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18 Jun, 2024 by Raj raju
Nelson Torre is a lawyer who assisted me with a traffic ticket for running a STOP sign, which was connected to an accident. His fees were reasonable, and he was readily available to discuss my case. If he wasn't available, his associate would gather all the necessary details and provide assistance. Nelson responded to my emails promptly and kept his word throughout the process. Thanks to his efforts, my case was dismissed as he had promised. Here’s a bit more about my experience: When I first received the ticket, I was worried about the potential consequences, especially since an accident was involved. I reached out to Nelson, and he immediately put me at ease with his professional yet approachable demeanor. He carefully explained the steps we needed to take and reassured me that he would handle everything. True to his word, he stayed in constant communication, updating me on the progress and responding to any questions I had without delay. Even when he was busy, his associate was there to help, ensuring that no detail was overlooked. In the end, Nelson’s expertise and dedication resulted in the dismissal of my case, and I couldn’t be more grateful for his support.
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16 May, 2024 by Shawn miller
Excellent representation, kept his word start to finish and kept me updated on my case. I highly recommend Nelson his experience and expertise was key.
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29 Mar, 2024 by Brenyaliz mercado
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20 Jun, 2024 by Tyler jones
Ms vesper was assigned to my custody case it was the most unpleasant experience I could have imagined. Guessing her law degree came through education connection.
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09 May, 2024 by Jason
She is horrendously unable to respond in the timely manner. If you need a divorce and you want it done in the timely fashion this is the worst person you could possibly choose
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09 May, 2024 by Namita
I have contacted Jason DiPasquale about two different issues of family law over the past year. Jason actively listened to the issue and my questions, was extremely knowledgeable about the relevant points of law, and explained complex legal proceedings and procedures in crystal clear language and from an objective point of view explaining important aspects of the proceedings from both sides. After speaking with Jason, I felt very clear and informed about the process and what to expect. He answered my questions very thoroughly and allayed my concerns. I give him my highest recommendation.
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07 Aug, 2024 by Lovey goodwin
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18 Jan, 2024 by Adrienne zastrow (farm girl)
Received this legal firm information from my employers EAP program. Office staff was friendly and kind. Scheduled quickly for an appointment, office ended up closed presumably for snow, I was able to call and make another phone consultation for later in the same week. Mr. Friedman was knowledgeable and understanding of our situation. One area that we need assistance with he is not able to address himself however will have us set up with his colleague to discuss this matter. Thank you for your time and quick response.
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15 Dec, 2023 by Kim russell
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16 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
Well I paid for a divorce and was told 3 months max ..and 3 years later nothing ..he said it was filed in March of 2020 .never filed it ..won't return any calls email or nothing ..took my hard earned money and did absolutely nothing for me !!!!
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25 Apr, 2020 by Anonymous
Dean took my CPS case that was crooked and lied from the start. Despite the on going surprises in court and the lies of my social worker under oath in court, he even said my case is the type that keeps him up all night long cause of the corruption and illegal actions of those who I was told to trust. He not only got my son returned home to me but also had legal action against the "social worker" who did everything in her power to prevent my sons return. My son and I will forever be scared but what happened but at least we are together again forever. I will always have Dean to thank for everything he did for us. He not only did his job but went above and beyond to turn my nightmare into a light at the end of the darkness. Even as I cried and cried he listened with compassion at a time when I had no one else to turn to. I referred him to my father and Dean represented him in his divorce and I still refer Dean to anyone who needs someone who will fight for them and get justice in the end. I will always be thankful for everything Dean is as a person and especially as he is as an attorney!!!
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30 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
Mr Puleo has handled several cases for me, and each time I am more then happy. He handles traffic tickets swiftly and works out the best deals. For more serious criminal matters it seems like he always has a trick up his sleeve, he knows how to communicate with the courts very well and has always fought for me and voiced my side of the story, and he doesn't take no for an answer and has no problem battling in the court room for you. On a negative note, getting ahold of the guy is near impossible, but his secretary is very helpful. Dean also has never missed a court date, sometimes late, but always comes through. I'll never use another attorney.
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27 May, 2024 by Steven anthony colella
Cool atmosphere, decent person to sit down and have a conversation with. My experience. Keeps it real. Intelligent.
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23 Apr, 2024 by Dave critter
Great attorney for anything you might need. Marc is great people.
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18 Jan, 2024 by Sugath liyanage
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27 May, 2024 by Steven anthony colella
Cool atmosphere, decent person to sit down and have a conversation with. My experience. Keeps it real. Intelligent.
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23 Apr, 2024 by Dave critter
Great attorney for anything you might need. Marc is great people.
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18 Jan, 2024 by Sugath liyanage
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27 May, 2024 by Steven anthony colella
Cool atmosphere, decent person to sit down and have a conversation with. My experience. Keeps it real. Intelligent.
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23 Apr, 2024 by Dave critter
Great attorney for anything you might need. Marc is great people.
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18 Jan, 2024 by Sugath liyanage
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11 Jan, 2024 by Matt paul
Very professional and knowledgeable attorneys!
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04 Sep, 2022 by Jeremiah wilkes
Mr Kaddish is great lawyer, he very straight forward and understand the system!! Don’t Hesitate to give him a call!
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13 Apr, 2022 by Don root
Great attorneys
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11 Jan, 2024 by Matt paul
Very professional and knowledgeable attorneys!
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04 Sep, 2022 by Jeremiah wilkes
Mr Kaddish is great lawyer, he very straight forward and understand the system!! Don’t Hesitate to give him a call!
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13 Apr, 2022 by Don root
Great attorneys
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07 Aug, 2024 by Lovey goodwin
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18 Jan, 2024 by Adrienne zastrow (farm girl)
Received this legal firm information from my employers EAP program. Office staff was friendly and kind. Scheduled quickly for an appointment, office ended up closed presumably for snow, I was able to call and make another phone consultation for later in the same week. Mr. Friedman was knowledgeable and understanding of our situation. One area that we need assistance with he is not able to address himself however will have us set up with his colleague to discuss this matter. Thank you for your time and quick response.
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15 Dec, 2023 by Kim russell
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27 May, 2024 by Steven anthony colella
Cool atmosphere, decent person to sit down and have a conversation with. My experience. Keeps it real. Intelligent.
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23 Apr, 2024 by Dave critter
Great attorney for anything you might need. Marc is great people.
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18 Jan, 2024 by Sugath liyanage
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15 Mar, 2019 by Anonymous
Ms. Tucker was only in her position for a short time, when my family needed her. She was so professional and caring, even then. Now my granddaughter, who Ms. Tucker helped me gain custody of, is now in college, going into a field of family and children services, due to her positive experience with Ayoka Tucker.
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11 Nov, 2014 by Anonymous
My fat her is 100% disabled Veteran of the United States Air force. Tucker knew this upon taking his case. She tells him he can only call her once a week and then won't return him phone calls. She dose not allow him to walk into her office and won't call him back to make an appointment. On the one occasion I walked in to her office (because I could not get in touch with her to make an appointment) there was another family there who said she was very difficult to get in contact with it took them a month just for her to return the call. There are several other incidences where she has been VERY Unprofessional and insensitive. Looking at her review i would not be surprised if they were paid for.
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03 Oct, 2012 by Anonymous
Attorney Tucker is a great lawyer as well as a great person. She is very caring and knowledgeable. She did an excellent job with my court case several years ago in family court. I can not that her enough for her hard work!
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20 Jun, 2024 by Tyler jones
Ms vesper was assigned to my custody case it was the most unpleasant experience I could have imagined. Guessing her law degree came through education connection.
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09 May, 2024 by Jason
She is horrendously unable to respond in the timely manner. If you need a divorce and you want it done in the timely fashion this is the worst person you could possibly choose
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08 Jan, 2024 by S w
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20 Jun, 2024 by Tyler jones
Ms vesper was assigned to my custody case it was the most unpleasant experience I could have imagined. Guessing her law degree came through education connection.
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09 May, 2024 by Jason
She is horrendously unable to respond in the timely manner. If you need a divorce and you want it done in the timely fashion this is the worst person you could possibly choose
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08 Jan, 2024 by S w
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20 Jun, 2024 by Tyler jones
Ms vesper was assigned to my custody case it was the most unpleasant experience I could have imagined. Guessing her law degree came through education connection.
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09 May, 2024 by Jason
She is horrendously unable to respond in the timely manner. If you need a divorce and you want it done in the timely fashion this is the worst person you could possibly choose
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08 Jan, 2024 by S w
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20 Jun, 2024 by Tyler jones
Ms vesper was assigned to my custody case it was the most unpleasant experience I could have imagined. Guessing her law degree came through education connection.
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09 May, 2024 by Jason
She is horrendously unable to respond in the timely manner. If you need a divorce and you want it done in the timely fashion this is the worst person you could possibly choose
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08 Jan, 2024 by S w
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20 Jun, 2024 by Tyler jones
Ms vesper was assigned to my custody case it was the most unpleasant experience I could have imagined. Guessing her law degree came through education connection.
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09 May, 2024 by Jason
She is horrendously unable to respond in the timely manner. If you need a divorce and you want it done in the timely fashion this is the worst person you could possibly choose
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08 Jan, 2024 by S w
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31 May, 2024 by Rob
Mr Olena was recommended to me by a former family judge as who he would retain. Mr Olena represented me for several cases brought involving family court and won everything brought before the court. He is tenacious, knowledgeable, and completely honest about what to expect. His prowess was evident and he was respected by all parties we encountered. I owe my son’s health and well being to this man. He’s the attorney you need.
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02 May, 2024 by Scott wilcox
I have worked a very complex case with this firm (and Hogan-Willig before it) for over a decade. The case had it is ups and down but throughout it I was impressed by the professionalism and care that they showed me as a client. As the case draws to a close, I wanted to leave a review to say I would definitely recommend them and the staff to others and say thank you for sticking with me.
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18 Mar, 2024 by Ciji vandyke
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20 Jun, 2024 by Tyler jones
Ms vesper was assigned to my custody case it was the most unpleasant experience I could have imagined. Guessing her law degree came through education connection.
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09 May, 2024 by Jason
She is horrendously unable to respond in the timely manner. If you need a divorce and you want it done in the timely fashion this is the worst person you could possibly choose
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08 Jan, 2024 by S w
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20 Jun, 2024 by Tyler jones
Ms vesper was assigned to my custody case it was the most unpleasant experience I could have imagined. Guessing her law degree came through education connection.
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09 May, 2024 by Jason
She is horrendously unable to respond in the timely manner. If you need a divorce and you want it done in the timely fashion this is the worst person you could possibly choose
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08 Jan, 2024 by S w
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20 Jun, 2024 by Tyler jones
Ms vesper was assigned to my custody case it was the most unpleasant experience I could have imagined. Guessing her law degree came through education connection.
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09 May, 2024 by Jason
She is horrendously unable to respond in the timely manner. If you need a divorce and you want it done in the timely fashion this is the worst person you could possibly choose
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08 Jan, 2024 by S w
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05 Oct, 2020 by André
I personally recommend Kristin based on my experience as her client in an extremely unorthodox matrimonial dispute, which ultimately culminated with sole custody being awarded to me. She was very responsive to my inquiries and kept me well informed about reasonable expectations for outcomes.
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12 May, 2017 by Jacqueline
Kristin Arcuri is an exemplary attorney. She is trustworthy, intelligent, professional and compassionate. She works very hard to get the job done in real time without the drama. She will fight for your rights and see the case until the end. I am grateful for her representation. My suggestion is if you need legal help consult Kristin first. It will be the best decision you ever made!
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20 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
While Ms Arcuri was responsive and knowledgable, my divorce took two years, and I had to prompt her quite a few times to keep things moving along. I didn't feel like she really "fought" for me, I felt like she went through the motions, and I ended up basically giving up the farm just to get rid of my ex, because nothing was happening unless I made concessions. In the end, I got minimal child support, only had my kids half the time, and I basically feel like I could have fared better with just about any other lawyer. And it cost me a fortune. Highly disappointed. Would not recommend her to anyone.
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06 Mar, 2024 by Patty y-s
I'd rate higher if it was an option. Maureen is always professional, very knowledgeable, compassionate, timely, friendly, and successful!
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01 Sep, 2023 by John knope
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03 Nov, 2022 by Cassie brenner
Retireing soon ....don't waste your time
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17 Jun, 2024 by Michael nigrin
Excellent Attorney. Everything played out exactly how he described it would, in our first visit, 7 months earlier. Extremely knowledgeable and experienced. Highly recommend!
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30 Oct, 2023 by Jesslynn
Keith is a fabulous attorney. He knows what he’s doing, and how the court system works. He can’t give everyone exactly what they want all the time, as the end decision is the Judges (not his), but he will work hard to get the best results he can for you. He explains everything… so you understand what happens before, during and after every court appearance. He truly cares about his clients and I’m really grateful I found him. Joy is awesome too.
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22 Sep, 2023 by Holly
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25 Jul, 2021 by Prem chand
She helped me with my case for ticket on overspend. I would recommend her as used to respond promptly to my questions. Only thing is this that, bit expensive for me based on level of case. But she is professional and reliable.
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20 Jul, 2021 by Julia domiano
Amy handled a few issues for my family and was also very prompt, courteous and professional and was able to negotiate fair outcomes in all instances. I highly recommend her.
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28 May, 2021 by Marissa franklin
My experience with Amy was wonderful, she was the only public defender I’ve had out of the 3 I’ve had that has genuinely cared about me, showed empathy, compassion, and went out of her way on multiple occasions to ensure I was being treated with the highest dignity and respect through the courts. She was always incredibly responsive, supportive and encouraging for me. As a public defender, she can only do so much, I had to put in work and do my part to ensure my case could be completed & closed successfully, and even through the mistakes I would make in my time with her, she never gave up hope in me and always let me know she would help me through anything as-long as I kept trying.
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14 Sep, 2022 by Rachael
Tony was absolutely exceptional to work with throughout my divorce. From the moment I met him he immediately put my mind at ease. A divorce is never easy but he helped the process go smoothly and kept everything on track. He has extensive knowledge and was very informative. I would recommend him a million times over. Thank you again for everything you did for my children and I.
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25 Jul, 2021 by Prem chand
She helped me with my case for ticket on overspend. I would recommend her as used to respond promptly to my questions. Only thing is this that, bit expensive for me based on level of case. But she is professional and reliable.
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20 Jul, 2021 by Julia domiano
Amy handled a few issues for my family and was also very prompt, courteous and professional and was able to negotiate fair outcomes in all instances. I highly recommend her.
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27 Mar, 2022 by Anonymous
Jeff took our very sensitive family law case and assured us he could properly represent me, but it was clearly out of his scope . Jeff doesn't make clients a priority, never communicated and would get upset when I called him. He made a bad experience absolutely horrible, best yet in 2 months not one thing got resolved, besides a lunch with the opposing attorney. Thank god for Bob Vario, resolved our issue to a favorable outcome and at a reasonable and more than worthwhile price.
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31 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
Jeff seems to be a very worked up individual. I don't know if he has too many cases to deal with or just does not work well under pressure. Jeff seems to be knowledgeable enough in the field, but he did not work well with me as a client. He wouldn't respond when I needed him, but if he needed something he would call and scream over the phone that he needed me to do something that very minute. For these reasons I was assigned to another attorney, but after that attorney left the firm I was stuck again with Jeff. Jeff never told me that he left the firm as well months later and he was still treating me like his client. After his old firm notified me of this we ceased all communication with him for good. Would never want someone who is seeking real help to go through this and therefore he is getting a poor review.
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06 Nov, 2017 by Anonymous
I had some legal issues and was recommended to Jeffery. He handled everything on a timely matter and was very thorough. I would strongly recommend his services.
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11 Sep, 2014 by Stephanie
She handled my custody and support case. Initially, I was a little uncomfortable with her but that soon passed. She is tough as nails, knows her stuff (practicing for more than 30 years in Family Law) and will tell you like it is. She got me a fair and reasonable parenting agreement as well as the child support I was due and owing per New York State -- something which I had not even considered.
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15 Mar, 2014 by Paul
I retained Ms. Baritot to handle my divorce. Many of my questions either went unanswered or were answered in such a way as to be confusing. Had this been my second or third divorce, I most likely would have had more of a grasp of the situation and I usually got the impression that she had more important clients and could not spend time explaining matters to me. Divorce is a demoralizing, stressful, life changing event. Patience and an empathetic nature are important and necessary virtues that divorce attorneys need to possess. Perhaps Divorce Law is not or should not be Ms. Baritot's area of expertise.
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10 Feb, 2014 by Anonymous
I appreciate that she is straight forward and does not sugar coat things. After meeting with her, you have a very clear picture of how things will proceed. She will professionally and competently take care of whatever your needs may be. She would be my first contact if I had need of representation. I have referred her numerous times and not one individual has been dissatisfied with her work!
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11 Mar, 2011 by Anonymous
Joan was able to blow the other lawyer out of the water. His name was Peter V. and she was able to get him to agree to some terms that I thought was going to be impossible. If your lawyer has the Initials P.V. be cautious, he botched a bunch of things up for my X. Or, Joan just toyed with him until he rolled over and gave in. I did spend over $20,000 but in the end, money well spent! She knows her stuff!
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12 Oct, 2010 by Anonymous
Joan is a great atty. However, your relationship with her will be effected by your ability to take her professional advice or not and try not to get too emotional. She will not promise things she can not get for you. Joan is not the kind of atty that stirs up emotion in her clients just to get letters going back and forth to rack up fees. Joan is very well known respected in her field!! I have referred others to her and they are quite happy -especially after the bad atty they had in past.
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05 Nov, 2009 by Jack
Joan was not willing to listen to her client and was mostly money motivated rather than good results for her clients benefit.
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02 Apr, 2014 by Michael-cheektowaga, ny
I have had the need to work with Harvey Siegel numerous times over several years and he has immensely helped myself, my friends and my family. Harvey has always been up-front, honest, sincere, compassionate and genuinely concerned for my interests. I have used Harvey for my Divorce, Child Custody matters, and several other issues. I highly recommend this attorney if you are looking for excellent, down-to-earth legal representation by an experienced attorney who will respect your legal expenditures while fiercely and passionately addressing your concerns.
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02 Apr, 2014 by Michelle-lancaster, ny
I was referred by a friend to see Harvey Siegel following a DWI charge. I was going through a hard time in life and made a bad decision to drive after having some cocktails with friends. I found this attorney very knowledgeable, honest and responsive to my needs. He walked me through this disaster I created, represented me fairly and worked with the courts passionately to come to a resolution that I could live with. I would have made out much worse had I not had his help!
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22 Mar, 2013 by Anonymous
Harvey became very unresponsive in the first few months of my case. he didn't do a lot of the work which was left for me to do and in the end I received an extraordinary bill. For months at a time I would not know what was going on with my case and when I'd ask for an update, I would not get a response as well. In the end, all of the things that I originally wanted changed in my custody agreement had not been addressed or resolved. Very overpriced for the quality of service he offers.
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FAQs
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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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