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5.0
20 Reviews
5.0
1021 Reviews
05 Sep, 2024 by Remy casado (genuinerealtors.remy)
Thank you David Gross for your patience and your excellent work in representing us in our case (MJC). You were very professional and attentive to detail. I will definitely recommend your services to my friends and family.
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31 Jul, 2024 by Sarah atwood
John Gemelli represented me in my extremely difficult divorce. Over the three years that it took he always took every call, was completely available when not in court and is the most brilliant legal mind you can have on your side. Hire him. Hire his partners. They are excellence personified and will get you through all the hard times pertaining to your case. I can not express my gratitude enough that he exists as a divorce attorney, for how well he handled my case.
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31 Jul, 2024 by Frank d
I started the divorce process with another lawyer. I was very unhappy with his service. I was referred to John Gemelli. I am so glad that I made the change. John was excellent. Josephine was the main attorney on my case. Josephine is a star. My divorce was a long arduous process due to a business appraisal. Josephine was always extremely responsive, honest and gave me tough love when I needed it. I am very happy with the deal that we made. I’d recommend Josephine Marino, John Gemelli and the entire staff to anyone in need of divorce attorneys, you will be in great hands! Thank you!
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05 Sep, 2024 by Remy casado (genuinerealtors.remy)
Thank you David Gross for your patience and your excellent work in representing us in our case (MJC). You were very professional and attentive to detail. I will definitely recommend your services to my friends and family.
Read more
31 Jul, 2024 by Sarah atwood
John Gemelli represented me in my extremely difficult divorce. Over the three years that it took he always took every call, was completely available when not in court and is the most brilliant legal mind you can have on your side. Hire him. Hire his partners. They are excellence personified and will get you through all the hard times pertaining to your case. I can not express my gratitude enough that he exists as a divorce attorney, for how well he handled my case.
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31 Jul, 2024 by Frank d
I started the divorce process with another lawyer. I was very unhappy with his service. I was referred to John Gemelli. I am so glad that I made the change. John was excellent. Josephine was the main attorney on my case. Josephine is a star. My divorce was a long arduous process due to a business appraisal. Josephine was always extremely responsive, honest and gave me tough love when I needed it. I am very happy with the deal that we made. I’d recommend Josephine Marino, John Gemelli and the entire staff to anyone in need of divorce attorneys, you will be in great hands! Thank you!
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05 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
A law firm which I recommend all those who are looking for a friendly ,sincere , and 100% professional ,fast service for a very resonable price !.
MrAngel Hristove is a great attorney( Family Law)who is very friendly ,exceptional and highly professional, sincere and prompt and thus he is an attorny and a humanbeing to be remembered and to be recommended..
Thanks a million to the Law Firm of Attorney Donald Masterodomenico and Crew.
Review By M C R
( a highly satisfied client and customer in the serviced year May 2023)
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23 May, 2022 by Charmaine
I had the greatest experience with this law office. Everyone person I spoke with was professional and friendly. The papers were filed within two weeks and my divorce came through in less than two months with no issues. I was informed every step of the way right up to the end. Thank you for your very personable and professional service
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30 Aug, 2019 by Rena s
My divorce was fast easy no issues the staff are very professional and helpful.
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5.0
20 Reviews
17 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
Ms. Dahlen helped me with the process of my divorce. She was patient to listen to me, she was helpful, she explained the process clearly, including the amount of time it would take, she answered every question I had, and she returned telephone calls and answered emails as soon as possible.
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18 May, 2023 by Nicole
I found Rebecca in the middle of the pandemic after reaching out to several lawyers and I'm so happy that I found her. Rebecca helped get me divorced from a man that was no longer living in the United States. Rebecca is very knowledgeable in her field, I felt comfortable asking questions and she explained everything that was to be expected in great detail. I never felt like I didn't know what was going on and she kept me updated on everything that was happening along the way. I could always call or email her and got a quick response. Rebecca was pretty transparent and I trusted her. I would definitely recommend her if you're in need of legal representation. Thank you Rebecca for giving me a fresh start, I'm so happy I found you.
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21 Feb, 2023 by Gail
Rebecca Dahlen is a wonderful attorney. I would highly recommend her law firm to anyone who is in need of help. She represented me during my divorce which was a very stressful and confusing time for me. Throughout the whole process she was always available to answer my questions and inform me with the best options for me. Knowing I was in good hands helped me to be relaxed and trust Rebecca’s recommendations. Rebecca works hard to help her clients even those who may be experiencing financial hardships. She knows the law and works very hard on your behalf. She is very respectful to her client and respects their wishes. If you are looking for a great attorney to fight for your rights, I would definitely recommend working with Rebecca.
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14 Dec, 2020 by Elena
Divorce, even under amicable -ish terms is painful. Fluctuating emotions and unsolicited advice from family and friends can make even the most rational and clear headed think they are losing their mind. But when you have a narcissistic ex who is determined to make your life a living hell - this is when you need Richard to step in and fight for you. Richard is a no nonsense voice of reason kind of guy. Straight shooter who sees the bullshit a mile away. He will act as mediator when needed and show his claws when they are due. My divorce was extremely difficult and very long. It lasted 3 years with child custody and financial battle. His advice, direction, predictions were always spot on. He knows the court system in Queens inside out. He knows the judges and very well respected in court. When I was at my lowest point, indecisive and out of my realm of knowledge Richard made sure to use his extensive expertise and strongly push for terms on my behalf. Consistently assisting me in making difficult decisions and prioritizing both my and my children's needs both presently and in the future. The light at the end of the proverbial tunnel is glorious and I'm so thankful that Richard was able to help me get there without a costly trial and skillfully negotiated the settlement. Have a chat with him and you'll feel like you're in the best of hands. End your search now. He is your guy. I promise.
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09 Mar, 2018 by Jodi
I can't say enough good things about Richard Beckerman, of Beckerman & Granados. I hired him to represent me in a post-divorce judgement enforcement matter. The case grew to be quite complicated. Richard handled everything with patience and professionalism. He never dropped the ball, and stood up for my rights. He charges flat fees that are very reasonable. Richard is easy to talk to and has a fierce determination and a keen insight. He knows the court system inside and out, and will broker the best possible deal for you. He knew what was in my best interest even before I did! The best advice I can give you today is this: If you need a divorce/family law attorney, reach out to Richard Beckerman, before your ex does.
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29 Jan, 2018 by Robert
I was extremely concerned because my wife hired a pit-bull attorney. I was recommended the law office of Donald Mastrodomenico by a very high Manhattan firm. Richard knows the Queens court. He knows Queens culture. My ex-wife complained about how her lawyer was looking to create strife in order get more money. I never felt that way. In fact, he spent more time with me teaching me about how the divorce court works in Queens, which was not the case for my ex-wife's with her more expensive lawyer. I always felt he looked out for my best interests. He truly protected my best interests. Once we worked out what was feasible and what I wanted, he was able to work my ex-wife's attorney to get a shared custody settlement that worked for me and was best for my two daughters. I feel very lucky to have found him.
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18 Mar, 2019 by Jackie
Lara is an outstanding Family Law attorney; she is extremely ethical and highly intelligent. Her ability to quickly understand the most complex issues and develop winning strategies is superb. Lara knows the Supreme and Family Courts’ players and processes inside and out. Lara has been my back bone for over two years supporting me throughout the most difficult times and providing me not only with the right legal advise, but also with the peace of mind I needed day over day, year over year. I trust Lara with my heart, as I know she tirelessly works to achieve the best possible outcome for my child and me within the boundaries of the Law. Lara approaches the most intense and stressful situations in a calm and compassionate manner with superb knowledge and strategic application of the Law.
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04 Mar, 2019 by Nora
I appreciate that Lara Traum, Esq. thoroughly explained each page of my estate planning package, answered all my questions, and offered future follow up. I will definitely recommend her to my family and friends.
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12 Apr, 2018 by Nadia
My ex-husband an I used Lara for our mediation. She kept us calm when it got a little heated and managed to not only provide us with perfect legal guidance - she also made the entire process easier for us emotionally via her genuine, kind and patient personality. I can not speak highly enough of her and (as a result) already recommended her in my circle friends and business associates.
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22 Jun, 2019 by Anonymous
I highly recommend Alexandra Mishail's office. Her and secretary are very professional and helpful, they answered all of my questions and got me the best result for my divorce. I'm extremely happy and grateful.
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14 Jul, 2017 by Mazal s
Alexandra and her staff are amazing. They walked me through my divorce and helped me get what I was entitled to. I would definitely recommend her to anyone who is looking to get a divorce.
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11 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
Ms. Mishail did my divorce. Not only is she knowledgeable, but she really understands what her client needs and shows compassion to the situation. I also really appreciated that she is easily accessible.
She got me the result I wanted. I would definitely recommend her.
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06 Oct, 2010 by Rosemarie j. livreri
Allan has been a true blessing in my life. When I first came to him, I felt worthless and awful, he assured me I wasn't and made me see my life in a very different / positive view and for that I am truly grateful that I choose such a caring individual. I highly recommend Allan to serve any individual who seeks his help and would assure they get the best advice and assistance but more than that they get his true genuine concern and care.
Sincerely,
Rosemarie J. Livreri
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06 Oct, 2010 by Rosemarie
I was distraught when I finally made an appointment to see Mr. Bloomfield.
He was very sympathetic to our situation and was honest about what he could do for us. No baloney. He told us what we needed to do and we did it. If your records are organized, the process is simple. He was really wonderful for us.
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17 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
Lindsey has been my immigration attorney for 2 years now she is highly professional, she had work with my case very carefully. My case turn to be more complicated than expect and she was able to manage and work will all the possibility there is in the immigration laws to help me in my case. We are still working together to finalized and i can be more happier I highly recommend her for any complicated immigration case.
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04 May, 2015 by Lindsay
Mrs. Rosenberg's attention to detail and willingness to fully advocate for her clients is exception. She always takes the time to ensure that her clients fully understand the legal issues. She is an excellent attorney and I highly recommend her for any immigration matter.
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16 Mar, 2018 by Anonymous
We hired Fenisha Williams to work on a very difficult divoce case...not because of the case itself, but difficult because of the Defendant. She was able to view the case from all sides, utilized her previous experience to help get us the results we were seeking, and she also provided clarification to the Defendant on a number of conflicts, which allowed us to expedite the case! And, she's funny! I would recommend her to anyone who's going through a different divorce! She's fantastic! Thanks, Fenisha!
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15 Mar, 2018 by Johnny
Fenisha represented me on a divorce case. She was wonderful from start to finish. Excellent lawyer and as I said, great human being. She handled the case as if it were her own divorce. Very understanding and knowledgeable.
Definite would hire her again, hopefully I never have to.
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18 Mar, 2022 by William
Olga handled my very challenging divorce. Trust me challenging is only the tip of the iceberg. She took over my case after 4 previous years of difficulty. She was able to finally get my JOD approx. 1 month ago after 2 1/2 more years of litigation. Probably would have been completed sooner but COVID shutdowns got in the way. She is compassionate and honest, but can be as tough and assertive when needed. I highly recommend her and I wish that I had her counsel from the beginning. I was very lucky to have her as my attorney and I highly recommend her. Great attorney and person!!!!!!
She has offices in long Island and Queens County, NY
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30 Oct, 2015 by Sylwia
Mrs. Olga Rodriguez is an amazing attorney. I had a pleasure having her as my attorney with custody and divorce .She is extremely professional and compassionate. Mrs Rodriguez helped me throught my most difficult times in my life by answering all my guestions , always being available and guiding me through the court process step by step which could be very difficult, scary and confusing. She is very intelligent , straight forward and honest .
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26 Jan, 2018 by C
I had a consultation over the phone with Mr Granados. All my questions were clearly answered, he gave me some good information and was very patient. Without a doubt I will contact him if I have a child support issue in the future. His office is specialized in Family laws giving only expert's answers to client in this categories.
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05 Dec, 2017 by Miguel
She worked on my case since day one , and the outcome was great . I was totally satisfied with her ability to help me . My judge did what she said because she knew the law better than the judge !!
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21 Mar, 2009 by Anonymous
compassionate; driven to understand every nuance of my matter; unafraid to addresss the difficult or apolitical issue; excellent advocate
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17 Jul, 2017 by Bhanmattie
Mr. Gargiulo represented my granddaughter in our custody case in June 2017. He was very patient and compassionate and listened to my granddaughter. Mr. Gargiulo made my granddaughter feel at ease to open up and talk to about her feelings to both him and to the judge. He looked out for her best interests and fought hard on her behalf. I would definitely recommend him as a lawyer for the child in any custody case. My family’s positive outcome was in part thanks to him.
Sincerest Thanks from Bhanmattie Hulasiya and family.
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09 Dec, 2020 by Manjeet singh
08 Feb, 2018 by Lucky singh
👍🏻
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29 Oct, 2017 by Vicky multani
5.0
4 Reviews
4.9
1965 Reviews
02 Oct, 2024 by Julian puma
Excelente servicio , muy amables y eficaces muy satisfecho con su servicio
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30 Sep, 2024 by Angela santana
30 Sep, 2024 by Dudley henrys
Very professional. I am greatly satisfied with the service
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5.0
2 Reviews
4.9
1964 Reviews
02 Oct, 2024 by Julian puma
Excelente servicio , muy amables y eficaces muy satisfecho con su servicio
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30 Sep, 2024 by Angela santana
30 Sep, 2024 by Dudley henrys
Very professional. I am greatly satisfied with the service
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5.0
10 Reviews
4.9
542 Reviews
24 Aug, 2024 by Kumarie bharrat
23 Aug, 2024 by Noel ignacio
Fast with following up and really helpful
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23 Aug, 2024 by Ayesha
Davidoff Law was very professional, consistent, timely, and transparent. I was hit by a driver that fled the scene so my options were limited for legal help. Despite these unfortunate circumstances, it’s clear to me that Davidoff Law’s partners and paralegals tried their hardest to get me the best settlement possible from NY state. When my out of state family and I had questions about my options and eventual compensation (a no-fault claim with NY state) they did not hesitate to get on a video call and clarify things. In this sense, they truly feel like a family practice. I cannot recommend them enough.
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02 Oct, 2024 by Julian puma
Excelente servicio , muy amables y eficaces muy satisfecho con su servicio
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30 Sep, 2024 by Angela santana
30 Sep, 2024 by Dudley henrys
Very professional. I am greatly satisfied with the service
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02 Oct, 2024 by Julian puma
Excelente servicio , muy amables y eficaces muy satisfecho con su servicio
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30 Sep, 2024 by Angela santana
30 Sep, 2024 by Dudley henrys
Very professional. I am greatly satisfied with the service
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21 Aug, 2024 by Gina sanabria
Angel was amazing helping me get my divorce. Everything was quick, easy and seamless. Reasonable price. I was amazed at how quickly things were done. Thank you so much for making this somewhat difficult issue easier.
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20 Jul, 2024 by Sam alvayero
Very past due on writing this review but feel compelled to at this moment. I worked with Angel who was very easy to communicate with, responded impossibly quick to any questions or concerns, and got a finalized divorce within three weeks. Extremely happy with the professionalism and attention to detail this practice has and the quick results. It was a breeze to get done what my ex had dragged his feet on for YEARS and I was shocked that it was so simple and straightforward working with Angel, and of course the fast turn-around time. Highly recommend this practice!
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18 Jul, 2024 by Kenrick kaladeen
Very professional, excellent service and a fast result. Customer s service is on point and friendly. Would recommend anyone to use this firm to do all divorce, custody, and child support. I filed my divorce and got it back in a month. I'm very happy.
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02 Oct, 2024 by Julian puma
Excelente servicio , muy amables y eficaces muy satisfecho con su servicio
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30 Sep, 2024 by Angela santana
30 Sep, 2024 by Dudley henrys
Very professional. I am greatly satisfied with the service
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25 Sep, 2024 by Amy s
If you are looking for a lawyer who combines expertise, professionalism, and genuine care for their clients, look no further. I am extremely grateful for Seth Rosenfeld and would recommend him to anyone in need of legal services.
In addition, I have to mention Seth Rosenfeld’s secretary, Teresa, who is truly one of a kind. She’s always professional, patient, happy, and caring. Teresa consistently goes above and beyond to assist in every way possible, making the entire process so much smoother and more manageable. Her warm and helpful attitude makes a world of difference, and she’s a true asset to the team.
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24 Sep, 2024 by John moskowitz
Working with Randy’s office was absolutely great. They stayed on top of our case and I can’t recommend them highly enough.
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21 Sep, 2024 by Ej kim
You gonna pay to delete this one too?
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25 Sep, 2024 by Amy s
If you are looking for a lawyer who combines expertise, professionalism, and genuine care for their clients, look no further. I am extremely grateful for Seth Rosenfeld and would recommend him to anyone in need of legal services.
In addition, I have to mention Seth Rosenfeld’s secretary, Teresa, who is truly one of a kind. She’s always professional, patient, happy, and caring. Teresa consistently goes above and beyond to assist in every way possible, making the entire process so much smoother and more manageable. Her warm and helpful attitude makes a world of difference, and she’s a true asset to the team.
Read more
24 Sep, 2024 by John moskowitz
Working with Randy’s office was absolutely great. They stayed on top of our case and I can’t recommend them highly enough.
Read more
21 Sep, 2024 by Ej kim
You gonna pay to delete this one too?
Read more
25 Sep, 2024 by Amy s
If you are looking for a lawyer who combines expertise, professionalism, and genuine care for their clients, look no further. I am extremely grateful for Seth Rosenfeld and would recommend him to anyone in need of legal services.
In addition, I have to mention Seth Rosenfeld’s secretary, Teresa, who is truly one of a kind. She’s always professional, patient, happy, and caring. Teresa consistently goes above and beyond to assist in every way possible, making the entire process so much smoother and more manageable. Her warm and helpful attitude makes a world of difference, and she’s a true asset to the team.
Read more
24 Sep, 2024 by John moskowitz
Working with Randy’s office was absolutely great. They stayed on top of our case and I can’t recommend them highly enough.
Read more
21 Sep, 2024 by Ej kim
You gonna pay to delete this one too?
Read more
25 Sep, 2024 by Amy s
If you are looking for a lawyer who combines expertise, professionalism, and genuine care for their clients, look no further. I am extremely grateful for Seth Rosenfeld and would recommend him to anyone in need of legal services.
In addition, I have to mention Seth Rosenfeld’s secretary, Teresa, who is truly one of a kind. She’s always professional, patient, happy, and caring. Teresa consistently goes above and beyond to assist in every way possible, making the entire process so much smoother and more manageable. Her warm and helpful attitude makes a world of difference, and she’s a true asset to the team.
Read more
24 Sep, 2024 by John moskowitz
Working with Randy’s office was absolutely great. They stayed on top of our case and I can’t recommend them highly enough.
Read more
21 Sep, 2024 by Ej kim
You gonna pay to delete this one too?
Read more
25 Sep, 2024 by Amy s
If you are looking for a lawyer who combines expertise, professionalism, and genuine care for their clients, look no further. I am extremely grateful for Seth Rosenfeld and would recommend him to anyone in need of legal services.
In addition, I have to mention Seth Rosenfeld’s secretary, Teresa, who is truly one of a kind. She’s always professional, patient, happy, and caring. Teresa consistently goes above and beyond to assist in every way possible, making the entire process so much smoother and more manageable. Her warm and helpful attitude makes a world of difference, and she’s a true asset to the team.
Read more
24 Sep, 2024 by John moskowitz
Working with Randy’s office was absolutely great. They stayed on top of our case and I can’t recommend them highly enough.
Read more
21 Sep, 2024 by Ej kim
You gonna pay to delete this one too?
Read more
05 Sep, 2024 by Remy casado (genuinerealtors.remy)
Thank you David Gross for your patience and your excellent work in representing us in our case (MJC). You were very professional and attentive to detail. I will definitely recommend your services to my friends and family.
Read more
31 Jul, 2024 by Sarah atwood
John Gemelli represented me in my extremely difficult divorce. Over the three years that it took he always took every call, was completely available when not in court and is the most brilliant legal mind you can have on your side. Hire him. Hire his partners. They are excellence personified and will get you through all the hard times pertaining to your case. I can not express my gratitude enough that he exists as a divorce attorney, for how well he handled my case.
Read more
31 Jul, 2024 by Frank d
I started the divorce process with another lawyer. I was very unhappy with his service. I was referred to John Gemelli. I am so glad that I made the change. John was excellent. Josephine was the main attorney on my case. Josephine is a star. My divorce was a long arduous process due to a business appraisal. Josephine was always extremely responsive, honest and gave me tough love when I needed it. I am very happy with the deal that we made. I’d recommend Josephine Marino, John Gemelli and the entire staff to anyone in need of divorce attorneys, you will be in great hands! Thank you!
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22 Mar, 2024 by Jamie
Just got off the phone with this law office, I don’t recommend. The guy I spoke with was rude and showed no compassion. Please skip this place
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15 May, 2023 by Los consejos del ito by juan carlos espinoza
This is my first time leaving a Review on Internet... but i have to do this ... guys... If you ever need help with an employment attorney.. dont think it twice... go see Mr Forman, this guy is amaizing... nobody better then him... so kind and professional...
Thank so much once Again...
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21 Mar, 2023 by Keyijajo mark
I consulted Mr. Forman about employee issues several times. He is knowledgeable and helpful. He always responses quickly. Highly recommend, best of the best. Thank you, Mr Forman.
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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.
