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08 Mar, 2022 by Anonymous
From a shop lifting I did. This attorney went above and beyond to keep me out of jail. It was. 579 dollar value of groceries. And I am a first time offender. He prevented me from having my life destroyed by this. He took care of my courts. My record will be cleared in 6 months Got me approved for ARD. He’s the best LAWYER
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16 Dec, 2021 by Anonymous
I highly recommend calling Attorney Eric J. Mikovch should you find yourself in a situation where you need a defense attorney. I initially called his secretary for an appointment, and he called me back in under 30 minutes and asked me questions to obtain all the information he needed. He recognized how upset I was and offered to meet with me during my lunch time that day. I had intense fear and anxiety, and he reassured me that everything would be ok. I hired him on the spot to represent me and, he won my case for me. Between the time of initial contact to the end of my trial date, he stayed in contact with me via phone and text, replying back to me immediately with answers to my questions. He is professional and attentive, but also very compassionate and friendly. I can't image dealing with my problem without him. My outcome was the best possible. I trust him and recommend him and the Quinn Law Firm with any legal matter.
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17 Nov, 2021 by Corey
Eric provided me with wonderful legal council and a well thought out plan moving forward very quickly and efficiently. Communication was extremely easy and everything was explained to me regarding my legal matter. I would easily recommend Eric for any legal need that may arise.
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10 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
Attorney Bradley Enterline is someone I would also have represent my family, if needed, because of all the invaluable guidance I have received over the years. He is a lawyer who will listen to your story, summarize the facts by following up with focused questions, and will try to find amicable long term solutions while also advocating for your priorities. Attorney Enterline will set fair expectations and provide knowledgable counsel about how and when to give a little and when to take a more firm stance. His understanding of the courts in Erie, PA has proved beneficial over and over again through the years for separation and divorce, child custody, and child support for myself; it has been a long process and it's not over yet in my case but I am very thankful to be working with Attorney Bradley Enterline!
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05 Jan, 2023 by John
Attorney Enterline was attentive, thorough and patience throughout my entire case. His years of experience gave me comfort when issues became difficult and he could reassure me of how we should handle each step. He handled my case very well!
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30 Jun, 2021 by Erica
Brad Enterline was very professional and helpful to me and my kids .He has helped me get full custody of my kids and I am very happy that I hired him !
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14 Apr, 2023 by Steve
Had an unusual DUI case. Steven Listen to what I had to say and did what he does best and got it taken care.
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29 Mar, 2023 by Bogdan
Stephen Sebald is by far the best man for the job. As soon as I came into his office he was efficient, professional, and eased my mind about the whole process. He works with you, is affordable, responds fast, and keeps you updated. I’m referring him to all my friends and family. Hardworking responsiveness
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28 Sep, 2022 by Brian
I contacted attorney Sebald in March of 2021 regarding a series charge/crime. The consultation was very informative, thorough and laid out up front. To cost, the process, possible outcomes, what I need to do, etc. He was very honest and upfront and showed not only he cared about my case, the outcome but about me and my life. In July my bail was $100,000. Thanks to his expertise he got the bail dropped which allowed me to be free. He worked tirelessly and relentlessly on my case for over a year. He was there to answer any question or hear any concerns. I originally had 28 charges and he got them down to 11. Thanks to his dedication, hard work and experience, rather then doing several years in state prison, I got probation, which I was originally told wasn't an option, and gps ankle monitor. I highly recommend and encourage attorney Sebald for your legal matters.
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27 May, 2017 by Dylan
Attorney DeSimone helped me with a matter and totally resolved it with several letters written on my behalf. A great writer!
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03 Nov, 2016 by Danielle
Atty. DeSimone knows her way around a courtroom. Sharp, prepared and not willing to take any baloney from her peers.
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28 Mar, 2017 by Ashley
Jo has represented me for 3 custody trials, a contempt hearing, child conciliation, and even child support. She is aggressive and has answer all my questions in a timely manner. Going on 3 years I have trusted her to fight for the best interest of my child.
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27 May, 2008 by Anonymous
I have used Kathryn for custody and child support issues. She was wonderful!!! My boyfriend has used her for divorce, custody and support issues. You can count on her to be totally on your side. Kathryn is a very caring person and at the same time can be aggressive where she needs to be.
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12 Jul, 2024 by 1257sophie
I cannot adequately express how pleased I am with Attorney Baltz. I preferred that she freely handle all the minutiae of my divorce settlement, and that strategy delivered the best possible result for me.
Stacey was quick to respond to any questions, or concerns that I might have, and I never felt overwhelmed by the process because I knew that she was actively advocating for me throughout the negotiations even when I was on the sidelines letting her use her experience to my benefit. I highly recommend her.
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24 Oct, 2023 by Caitlin wurst
Stacey was fantastic to work with!!! She made the entire process so smooth and kept me informed every step of the way. I would recommend her for your attorney needs!
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19 Jul, 2023 by Aj
My mom hired Stacey after we consulted with multiple attorneys. She gave us recommendations on what was best and we could tell she had my mom's interests first, and not trying to rack up the bill like other attorneys. She answered all of our questions and concerns, and she made us feel heard and safe. Thank you Stacey!
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20 Sep, 2024 by Tamika
Team was concise, efficient and quick with my request. Instructions and all communication were easy to understand. Process to pay was easy.
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15 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
The entire process of my divorce was made incredibly easy thanks to Cairns Law Office. Everything was explained to me very well. I received communication via email as soon as next steps were prepared along with being provided updates about the paperwork process. They communicated an error to me that I had made immediately in order to have it quickly corrected. I was nervous when I started the process of looking for a divorce lawyer. I was impressed with the reviews I had found for Cairns Law Offices, and now as a happily divorced woman I am so happy I chose Cairns Law Offices.
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23 Aug, 2024 by Barry
Everything went very smooth. Was always left known what was happening. Price tag was reasonable too. I recommend this law firm.
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05 Feb, 2024 by Donovan rounds
27 Oct, 2023 by William beeesler
Attorney travis was very helpful and confident he is a respected and committed individual ty you saved me from what could of been a really bad nightmare God bless ,and thanks again .I highly recommend him to anyone that is in legal trouble .
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28 Sep, 2023 by Beth ann bohun
They never responded to any of my emails, Facebook or phone messages. I tried for a couple weeks.
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15 Apr, 2024 by Farooq baluch
12 Feb, 2024 by John gardner
09 Feb, 2024 by Ally bop
21 May, 2024 by Kyle harris
Great lawyer!! Great price!! 5 star Ken handles business in the court room, helped me establish custody. speedy responses to any questions I had, I’d recommend him for any legal issues u might have! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
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13 Jan, 2024 by Chris re i n e l t
We entrusted Ken with our custody needs and he did not let us down! He was easily accessible and thoroughly invested in our case. He made our concens and needs a priority and used our time efficiently. He is well recieved and respected in the courtroom. Having him by our side alleviated our stress & anxiety and he genuinely cared about our situation and outcome. He involved all parties necessary and did the research to get the job done. His presence in court is professional and to the point. We will forever be thankful & grateful for Kens dedication to our family!! Our community is blessed to have him!
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10 Jan, 2024 by Sam sackett
ERIE'S ABSOLUTE FINEST! Ken puts his heart and soul into his work. He REALLY cares about his clients and their situations. That being said, Ken is the most knowledgeable I've ever worked with! Intelligent, professional, personable and always a safe place. *With myself being a part of the LGBT community, Ken has always been welcoming to any, and considerate to all.* Heaven sent, & money well spent! Thank You Bickel Law office, you've protected me for many years now. I would give him 10 million stars if reviews would allow.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Swavey
Justin helped us out a ton, was with us the whole way through till the very end. Very professional, cares about his clients and is very transparent.
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03 Jul, 2024 by Mary hall
Justin did my son's case and he was great and really helped us he answered all our questions and was very understanding always responded to my million texted messages I now considered him our family lawyer for everything
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04 Jun, 2024 by Mutaqui wright
06 Dec, 2022 by Thomas
Hands down one of the best lawyers. Hackwelder did everything that he said he would do to get me where I am at now. I was facing some heavy charges. He was always there when I had any kind of concern. Always knew how to calm me in my not too sure state of mind. It was a long 2 years going through the process but with Hackwelder by my side made it so much easier. For anyone looking for a lawyer definitely hands down recommend Hackwelder you won't be disappointed
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24 Aug, 2022 by Noah
GREAT LAWYER
GREAT LAWYER
GREAT LAWYER
GREAT LAWYER
GREAT LAWYER
GREAT LAWYER
GREAT LAWYER
GREAT LAWYER
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19 Apr, 2022 by Anonymous
Attorney Hackwelder had me do all the legwork for my hearing. Then at the hearing told me to just accept the charges. When I refused he negotiated with the other attorney and said he got my punishment decreased. When I received the actual punishment, it was nothing like he told me and what I agreed to. He wouldn’t help me fix his mistake and dodged my calls from that point forward. He has no ethics whatsoever. Avoid him at all costs.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Rick schwab
Keith has taken care of me a few different times and every time he has been very straight forward and honest about everything. I highly recommend him.
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18 Apr, 2024 by Jennifer little
09 Apr, 2024 by Stephanie o'hara
Working with Damon was a great experience, very knowledgeable and very responsive with emails. Unfortunately I had to use him to close my husband and my mothers estates less than a year apart.
Damon was very understanding when I didn’t get back to him right away for things he needed from me and never made me feel rushed, not only was he professional but he was also very compassionate.
I would highly recommend.
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22 Jan, 2024 by T s
Special thanks to Eugene Sundberg Jr Esq for helping me with my deed transfer. I greatly appreciate it.
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07 Jan, 2024 by Kathy vaux-paden
Thank you, Mr. Holmes, for explaining the PA laws for executor. You educated us on how to make sure that things are listed for the beneficiaries and what the executor should actually do.
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22 May, 2023 by Gregg siddons
This is the law firm in the city of Erie pa and North west Pennsylvania. And I’m proud to have this law firm representing me in filing an Eviction case against two unwanted people.
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01 Mar, 2021 by Caitlyn
Zanita was a tremendous asset during a very tumultuous time for my family. She took the time to understand my situation and she provided good practical advice, beyond just legal advice, through the entire process. In a rapid exchange with another lawyer, Zanita demonstrated knowledge of the law that clearly surpassed the other lawyer. My custody case had some unique challenges but Zanita expertly navigated the situation to the best possible resolution. It was a difficult time in my life, but I will always be glad that I had Zanita on my team.
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27 Jun, 2017 by Sarah
Zanita or Z as she likes to be called, took me through my divorce with a great deal of concern for me as well as for my children. Z didn't let my "hurry up, I just want it over" emotional responses to the divorce proceedings cost me in my sanity or in my settlement. She certainly is not the stereotypical lawyer yet with a combination of compassion for all sides (children have a side with her), toughness at the negotiation table and experience practicing law she is a lawyer I wouldn't hesitate to recommend to family and friends going through a divorce.
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21 Jun, 2017 by Heather
I could not have been more pleased with Zanita. She was very professional and made me feel very comfortable and secure. She helped to guide me through the entire process and made a not so desirable thing to have to go through very, very manageable. She put together an absolutely fabulous collaboration team. With this set in place, the process went quickly and smoothly and most importantly gave the utmost support to our children.
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29 Feb, 2024 by Gary carmosino
20 Dec, 2023 by Justin cubitt
01 Dec, 2023 by Kristin
25 Sep, 2024 by David rankin
Unremarkable experience which was disappointing seeing as she was recommended by a lawyer I’ve used before. Didn’t seem willing to go to bat for me, generally abrasive, and I believe she hung up on me to boot.
It was “you need to bring this” instead of “here’s what we can do to solve the problem.” Why hire a lawyer anyways at that point?
She was responsive to messages though and called back in a timely manner.
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03 Apr, 2024 by Laurie sturgis
Although the firm was unable to help me due to their caseload, they offered helpful information to help me proceed with my son's potential case. I think this shows they truly care about helping people and getting justice, whether or not they are clients !
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19 Feb, 2024 by Mike habursky
Tim believed me when no one else did. I'm very happy with the outcome. I would recommend him to anyone who is in need of sound, honest and straight to the point legal advice. Thank you Tim for helping me move past all this.
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11 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
My son had this attorney for his divorce. Phone calls and emails were not returned, documents weren't prepared in a timely fashion, and a check was lost. Would not recommend this firm.
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05 Feb, 2020 by James
Brian helped me get my daughter back after my ex took her to another state. This being my first time dealing with any type of court proceedings, Brian made me feel very comfortable during the process. When he talked to me he made sure to explain things to me so I could understand whats going on. He has always responded to my calls or emails within a timely manor and answered all my questions and concerns.
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04 Feb, 2020 by Rob
Brian is great and extremely easy to work with. Brian genuinely cares about you and the status of your situation. Brain keeps you informed and updated at all times. I highly recommend Brain and his office.
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28 Jan, 2024 by Shirley barnes
Excellent! Attorney Latouf is a Rockstar in his field....you will not be disappointed!
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01 Nov, 2023 by Linda jones
After being charged with a DUI I hired Attorney Charbel Latouf to represent me. Attny Latoufs extreme attention to detail and expertise led to the charge being dismissed. It does not get any better!
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09 May, 2023 by Carollee silakowski
Latouf handled one of my problems I was having. He's very professional and kind. I met another lawyer who's handling the rest of my problems. His name is Mr.Nies. very focused on what you need. I feel very confident with him. Also the Secretary is kind as well. All around a great practice
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30 Oct, 2023 by Valvet uboldi
28 Aug, 2023 by Judy. kenyon
Beautiful historic buildings on W. 6th St. in Erie. Law Firm 3 doors down from courthouse. Convenient.
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13 Jun, 2023 by Jim and barbara richardson
29 Jan, 2019 by Jen
Attorney Martone helped me through a very nasty custody battle with my ex husband. He was very diligent and helped guide me in the right direction. I cannot thank him enough.
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07 Mar, 2011 by Lonn
My letter to Joseph, still waiting on a repsonse from him:
Dear Joseph,
I wish to express my concerns about your last representation. In no way am I upset about the outcome of the recent custody conciliation. What I am very disappointed in is the total lack of guidance you had offered me when I had presented at your office in January. As a matter of fact, we never truly discussed the current situation in your office prior to the conciliation paperwork even being completed. I truly believe that had you took the time to go through my documents with me, and properly guided me as to the criteria for the request I was making, that we would have reached the same recommendation back in January that I am facing now.
I know that there are no guarantees in legal proceedings. I do expect proper guidance and representation a month before the fact when I present for it and not in a quick twenty minutes just before the custody conciliation is to take place and be left to defend myself. I view these circumstances as unprofessional conduct and expect more from such an honored attorney.
It is therefore I believe I should be entitled to reimbursement for some of the legal fees I have incurred. These proceedings could have been timed more effectively had you given this matter the attention it deserved for the fees I have submitted for your time and services.
.....In short, Joseph didn't have the time for the prior consult I scheduled with him and he just took my check and filed the papers without knowing a single fact. Once we did talk just twenty minutes before the conciliation (a month later), it was all so clear that Joseph initiated the action way to fast and just blew my time and money which was completely avoidable had he done things in the correct order. Why any lawyer would file a case before talking to his client is just beyond me????? I will be finding a new attorney..................
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3.6
3 Reviews
4.3
14 Reviews
22 Apr, 2022 by Optimus grime
"If you want someone to take thousands from you, then be discussing your case with the "opposing" lawyer from the DA's office and go into court and say absolutely nothing.....Then Andy Sisinni is the attorney for you"👎🗑
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13 Sep, 2021 by Joe radwany
Top of the line Profesional, Service & Team Work on relatively small issues at reasonable rates.
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24 Aug, 2021 by John fiebelkorn
great attorney
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10 Aug, 2024 by A w
Best place to go if you need a lawyer and paralegal help
I had a great lawyer and a great paralegal.
Just want to say thank you to Maggie Merritt for helping me out so much in 2021,
She is the best paralegal in this world.
Thank you.. Thank you.. Thanks,
Alan
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08 Jul, 2024 by Matt shafer
Complete scam this firm is the issue. Not there lawyers
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11 Mar, 2024 by Matt shafer
Att. Spry has been very helpful and caring.
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06 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
Don’t bother. This woman is the worst lawyer in Erie. She is inept, gets the facts wrong and lies through her teeth to compensate for her inability to be a real lawyer. Look somewhere else, believe me.
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20 May, 2015 by Kevin
Catherine is intuitive and quickly understood my situation. She provided solid guidance, coaching and direction, resulting in a good outcome. Top notch when it comes to responsiveness and adaptability to your situation. I highly recommend Catherine.
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17 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous
A friend referred me to this office and I'm glad I was set up with Catherine, she was very professional and understanding about my situation. This was a custody dispute in with a 3 party was involved who was a very negative influence on my child. I used a different lawyer for 8 months which was a waste of my time and money. In the matter of a month Catherine was able to help me get a court order in place keeping this person away from my child. If you're looking for a great family lawyer, you just found her.
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10 Jul, 2019 by Dawby
Peasley charged me over $30,000. Forced me to sign a divorce settlement agreement, behind closed doors. The agreement was dated incorrectly and notarized without the notary having witnessed my signature. The MSA was never filed. Peasley entered me into a child custody agreement (never filed) without my consent and charged me billable hours. Child support was based on joint custody, but my child resided only with me his entire life. Peasley did not specify any amount of my settlement which constituted child support. She told me she was retiring and may not be able to finish my case and then withdrew as my attorney immediately after settlement, leaving me and my minor son unrepresented, broke and disadvantaged. When I last saw her to retrieve my disorganized and partial files, Peasley was consulting with a new client. Certainly not retired.
This attorney is not a family law attorney, as she did not represent me or my son to the best of her ability.
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16 Oct, 2009 by Jeff t.
A very good lawyer and fair as well, I spent time with another lawyer who was not very productive and let my x walk all over me. When i hired paige she got things moving along. She was very fair to all parties and made sure that fair and eqaule treatment came from the other side as well because before paige that was not happening. Once again could not be more pleased if you can get her for your lawyer I would recommend you do so .
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26 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
I hired Patrick to deal with an HOA. His sales pitch was that their law firm could do anything together. Unfortunately for me, Patrick could do nothing by himself. Patrick wrote and received a couple letters for me. Every time I talked to Patrick I felt like I was talking to a wall because he had no clue what I was talking about since he refused to do his own due diligence. Funny how I paid Patrick to do due diligence for me and he could not do it. After Patrick took my money he sent me a letter stating that he didn’t have the “know how” to fight my case, like he told me when I first showed up. That, my lying friend, is false advertising. The one star review above is absolutely correct. Patrick Kelley you are a fraud.
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13 Sep, 2018 by Daniel
Pat was convincing in his sales pitch, claiming to "fight" hard for me and be available even if it was "A million emails or calls".
The reality is that he rarely returned messages, if at all, within a week. It took my leaving a voicemail restating the promise he had made to me before he began returning messages, and that lasted only a week before tailing off once again.
As for the actual proceedings, he was scared to go to court (I later learned why from others that had hired him). In the end, after 15+ years of marriage, I ended up with only a used minivan and a china cabinet that was my mother's, while she ended up with the marital residence, everything in it, more valuable car, everything in my garage, and everything else (including the kids) that was acquired during the marriage including my grandmother's wedding ring.
Lastly (and this should be a red flag to anyone reading this), he sent an email that I needed to accept their offer and "get this over with" soon because he could not longer represent me due to a conflict of interest and I would have to represent myself if I didn't.... he was going to work at my ex-wife's attorney's firm.
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11 Dec, 2010 by Kevin
Patrick helped me with my divorce, and prevented my ex-wife from taking me for everything she probably could have. We went all the way to the end, and he was really helpful.
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18 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
He told my fiance if he plead to a summary and he had no other technical parole violations he would go home well that did not happen at all hes still gone and for nothing.........
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28 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
I was not misrepresented, I was not represented at all.He did not talk to me before my trial . I tried many times to contact him . He would not return my phone calls.He did not argue my case . I was very disappointed .as a result I got a severe sentence. He did not do anything for me.A poor public defender .
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17 Dec, 2013 by Anonymous
She failed to do the job she was assigned to do. She didn't conduct an investigation and clearly didn't read several documents that she billed as she had. She doesn't understand the difference between a court order, a motion and an ex parte report. She doesn't seem to know much about family law, billing practices or courtesy. She was secretive and liked treating everybody as if she was entitled to order around. Delivered a badly written product after her time was up that does not have any validity since she didn't even stamp it at the prothonatory. Her staff will talk endlessly without allowing you to state your point and will interrupt you at every chance. She made a judgment without having met us after her paralegal's behaviour was less than desirable. She doesn't have detective skills or any common sense. She doesn't understand teenagers and parental alienation, and she likes imposing her own views of the law and never learned manners either. I have always found Erie to be a cradle for bad lawyers, but she turned out to be even worse than my last one. I can't find anything good to say about this person other than her office being in a nice location with relatively easy parking.
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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.
