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17 Sep, 2024 by Roberto
I arrived to my father’s wake in Florida where I was going to reunite with my sister and go over his estate. My sister denied me any access to my father’s personal belongings, assets or his estate. So I knew I needed to hire a lawyer and contacted Martin Law Firm since they are in the same area my father lived in. Ms. Eviana Martin took my case which became a complicated litigation case. I live in N.Y.C. and needed someone that can represent me. Ms. Eviana has integrity , compassion & confidence. She is quickly to identify relevant details from legal documents. Ms. Eviana was quick with response's via emails, phone calls , etc . Most importantly she was very knowledgeable about the law and very professional. I’m very thankful to Ms. Eviana Martin for the outcome of my case. I extremely recommend Ms. Eviana Martin for any of your litigation cases.
N.Y.C.
Roberto F.
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23 Jul, 2024 by Daniel
I chose Martin Law Firm for my probate proceedings and was represented by Ms. Eviana Martin. Ms. Martin works very professionally and competently and represented me well in all matters. the Martin law firm is highly recommended.
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13 Jun, 2023 by Araceli
Mrs. Martin was very helpful. She answered all my text calls and emails immediately. Very profesional. I'll definitely recommend her services.
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15 Aug, 2023 by Estela
Mr. Mitchell gave me a free consultation about my final divorce judgment lien that I found very helpful. He took a great amount of time on resolving a complex issue on the judgment. I heard he represents his clients zealously which I found it is true from my personal experience on legal issue.
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10 Mar, 2023 by Shaw
Attorney Mitchell was very helpful with our bankruptcy case. Very professional and personable. He has been a great communicator and knowledgeable in every aspect. I highly recommend him and will hire him again for future services if I need him.
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02 Aug, 2021 by Tom
When you have to fight for a child a great attorney is all you need. I was so fortunate to find Raymond Mitchell. I had brought him a case that I thought would be impossible and he struggled and made it into strength. If your looking for a good attorney I hope you find one, but if you want an honest, reliable, know it all, exceptional attorney I would recommend attorney Mitchell. He is by far the best when your back is against the wall!
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08 Mar, 2020 by Anonymous
My only regret is that I did not meet Chris and his team sooner. After my divorce was finalized, I began working with Chris to modify the judgement (unfortunately he was not my original divorce lawyer). He was very forthright and knowledgeable and provided excellent advice throughout the proceedings. He also took an aggressive stance when my ex tried to sue for her attorney’s fees. He won the case despite the fact that the judge clearly favored my ex. He won it by diligently researching case law and aggressively presenting our case, all the while being professional. I frankly can’t recommend him enough. I sincerely hope I’m never in need of an attorney again but if I am, Chris will be my first call. Again, I can not recommend him and his team enough!
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30 Aug, 2018 by Megan
Chris is hard working, extremely professional, timely, and efficient! He was able to get me every single thing I was requesting in my child custody case. He was quick to respond to my emails and thoroughly answered each and every one of my numerous questions. If you are ever faced with child custody issues and are in need of a lawyer, Chris is the one that you want by your side. He will try his best to get you what you want which is exactly what he did for me (I was granted EVERYTHING that we requested). If he asks you to do something that it going to help your case, make sure you do it. He knows what he is talking about.
I hired Chris for my child custody case. I am extremely pleased with the outcome of my case. I will be recommending Chris to all of my family, friends, and coworkers should they ever need his law services. Call him today! I promise you won't be disappointed. Esther and Chris make a fantastic team.
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15 Jun, 2018 by Stephony
Changing attorneys and hiring Chris was the BEST decision I made! My ex-husband spent 5 times what I did on his attorney. But Chris and I won every point in our case.
He is an expert at the research necessary to make the necessary points to win. He read the judge during our trial, changed course, and was spot on with his interpretation of what was needed.
Esther was amazing at taking care of the details and being a liason between Chris and I. I never had to wait on them. My time was respected, too.
Don't let his youth fool you. He knows what he is doing. He explained the options and consequences to me thoroughly and ultimately gave me the best advice during a difficult time. I'm so glad I trusted him.
If you decide to trust him also do whatever he tells you to do. He knows how to present your case and WIN!
***He is THE BEST at what he does!***
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20 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
I was referred to the Martin law firm by a client of mine. I met with Dustin and after the initial meeting decided I was going to hire him because after talking to him he seemed to be very on point and very competent and confident in what he does. My divorce went and smooth and is favorable to me as one would think is possible and Dustin facilitated this he told me every step of the way give me advice of personal and professional that was all very relevant and good. I highly recommend him!
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03 Nov, 2017 by James q.
I can't believe it's almost been 9 months since my divorce. I was in a surprising and stressful situation. Dustin met with me right away. He was very understanding and patient with me. He thoroughly understood my situation. He explained to me that what I was being asked to do by my spouse was not possible according to the law. I was totally satisfied with his knowledge and professionalism. I would highly recommend Dustin to anyone needing a lawyer in Family Practice.
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27 Apr, 2016 by Anonymous
I hired Dustin for my recent divorce. He listened carefully to my questions and concerns, and gave me direction and good counsel on every point. Dustin truly cared about my situation, which lessened the anxiety that I had about my personal circumstances during the divorce. He communicated with me very well along the way, and made sure I understood each step in the process. The divorce is now finalized and I am very pleased with Dustin's work to make that happen. I am grateful to him for his help and genuine concern, and would recommend him to my friends and family. I appreciate the office staff as well, particularly Lauren, who was always gracious and helpful on the phone.
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13 Dec, 2021 by Elizabeth
The Martin Law Firm was an invaluable asset to me in expertly and expeditiously serving my trust and estate needs. Attorney Steven Martin and his staff are hard-working, dedicated and importantly they have the ability to see the big picture in often complex, emotionally-charged matters. His perspective and counsel has made me more confident and informed related to protecting my family and future.
Behind Atty. Martin, is his firm: the Martin Law Firm; the firm offers a feeling of comfort and home in which there are no barriers of access - it is clear that all staff members in the office are treated with respect and importance. Despite the firm’s relatively small size, I always feel like there was more than one professional who had my back; I believe the entire firm is my support system. The firm’s expertise overall is wide in scope, though the practice maintains its focus and instead of deviating from their core expertise - the staff and leadership at The Martin Law Firm will ensure that a professional with specific expertise is brought in to add an extra layer of confidence through his or her niche experience.
The Martin Law firm helped me achieve the goals I needed for my family and me. I put my full faith, trust and highest recommendation to those considering their options for legal matters or counsel.
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25 Jan, 2018 by Dina
Highly recommended!! My very first call to them was answered by Mr. Steve Martin. He was so calming, knowledgeable, and nice. I received an appointment that day and was helped by legal assistant, Miss Claudia, who was just as warm and professional. My nerves were put at ease, my case was expedited and I felt like part of their family. I honestly can’t say enough of wonderful things about Martin Law Firm, and how truly grateful I am to have had them on my side.
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09 Jun, 2016 by Miguel
I was in a car accident earlier this year and it was a difficult time for me and my family. Steven was there to help me every step of the way. He was very professional and always updated me throughout the case. In addition, his staff was always very professional and friendly. I would highly recommend Steven Martin!
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21 Dec, 2018 by Joe machin
My wife needed advise on settling her mother's state. Mr Piles was very professional and very clear on his recommendations. While, at the same time was very kind explaining things. Taking into consideration he was dealing with an elderly person. To conclude, excellent attorney with great human qualities. Will very highly recommend.
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05 Feb, 2017 by Dan
My In-laws needed to sell their FL condo. Initially we thought it would be a private sell but the buyers fell through.
Juan is also in Real Estate and we hired him. Throughout the listing Juan kept me in the loop since my father-in-law is up in years and mother-in-law was terminal. At least every 3 weeks he would call or e-mail me just so we knew what the status of the listing was.
We didn't have a great amount of time to clean out the condo and he was kind enough to put the final touches and was there every step of the way from offer to closing.
Even when the inspection found issues, Juan found contractors that were far less expensive than what the buyer's realtor wanted to hire.
There is so much more but you get the idea. Dad plan on giving Juan's contact information to all his friends in Florida when they ask for a realtor or lawyer.
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19 Feb, 2015 by Jerald
Listen to this this attorney had got all my charges dropped he has went out of his way to get me out of jail he is very understanding he is the beat attorneyI'm Florida you hire him he will get the job done he has done a lot of work for my parents and done remarkable things for them also with real estate he is the best you will find nobody better and that's a promise
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26 Sep, 2013 by Elizabeth haarbauer
Mr Steinberg and his assistant are amazing people. They really truly care about you and give it there all. Mr Steinberg helped me get my life back after a landlord tenant dispute.
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17 Oct, 2016 by Whitney
Mark Drasites did a wonderful job representing me throughout my divorce and mediation proceedings. He was always well prepared for every meeting and he did a great job in helping me understand the many questions that I had about the process. I felt much more confident having Mark represent me and I would recommend him to anyone looking for a lawyer who won't miss a thing regarding your case, who is available when you need them, who will give you knowledgeable advice, and who can help you feel reassured that you will get the best outcome possible.
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18 Sep, 2024 by Irma
11 Jun, 2024 by David baker
Great staff. Friendly, professional and very knowledgeable.
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10 Jun, 2024 by Joey rae kenjorski
When we lost my sister and Benjamin's mother Ben and Rose held our hands throughout the process. They were there for us even while we were all the way in NJ. They kept us up to date and found me counsel to aquire guardianship for my nephew. They were always a phone call or an email away. They were very understanding and listened to our concerns. We are so thankful that had them on our side.
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5.0
20 Reviews
4.6
221 Reviews
06 Sep, 2024 by Cj floyd
Taylor and Julie are the best! They have had my case for over 3 years! Long story short…I have my kids 100% full sole custody. So glad I picked mens rights.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Joshua campbell
I hired this firm for a child custody case. I paid them roughly 16k over the span of the case that lasted a year and a half. Only to get a one hour hearing and a two hour hearing in which my lawyer Peter seemed very unprepared. It was embarrassing.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Wes allen
06 Sep, 2024 by Cj floyd
Taylor and Julie are the best! They have had my case for over 3 years! Long story short…I have my kids 100% full sole custody. So glad I picked mens rights.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Joshua campbell
I hired this firm for a child custody case. I paid them roughly 16k over the span of the case that lasted a year and a half. Only to get a one hour hearing and a two hour hearing in which my lawyer Peter seemed very unprepared. It was embarrassing.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Wes allen
06 Sep, 2024 by Cj floyd
Taylor and Julie are the best! They have had my case for over 3 years! Long story short…I have my kids 100% full sole custody. So glad I picked mens rights.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Joshua campbell
I hired this firm for a child custody case. I paid them roughly 16k over the span of the case that lasted a year and a half. Only to get a one hour hearing and a two hour hearing in which my lawyer Peter seemed very unprepared. It was embarrassing.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Wes allen
18 Sep, 2024 by Chris collazo
All around best lawyer ever working with Megan has been amazing , she is giving 100% of her effort in helping me through this situation I’m in because of the accident
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12 Sep, 2024 by Bill turner
I had the pleasure of working with Dustin Butler and Kelly Arroyo with my legal case. They were consistently efficient, accurate, communicated with me extremely well, and were truly the consummate professionals I had hoped for. I highly recommend retaining Dustin and Kelly as your legal partners on any legal issue you may have.
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10 Sep, 2024 by John allen
Steve Martin & Martin Law staff are AMAZING!
DO NOT make the mistake and hire another firm for representation in your time of legal needs.
I am in bussiness here in Lee County and know the importance of Google reviews and alot of attorney reviews are fake.
Take my word,
"THIS FIRM IS THE REAL DEAL"!!!
And GREAT people too..
Thanks Steve & Martin Law,
You are awesome!!!!
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18 Sep, 2024 by Chris collazo
All around best lawyer ever working with Megan has been amazing , she is giving 100% of her effort in helping me through this situation I’m in because of the accident
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12 Sep, 2024 by Bill turner
I had the pleasure of working with Dustin Butler and Kelly Arroyo with my legal case. They were consistently efficient, accurate, communicated with me extremely well, and were truly the consummate professionals I had hoped for. I highly recommend retaining Dustin and Kelly as your legal partners on any legal issue you may have.
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10 Sep, 2024 by John allen
Steve Martin & Martin Law staff are AMAZING!
DO NOT make the mistake and hire another firm for representation in your time of legal needs.
I am in bussiness here in Lee County and know the importance of Google reviews and alot of attorney reviews are fake.
Take my word,
"THIS FIRM IS THE REAL DEAL"!!!
And GREAT people too..
Thanks Steve & Martin Law,
You are awesome!!!!
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01 Aug, 2024 by Shanteria davis
I definitely would recommend Ms. Susan. She has helped me tremendously on my complex case for child custody/relocation for 2 years. She is a very awesome, sweet and humorous lady but means business at the end of the day . She takes the time to listen to you and addresses all your concerns. I couldn’t thank her enough, without her my outcome wouldn’t have been so great!
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30 Apr, 2024 by Jeremy york
10 Mar, 2024 by Anne lazzaro
They say there are angels among us and I have found one in Ms. Ray. Her expertise in family law was impressive during our first meeting to file for divorce. Her advice in dealing with my individual situation was insightful and thorough. She guided me towards a resolution I was not considering at the time. Ms. Ray is not only an experienced and knowledgable attorney, she is compassionate and caring. You feel at ease the minute that you meet her. She will guide her clients to the best possible results for the best possible outcome. I have consulted with another family law attorney prior to my meeting with Ms. Ray who did not give me the detailed information that she provided. I highly recommend Ms. Ray; you will not regret the decision to retain her.
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29 Jul, 2024 by Crystal marie
I don’t know how I would’ve gotten through this legal nightmare without Charles. I always felt like he had my best interest in mind and genuinely addressed all my concerns while educating me on the legal process. Ultimately, I won and it couldn’t have been possible without Charles and his wonderful team.
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23 Jul, 2024 by Eric perez
My experience with Jones, Haber & Rollings law firm exceeded expectations. Since my initial visit to the Cape Coral office to the resolution of my disputes with a Construction company, the entire team was highly responsive, courteous, and easy to work with. They provided clear, concise legal advise that was easy to understand.
This firm has a dedicated department for each service offering. This full service community of attorneys are specialized in multiple legal services. Estate Planning, Construction Law, Asset Protection, and Contract Drafting were services I inquired about. I was able to get help at reasonable and honest prices. Unlike other firms, this legal firm aims to build a positive long term reputation through integrity.
I highly recommend Jones Haber & Rollings to any individual or business needing legal assistance and will definitely use their services again. This firm goes above and beyond for their clients.
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06 Jun, 2024 by Bizzy smiley
Charles is a positive example of a person who is the most effective in getting the job done and get it right. He is a fair person and can be straight forward. He also explained your option for success and isn’t solely money driven.
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24 Aug, 2020 by Christina
You know you are in the good hands when every one of your emails, calls, questions are returned and answered in a very detailed, professional manner. The consultation with Mr. Toll was very helpful, he was professional and explained everything very clear.
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17 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
Matt and his team were on every aspect of my case and always willing to hear my take on things and incorporate in a manor consistent to their filling. His team's communications with me were both fast and accurate with a level of "Lawyering" that impressed me given i have an above average understanding given my advanced degrees. The two negative reviews in no way reflect my experience and in fact, are polar opposite and i question if they were even clients.
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14 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
because when the same thing started happening in our cases we would have ran!!! This is a very accurate review of the experience you will receive if he and his "team" represent you: "This place takes your money and does nothing! They take your case and your money and then just sit on it for months and do nothing! If you call weekly for an update they just get mad and give you some BS excuse as to why things didn't get done. Horrible service, they never call you back and the staff is just absolutely rude! I have never dealt with such unprofessional people! Find another firm if you want your case resolved..." Not an aggressive litigator. He is a settler without concern for his own clients. He will not represent YOU!
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12 Jun, 2018 by Christin
Ms. Marquez-Kelly was an amazing advocate for our families needs at a time when we really needed assistance. Her professionalism and style was very reassuring at the precise time. She was very easy to discuss our case with and we really appreciated the free consultation we had prior to hiring her. I felt at ease and was confident after meeting with her that she was the right attorney for my case. As it turns out, she was definitely the right attorney for us.
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01 Nov, 2016 by Anonymous
She promised me the world and delivered nothing. Charges for everything! A simple 2 minute call to forwarding an email to you will run you a minimum of $50. Retainer gone within a couple weeks and nothing accomplished.
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18 Jan, 2021 by Kirkstein
Devin Mace was happy to take my $3,600 retainer, but then did nothing in regard to my case........he didn’t/doesn’t answer phone calls, he didn’t/doesn’t answer emails, he always has a family matter or is on vacation!!! I finally reported Mace to the Florida Bar, and explained to the Bar association that Mace not only did nothing for me/my case but that he should have his law license revoked in the state of Florida. Mace then asked the Bar association for some time to reply, and poof Mace magically had all this documentation of his hours/work, interesting seeing as how Mace never once documented anything he was doing for me. He never gave me an itemized accounting of his work, but of course he all the sudden had plenty of proof of work after he was contacted by the Florida Bar Association. Case in point, initially when I unfortunately made the tragic decision to hire mace, I gave him a box of old court reporting files etc.......and I told Mace that it is probably useless but if he wanted to hang onto it that was fine, jumping forward to my next attorney I hired after firing Devin Mace, my new attorney told me that the old court reporting documents etc were basically pointless with respect to going forward with my case. But mace of course, again after asking The Florida Bar association for an extension of time in order to defend himself, sent documentation to the Bar association stating that he spent hours and hours reviewing said pointless court reporting documents which cost me $1,200 according to a Mace!!!
Long story short, mace then had the audacity to tell the Florida Bar that my total bill came to $3,900.......but that he wasn’t going to worry about the $300 balance due to him. Really, that’s amazing Mr. Mace, cause any lawyer I’ve ever known does not just forget about money due to them.......not to mention the fact that Mr. Mace not once sent me a bill and/or explaining to me that I went over the initial retainer. How convenient though, that once mace had to explain his side to the Bar that then and only then did he have documentation showing that I owed more than the original retainer!!! Come on, Mace.......really!!! Again, whatever you do........don’t hire and/or work with Devin Mace. And please spread the word to anyone else who may not have seen this Avvo review that they should avoid “Mace family law” at all cost!!!
~Kirk Stein~
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03 Apr, 2018 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. Mace and placed all my trust in him. Over time, specifically once my balance was paid in full, I could NEVER get in contact with him. He does not return calls nor respond to emails. Very unprofessional. He spoke to me like I was on trial, and did not consider my concerns. He never even allowed me to explain in full what my legal end state was. He waited a month to reply to a series of repeated emails from me requesting an update on my status, only to reply that he would have to get back to me when it was more convenient for him. He will not hesitate to take your money or take you on as a client, but do not expect that a dime of your money will be well spent. You would be better off consulting the Internet for legal advice.
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07 Dec, 2015 by Billy
Devin mase is a great lawyer. He is knowledgeable and professional. He did a excellent job on my case. He also gave really good advice. I highly recommend Mr. Mase.
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01 Sep, 2017 by Dan
Not a good lawyer. I had him for a probate/estate lawyer Not interested in devoting time into your issues. More interested in getting cases turned over to move onto to the next case. Won't fight for you, even if he know the other attorney is being dishonest. I find a common issue with bad lawyers are when you have to tell them the same thing numerous times. This was definitely the case with Mr. Eskin. I sent him numerous emails both in a folder and a via email and he never took the time to read them. Because he would acted surprised when the issue would arise again after the other attorney prepared his papers. Extremely frustrating.
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15 Jul, 2014 by Anonymous
Harold S Eskin is a poor lawyer who shouldn't be practicing law because he is INCOMPETENT. He thinks he knows what he is talking about but apparently does not. I hired him for two cases and BOTH times he failed me so, I fired his ass. Why? My first case was regarding a family member suing me regarding inheritance. Eskin told me that the case would be difficult because he is not friends with this particular judge. Seriously? You need to be friends with the judge? They teach that in law school? Whatever happened to law being impartial and "blind" to bias? Did I miss something? The second case I hired him for was for a tenant dispute which again, he failed me. Instead of fighting the plaintiff in court, he decides to issue motion to dismiss over and over until finally, the judge sided with the plaintiff and I LOST thanks to Eskin trying to win a case on default instead of fighting. There is a reason why he charges less than other regional lawyers----he SUCKS at what he does. He is first and foremost, a lawyer who specializes in adoption and surrogacy. Go help those who do not need substantial help, Harold. The profession needs you in that regard because as they always say, someone had to graduate last, right 'Hal'?
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14 Apr, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr. Pavese clearly stated what my charges would be for his services but once I received a settlement on my own, outside of court, he billed me almost double what the previous quote had been. Be sure to get your quote in writing so you are not overcharged after services are rendered.
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11 Mar, 2016 by Charlene romanski
Never told me how much I should ask for n my buy out of my divorce!
Told me I could still get the house from my husband after he bought me out!
Then billed me $5000.00 after getting $5000.00 to handle a simple divorce!
Total rip off!
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03 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
Jenna is Family Law Attorney in Orlando Fl. We hired her firm with out the knowledge of the law firm. She is a family law attorney yet she has no interest in the family unit or the children involved. The firm she works for allows no access and she is given to many clients. I see no hope in her future as a family law attorney.
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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.
