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14 Aug, 2024 by Allison
I just wrapped up a divorce with her as my lawyer. She always answered my questions in a timely manner and handled all of the paperwork and filings. She gave good advice with a helpful amount of details and background to explain her position, and was understanding and flexible when I wanted to handle things differently. I had a positive experience using her services and recommend her.
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15 Jan, 2024 by Mark
Laura is very professional and patient in explaining what I could expect as I entered getting a divorce. She was very responsive in answering my questions and returning calls/emails. Her calm mannerisms kept the focus on the matter at hand and limited the emotional aspect of the process. I would highly recommend her to navigate through the difficult waters of getting a divorce.
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10 Nov, 2023 by Jason
My biggest mistake with my divorce was in using a mediator at first and not engaging Laura completely and fully from the beginning. When custody and other issues came up, Laura was able to help me achieve pretty much every goal I set out to accomplish. My case and custody faced some non-standard issues and Laura did extra research to help me understand how this would affect my case and what was actionable and what was not. She provided me detailed analysis and sound legal advice. Her communication is timely, accurate, complete, and comprehensive. I could not be happier with the service I have received.
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16 Mar, 2016 by Nancy
She was amazingly helpful and empathetic and compassionate to my situation. I had an attorney prior to her who didn't do a darn thing for me for well over a year, but Jean got right on my case and kept it moving along. Her staff is so very helpful as well. I highly recommend Jean.
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09 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
Very informative and dependable. Highly recommended
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12 Feb, 2016 by Trevor
Jean represented me during my divorce proceedings for a little over a year until an agreement was made. We were able to come to an agreement and settle out of court and mostly stay out of the court house. I felt represented very well and have the utmost confidence in Jean's legal prowess. Jean and her law office were always very easy to contact, I had no trouble getting ahold of someone if I had questions or updates for them. Jean and all her staff were very friendly and welcoming. I had as great an experience as one could have while going through the divorce process. Jean is an excellent lawyer and I would recommend her to anyone needing representation during divorce or custody battles.
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16 Apr, 2024 by Matt
I recently had the privilege of working with Kate Flaco for my divorce proceedings, and I couldn't be more impressed with the outstanding service and consistent success achieved. From our initial consultation, Kate exhibited a high level of professionalism, empathy, and expertise. She took the time to thoroughly understand my situation, listened attentively to my concerns, and provided clear guidance on the legal process ahead. Throughout the entire journey, she maintained excellent communication, keeping me informed and involved every step of the way. Kate's ability to leverage her connections positively influenced the trajectory of my case. Her strategic approach, combined with her connections, allowed for efficient resolution of issues and negotiations, ultimately leading to a favorable settlement that exceeded my expectations. Every time we faced a challenge, Kate was able to accomplish our objectives with skill and efficiency. I wholeheartedly recommend her services to anyone seeking exceptional legal representation during challenging times. Thank you, Kate, for your unwavering support and outstanding advocacy.
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14 Apr, 2024 by Jennifer
Kate was amazing with my difficult divorce. I was anxious and the situation was tough. Not only did she ease my mind and calm my fears, she did exactly what she said she would do. She defended me beyond expectations. I have since referred her and she has done a great job with friends and family. Truly one of the best out there!!
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20 Feb, 2019 by Anonymous
We retained Katrin to obtain Grandparent's visitation rights to our grandchildren. Katrin first outlined a course of action to avoid going to court if possible. When that failed, she advised us as to the best way to be successful, with realistic expectations. The was empathetic to our situation and kept us appraised of the progress or lack thereof. She also was good at working with the opposing attorney, reaching a good compromise with the parent we were having difficulty with. While always professional, she also was very understanding and helpful in her dealings with my wife and me. She also sent us regular statements so we knew exactly where we stood financially.
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20 Aug, 2013 by Anonymous
Joe became my business attorney 8 years ago, when I incorporated. Since then I have recommended him to other professionals starting their own businesses and they too, hired him. Now Joe handles even my personal legal matters such as advising me on family issues and most recently on insurance matters. I feel confident Joe will respond timely to my calls or emails, therefore this attorney, client relationship will continue.
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13 Aug, 2013 by Renee
I met Joe in November 2011. Since that time we have worked together on a couple of different situations. He is always honest, returns my calls immediately and very knowledgable in several areas of law. It is difficult to find a good attorney and when my former one changed careers and gave me Joe's name I was apprehensive at first knowing I could never replace him. I have been very fortunate in finding someone with the same values and compassion. I would recommend Joe to anyone looking for an attorney who listens, understands and who will get the job done.
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13 Aug, 2013 by Michael
On a business level and personal level, Mr. Berger has always been top notch. I have had Joe represent and advise me for the last 5 years.
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17 Jun, 2021 by Sherrill
I hired Denise to handle my divorce while I was also going through a serious illness. Denise while very empathetic, helped keep me grounded and did an incredible job. She knew what I wanted, and had absolutely no issue fighting for me. She had my back every step of the way. She and I will be working on my Will's and Power of Attorney, etc., next. I highly recommend her.
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24 Oct, 2017 by Gina
I’ve worked with Denise the last 3 1/2 years on a very tiring, never ending case. She has been there every step of the way. I commend her for her hard work and persistence when we all thought it would never end. If you want someone on your side who is upfront, honest, knowledgeable, and will see your issue thru to the very end...this is the woman you need on your side to get the job done!!!
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21 May, 2015 by Anonymous
If you ever need someone honest and completely there to serve in the most professional way, trust in Attorney Resta-Tobin. I almost gave up on trying to find a lawyer to represent me and thanks by someone's reference I got to meet with my new attorney. I would not change her for anything!
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21 Feb, 2024 by Elizabeth cannistraci
I thank God for Jean and her staff for helping me through a long legal battle with ex-spouse.
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09 Nov, 2023 by Carmella oliver
Very good firm, my lawyer Anthony I recommend highly.
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12 Sep, 2023 by Vickie ronda
Jen Morton was the best! I highly recommend her if you are looking for an attorney who takes the time to explain and actually counsels her clients. In my opinion she makes a great attorney because she actually cares! As a trial attorney she is a shark and definitely a force to be reckoned with! I so appreciate everything she and her team did for me. Special shout-out to Alexis and Lindsay for all their help and professionalism.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Juan carlos lovill
Last year I bought a piece of land in upstate NY, she managed the title search and other things making the process very smooth and easy to understand. Big thank YOU!
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15 Apr, 2024 by Robert willbrant
I lost custody, Alex pushed me towards settling when I could of won my case. It was one of the worst experiences of my life
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23 Oct, 2023 by Jim bennett
I have personally seen Denise Resta-Tobin actively take on a very difficult case that resulted in personal insults, and harassment that a person should not have to endure. She handled each and every attack in a professional manner, and never let it affect her responsibilities of providing a effective representation for her clients. I highly recommend her for the difficult cases.
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17 Jul, 2024 by Daniel
Mrs. Morton was extremely knowledgeable, respectful, and fought to win in my case. Mrs. Morton gives no-nonsense honest legal advice. Mrs. Morton is well respected in the legal community by her peers which was evident as my case progressed. Mrs. Morton's advice should be followed to the "T." Mrs. Morton has extensive niche expertise with First Responder, Professional Firefighter, and Law Enforcement cases. She understands the unique challenges those clients face in the Divorce/Family Court legal arenas and is more than well prepared to advocate for her clients interests. I could not imagine going through what I did with any other attorney. There are not enough stars to positively rate Mrs. Morton. I have a wonderful relationship with my child that would be much different without Mrs. Morton's expertise and counsel. Selecting the right attorney is the first and usually most important decision you will make. I have no regrets having retained Mrs. Morton.
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21 Feb, 2024 by Elizabeth cannistraci
I thank God for Jean and her staff for helping me through a long legal battle with ex-spouse.
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09 Nov, 2023 by Carmella oliver
Very good firm, my lawyer Anthony I recommend highly.
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31 Aug, 2023 by Amy leigh
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28 Jul, 2021 by Travis brown
Tammy was extremely helpful with my custody case. Very professional, hard working, dedicated to her clients and understanding. Tammy and her staff are very helpful and work very hard to get the best outcome. Not only did I receive custody, I was granted jurisdiction change thanks to Tammy and her staff. I’m extremely grateful.
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13 Mar, 2021 by Derrick gnidowski
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24 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
Karen is the best at what she does - family law. She has a compassion for your case that you will not find in any other lawyer. This compassion and her fight for the law makes her the only choice for me.
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13 Mar, 2017 by James
I felt like I was Karen's only client. Karen is attentive, patient and knowledgeable. She has great solutions for complex situations; I was very impressed with her ability to attain details specific to my case. Her writing and documentation is impeccable. I highly recommend her to anyone. Very Savvy!
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04 Mar, 2017 by Michael
I hired Karen to take over a very messy custody case. From the moment Karen was on my case things changed almost instantly. The judge's attitude was in our favor and the other attorney started to work with us. This change was because people know Karen. Karen is professional, smart, great at what she does, very respected in the law community, and she doesn't take B.S. from anyone! I can speak from personal experience that Karen also has a Huge heart and really does care about her clients. Over the Christmas holiday my ex did not bring my daughter to any visitation and I was heartbroken, Karen called or texted me everyday to see how i was and make sure I was okay. If your looking for an attorney look no further than Karen Gazda because you wont find anyone better and you can't argue with her results !!!!!!!!
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04 Oct, 2024 by Stacey
I was very satisfied with the representation Georgia provided me for my Divorce. She was quite knowledgeable and effective with getting the job done. I appreciate everything she has done for me.
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23 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
I hired Georgia Bonton for my divorce case in Nassau County, NY through my ARAG legal plan. Unfortunately, my experience was highly disappointing. She was consistently unresponsive to calls, texts, and emails. When she did respond, she was often multitasking with personal chores, which was unprofessional. Despite my case being relatively straightforward—given that I was married for only six months—she exacerbated my stress by providing poor guidance and unnecessarily pursuing my former spouse's income. Additionally, she conducted a skip trace on my ex-spouse's father, incurring a $1,000 expense. Not only was this irrelevant to my case, but I also never authorized such a costly action. Her handling of my case was confusing and seemed driven more by financial gain than by a genuine concern for my well-being. Although the ARAG plan covered 35 hours of legal service, she failed to utilize this coverage and continued to bill me at her hourly rate of $400. I strongly advise against using Georgia Bonton. My experience highlights significant issues with her professionalism and ethical standards.
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28 Jun, 2016 by Anonymous
I needed legal support and hired Ms Bonton. Her knowledge of the law shows in her professionalism and through her expert advise. My case is still pending and my outcome looks VERY favorable.
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25 Sep, 2023 by Trisha
I had no faith in the system but Tammy reinsured me and has went above and beyond for me and my family!!! Best attorney in the 518!!! Highly recommend for all services she will not let you down!!
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16 Mar, 2023 by Robert
Tammy was our bankruptcy lawyer. No one wants to ever file for bankruptcy however life forced our hand. This started in 2017 when we hired Tammy . We paid our fee, took all the necessary counseling and went to court. All seemed to go well until 3 years later when we learned Tammy had never filed all the paperwork or paid the necessary fee. After contacting her on more than one occasion to have her sort this out it was still not done. We had to contact the court and the judge set up a hearing for us where he told Tammy when she would complete the paperwork filing and that SHE would pay the fees. When it was all settled my credit report now shows the bankruptcy was not filed until June of 2020. We had been working hard for years even prior to our initial filing to correct and rebuild our credit. I would not use her again and we are sorry we did the first time.
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28 Jun, 2018 by David
Tammy is a very effective family lawyer. She gets directly to the point and that resulted in favorable results for my children and myself. Hopefully this is the last time in my life that I have to deal with a divorce (knock on wood) However, if I ever find myself in the same situation I will resort to Ms. Arquette in a heartbeat.
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21 Feb, 2023 by Mike
Our lawyer was KELLY MALLOY-POGODA. The selling went fine of course. Unfortunately the buying was riddled with false disclosures and documents that couldn't be produced by the seller to get a mortgage. The seller also claimed the house was built in 1992 when after an appraisal was really built in 1970s. COOPER ERVING & SAVAGE did not hold the seller responsible for any of it. We ended up having to sell our house and renting until we found another house. We will NOT be using COOPER ERVING & SAVAGE ever again.
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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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