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01 Jul, 2024 by Nayer
After refinancing a property, The title company messed up in recording of our quitclaim deeds. It seemed that something was wrong. We informed the tittle company. It took a while, going back and fort, the tillite company claimed that it was fixed. By now we lost the trust in accuracy of the deeds. We needed an expert to review the documents. Marc was very personable and knowledgeable. He reviewed our documents and told us that everything was ok. He answered all of our questions and explained relevant details. He was very professional and friendly. We felt very comfortable. It seemed like we were meeting a caring family member. We are sure he is our go to attorney when we need one. He is highly, highly recommended.
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21 Dec, 2023 by Gregory
Marc Grismer recently provided estate-related services including trust and wills. Marc is knowledgeable, succinct, and courteous.
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17 Oct, 2023 by Yvette
Marc did such an amazing job on our case. He went above and beyond. His staff and him were always available for questions. Never left feeling anxious. When our case went to trial he was very prepared even when the opposing side was throwing curve balls. He was able to switch up his tactic during a quick lunch recess. Ultimately we won more than expected and were extremely satisfied with the results. Thank you Marc, you are appreciated! Would definitely recommend.
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04 Feb, 2013 by Luis
i hiigher recomended Evangelina Malhotra, she is outstanding lawyer very knowledgeable, responsable and profesional . she handled my case very profesional and always did the best for me.
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24 Jan, 2013 by Anonymous
Ms. Malhotra has brilliantly advocated for my family and me in a shocking and difficult divorce. She has been incredibly conscientious and responsive and at the same time creative and insightful , helping me deal with the changing situation, always with the future outcome in mind. My assets are modest and the marriage was very long and yet Ms. Malhotra has brought her broad knowledge to bear on all the issues from financial to domestic violence , attending to every detail that might be significant to a good outcome. I cannot more highly recommend her work.
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05 Dec, 2012 by Raquel villanueva
I just was to Thank you with all my heart I saw the good heart in you from the very start. After hiring lawyer after lawer for my case that seemed to go no where I had almost lost hope. Then I found you Eva Juarez Malhorta you completely changed my life for ever. You handled my case with all the perfect elements. Your cutting edge expertise on legal matters along with the integrity and honesty made the outcome of my case a success! Thank you !! To all my friends and family Eva Juarez Malhotra is our Family Attorney
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19 Apr, 2024 by Stevxan
I had a great experience with the law firm. They made a stressful situation stress free and lead me through the process very easily. From the start they broke down my entire case and what we need to do. They were there for all my appointments and broke down what was said very well. I highly recommend this firm for your legal troubles they make i stressful situation very easy to understand and get through with great results!
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17 Apr, 2024 by Anthony sandoval
I wanted to come on and give thanks to the the Law offices of David Chesley for helping me out with my cases. It can be a very stressful time when dealing with the law. Especially when handling it alone. Truely blessed and glad I trusted professionals to help me through the process in resolving my 3 cases. The best part is I never had to show up to court. Thank you and your team for your help!
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14 Apr, 2024 by Ricky gee
I hired this law firm in different situations in the past and I have to say that David Chesley law firm has fought for me with everything they got. They don't give up on you, they have very highly experienced attorneys that will fight for your rights and freedom and are very agressive in court when dealing with your case.. I didn't think I was going to make it to be honest, but the attorney asigned to my case fought my felony case with all the power and knowledge she had and gave it more than %10000 till the very end of my case. I'm truly and forever greatful for there services and help they've provided me. Thanks to David Chesley and the attorneys at they're law firm i was able to come back home to my kids and family. Thank you very much! I recommend them because No one will fight for your freedom and rights like David Chesley law firm, no one!
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21 Oct, 2023 by Glenn lee
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20 Oct, 2023 by Hario vasquez (a better tomorrow edu)
My mother has been attempting to work on a conservatorship for my brother but had a tough time finding the correct attorney to take the case. When I called Matias Flores Law Firm I was immediately impressed by the quick follow up and attention to detail they had. The initial meeting went well, beyond any expectation I had and the case was processed and completed to perfection. My family and I are thankful for Matias and his team!
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22 Sep, 2023 by Mfl lga
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28 May, 2024 by Iliana flores
An incredible team work from all of them. Lucille returned every email, txt message and phone calls. Very professional and Mr. Nilan actually showed up to every appointment with us not like my previous lawyer who did nothing for helping me and I only spend thousand of dollar for nothing. My case wasn’t easy and my previous lawyer did nothing for me. Mr. Nilan was there on top of everything since the consultation phone call. Thank You to the Nilan Law Team for taking my case. I recommend him 100%
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04 Jan, 2024 by Juan ortiz
Working with Mr. Nilan and his staff has been the worst experience of my life. I hired him to help me get visitation rights with my kids, and everything was going well until my ex-wife filed a restraining order, lying about almost everything. I was never properly served, but there was a hearing date that I was supposed to attend, but Mr. Nilan and his assistant at the time told me not to go because I wasn't properly served. I kept calling and emailing Xochitl, asking if I should attend the hearing, and she consistently responded with the same response: "No, because this is not valid, you weren't properly served. I followed instructions not to attend the hearing. My ex-wife was granted a restraining order, and a week later, I received a package from Mr. Nilan's office with the details of the order, including the inability to see my kids, call them, or do anything else for three and a half years. This got me thinking, how is this possible if they said it wasn't valid? I called Xochil'd right away to find out what was going on, and she said she was going to ask Mr. Nilan and would get back to me when she eventually did. Mr. Nilan said he believes he has a strong case and can get the restraining order lifted, but he will require $3500. I informed her that money wouldn't be a problem if he would have resolved the matter at the hearing and then charged me for his services. I was shocked to hear this and asked her why you guys had advised me not to attend the hearing when it could have been avoided from the start. However, he allowed the court to rule that my ex-wife may say anything she wanted to. I was so angry that I didn't contact Mr. Nilan's office for over a month. After I had calmed down, I contacted Xochilt and asked if we could go to court to resolve this. I didn't realize I had only 30 days to file an appeal and respond to the court regarding the restraining order, so I was shocked to hear that there was nothing more we could do. I spoke with Mr. Nilan directly and asked him why he had let time pass and hadn't taken action if he knew there would be consequences. All he said was that he apologized for his actions, and he had dropped the ball with my case and asked me what it is you want me to do told him, "Let's go to court and try to resolve this. Talk to the judge." When we went to court, he told the judge that it was his fault as well as that he had dropped the ball, but the judge did not seem to care. All he said was that there was a restraining order in place and that he could not make any changes. Mr. Nilan and I returned to court a few more times because, in the opinion of this purportedly experienced attorney, Mr. Nilan had a suggestion for how to handle the situation, but the outcome was the same each time. "YES," he succeeded in getting me to begin therapy so that my two children and I could forge new bonds. Wow! Remarkably, I haven't seen my two children or been able to do anything for the past three years, and I still have one and a half years left. Because of the restraining order, no one wants to assist me with my therapy because they don't want to be involved in any legal issues. If I could give this unprofessional lawyer a zero-star rating, I would advise not working with him because all he cares about is getting your money. Negative five stars is what I would do.
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11 Jan, 2023 by William gomez
I just want to give Thanks to Tim, for being my son's voice at court in a really tough case that lasted 17 months, where Tim was able to win in my son's best interest
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11 Aug, 2022 by Delfino
First, I never expected to be in this situation, because I dedicated my life to my family and wife. After a 22 year marriage, she didn't want to be here anymore. The most difficult thing was for my sons. This was her 2nd marriage, so she understood how to play this game of divorce. I want you to know, Mr. Torices walked me through every step of this process. Honestly, I would have been lost if it wasn't for him. Once you speak to him, you will not need to speak to any other attorney's. I am beyond grateful for his concern of my sons and just genuinely being a person I can speak to when I needed some advice. He is not an attorney who is going to nickel and dime you with any questions you may have. He was always available and responded to my questions within 20 minutes. Who does that? Mr. Torices does, because you are not just a number to him and he genuinely cares for you and your concerns. My divorce was dragged on, because of the pandemic, but he always kept me updated with everything going on. Eric, was not only my attorney, but now he has become a friend and I consider him family in my life. I have nothing but gratitude for this man. Eric, thank you for everything you worked on. I will leave my number on here, because this is how appreciative I am of him. If you have questions, feel free to call me. A divorce is an unfortunate situation that occurs in our lives, especially if you have dedicated your life to your family. I never would wish this upon anyone, but I wouldn't want any other person for guidance next to me as I went through so many emotions in regards to my divorce. If it is unexpected you will deal with a roller coaster of emotions. He always checked up on me and told me everything would work its way out. He did everything he could and before we made any decisions we discussed the concerns at hand. Thank you! I have referred other friends and people I have met, that are unfortunately dealing with a divorce and have only heard positive comments and people thanking me for referring them to Eric. Your client & friend, Delfino Jauregui (714) 726-3417
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27 Mar, 2021 by Alejandra
I was referred to Eric by a family friend who unfortunately is going through a similar situation. I was completely clueless as to what my rights were as a mother and where I should start, after my ex served me for custody of our son. I called his office and scheduled an appointment. I was seen within a few days. Other attorneys were charging me a $500 consultation fee and didn't even say more than the cost when i would call and always sounded very rushed. Eric was and has been very helpful and transparent throughout the process. Which is what I needed. He also made himself available all the time to answer any question or concern I have. He is very good about keeping me up to date with what's going on during the process. I'm very pleased with the guidance he's provided. Thankfully my ex and I were able to settle out of court, but with the help of Eric I am able to have 90% physical custody and 50% shared legal custody. Keep in mind every case is different but restassure Eric is the man to call. Thank you so much Eric for your guidance. I am eternally grateful.
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25 Sep, 2020 by Jessica
I was referred to Eric Torices back in 2018 when I was first seeking guidance for child custody. I was able to get a meeting with him immediately. I went into his office being completely clueless and walked out feeling at ease and with so much knowledge. He explained to me diligently what might or might not happened with my situation. Unfortunately, my situation took a turn and I had to seek another lawyer with a different scope of practice and he was nice enough to refer me. That went well and my case settled. From time to time any questions or uncertainties I’ve had he was always there to answer with no hesitation. Now, fast-forwarding to 2019 I was sent back to court to modify the visitation and I immediately knew I wanted Eric to represent me. He did not hesitate to meet up with me and agreed to represent me. I felt confident that he was going to not only try to get me what I wanted but at least put up a fight. Eric did not disappoint in the court room. He went into the court room with confidence. His work ethics definitely showed when in court. I definitely recommend Eric to assist you with your case and to know that he will not only try his very best to get you the best outcome possible but guide you throughout the process. Eric has been and continues to be very professional and welcoming. He is very reliable and always available when needed. He is very deserving of the 5 stars and more if possible. I can't thank him enough for what he did for me and I know will do for others as well.
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08 May, 2024 by Gino sesto
Did a phone consult with Richard on how to get a sec. 8 out. After 10yrs struggling with this, Richard found my solution!! I'm on cloud 9 right now.
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26 Apr, 2024 by Yadira romero
I want to express my most sincere thanks for the most professional representation. You stuck by me through the 3 1/2 years in dealing with my most stressful case. I admire your composure, work ethic and most of all excellent representation. A special thank you to Marilyn for her help and patience. I feel your office went above and beyond and I just want to express my appreciation. Thanks again Richard, Marilyn and Evelyn.
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25 Mar, 2024 by William ponce
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09 Mar, 2021 by Tony
This man is the reason attorneys get a bad reputation. After SEVERAL calls to the office, I was finally able to speak to Steve. He confused me with his law jargon for several minutes, then proceeded to tell me that our conversation was no longer a free consultation. He was extremely rude and told me that I should look for a lawyer that isn’t on “his level”. I wouldn’t recommend this lawyer to my worst enemy. He’s full of himself and very hard to reach. I ended up finding a great lawyer who confirmed to me that this guy Steve is the reason most people look at lawyers in a bad light. He’s all about money and doesn’t feel for clients situations. Karma is real and will makes its way to mr high and mighty. Even though you’re as horrible as they come, I hope you’re successful and keep growing as a firm. In the mean time, put your ego aside and show some compassion to your potential clients. -Tony (unsatisfied potential client)
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01 Mar, 2018 by Steve
Steve was very detailed and professional. He was always on time and did exactly what he said he would do. He was very fair on his retainer.
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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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