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23 Feb, 2022 by John
What to say about Tanya Helfand, Esq.?? Well, to start, by nature I am an exceedingly critical and pessimistic person who is able to filter out BS or anyone attempting to play me. So…with that being said, in Tanya you won’t get anything but Grade A++ service, no nonsense and, most importantly, a NO BS attorney who also cuts through any BS from the opposition. She represented me in a divorce action with the opposition being a large firm whose operating standard seemed be “we guarantee incompetence along with procrastination”. Yet, Tanya was always driving and pushing on my behalf. She is small in stature but don’t be fooled - with her you are getting a pit bull terrier in lawyer form. While I may sound like a public relations rep hired by her, I’m absolutely NOT - I’m just a fully satisfied customer who appreciated her top shelf service, her dedication to her profession and my needs.
Can she be brusque?? Yep…but only necessarily so in order to cut through the crap and keep you on track while keeping your fees down rather than let you blather on and run costs up with extraneous questions or emails.
Look, if you want someone who will tell you what you want to hear, make empty promises and blow smoke up your butt - look elsewhere. But if you want an attorney who will fight tooth & nail for you, always looking out for your best interests while also telling you like it is, Tanya Helfand is the best choice in an attorney…. anywhere.
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13 May, 2021 by Anonymous
Ms. Helfand and her team provided excellent service for me. Not only did they had my interests as a priority but more importantly they had my kids as they’re top priority. That to me is priceless. Highly recommend!
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01 Feb, 2021 by Alan
Ms. Helfand, Tanya is an A plus lawyer that will do whatever it takes to get the best result possible for you. What makes her an A plus lawyer? She knows the law, is broad minded, knows people, is intuitive and cares greatly. She will work on Sundays, Memorial Day Weekend, whatever it takes. She is very flexible as things change within your case. She will continuously pivot and adjust strategies during your case as things change. She cares deeply about your kids and will look out for their best interest as best as she can. She is not afraid to guide you in ways that she thinks are in your best interest. She is a lawyer for honest people that will want what’s best for themselves and their kids. She is frank, to the point and upfront. I can’t stress enough that if you are a good person, that is honest and caring, then Tanya is for you. She is honest and really cares. Her intuition will lead you on the proper path for your case. You need someone like her to get you through this hard process. She understands business and finance so she can guide you through complex situations. She works well with forensic accountants and focuses on the big picture while many attorneys and accountants do not. She works with you to figure out the parameters of where your case will fall out and then she does what she can to get you the best result possible. Her staff is extremely competent and friendly and makes the process as easy as possible. You do not realize how much work goes into a divorce including the work the client has to do. Make sure you have the right people backing you up.
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13 Jun, 2023 by Mike
I hired Dean based on positive online reviews and a colleague referral. Over the course of two years, Dean helped guide my family through a series of challenges in resolving an estate dispute, ultimately leading us to settlement. Dean is kind, pragmatic, and can de-escalate interpersonal conflict. He offers methodical advice and explains how best to approach situations, based on his years in practice. His knowledge of estate law and following up as needed helped create the opportunity for us to resolve our case. In summary, Dean is adept at navigating family challenges with kindness and patience, while seeing cases through.
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06 Oct, 2015 by Dragan
Dean is wonderful to work with. I hired Dean to help me with an issue in the family court. He explained my rights, the process, paperwork and got the result I wanted. His years of experience were evident every step of the way. Very intelligent, knowledgable, and thorough. In addition, I've also consulted Dean about a traffic issue, which ended in a satisfactory resolution as well. I would definitely work with Dean again. Highly recommend.
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16 Sep, 2015 by Bc
My wife and I hired Dean to assist us with a troublesome matter involving a roofer who did not perform work to our home up to standard code. Dean not only completely recouped our funds but exposed the roofer as fraudulent, thus preventing many others from engaging with him and experiencing the same disastrous results we did. Dean was methodical and purposeful, had great communication and was critical to having our matter resolved quickly and to our benefit.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Andre fernandes
30 Sep, 2024 by Lamar cabbell
You are doing a Great job for me. And keep up the good work! Thanks so much..!
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29 Sep, 2024 by Christine deleon
Very professional and timely handling of my Estate Planning documents. Thank you!
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12 May, 2022 by Carey
I've known Fred Shauger for about 10 years. During that time he has impressed me as a knowledgeable, creative and diligent attorney. I have referred several matters to him, all of which were dealt with promptly and professionally, with excellent outcomes. I would not hesitate to refer other matters to him.
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12 Mar, 2020 by Ray batiato
Mr Shauger represented me represented me when a promotional situation looked bleak.
Fred was tactful yet firm at bring the truth to light. His questions were direct and respectful.
Clearance Darrow could not have done a better closing.
Shauger has done a home closing and business related work too.
You will find thus this former County Prosecutor to be a kind, considerate and TENACIOUS attorney.
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31 Mar, 2017 by Holly
Fred has handled all of my real estate closings over the past 20 years and did a fabulous job.
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20 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
In 2013 I found myself in a very difficult situation I was going to be faced with the fact that after 26 years of marriage I was going to file for a divorce and I knew it was not going to be easy, So I began searching for an attorney I had met with two other attorneys before meeting with Mr. Pell. During our first meeting I felt so confident that he was the right attorney for me the process began.
With his relentless motivation and his knowledge of the law Mr. Pell demonstrated tremendous expertise compelling arguments that were extremely valuable to my case and proved dissipation of material assets and was able to get me a wonderful out come on my settlement.
Elliott Pell is an intelligent, capable, dedicated, and personable person. He is always quick on his
feet, with sensible reactions in all the circumstances I've seen him in. I feel confident in saying
that he is capable of handling any situation with thoughtfulness and maturity.
Sincerely,
K
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08 Mar, 2017 by Wayne odenbrett
You will notice shortly after you meet Carmen, she really cares. She knows how sensitive and emotional Family Law can be.
She asks all the right questions, and then will guide you through the process and be ready to serve in the future if and when circumstances change down the road. Do yourself a favor, before you decide on an Attorney, talk to Carmen first.
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17 Oct, 2013 by Dave
I went through a very lengthy, horrible, and expensive divorce. I retained the services of one of the finest, respected, and most renown Matrimonial attorneys in the country in 2002. I was officially divorced in 2004, yet my ex-wife continually served me with nonsense litigation against me regarding my two un-emancipated children for years to come, (especially since she then re-married- But to my surprise it was to her Matrimonial attorney so legal fees on her end were free and I was open prey). Is this painting an ugly enough picture out there for those of you whom are playing our home game?
As the years passed, my original attorney semi-retired. I then retained the services of another well known and established attorney to pick up the torch. Unfortunately, my original attorneys' services were so over the top regarding excellence, I was spoiled- This new guy, (whom shall remain nameless), was nowhere in his league. It didn't take long for me to fire him.
Devastated and frustrated, my accountant recommended me to a law firm that was, "under the radar," compared to what I was used to.
That's when I met Carmen. IMO, she's the female version of what I had in every sense of the word and every ingredient of what makes a truly outstanding attorney... Returns phone calls immediately, works weekends & holidays, and doesn't leave a detail behind. More importantly, she actually cares about her clients- As a 30 year Martial Arts student and instructor, I assure you, Carmen has a Black Belt in front of any Judge or complaintant.
The proof is in the pudding: Carmen has won every case for me hands down to the point where my ex-wife won't even bother to serve me with papers any longer because she knows she'll lose against her. That my friends is an incomparable accomplishment to every other lawyer I've retained.
Take it from someone who has spent close to a million dollars in Matrimonial legal fees over the years- Carmen is simply the best kept secret in the business... And I'll testify to that in any Court! Better yet, I think my ex-wife would also.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Andre fernandes
30 Sep, 2024 by Lamar cabbell
You are doing a Great job for me. And keep up the good work! Thanks so much..!
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29 Sep, 2024 by Christine deleon
Very professional and timely handling of my Estate Planning documents. Thank you!
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24 Oct, 2019 by Anonymous
I personally had a terrible experience with him and had to get a new lawyer in middle of my divorce which cost me so much money but it was the best decision I made.
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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.
