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27 Jun, 2022 by Richard
When I was alone and desperately seeking legal help, She came from out of the darkness. She said I can help you and I will be glad to help You.
The opposing attorney stated that he was going to win repeatedly, she never wavered. She never raised her voice, she know her stuff and we won hands down.
An excellent job by an excellent counselor.
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06 Jun, 2022 by Sidney
Mrs. Kapoor guided my petition to terminate my federal supervised release from consultation to multiple meetings, respectfully cultivating and gathering information from my family, friends, and social supports. Her work was substantial in creating the possibility of a good outcome.
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30 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
I highly recommend Attorney Kapoor she is the best in her field she is honest, she is wise, she is very detailed and persices when it comes to a case, her experiences is the phenomenal extraordinary ability to win is the team that she put you on you in the hot seat for a reason, she has grace and style and you will be proven o be a winner in the battle that you are faced with.
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24 Jan, 2022 by Mak me
23 Sep, 2021 by Ariel winger
Emily DeFalla is a colleague I have known and worked with for several years, as a Collaborative Divorce attorney and mediator. Emily is an exceptional lawyer and mediator and I have frequently recommended clients to her who had complex or high conflict cases that were on the verge of litigation, as I know she has the skill set to settle challenging cases. Emily is highly experience, professional, smart, warm, and non-judgmental. She knows how to work effectively with clients in crisis and I cannot recommend her highly enough.
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05 Jun, 2021 by Kathy campbell
Emily is a great family law attorney who brings her extensive family law knowledge and human nature awareness to every case. Using her well-honed conflict resolution skills, she diffuses conflict freeing families to reach resolution on parenting, property, support, or other issues. Her reputation as a sought-after mediator or collaborative attorney is well-deserved.
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5.0
20 Reviews
4.4
13 Reviews
20 Jun, 2024 by Carrie conlon
I was in a bad car accident four years ago. Unfortunately it put me in the trauma center when returning home from the hospital I felt lost and confused. I was on pain meds and I could hardly walk. I was afraid to drive and even get in a car I feared the fact that I would never be able to go back to work And had no idea where my future was going. During my time in the hospital with the help from my daughters,Lord willing, they found a five star attorney Tom E Sokat. The best thing I ever did was to contact him. He is a highly trained, honest, caring, knowledgeable, respectful, supportive, and will guide you through the process step by step. It was hard to have patience and listen when my case was so complicated I’m so glad I did all the phone calls and conversations we had over the last few years helped me tremendously not feel so confused. The pain became tolerable and I wasn’t lost or feeling alone I had support. The accident changed my whole life overnight. I am now on permanent disability and dealing with one day at a time. Together with Tom ‘s knowledge and support we were able to get the maximum payout and I am in a much better place.
Tom E. Sokat is a highly trained attorney above and beyond a five star. I am forever grateful!! thank you Tom for taking my call and saying yes to my case.
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20 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
Hired Jennifer and her team to revise my estate plan. It was done quickly and efficiently, with them going above and beyond to help me get what I needed to complete the revision. I went to other firms and they only made it more complex which made Jennifer's work most cost effective for my situation. Thank you for your professionalism.
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15 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
Talent. *Especially* in cases that involve an HCP or Narcissist.
Jennifer & her team were referred to me by a former (paying) client who spoke highly of her based on the experience and outcome of their complex case. Keyword: complex.
From the start, she displayed a comforting confidence, expertise, major attention to detail, and a genuine concern for my feelings. The thoroughness of everything that was discussed left me relieved and at the end of it all, I can say that every single one of my goals were heard and met.
My experience left me feeling protected, elevated and inspired. Legal situations can be dehumanizing depending on who you are dealing with on the other side; she helped pull me out of a nasty downward spiral due to my legal fears. I truly appreciated the support and humor that went alongside professional representation. Worth every dollar.
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11 Mar, 2022 by Anonymous
I found Gowon on MetLife and we were doing uncontested divorce. Initial call was lengthy, but soon after being retained, she starts replying slower. About 3 months in, I emailed her saying we may be ready to do contested divorce, and she immediately asked me to find another lawyer and release her, saying she's too busy with casework. I said I was not sure if it'll be contested. I did not release her. About 2 months later, I confirm with her this will be uncontested, but now, she does not reply to my emails nor my spouse's attorney emails. I've emailed her to get her clarification on whether she'd like to voluntarily withdraw from representing me, and that email has no reply. She also I can't help but feel ignored and abandoned. I will be filing a formal complaint with the California bar for client abandonment. She also says if I don't submit a Substitution of Attorney form, she'll file a motion in court against me "seeking permission to withdraw and ask that my fees & costs for preparing the motion and going to the hearing be paid by you." In my interpretation she is threatening to sue me for legal fees.
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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:
-
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.
