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25 Mar, 2022 by Mark keeling
11 Dec, 2020 by Denise steinhardt
12 Oct, 2020 by George steen
21 Mar, 2023 by Sara michele berman
Outstanding Performance gets the job DONE .Extremely thorough ,and beyond smart.
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19 Apr, 2013 by Jonathan
Divorce is obviously a quite stressful time, so it is VITAL that your lawyer does their job professionally, swiftly, and for lack of a better word expertly. My stress level was quite high during this time period, but Mr. Levine made the process easier to deal with. I was well informed all the way thru the process, and I never felt as though it would not be resolved to my satisfaction. Mr. Levine knows the law inside and out, and I can say w/ 100% certainly he will be the ONLY lawyer I recommend in this arena. Highly recommended!!!
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23 Mar, 2013 by David
While I had worked with a few attorneys, I did not get the results I now have in place until I met and hired Mr. Levine. I met him through chance and and consider myself extremly fortunate to have met him. It might not have been great circumstances given the situation with my ex-wife but it turned around very quickly once Mr. Levine was able to use his years of experience and savy negotiation skills. Mr. Levine returned calls promptly and even offered advice to me DURING THE SUPER BOWL. I know of very few attorneys who would have spoken to one of their clients during the Super Bowl. There was not a time in which I called him that I had to wait too long for a response.
The staff at Mr. Levine's firm was equally responsive and professional while dealing with my case. I am glad now when I have to deal with my ex-wife because I know I have Mr. Levine and his firm on my side if I needed them again. I must also say that knowing I haqve Mr. Levine's on my side has kept my ex-wife in check and not so ready to go to lawyers to try to deal with any issues we might disagree with about our children,. I am with my kids half the time and I can say this is because of Mr. Levine's guidance and knowledge.
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28 Jul, 2012 by Anonymous
Jon handled my divorce and got me a wonderful result. Judge really respected him and my husband's lawyer knew he couldn't get away with nonsensical motions. I kept custody of my child and received a large finacial award because Jon knew his stuff. His bill was fair and he earned every penny. He got me through a trying time with skill and compassion.
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11 Aug, 2010 by Melina
He got me my result and was very responsive. You couldn't ask for anymore from a lawyer.
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11 Jun, 2010 by Anonymous
I had a very complicated case and Kroll really understood the issues and obtained a great result for me in Court. He was worth everything I paid because of the result. He was aggressive yet compassionate.
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18 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
Joey is smart and very calm. She is super professional and is very detail oriented and honest. I highly recommend her.
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28 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
I highly recommend Attorney Michaels. She is sharp and prepares well for court. I was glad to have her on my side as she fought off the numerous and unfounded vicious attacks of my ex with vigor and expertise.
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30 Sep, 2014 by Joann balipezz brooklyn ny
I thank God everyday for my Lawyer Joey Michaels...she has gotten me thru the most difficult time of my life in my divorce...I was and still am A stay at home mom raising my beautiful children even tho my ex husband thought he could abandon us running away with his mistress n leaving us with nothing...Out of my two children my son is handicap n in a wheelchair full time...my struggles have been beyond horrible to go thru n even horrible for others to hear and see what I was left to deal with...my Amazing Lawyer Joey Michaels kicked Ass...she is so professional yet such a Pit Bull in the court room...she knows her stuff n she's very sharp with her words and tactics....I recommend her to anyone in desperate need to prove the Evil wrong...Joey Michaels has a huge loving heart and she feels your situation n she truly cares...I have trusted her with my life and most importantly my children's lives...she has not let me down...I consider her my guardian angel and I can't thank her enough in believing in me n never giving up...she's given me the courage n strength that I've needed thru my divorce process...if you are afraid n feel lost n don't know who you can trust in looking n choosing a divorce lawyer then please take it from me n go for Joey Michaels...I promise you that you won't regret it...she is exactly what anyone going thru a divorce n in search of a lawyer needs....she will forever be in my prayers n I will forever consider her family.
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01 Oct, 2018 by Carese
I used him in 2010. He helped me. He didn't judge me or make me feel like I was the worst person for getting in trouble. He even helped me a few years later when I tried to get a job and at the end of my training they tried to tell me I couldn't get the job because of what I went through. He called them and I was able to get the job. He is the best and I will recommend him every time.
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16 Aug, 2014 by Barbara m.
Mr. Davis came to me by recommendation. He is an honest, genuine and upstanding person in whom I have the utmost confidence. Due to the sensitive nature of my situation I can not be specific except to say that he is a "straight shooter". He is completely upfront and honest. At no time did I ever feel as if he wasn't completely on top of the case. His easy confidence in the court room and out is reassuring. I know first hand that the district attorneys office and judges respect him as well. His entire office staff is kind, respectful and understanding.
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27 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
Mr. Vance came highly recommended to me and was my second Lawyer. Unlike my first attorney, Paul was smart, efficient and honest. He took the time to explain exactly what my options were and was a force of nature in the courtroom.
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29 Sep, 2014 by Benjamin
Mr. Vance is a consummate professional. He is sincere and honest in his dealing
with me. He is extremely patient and smart. I feel so confident that my interests are
protected!
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22 Mar, 2016 by Linda
Attorney Carolyn Kersch was absolutely unbelievable from beginning to end! She never wasted a second of my time or money and truly accomplished everything I wanted and more! I placed all of my faith in her at a very vulnerable time in my life and she delivered tenfold. I will never forget the compassion and strength with which this woman committed her knowledge and passion to my case and truly helped my children and I forge a better future.
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14 Mar, 2016 by Dr. d.s.
As a physician, going through a divorce and custody litigation has been the most stressful thing I have ever endured. It’s a path that I don’t wish for anyone to cross. When I arrived at this crossroad, I reached out to several attorneys when I lived in New York City. I had lots of questions, was full of anxiety and felt lost. A close friend of mine referred me to Carolyn D. Kersch of Samuelson, Hause & Samuelson. This law office concentrates on matrimonial and family law, and they have an extremely experienced staff. You can do your research and background check on every attorney, and you should, just as I had done. You can hire the most expensive one in town, and there are plenty of them out there. But what you need is someone who is more than just a lawyer during those times; you need a friend you can trust. Carolyn’s calmness, professionalism, experience, and tender loving care is what got me through this ordeal. I couldn’t be more satisfied with the outcome and the hard work that she put forth for me. Her integrity, honesty and conscientiousness were invaluable to me. She kept me strong and focused in the right direction at all times. Going through a divorce is foreign and knowing she was there helped me so much. I knew the moment we met I could completely trust her and that only grew stronger as we worked together. I couldn’t have done this without her. To this day, I can truly call her my friend.
Dr. D.S., formerly of NYC
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11 Apr, 2016 by Joe
Having both excellent skill and uncompromising integrity, I have hired Eric for representation in will/estate and real estate matters. I have referred others to Eric for similar needs as well as criminal and divorce representation, and I received great feedback. In addition to his superior legal abilities, he makes you feel like your case is the only one that matters. Whether criminal or civil in nature, call Eric Prusan first; if your case is outside his area of expertise, he will tell you so and not string you along.
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07 Apr, 2016 by Patrick
Being in the law enforcement community I have a unique and sometimes negative opinion of most lawyers. I usually observe monetary interest trump the truth and the clients interest. However , Eric Prusan clearly demonstrates that he's not that type of lawyer., He was articulate, knowledgable and instead of billable hours he provided exceptional clarity. He was always available to answer my questions, phone calls or emails. A professional with integrity and refreshing ethical core valves. I certainly recommend Eric Prusan and I am confident that he will provide a smooth a efficient process to whatever your legal needs
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22 Mar, 2018 by Elizabeth faif
When I had to fire my prior divorce attorney, I didn't know where to start. I completely lost faith in all lawyers, but Richard Feinberg managed to rebuild my trust and helped me to navigate through my complicated divorce. Finding a reliable, honest and dedicated attorney is not an easy task. The process itself can be as tiresome, complicated and confusing. Richard Feinberg put my mind at ease by clearly explaining my options and providing sound legal advice on how to proceed—always mindful that my son was involved. He proved to me that he wanted to protect me as his client and defend my rights, not by words but by his actions. He took the time to listen to all my concerns and provided honest, straightforward answers. Richard did everything in his power to complete my case with the sole purpose of trying to get me as much money as possible and making sure I would be happy with the outcome. I trust him as I would trust my own father.
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29 Apr, 2015 by Joey
I had the good fortune to meet Mrs. Levitan when she and my mother, Dr. Jeanne Pizzo, were working with the New Democratic Coalition. A few years later an "Rx Drug Abuse Issue" led to my own brush with the criminal justice system and Mrs. Levitan and her associates handed it brilliantly. I did what I was mandated to do and, consequently, I do not have ANY criminal record at all. I learned from my mistakes and am now a successful career English educator, complete with a PhD from Mrs. Levitan's alma mater, NYU. I recall observing her in Court. Now that I've been honored by my colleagues as a "Master Teacher" and "Teacher of the Year" several times, I KNOW what peer recognition feels like — and that's what I felt when Mrs. Levitan was arguing a case. She negotiated with the DA's office and then negotiated some more and achieved a plea bargain (Disorderly Person) that was a galaxy away from the original charges, provided I did what I was mandated to do. I did and I can honestly say that without this outstanding attorney, I would have had a Felony record and forever have been ineligible to obtain teaching or administrative credentials. Inspired by her example, I've always out my students or the teachers and administrators I supervise first, ahead of the political miasma the DOE and it's inept Chancellors prefer. Mrs. Levitan taught me me to stand up for children as she does for her clients. I did counseling internship at Covenant House and used the research and reporting skills learned as a Journalism major and a reporter on one of the "top 10" circulating dailies to work around the system. I'm proud of my work in counseling, teacher education and the teaching of English. None of his would have been possiblewithout Mrs. Levitna;s intervention
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27 May, 2015 by Anonymous
Robin is professional, diligent and most important very informative during my divorce proceeding. I would recommend her to anyone that needs a good attorney to fight your battles.
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03 Sep, 2022 by Dennis
I have used Sperber and Stein, for a multitude of issues that arose after my divorce. Michelle was honest, reliable, and always easy to get in touch with. I believe she cares about her clients, and did the absolute best job she could have. She made a few very tough situations easier with her hard work. Highly recommend her services.
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05 Mar, 2013 by Stacey
Not only is Karen knowledgeable, she is personal! She is so on the ball with everything and knows the law. When she represents you she makes it as though you are her only client. She knows my case better than I know it myself . I went through a four year, very messy divorce and she guided me through it, ALWAYS calling me back when I called and answered my questions with clarity so I understood the process. You can tell when we are in court together that she is well respected by other lawyers and the judges! I have put and WILL continue to put my utmost trust in her. I would, and I have, recommend her to others without any reservation!
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11 Feb, 2013 by Anonymous
Bob was very professional and went above and beyond in every way. I would highly recommend Bob Brodrick and his firm to anyone needing assistance during such a difficult time.
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23 Sep, 2015 by Meredith
I have worked with Mr. Manioci in two real estate transactions and must say experience matters. He helped us think outside the box for solutions to our matter. He also worked hard to ensure we got the best deal from every aspect.
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17 Jun, 2024 by Vivian sun
Jerry listens which makes him effective. It was a pleasure working with him and Randi, a dream team. Appreciate their patience, counsel and care. Thank you!
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21 May, 2024 by Sebastian gąsior
I highly recommend this law firm for anyone going through the difficult process of divorce. The attorney handled my case with utmost professionalism and sensitivity. They were not only knowledgeable and strategic in the courtroom but also compassionate during our consultations. Their guidance made a significant difference in my case, leading to a favorable outcome. Truly grateful for their support during this challenging time.
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10 May, 2024 by Michael dolce
He is a great lawyer, who pays attention to detail and cares about his clients. I am grateful to have him in my corner.
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17 Jun, 2024 by Vivian sun
Jerry listens which makes him effective. It was a pleasure working with him and Randi, a dream team. Appreciate their patience, counsel and care. Thank you!
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21 May, 2024 by Sebastian gąsior
I highly recommend this law firm for anyone going through the difficult process of divorce. The attorney handled my case with utmost professionalism and sensitivity. They were not only knowledgeable and strategic in the courtroom but also compassionate during our consultations. Their guidance made a significant difference in my case, leading to a favorable outcome. Truly grateful for their support during this challenging time.
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10 May, 2024 by Michael dolce
He is a great lawyer, who pays attention to detail and cares about his clients. I am grateful to have him in my corner.
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17 Jun, 2024 by Vivian sun
Jerry listens which makes him effective. It was a pleasure working with him and Randi, a dream team. Appreciate their patience, counsel and care. Thank you!
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21 May, 2024 by Sebastian gąsior
I highly recommend this law firm for anyone going through the difficult process of divorce. The attorney handled my case with utmost professionalism and sensitivity. They were not only knowledgeable and strategic in the courtroom but also compassionate during our consultations. Their guidance made a significant difference in my case, leading to a favorable outcome. Truly grateful for their support during this challenging time.
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10 May, 2024 by Michael dolce
He is a great lawyer, who pays attention to detail and cares about his clients. I am grateful to have him in my corner.
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17 Jun, 2024 by Vivian sun
Jerry listens which makes him effective. It was a pleasure working with him and Randi, a dream team. Appreciate their patience, counsel and care. Thank you!
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21 May, 2024 by Sebastian gąsior
I highly recommend this law firm for anyone going through the difficult process of divorce. The attorney handled my case with utmost professionalism and sensitivity. They were not only knowledgeable and strategic in the courtroom but also compassionate during our consultations. Their guidance made a significant difference in my case, leading to a favorable outcome. Truly grateful for their support during this challenging time.
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10 May, 2024 by Michael dolce
He is a great lawyer, who pays attention to detail and cares about his clients. I am grateful to have him in my corner.
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17 Jun, 2024 by Vivian sun
Jerry listens which makes him effective. It was a pleasure working with him and Randi, a dream team. Appreciate their patience, counsel and care. Thank you!
Read more
21 May, 2024 by Sebastian gąsior
I highly recommend this law firm for anyone going through the difficult process of divorce. The attorney handled my case with utmost professionalism and sensitivity. They were not only knowledgeable and strategic in the courtroom but also compassionate during our consultations. Their guidance made a significant difference in my case, leading to a favorable outcome. Truly grateful for their support during this challenging time.
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10 May, 2024 by Michael dolce
He is a great lawyer, who pays attention to detail and cares about his clients. I am grateful to have him in my corner.
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17 Jun, 2024 by Vivian sun
Jerry listens which makes him effective. It was a pleasure working with him and Randi, a dream team. Appreciate their patience, counsel and care. Thank you!
Read more
21 May, 2024 by Sebastian gąsior
I highly recommend this law firm for anyone going through the difficult process of divorce. The attorney handled my case with utmost professionalism and sensitivity. They were not only knowledgeable and strategic in the courtroom but also compassionate during our consultations. Their guidance made a significant difference in my case, leading to a favorable outcome. Truly grateful for their support during this challenging time.
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10 May, 2024 by Michael dolce
He is a great lawyer, who pays attention to detail and cares about his clients. I am grateful to have him in my corner.
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30 Aug, 2024 by Christine persans
I choose Gail to help me with a visitation petition. I first spoke with her on the phone and she was so empathetic to my situation and fully understood everything I was going through. Gail is absolutely the best of the best and has amazing skills for her profession. She was able to get me the results that I wanted! Gail is also an amazing woman who was there for me in my time of need! I absolutely recommend her to anyone that is going through a divorce or any family court manner. I wish I had found her years ago for my original divorce!
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30 Aug, 2024 by Susan persoons
I was referred to the saul law firm through my daughter girlfriend I had know idea what going through a divorce was all about it was very overwhelming but this law firm especially Gail and Laura got me through it I would recommend them to anybody who needs a lawyer my outcome was amazing I
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30 Aug, 2024 by Debra isaac
02 Jun, 2023 by Faze 4 orchestras
A few years back Len Sperber handled a lawsuit against our company for a liability claim. The company that handled our insurance found a loophole in our policy and denied insurance for that claim. End result several months later, what could have been a financial disaster ended in a sigh of relief. It was settled for $1000. Need I say more
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09 Dec, 2022 by E w
Leonard Sperber did for me what my two prior law firms could not achieve in my divorce case. He handled my case efficiently and with the personal sensitivity that divorce actions require. Wish I would have retained him first, he is an excellent matrimonial attorney.
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26 Apr, 2018 by Paula smith
The absolute best!
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22 Apr, 2019 by Mkpdolan
25 Oct, 2018 by Linda horvath
02 Nov, 2015 by Jake- brawl stars
5.0
20 Reviews
4.9
925 Reviews
23 Oct, 2024 by David burke
My lawyer was Mike Barchak from the Barnes firm he was great he explained everything in detail and kept me informed and let me know what was the next step. Mike made me feel at easy and his staff are excellent
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17 Oct, 2024 by Saanvi khera
I have had such an amazing experience with Schwartzapfel Lawyers! Especially with Christina Bayonne as my case manager and Alexandar Ostroy as paralegal. They made the process so easy and educated me on each step! Christina and Alexander took care of all the work on my part, I really didn’t have to do anything except provide them with information. Schwartzapfel really makes you feel like a family. I would definitely recommend them to everyone.
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16 Oct, 2024 by Michael c
I chose SCHWARTZAPFEL Lawyers based on a friend's referral, and it turned out to be an excellent decision. Brian Montalto is an outstanding attorney(Claims Manager)—he answers all my questions thoroughly and shows great knowledge and attentiveness to my concerns. The entire team (Alex) has been wonderful, keeping me informed every step of the way and always making themselves available when needed. They truly care about their clients' best interests and worked diligently on my case. I’m confident they provide the same dedication to every case they handle. Highly recommended!"
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23 Oct, 2024 by David burke
My lawyer was Mike Barchak from the Barnes firm he was great he explained everything in detail and kept me informed and let me know what was the next step. Mike made me feel at easy and his staff are excellent
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17 Oct, 2024 by Saanvi khera
I have had such an amazing experience with Schwartzapfel Lawyers! Especially with Christina Bayonne as my case manager and Alexandar Ostroy as paralegal. They made the process so easy and educated me on each step! Christina and Alexander took care of all the work on my part, I really didn’t have to do anything except provide them with information. Schwartzapfel really makes you feel like a family. I would definitely recommend them to everyone.
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16 Oct, 2024 by Michael c
I chose SCHWARTZAPFEL Lawyers based on a friend's referral, and it turned out to be an excellent decision. Brian Montalto is an outstanding attorney(Claims Manager)—he answers all my questions thoroughly and shows great knowledge and attentiveness to my concerns. The entire team (Alex) has been wonderful, keeping me informed every step of the way and always making themselves available when needed. They truly care about their clients' best interests and worked diligently on my case. I’m confident they provide the same dedication to every case they handle. Highly recommended!"
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23 Oct, 2024 by David burke
My lawyer was Mike Barchak from the Barnes firm he was great he explained everything in detail and kept me informed and let me know what was the next step. Mike made me feel at easy and his staff are excellent
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17 Oct, 2024 by Saanvi khera
I have had such an amazing experience with Schwartzapfel Lawyers! Especially with Christina Bayonne as my case manager and Alexandar Ostroy as paralegal. They made the process so easy and educated me on each step! Christina and Alexander took care of all the work on my part, I really didn’t have to do anything except provide them with information. Schwartzapfel really makes you feel like a family. I would definitely recommend them to everyone.
Read more
16 Oct, 2024 by Michael c
I chose SCHWARTZAPFEL Lawyers based on a friend's referral, and it turned out to be an excellent decision. Brian Montalto is an outstanding attorney(Claims Manager)—he answers all my questions thoroughly and shows great knowledge and attentiveness to my concerns. The entire team (Alex) has been wonderful, keeping me informed every step of the way and always making themselves available when needed. They truly care about their clients' best interests and worked diligently on my case. I’m confident they provide the same dedication to every case they handle. Highly recommended!"
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23 Oct, 2024 by David burke
My lawyer was Mike Barchak from the Barnes firm he was great he explained everything in detail and kept me informed and let me know what was the next step. Mike made me feel at easy and his staff are excellent
Read more
17 Oct, 2024 by Saanvi khera
I have had such an amazing experience with Schwartzapfel Lawyers! Especially with Christina Bayonne as my case manager and Alexandar Ostroy as paralegal. They made the process so easy and educated me on each step! Christina and Alexander took care of all the work on my part, I really didn’t have to do anything except provide them with information. Schwartzapfel really makes you feel like a family. I would definitely recommend them to everyone.
Read more
16 Oct, 2024 by Michael c
I chose SCHWARTZAPFEL Lawyers based on a friend's referral, and it turned out to be an excellent decision. Brian Montalto is an outstanding attorney(Claims Manager)—he answers all my questions thoroughly and shows great knowledge and attentiveness to my concerns. The entire team (Alex) has been wonderful, keeping me informed every step of the way and always making themselves available when needed. They truly care about their clients' best interests and worked diligently on my case. I’m confident they provide the same dedication to every case they handle. Highly recommended!"
Read more
23 Oct, 2024 by David burke
My lawyer was Mike Barchak from the Barnes firm he was great he explained everything in detail and kept me informed and let me know what was the next step. Mike made me feel at easy and his staff are excellent
Read more
17 Oct, 2024 by Saanvi khera
I have had such an amazing experience with Schwartzapfel Lawyers! Especially with Christina Bayonne as my case manager and Alexandar Ostroy as paralegal. They made the process so easy and educated me on each step! Christina and Alexander took care of all the work on my part, I really didn’t have to do anything except provide them with information. Schwartzapfel really makes you feel like a family. I would definitely recommend them to everyone.
Read more
16 Oct, 2024 by Michael c
I chose SCHWARTZAPFEL Lawyers based on a friend's referral, and it turned out to be an excellent decision. Brian Montalto is an outstanding attorney(Claims Manager)—he answers all my questions thoroughly and shows great knowledge and attentiveness to my concerns. The entire team (Alex) has been wonderful, keeping me informed every step of the way and always making themselves available when needed. They truly care about their clients' best interests and worked diligently on my case. I’m confident they provide the same dedication to every case they handle. Highly recommended!"
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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.
