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03 Jun, 2024 by Joel small
His Staff makes sure,they keep incontact
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05 Apr, 2024 by Mary alonso
Beyond horrible experience. Actually he made things worse for my family.
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20 Mar, 2024 by Fred spaulding
I like what R put in the reviews
No phone replies
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07 Aug, 2024 by Sonya
I went to Dragon and Dragon law office for my divorce. Robyn took care of my case, she was the best. She calmed me down and I thought things might be going south.
My ex-husband wasn't responding to any emails or calls from Robyn but showed up on the final court date. She make sure that we were separated from each other as we waited to be called.
With elegance and grace she struck a deal last minute between the both of us in separate rooms. She calmed me down during and after the proceedings. She wouldn't let me even ride on the same elevator and waited with me to go down the elevator. I wouldn't choose any other family law attorney.
Go there she will explain everything and answer all your questions.
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26 Aug, 2021 by Anonymous
READ THIS REVIEW.
MONEY GRAB
NEVER RECEIVED ANY PAPERWORK/COPIES
NEVER HAD MY CALLS RETURNED
THEY SPOKE SO FAST AND CUT ME OFF MID SENTENCE
SHODDY OFFICE
So, here's the story. I Went to this office in November 2020. In the height of Covid they seemed to have no problem putting their hands on cash. I gave Jeff $225 dollars for initial consultation. Afterwards he told me it would be another $1000 to take the case. By January I managed to pull together the money. After his sticky fingers counted that and put it away he brought out the documents for me to sign stating that I'd owe another $2000 once all was said and done. I told him I didnt have that kind of money and he said I can make installments and he was willing to work with me. Reluctantly, I signed it. A week or so later he calls and says there is a $400 court fee before they can move forward. That being all I had I paid it favoring the long run of my case financially.
Some time later I'm given paperwork to fill out pertaining to my expenses and am rudely reminded that I still owe them $2000. That being stated, I told him once again that I dont have that kind of money and after seeing my expenses it should have proven so. Keep in mind, after filling said paperwork out no one offered to make a copy or even make copies of my pay stubs, divorce decree etc...etc... thereby giving me back my ORIGINAL paperwork.
I had to visit my mother in March as she was dying so everything was put on hold. Upon returning I had begun to speak with Robyn (barely being able to finish a sentence let alone understand what she was saying since they all speak ridiculously fast). The first week or so of April was a bit of phone tag. Once finally getting a hold of Robyn she told me I had a bit more to sign and then they'll move forward. After more phone tag I finally just showed up at the office in the hope of simply signing what I needed to. I was met with "you can't just show up. I'll call you on Monday and we can plan accordingly."
Monday comes, more phone tag. I call continuously for two weeks. "She's in a meeting, I can take a message." Or, I would get her on the phone but she was conveniently in the middle of something and she'll call me back. Bear in mind that I'm doing all of this on my breaks at work. Two to three times a day.
In May I finally stopped kicking the horse and sent them this email in June:
(I am sending you this email in regards to $225 for R&R, $1000 in attorney fees and $400 in court costs which were handed to you in cash on 11/17/2020 1/12/2021 1/26/2021. I am requesting a refund of $1400 due to the fact that no progress has been made on this case. I have not received copies of any paperwork that I've signed and/or handed over. I have made numerous attempts at speaking with my lawyer, Robyn Dragon, only to be met with dismissal and no returned calls. I have put aside these funds specifically for this case in order to have my child support reduced. I feel as though this matter has been tossed to the side and every pay period I am hemorrhaging money. I can no longer afford to have my situation placed on the back burner due to negligence which seems to be brought about by a money grab (as stated by previous clients in reviews about this entity). Currently I am in dire need of these funds as I have fallen behind in my bills. I'd like to think that you would want to preserve whatever integrity your firm has left before I decide to send a copy of this email to the better business bureau and place it under any reviews that can be found online. I would appreciate my money returned in a more timely manner than your phone calls.
Please send cash or check to:
Thank you for your time, rather, your lack thereof.)
It is now August 2021 and I have not had any kind of response whatsoever. Nine months and $1625 of money I dont have is gone. Prior to this I had little to no experience with lawyers. Now though, I ge
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12 Mar, 2014 by Heidi
My husband and I needed an attorney after a tree fell on our house during a storm. We were going to go to the lawyer we used for a accident he had last year, but decided to use Jeff instead - a very good decision on our part after all.
Jeff took our call late in the evening and scheduled an appointment for us the next morning. (We thought we would have to wait days, if not weeks.)
When we arrived at his office, we were greeted and made to feel comfortable and welcome. (A very different feel from what our last attorney made us feel like!)
When Jeff saw us, we explained that the tree that feel on our sons bedroom was a point of contention for us with our next door neighbor for many years. And we knew that this may happen at some point.
Well, when the tree fell (Thankfully, our son was not in his room at the time.) the tree destroyed his room, our den, and the laundry room.
Our insurance company would not pay for the entirety of the repairs - saying that ti was the neighbor's responsibility - and we needed someone to help us in the legal process of fighting to get our house back in the shape it was before this uninvited guest arrived.
Between both insurance company's, the neighbor, and our son having to stay in a spare bedroom, we were at the end of our rope.
Jeff was able to get all the issues fixed for us - quite quickly, which surprised all of us, especially my husband. His office was able to get the insurance company's to step up and get the repairs done, and the house back to what it used to be - to our liking as well!
If I ever need an attorney again, I am going to make sure to go back to Jeff. I am astounded and amazed at how well everything was handled.
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29 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
she handled my divorce case and saved me in many ways. there was a lot of legal issues she resolved and I would have never known - she made me aware of a lot things. very educated attorney.
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24 Jul, 2015 by Mary
She doesn't play games and considers each case in details - not like most attorneys who are robots.
She researches each case individually and is thorough in her research.
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08 Sep, 2014 by Alex
Leaving a message is a joke. Her mail box is often full and when you do finally get through and leave a message she doesn't return the calls. The only time I had a chance to speak to her is the day of court providing she doesn't cancel. She did not follow through on how I suggested to peruse this case and proceeded to tell me the best way to go. Which seems to me, translated to the least amount of effort on her part. The reason I say this is simple, how could others involved in my case using different lawyers yet charged with the same exact charges, not to mention they had prior convictions be placed on probation? Matter of fact one of them with more charges came out better then myself. He received probation also. Being my first offense I would expect at least the same. I asked how this could happen. My conclusion, it is because Christina was court appointed to my case and she choose the easy road for her. Her suggestion on how to proceed succeeded in getting me time. Min of a year. I will be writing to NJ Office of Attorney Ethics about her incompetent behavior. Hopefully I can fire her and get my case appealed. I suggest anyone looking for a lawyer by pass this one.
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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.
