do not even think to hire this unprofessional and shameless individual. Stay away!!!
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30 Jun, 2021 by Yesenia
I had previously hired Virginia for a child support case and was surprised by how well organized she was during my case. She clearly cares about her clients and is readily available to answer all your questions. Due to her professionalism, I decided to hire her once again for my divorce because I trust her skill and knowledge. She is still the same sweet woman who is ready to tackle any job. If you need a great family lawyer, don't hesitate to reach out to her.
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25 Jul, 2022 by Danielle lee
17 Jul, 2019 by James leonard
I have been using Cathline Mark for all my legal needs. Everything from accidents to my home purchase. I strongly recommend her to any in need of a lawyer.
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16 Jul, 2019 by Stichie thorpe
16 Sep, 2024 by Joanne joseph
Any review on here saying they was great or helpful is fake. They don’t help they don’t show up to court and that don’t tell you what’s going on with your case my lawyer quit the job and no one bothered to resign my case or show up to court I end up losing my case and getting a paid lawyer for the fair hearing I’m fighting to keep my nursing job and they don’t even show up to court
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26 Jul, 2024 by Becc rome
Do not use this agency because they do not help you whether you're disabled or not, because it will give you a lot of excuses and run arounds, and they don't fight hard enough for your situation especially Lauren price the attorney who did nothing to help with my eviction, and she sided with the agency that's called WELLLIFE NETWORK who is abusive to disabled people by throwing them out without any guidance and no help. Brooklyn defenders do not help anyone who needed the help. They're selfish and lazy, period.
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18 Jul, 2024 by Ceven loochi
These are the worst attorneys they don’t ever do their job right plus they don’t ever answer the phone
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24 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
Creative in how to abuse your spouse, I did not like his aggressive style at all
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13 Nov, 2019 by Anonymous
I could not be happier with Joel’s breathe of legal knowledge, his natural instincts with people (a must in negotiations) and his high ethical values (helps to clearly guide my legal decisions). He has represented me for nearly three years now, and I would not choose anyone else.
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31 Dec, 2014 by Devorah
Joel was referred to me by another attorney with whom I had a consultation with but could not afford ($700 per hour). All throughout his representation of me I found him to be professional and VERY attentive. I would receive call backs the same day of each call (this was my second divorce and I can tell you that this is not the norm), he was fully prepared for court and his papers were always well drafted. Get him while his rates are what they are right now because I only see them going up based on his growing reputation for strong representation.
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09 Feb, 2024 by Masha yan
Very good service, all members of staff Saida, Nastya, and Irina are very responsible. I got my power of attorney in three days, as promised. Thank them very much.
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08 Dec, 2023 by Adele kubekova
This is the office that I highly recommend for visiting for several reasons! First of all, the employees and managers are polite, diligent and professional, especially one pleasant woman, whose name is Sasha)) Secondly, because the work and applications are processed up to deadlines and on time. For example, my Letter of attorney and Apostille were processed ahead of the agreed deadline, which for I was amazed and pleasantly surprised, cause that gave an opportunity to check the document thoroughly and send the approved version back for final processing. I like the fact that they send translated documents to their customers for the review ahead of time. Third reason is that the office has a convenient location in Brooklyn, and managers can analyze and process documents both - in Russian and English languages! That is awesome!
So, my final word is - do not hesitate to visit and refer to the outlined office!
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19 Sep, 2023 by Kshtirlitz
Самый адекватный и эффективный нотариальный офис на Брайтоне. Делал у них несколько доверенностей с апостилями и переводы. Все было сделано оперативно, качественно (все документы сработали без нареканий) и недорого. Приятные спокойные сотрудники, нормально общаются, без загонов, как в других офисах. Обязательно порекомендую знакомым
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19 Aug, 2018 by Diana
Ursula Gangemi helped me through the worst time of my life. Going through a divorce and fighting for custody is not an easy task. But Ursula helped me through this time and helped me to have faith and HOPE!
She is very knowledgeable and compassionate and knows the law and she brought my case to an end efficiency and with a result that made me and my child happy. I have recommended her and will continue to recommend her. Diana M.
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18 Jul, 2018 by Anonymous
Ursula is the best there is! She put me at ease throughout the entire process of my divorce. Every time I spoke to her, she made me feel confident and comfortable. She is an attorney who really cares about her clients and her commitment to my case can attest to that! Thank you, Ursula! Highly recommend!
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27 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
If you are looking for an attorney to fight for you then Ursula Gangemi is not for you. She is very expensive and extremely weak in negotiations. She cows down to her colleagues because she does not want to fight for what's yours. She constantly makes mistakes that cost you more money. Her license should be revoked!
If I had to do all over again, I would have never hired her. I am in poverty because of her lack of skills and knowledge. Completely awful stay away!!!
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08 Apr, 2016 by Anonymous
This lawyer was the biggest mistake I made. He is useless. He Does not defend you properly even though you have to shell out thousands of dollars. I regret having him represent me.
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31 Mar, 2014 by Richard c
MR DREZIN REPRESENTED ME DURING A VERY UGLY DIVORCE DURING THE MID 80's. AT THE TIME I WAS BATTLING A MAJOR ALCOHOL ADDICTION AND WAS NOT HIS BEST KIND CLIENT. EVEN THO I WAS OBNOXIOUS AT TIMES ALAN PUT UP WITH ME AND DID A GOOD JOB CONSIDERING WHAT HE HAD TO WORK WITH. HE ALSO REPRESENTED MY MOM AND I DURING AN EVICTION WHICH WAS RELATED TO MY DIVORCE BECAUSE OF MY WIFE SELLING THE MARITAL HOME. AGAIN HE DID A GOOD JOB...
LASTLY HE REPRESENTED ME IN A PERSONAL INJURY CASE RESULTING FROM A SLIP & FALL ON A DEFECTIVE SIDEWALK. HE DID A GREAT JOB AS MY ADVOCATE AND I WAS AWARDED A SUBSTANDCIAL SETTLEMENT. I WOULD RECOMMEND MR. DREZIN VERY HIGHLY...
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27 Nov, 2020 by Andres
The firm was very professional. They were very helpful with my sensitive family court matter. Very available for questions and very knowledgeable.
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30 Aug, 2010 by Anonymous
Was a client of Melanie Marmer. Was not pleased overall with her services because she tended to take sides with the prosecution and complainant on my court cases. She tended to go by the book. Was never flexible enough to try get a plea bargain deal for me.
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15 Apr, 2024 by Tatiana
I would like to express my gratitude forwards the law firm of Dinara Maylov . She and her staff done a true professional job, helping me to finally get my green card. It was emotional journey for me. Dinara worked as fast as possible to get result and it all happened. Her secretary Yelena was very nice and kind to me. The process was straight forward from start to finish. I will always recommend her to my friends and anyone who needs professional help regarding immigration! Thank you ! Tatiana Salnikova.
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01 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
She failed a very ordinary paper but a very important one. After a successful interview for Green Card she forgot to file I-130 which only has 90 days to do so. And she could not file one...?... for 3 months???...
Not recommended!
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12 Dec, 2022 by Anonymous
Dinara Maylov helped me numerous times through the years. She is very knowledgeable in many areas of law.
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19 Dec, 2019 by Alexander
Helene Bernstein has been my attorney for the past four years on multiple court cases in Brooklyn family court. I give the highest recommendation possible for the work she has done for me as well as her demeanor and professionalism. Helene has the unique ability to be paradoxically empathetic and understanding and yet commanding and resolute when needed; I believe these are the personality traits that make for the best of attorneys.
What initially drew me to Ms. Bernstein’s practice and proved to be true over the years was that she also works as a mediator and looks to resolve contention rather than to win conflicts. In the long run, this proved extremely worthy as well as valiant and likely contributed to her winning my case for me. Our conversations were always about what is just and fair and most importantly, what was in the best interest of my children.
Helene is well organized, communicative, thoughtful, open-minded, reliable and is an extremely hard worker. She took great care in my case, with meticulous notes that she always shared with me. Ms. Bernstein prepared myself and the other witnesses properly when we had to testify and always patiently clarified legal procedures for me and advised me well, even when it was not in her own financial best interest. She was also completely upfront and open about both her fees as well as other legal costs that would impact my case. I am so glad that Ms. Bernstein has been my attorney and sincerely give her the highest rating of endorsement possible.
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19 Sep, 2016 by Anonymous
I contacted Helene for a consult on my divorce mediation. When she called me back, she came across as rude. I explained I was looking for the consult plus a review attorney, which she said was smart. Like every lawyer I speak with, I asked her about her caseload to determine if she could commit the amount of time I needed for my case. Her reply, "Why would I tell you that, I don't even know you." She can't even have a civil conversation with a prospective client, so that closed the door for me. I thanked her for her time and said I'll contact her if I want to schedule a time.
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13 Sep, 2011 by Anonymous
Initially looked for a collaborative atty but turned out I needed a litigating atty. Be careful if you seek litigating attorney. She charges reasonable rate but in her first bill charged almost triple the amount of time the plaintiff atty charged for the same task. Did not agree to negotiate the price down or even discuss it. Gave misdealing and misinformed advise that was very damaging in the early stage of the divorce proceeding related to forensic accounting, temporary support and visitation. I advise you to set up "do not exceed amount without approval" right from the start. Good luck
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21 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
I retained her after having had prior representation for more than one year… My first attorney just took my money and wasn’t even aware of the laws… Lucille told me exactly how the case would unfold and how it would end.
She’s very knowledgeable and fights for your rights. She’s tops .
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17 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
I've known and had many cases handled by Lucille for over 30 years she has always been straight forward honest and knowledgeable, and was on point with her advise. She's a Fighter!
I red the negative reviews on here and I think they are false! I'd hire her again and every time.
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28 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
Lucille is a prime example of someone who believes they are above the law. She is very shady and conniving and NOT to be trusted. She is very unprofessional and speaks and writes to you like a teenager texting. Using capital letters as to scream at you and ends sentences with ..... She does not have her client's best interest at heart but only her own. In short, she has no integrity. She must have paid someone to get her degree because she is not competent at all. I am surprised she still has her license.
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07 Apr, 2021 by Nicole
He is a criminal, he signs up clients and changes his number after money has been exchanged. Do not hire or retain him for anything legal. I hired him and now am pursuing legal action against him, for the services he did not provide as signed/agreed upon in our client retainer agreement. He practices in Brooklyn, NY.
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31 Jul, 2019 by Youlanda
If you want a lawyer who is MIA he is the right one for you. Hired this guy for a symple divorce case and two years later I'm still married and i cant get to him calls not being answered, voicemail ia always full, text not being returned, and mail being returned to sender. Needless to say I'm super disappointed in his service
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05 Dec, 2016 by Anonymous
I visited Mr. Morisset in his office on February 13, 2015, for a free in-person consultation to discuss my case. After meeting with him and reflecting on his qualifications and proposed legal strategy, I decided to hire him to represent me. On February 18th, 2015, I mailed him the retainer and emailed him the signed agreement and my court appearance ticket so that he knew where and when to appear.
My court date was scheduled for March 16, 2015, and I on March 13, 2015, spoke to him and confirmed that he would be in court. On the morning of my court date, I arrived at 8:45AM (appearance time was 9AM) and sent him a text and phone call letting him know once again where to meet me. By 9:10AM, I received neither a phone call nor a text response so I after speaking with the court marshall proceeded into court and argued my own case. I called him after leaving court and received no answer so I left court to get to work.
That evening, I sent him an email that he was terminated and asked him to please return my retainer. His response to my request was that he had worked on my case (as shown above, he never arrived in court for the appearance time) and that he would only return $1,150 of my $1,500 retainer. I immediately filed a small claims case against him and his business. After several small court appearances (NYC courts are very backlogged), I received a settlement against him in February of 2016.
I called and texted Mr. Morisset over a 6-month period to request payment but received no response. I consulted the NYC Marshal and they informed me that they could easily take on my case and were perplexed as well about why an attorney wouldn't pay a judgment (illegal and unethical). After 6 months, I filed a levy with the NYC Marshal and they levied his bank account for the funds.
Mr. Morisset is an unreliable attorney for,
1) Failing to appear in court
2) Refusing to returning my retainer when he did no work
3) Refusing to pay me even after a judgment had been issued
If you'd like more backup, I'm happy to provide more documentation on my claim as I have emails, texts, and court documents proving his unethical actions.
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12 Jan, 2014 by Angela
I had the misfortune to meet Mr. Soss as my 18B lawyer. In 2005 or 2007 the event was so traumatic I can hardly remember the year. This was my first time being arrested and jailed. While in cell counselor Soss asks what happened, I proceed to tell, he is visibly upset because I say I am poor and washing out by hand my son's school uniform shirt. He interrupted, and never got to hear that I didn't call the fire dept., that I went down stairs to tell fire dept. they weren't needed, that while standing in my lobby I couldn't even get the fire dept, attention, that NYPD shows up on the scene, that I say what are you guys doing here, they say they must be here, I say o.k. and ride up in elevator with them, I hold apt door open for all to enter, fire dept. goes in, I'm still holding the door open for PD to enter (while standing inside my apt) , that they don't enter, that I eventually(this is a while) start to close the apt door to join FD in the kitchen, that before my hand can release the knob, PD kicks the apt door in my face causing me to fall back bump my head and fall unconscious to the floor, that when I regain consciousness I come up swinging but catch myself to make a graze sound on the jacket of the female police officer, that now when I learn I am being arrested for non compliance I fall to the floor with my hands under me so I wont be misunderstood as being threatening so I wont be beat to death (t.v.), that when the police supervisor arrives I tell him they kick the door in my face, his reply of "sure" adds insult to injury, that while the FD were in my kitchen they took a knife and heated it and burned grooves in the refrigerator and microwave ( I learned this later after returning home) which is why I got the feeling I should go to the kitchen, that the male police officer took a note taped to the back of the apartment door addressed to the burglers, saying "stop braking in and eating our food from the kitchen, we barely have enough food for ourselves" and put it on the wall next to the door and called ACS on me. And that the FD lied and said I was arguing with the police, which never happened. And finally counselor Soss had the nerve to ask my mother when picking me up from jail to drive him home which we did.
had he actually listened to my story he and I would have been compensated by a lawsuit against the NYPD. but he didn't so I was falsely arrested spent time in jail went to the bathroom in front of other people, my 11 yr old was ripped from his bed and taken to my mothers home. and I was told that nypd apologized by not showing up to the court date and going on vacation.
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20 Jan, 2024 by Cynthia
My original lawyer was relocating to Georgia and referred me to Jacqueline Chinquee to finish my custody/child support case in Brooklyn Family Court. The first time we met was at a court date where nothing happened. I paid her. She went on to handle other cases she had for the day. She had her assistant to later contact me to pay for her parking for the day. I did not respond to that and did not send additional funds. I got another lawyer. That was a bright red flag for me.
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17 Sep, 2021 by Anonymous
She will not return calls or text to let you know what is going on But always wants more money to do nothing Please don’t do business with her
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11 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous
The most untrustworthy lying and manipulative women I ever met and she will get back everything she has done
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18 Jan, 2023 by Anonymous
I recently had an extremely disappointing experience with Olufunlola Olayemi Oni From beginning to end, the level of incompetence displayed by her was astounding.
She was recommeneded by one of my friend , she seemed not to have an idea of what she was doing.
She lack knowledge and skills required to properly handle my situation, and I was left feeling frustrated and disregarded. Furthermore, her lack of communication and follow-through added to my dissatisfaction, I will never recomnmed this woman for anything.
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20 Jun, 2011 by Natasha
In February 2010 I hired Mr. Kent for an urgent work - 3 hours of his work plus $210 for filing an index for my new case in court. He said he worked "more than 3 hours, but will charge me only for 3 hours anyway". He said he'll mail me the results of his work.
He also said he did file my case in court that day. He emailed me the calculations: 3 hours at $175, plus $210 for court index, $735 total.
I gave him a check for $735 and started waiting.
The check was cashed, and the mail never came.
Almost a year after I email him asking about the status of our case. He said we "didn't have a case", that I only hired him "to write a complaint".
I forwarded him all the email and a picture of the cashed check. He said he did not "remember" cashing it, even though sent him my bank statement twice already.
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28 Mar, 2023 by Alexis
Waldeier has had a case since July 2022. She has failed to acknowledge a few things which makes me believe she is bias and won't be fair when a final order is made. This is the problem with some female Judges, Magistrates, and Referees, they assume the woman is always right. I am a woman AND a mother, mothers aren't always right or fair! Some bitter women/mothers use the child(ren) as a way to control the father. The case that Waldeier is presiding over, the mother took the child from its home state. She's failed to acknowledge that this is called parental kidnapping. Shouldn't she have asked if there was a custody agreement in place? If there is no custody agreement or proof of an unfit father, she could have temporarily ordered visitation rights. Instead, she constantly belittles the working father and doesn't ask the right questions to get to why the mother has taken the child from its father. When asked if they can visit their father, the mother freely and continuously tells the child, that they can't visit their father until after the case is done. THAT IS NOT TRUE and it isn't right!! Why wouldn't the mother want to work on co-parenting while this case is in limbo? It would show good faith on her part. Instead she'd rather use this to control when the child gets to speak to its father and deny visitation. Waldeier hasn't asked the mother why she told the child that he couldn't see his father until after the case. This is where Waldeier has dropped the ball! She has adjourned this case 3x with no explanation and she adjourns for 3-4mths at a time instead of the normal 4-6wks. Manhattan Family Court would NEVER do this! It's always about the best interest of the child, getting to the facts, and a fair solution. I've suggested to the Respondent that he switch Judges as thus far Waldeier has shown no effort in resolving this case quickly and her entire approach to his case has been lackluster. She has allowed the mother to do and say things when not spoken to, but penalizes the father if and when he responds to the mother's claims. She rarely asks the mother's attorney to control/silence their client, but she often yells at the father and his attorney. It almost seems like she takes dislike to men. Having someone like Waldeier handle a custody case is a recipe for disaster. There are AA and Hispanic children who grow up w/o their father because of Judges like Waldeier. Many fathers are capable of being the parents that Judges like her believe they aren't. Kids who are automatically given to the mother because that is what society believes is the right thing, grow up w/o fathers and miss out on a lot. I hope Waldeier rules fairly and takes into consideration the wrong that she is doing to kids when she adjourns these cases for months at a time, only to reconvene with the same situation, and leaving kids yearning for the other parent.
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28 Oct, 2016 by Anonymous
I hired Ms. Bonaldes to help me with my custodial case. She did nothing of value in my case, yet felt justified in taking my money. She resented that I confronted her about her fees when I asked for justification. Out of a $5,000 retainer fee, she returned to me only $1,700. The bulk of her fees came simply from reading emails. She made no progress in my case, yet requested more money to keep her services. I implore you, DO NOT hire this woman. Save your money.
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17 Nov, 2022 by Gloria
He messed up my Divorce decree when he left off my maiden name and I've tried to contact him several times and he refuses to answer my calls
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29 Sep, 2011 by Anonymous
I hired her for my divorce case...that was big mistake. She lost original documents that was very important for my case, didn't show up on my trial date...she is NOT RESPONSIBLE... Just call to Grievance committee and you will find out that where were a lot of complaints against her. There was several cases against her in Civil Court which she lost. By the way I met few her old clients and they all disappointed with her as a lawyer
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12 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
I highly do not recommend this crazy so called lawyer. She not only abused me my family but all of my witnesses. This so called lawyer Antonietta and the rest of the team ruined my divorce as a result I lost all of my assets and investments to defendant. Definitely terrible customer service and hysterical professionalism. I am also very unhappy with the losses I sustained to the crooked defendant and his crooked lawyer. If I ever (which I hope I don’t) need Monaco is the one I will call not. Thank you so much for cleaning my mom’s entire retirement account.
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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.
