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06 Jul, 2024 by Hk05615
Michael Chapski represented me over the last 18 months in dealing with the aftermath of a long separation and challenging divorce. From the time Michael accepted my case, I knew I was in capable hands. I was referred to Michael through another respected attorney in town because of his knowledge, track record of success, compassion and respect in the legal community. From the beginning, Michael was my voice in the courtroom. He worked closely with me on strategy so we could avoid trial and negotiate a fair settlement. He was extremely attentive and provided email responses and court updates within 24 hours. On the final day of prove up, I was proud to walk into that courtroom with Michael by my side. He absolutely commands the respect of the court with his professionalism and legal knowledge. Through his compassion, professionalism and just pure kindness, Michael made this journey for me bearable. I will forever be grateful to Michael and his firm.
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31 Dec, 2019 by Anonymous
I'd highly recommend Mike for anyone entering the divorce process. He's extremely knowledgeable of the law, always quick to respond, can be tough when he needs to be, but also serves to keep his cool in what can be some emotional circumstances. I was referred to Mike by a friend, also an attorney, who had known him for many years, and advised that he liked, trusted, and respected Mike. And, after working with Mike through the weeds of the divorce process, I can say that my friend's referral was truly justified. Mike's a very good attorney and a very good man.
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06 Dec, 2019 by Jeff
I can't begin to state enough positive things about Mike. My divorce was extremely contentious. My ex-wife lost her custodial parenting rights. She was not even awarded court supervised visits with my children. My ex went through three attorneys, while Mike continued to be a stabilizing influence, advocate and voice of reason through the most difficult time in my life. Mike immediately responded to calls, messages and even texts. He was very open, honest and did not present false, or unlikely outcomes. Quite honestly, Mike is very much a person who over delivers. We had a terrible Guardian ad litem assigned to my divorce. The GAL was absolutely determined to have the kids remain with their mother, even though she was the perpetrator of unspeakable child abuse. Mike managed this issue in a wonderful manner, assured the kids were well protected and that I was well represented. Mike's rates are fair. There is absolutely no over billing. I highly recommend Mike! Also, the staff at Chapski Law was always kind and very responsive. All very good people to work with!
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03 Dec, 2024 by Jerry tilker
The people in the Office (Shelly) were very helpful and friendly.
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14 Nov, 2024 by Albert sanchez
Very pleased how they worked with me walked out with a smile thank you
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14 Nov, 2024 by Danielle capone
I have had the privilege to work with Mark Levine. He has made such a difficult process of filing for ch. 7 bankruptcy very easy and understandable. Him and his team are very responsive and personable. When I meet with them I don’t feel like another case, they treat me with care and kindness. I would highly recommend Mark at Geraci Law.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Jack shannon
I wish I could type a book about Tony. I can't thank him enough. He stood by me and counseled me through a terrible divorce, where I was being accused of unfathomable things. Tony is patient, caring, and kind. No legal process is fast in any manner, but rest assured that when he puts his foot on the gas in the courtroom, you know you made the right decision. No contested divorce is easy, but he took the guessing game out of it for me. His paralegal Angela is fantastic as well!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Anne kuntz
Tony gets it. And that is what I wanted. Not just someone who knows the law and our local court system, which he is obviously very well established in. But also someone who understands people and the process. Divorce is like trying to make a 3-point turn in a double decker bus, and in my case I brought two innocent young tourists with me on the ride. Careful but assertive, strategic and steady Tony helped me navigate an exhausting pivot in my life. And I was very happy he was there.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Dave moseley
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15 Jan, 2025 by Sara arnold
Lauren was so amazing to work with. She has helped on both the selling and purchasing of two homes and helped us establish a Will and an Estate trust. She is always very pleasant to work with and explains everything in a way we could fully understand. She was on top of everything pertaining to our homes and if an issue popped up, she handled it very quickly. I would highly recommend Lauren to anyone I know.
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26 Nov, 2024 by Michael malmsbury
My fiancé and I have had the pleasure of working with Lauren multiple times for real estate transactions and estate planning, and she has been exceptional every single time. She's very knowledgeable and is great at explaining legal terminology in an easy-to-understand fashion. Not only is she an excellent attorney, but her personable nature made our most recent home closing far more enjoyable than any I’ve experienced before. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Lauren to anyone in need of an estate attorney!
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11 Nov, 2024 by Cinda daniel
Lauren and her team helped me through a very difficult closing. Lauren always communicated and was right on top of things. I was lucky to have her by my side.
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13 Feb, 2024 by Tony montana
Tony's professional and empathetic attitute, along with his knowledge and experience in family law gets the job done! I highly recommend him for legal representation.
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31 Dec, 2023 by Kayleigh zarndt
I was so incredibly impressed with Tony. My divorce had been dragged out for years; however, as soon as Tony was on my case, his filings finally moved things along. He went above and beyond, and I am so grateful. He was highly responsive, didn't bill for things he didn't deliver on (as we know some attorneys do), and was very strategic and keen. If you are looking for someone who will actually care about your case, then he is the attorney who can help.
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27 Dec, 2023 by Jessica reyes
Tony was extremely responsive and took care of everything without a fault. Thank you for all the help!
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04 Jan, 2024 by Dennis martinez
Mr. Canning helped me establish visitation for my son. His mom wanted the opposite and fought every inch through court. Now I have him other weekend, holidays and extra time when he is not in school. I was emotionally drained and tired I didn’t know who to turn to. Mr. Canning knew what my rights were and always had a postitive outlook on my situation. He helped mend my broken heart and restore my right to be an active father in my son’s life. Highly recommend him for family law. He has been practicing for a long time and knows the law. Thank you Canning Law.
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31 Dec, 2023 by Michael szewczyk
Chuck was great at representing me for my child support case and kept my rear out of jail and able to make my payments! 5 STARS all the way to Canning Law firm
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16 Jun, 2023 by Jsr enterprises
Chuck canning is a great man and a lawyer! Highly recommend
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09 Jun, 2017 by Aaron
Mr. Leahy represented me in a paternity suit (I am the father) and helped me establish visitation rights for my daughter. He was always on time, never late to court, gave me sound counsel, told me what to expect and what the relevant statutory options I had. I've also hired him to represent me as the seller of real estate. He was just as professional and knowledgeable. I wholeheartedly recommend Mr. Leahy for family and real estate law.
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26 Aug, 2013 by Kimberlee
I have used James P. Leahy a couple of times. He is very professional. He knows the law backwards and forwards. He is resourceful and truly cares about his clients. He isn't just another lawyer collecting a check. I would refer him to anyone, even the most difficult cases. He gets the job done and thensome!!
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30 Aug, 2017 by Lisa
Jim Casement is not only an excellent attorney, but also an outstanding person. Jim cares about his clients and their well-being. Keep up the great work Jim and keep being the role model that the other attorneys out there need to follow!
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26 May, 2024 by Syed wasi haider
Working with Mohammed Adil for our home closing was a breeze! His expertise in real estate law and attention to detail ensured a smooth transaction from start to finish. They were responsive to all our questions and concerns, guiding us through the process with professionalism and clarity. Highly recommend their services for anyone in need of a reliable and knowledgeable real estate attorney.
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20 May, 2024 by Annie tye
Adil Mohammed is an *outstanding* lawyer! He's genuinely concerned about his clients and will work hard to ensure their best interests are represented. He's available even via text and he responds promptly and forthrightly. I would recommend Adil to anyone who needs someone to fight for them.
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16 May, 2024 by Deborah roberts
I totally recommend ASM Law PC they were very helpful and answered all my questions right away every time I asked no matter what time of day the process was very quick and easy and very affordable hands down I will always recommend
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08 Jul, 2024 by Kenneth quindel
Great lawyer and person.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Monique howery
Awesome
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08 Jul, 2024 by Fox valley hardscapes-unilock authorized contractor
Highly recommend ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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16 Nov, 2024 by Kara schwan
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24 Sep, 2024 by Tim morris
Ryan Family Law is a great team of people. Justin and Lori were amazing to work with. They really work hard to help you through very difficult times. They were thorough, responsive, and sincere. Justin was honest and very knowledgeable. I plan to use them if I have any legal needs in the future. Thank you all very much for your hard work!
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31 Jul, 2024 by Mike aguado
Justin and Lori were extremely helpful navigating me thru all the avenues that go along with divorce proceedings. From start to finish they were very professional and knowledgeable and took time to explain everything. I would highly recommend them to handle any proceedings in a thoughtful and timely manner.
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26 Oct, 2024 by Nick zeppetello
One of nicest lawyers I have ever dealt with. Gets back to you in a timely manner. Thanks Rudy!
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26 Oct, 2024 by Moises meneses
Muy atento abogado
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18 May, 2024 by Jessica bee
You might as well go into court with no lawyer. Did nothing for me at trial, didn’t show my evidence and gave in to everything the opposing side wanted. I don’t know what’s worse the fact that he scammed a single mom or the fact that I actually thought he was going to help me. And before he tries to beat me to it, I WAS an existing client.
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16 Sep, 2024 by Chrissy marquardt
Great help from great people!
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14 Jan, 2024 by Chad w.
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03 May, 2023 by Maria marin
Muy buenas ayudas cn abogado despensa y barias cosas más solo pedir información pero lo recomiendo ami me alludo bastante en migración
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18 Oct, 2013 by Tracy
William Feda is a brilliant attorney, we are grateful to have had him represent us during a difficult family matter. Thank you!!
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05 Dec, 2012 by Anonymous
This lawyer was useless. The case was lost solely because we had a bad lawyer. It should have been a cut and dry win. We lost thousands of dollars because we counted on him. He continued the case repeatedly, trying to charge me for everytime, Several of the continuances were simply because he wasn't prepared, even though he had plenty of time. When he did come to court he came without reviewing the case and looked like a 'newbie'. While in court he shuffled through his paperwork over and over again. Other lawyers and court personnel watched him in amusement. This was without a doubt the worst lawyer experience I've ever had. To maintain my aninimity I did not put what type of case he handled.
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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:

  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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