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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.
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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.
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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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06 Feb, 2020 by Anonymous
I went in for a consultation & it was very clear from the get-go that she was only concerned with one thing getting as many billable hours as possible out of you as she can. It was the most expensive and unuseful consultation that I have ever experienced by far.. I'm sure she may be a great lawyer, but she really needs to work on at least appearing as if she cares about your case and just how much money she can squeeze out of you
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10 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
My case is still in process, but so far I am very pleased with her. My case is very complex and she is extremely experienced and knowledgeable. She doesn't just say what you want to hear; she will tell you the pros and cons of each circumstance, and does her utmost to represent you. I did have issues from time to time at the beginning with her because I felt she and her staff were not as responsive as I thought necessary, so if this is a concern for you, she might not be a great choice (I'm type A, at least as far as this case is concerned, so I need to know things RIGHT NOW!). I've relaxed a bit and perhaps become more familiar with the glacial pace of justice, and she also maybe tailored her services to me and my anxieties, and I haven't experienced the crises I once did. I'm very pleased she's my lawyer. Strongly recommend!
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15 Oct, 2016 by Lynette
My situation was very complicated and having her as my lawyer was beyond my expectation. She is extremely knowledgeable and kept me informed of the case every step of the way. She guides me in making wise decisions throughout the proceedings and gave me the confidence that I need throughout this difficult process. She is wonderful, compassionate, very thorough, and someone that would fight for you.
Thank you Camilla for everything. You're simply the best! I highly recommend you!
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20 Sep, 2024 by Sofia taveras
Thank you ! You guys are the very BEST!!!
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09 Aug, 2024 by Li richard
To begin with, their service charge is reasonable and there's no hidden cost at all. Mr. Gellman deploys different legal strategies when handling your tickets/summonses. Office staff is friendly and when you text Mr. Gellman directly he always responds immediately. I highly recommend their services.
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01 Aug, 2024 by Gabriel lebron
Hired this lawyer to handle one of my cases and was a no show to my court date. Now it has affected my driving record. Thanks!
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20 Sep, 2024 by Sofia taveras
Thank you ! You guys are the very BEST!!!
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09 Aug, 2024 by Li richard
To begin with, their service charge is reasonable and there's no hidden cost at all. Mr. Gellman deploys different legal strategies when handling your tickets/summonses. Office staff is friendly and when you text Mr. Gellman directly he always responds immediately. I highly recommend their services.
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01 Aug, 2024 by Gabriel lebron
Hired this lawyer to handle one of my cases and was a no show to my court date. Now it has affected my driving record. Thanks!
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08 Feb, 2024 by Larissa
Upon meeting with Myra, I felt so calm. I felt welcomed. Invited. She was not judgemental. I spoke to her on a Friday and she made time for me on Monday to meet. She spent over two hours with me listening and then answering my questions. She's so knowledgeable, so she made sure to explain everything. She's right there in the heart of Queens by the Courts, so she's on the front lines dealing with Family Courts. She validated a lot of my questions and I felt very informed, confident. I consulted her and then hired her. I wouldn't be able to do this paperwork, it's so confusing even though she explained to me how to if I chose to not go with her. She always checked on me and followed up on my calls and messages promptly. Understand, she is a working lawyer, in the courts - so for her to be so responsive when I knew how busy she was in the courts as well, I was so impressed. Kind, thorough and favorable outcome for me. Eternally grateful for her expertise. I feel very lucky to have found her, like a needle in a haystack.
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07 Feb, 2024 by Cheeming
Wonderful attorney, she help me through a hard time and help me win my case. I would highly recommend her for any family related case.
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19 Jan, 2024 by Taslim
I have no regret using Mrs Myra E. Shapiro when I was going through my divorce. Myra stood by my side and fought my case for me all the way. Even when my case seemed bleeky she fought for my justice. Also, the amount of work she put in and an affordable cost was surprising to me. At times when I needed advise and had no one to turn to I would call Myra and she would encourage me positively. Thank you again for standing by my side Myra I really appreciate the love you have for your job and your clients. I highly recommend Mr. Myra E. Shapiro to persons who are looking for a good attorney. I rate her a 5 plus stars!!
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05 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
I went to Alyssa traumatized and vulnerable, similar to most people seeking a divorce attorney. After 5 long years, I paid her $130,000 and never even went to trial. I was left with no child support from an abusive ex-husband along with shared legal custody. She made countless mistakes on drafts of documents and engaged in an extremely adversarial dialogue with me when corrections needed to be made. I was so worn down and scared throughout the process, that I didn't protect myself against her. I should have switched counsel early on. Hindsight is 20-20. Aside from marrying my ex, hiring her was the biggest mistake of my life.
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02 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous
This has been a nightmare from day one. This woman Alyssa Eisner was referred by my best friend and has just taken me for a ride.
She was hired to represent me and has done nothing to help me. All she cares about is her ego and dragging matters out to extort as much money as possible from her clients,.
I have a court date right after 4th of July weekend and she has just abandoned me right before my court appearance. I paid her a large retainer just a few weeks ago and she is asking me for an additional 10k and we have never even seen a courtroom.
She is rude and extremely arrogant. I am left with no representation and no more money days before my appearance. My only hope is to call the bar association and ask for help and at the very least file a complaint.
I lost all my Money with this firm and am still at square one. DO NOT EVER USE THIS FIRM THEY INHUMANE VULTURES!!!
I am worried about losing my child and she is using my emotions against me and refuses to show up in court After I’ve already paid her thousands. She charged me hundreds of dollars for any email or communication. I am left praying to god for help at this point as she has left me broke and alone with no representation!! She lacks moral compass and shows a complete lack of empathy!!
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21 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
This lawyer will charm you and ‘yes’ you to death on your initial consultation. You will think that she will go to ‘bat’ for you.
Once she has you as a client, her demeanor will change to a cold, crass, inaccessible lawyer who is incapable of empathy or caring.
You can count on her not returning calls ..you can count on her not doing her homework ..bullying you and finally ..taking your money and then not fighting on your behalf.
If she had a shred of decency or honor she would and could have advised this client that their particular case did not warrant using a lawyer but instead she collected 10,000 dollars and then requested additional money...despite the fact that their was a cap on the fee .
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16 Jun, 2021 by Jayson
I wish I heard of AVVO.com prior to hiring Mr. Nivins office. At least then, I could have read the only review left by an actual client, to which she descibes the exact same unfortunate interaction I experienced with his office.
1). I never actually got a chance to speak with Mr Nivin until after he billed me for work that was never done.
2). The worst part of the experience is not that he refuses to send my file, but like the first reviewers experience, he shared sensitive information with the opposing party. He actually has no problem threatening to disclose sensitive information in carefully worded emails (which I have kept and would be happy to share with anyone).
He is currently holding my entire case for randsom because I refused to pay the first invoice in which there are charges for conferences which never took place, along with a host of other outlandish charges. The sad part is he will most likely get away with it because I don't have the money to fight this kind of shakedown.
Lastly, I would really pay very special attention to his video advertisement on the company website. He talks directly into the camera about experiences and services offered. Watch his body language. I'm kicking myself for not trusting my initial impression of this video and also, for not reading other reviews first. (I'm sure he will either take down the video or replace it by the time this gets published).
Beware.... If he can take all of my unemployment / pandemic money without doing a fraction of the work, who knows what he will do with yours?
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19 Jun, 2020 by Jan
Mr Nivin was my lawyer for 3 almost 4 years. I retained him for a family court matter. I had my cousin's child. When I asked Mr. Nivin to help me get temporary custody so that I could remove the baby from foster care he instead requested that the court release him to me and just transfer the supervision to ACS. I asked him why he claimed temporary custody I would have to get fingerprinted. I told him I did not mind. I just wanted the child out of the system. With the child in the system I still would need a lawyer to continue to appear for me to protect my rights having temporary custody would have cut his billing off. The ACS worker told me to file for full custody so I did the papers myself and after I did that Mr. Nivin said he could represent me in that case. He failed to prosecute it though. He made appearance after appearance billing me $500 minimum even for appearances that were just 10 or 15 minute adjournments. One summer I was billed for 6 different adjournments that took less than 15 minutes a total of $3000. After I complained he said he would lower the price and charge me by the hour for those adjournments which would have cost me $60 to $90 an appearance. However the bills he sent did not reflect this instead he continued to charge me at that high rate. Eventually after more than a year and no movement whatsoever in my custody case I removed Mr. Nivin. I retained new counsel. I told Mr Nivin some information I do not wish to say here while he represented me. Somehow the opposing counsel on the case who shared office space with Mr Nivin found out that information after I terminated Mr. Nivin. Motions were made and it cost me a fortune to defend with my new counsel. I trusted Mr. Nivin cause a friend recommended. I did a much job with a lawyer I got from bar association after him. He took over my custody case and I got full legal custody in a hearing within a month of retaining him. I should have gone to the bar sooner. I would not have accrued so manu years of attorneys fees. Some attorneys help you resolve your case quickly some drag it on to keep making money off of you. Even if that is not in your best interest.
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13 Jan, 2016 by Hr
FROM CONSULTATION THROUGH TO THE END OF MY CASE, MR. NIVIN PERFORMED HIS JOB IN THE MOST PROFESSIONAL AND ETHICAL MANNER. HE WAS ACCESSIBLE, PLEASANT TO TALK TO, AND RESPONSIVE WITHIN A VERY TIMELY FASHION, AS WAS HIS STAFF. HE IS EXTREMELY KNOWLEDGEABLE IN FAMILY LAW, AND HIS STRATEGY REFLECTS HIS INTELLIGENCE. HE DID A THOROUGH JOB PREPARING FOR OUR COURT APPEARANCE; I WAS IMPRESSED WITH HIS PERFORMANCE IN COURT, AND HE GOT OUR CASE DISMISSED QUICKLY. AFTER HAVING EXPERIENCED MORE THAN ONE FAMILY ATTORNEY, I CAN SAY THAT MR. NIVIN POSSESSES EVERYTHING YOU WOULD WANT IN AN ATTORNEY, AND AM SORRY I DIDN'T FIND HIM SOONER. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!!
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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.
