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05 Sep, 2024 by Ramona lup
The lawyers at Stephan Filip were exceptionally helpful at getting the outcome I wanted in my case! So grateful!!
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04 Sep, 2024 by Avik tumikyan
My experience with Stephan was exceptional. A very well organized firm, both experienced and professional.
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04 Sep, 2024 by Sarkis khachatryan
I received great advice and representation and have happily referred this firm to family and friends. Excellent and professional law office!
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15 Aug, 2024 by Kevin saenz
Hello! Just wanted to say that this law firm is highly recommended! The communication and the general care for me as a person was always available! Her staff in her office are super responsive and kept me updated every single day. If you someone that needs an attorney that will go to bat for you and have your best interest then I highly suggest this law firm! Very professional and hard working! They really do a great job with documents and information. Thank you to the team at Babains Law firm!
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06 Aug, 2024 by Ms. ebony realtor
Babaians Law Firm is one of the best in business. Knowledgeable, thorough and professional they were at my service. Cynthia and Natalia made sure to answer all my questions or get back to me within a timely manner. This team took time to explain to me how processes work and not to mention stayed consistent with correspondences. I’m grateful to have had this law firm representing me.
I would definitely use them again if I had to. They were able to help be acquire the compensation due to me.
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07 Jul, 2024 by Ventura de los santos
La verdad la recomiendo es muy buena representante en casos de accidentes automovilísticos ella me a ayudado con 2 casos y la verdad estoy muy agradecido con todo su equipo de trabajo
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11 Sep, 2024 by Kate
Amira and the team at All Family Legal helped to smoothly facilitate all aspects of my surrogacy journey as an Intended Parent. The team was extremely diligent about following up with the local court to ensure all paperwork was in place prior to the babies arrival. Could not recommend enough!
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28 Jul, 2024 by Hugues
We hired Amira to obtain a parentage judgment establishing that our kids have 3 equal parents. Amira and team did a great job explaining our options and getting the desired results. They even worked with us to adjust the specific language to have it meet the requirements from our foreign attorney.
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21 Jun, 2024 by Saba
Amira and the All Family Legal Team are such a pleasure to work with and made the legal process for our prenup so effortless, straightforward and easy. She and her team are extremely professional, detail oriented and very thorough in their support and knowledge. Really glad to have had such a positive experience with this group and can't recommend their services enough!
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17 Jun, 2024 by Miggi
Vahe’s extensive knowledge regarding my family law case put me at such ease. He is unwavering, laser focused and leaves no stone unturned. He helped me settle my case out of court with such tenacity, I am forever grateful!
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24 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
Vahe has been our family's attorney for over 10 years. He fought hard for us for a variety of cases ranging from family-law to "RO" and even business contracts. His follow-up record is stellar and he always strives to work smarter and harder than the opposition. His litigation expertise makes him a great asset on your side in the courtroom.
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20 Apr, 2023 by Jw
I highly recommend Vahe for his attorney services. I needed assistance on a legal matter that Vahe stepped in to assist me even though he was not involved from the beginning. He was very understanding and took care to inquire about what I needed as an outcome. He is great at listening and getting to what his clients' needs are. Vahe - I am forever grateful!
Jw
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08 Jul, 2015 by Arin
So far the process of my lawsuit has been nothing but smooth with Henrik. He's made it evident that he truly cares about my well being throughout the process of experiencing the hardships of being in a car accident. I have the utmost confidence that I am in great hands, I would recommend Henrik to anyone granted that he will keep you up to speed throughout the process of your lawsuit. This is something that I did not experience several years ago with another lawyer, who never reached out to me throughout the lawsuit process; that aspect sticks out and gives me peace of mind knowing that there will not be any issues.
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25 Nov, 2014 by Victor
I was involved in a car accident in 2012 and I had to deal with my car issues but just didn’t have the time with work. I started to have pain after a day or so and I was determined to find an attorney. I called Mr. Henrik Karapetian and he immediately followed up with my accident case. After hiring him he kept me informed every step of the way as my car was repaired, a rental was given and my injury case progressed. I never needed to call him for an update because he would let me know of any new developments as they came so I was really happy about that.
Most important, my car was fixed immediately and my injury claim settled for an amount that I was very happy with.
I am glad I called Henrik for my accident case and I recommend him for any car accident cases because he sees the case as his own and treats the client with the highest level of integrity.
Thank you Henrik.
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11 Nov, 2014 by Vache
I had hired an attorney for a custody and support case but I was happy with the service and attention my case was getting. I wanted results. I hired Henrik after firing my previous attorney. I was recommended to Henrik by a friend as I wanted someone with family law experience. I can honestly say since hiring him early this year that he is so knowledgeable and strategic when it comes to your case. I now have a much better visitation schedule and lower support payments. There is still more to do with my case but I am fortunate to have found Henrik!
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14 Aug, 2024 by Jaime palladino
Working with Nyree Kolanjian was a wonderful experience from top to bottom. Not only does she exude knowledge and in-depth experience, she has a magnetic personality which added a friendly and light air, to what is considered a heavy task for anyone to plan. She's matter of fact, balanced, professional and friendly. We would recommend Nyree over and over again.
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24 May, 2024 by Vania tashjian frank
My sister and I recently worked with Nyree Kolanjian and she was absolutely wonderful to work with! She simplified the work we needed and is very efficient with her time. The outcome was better than expected. And, she's a joy to work with personally and professionally. I'm so grateful for her expertise and attention to detail. I would highly recommend her!
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07 Aug, 2021 by Zizi saadatpour
21 May, 2016 by Vanessa
Sana Abbasi was absolutely brilliant while representing me with my divorce. She assisted me through a very difficult and painful time in my life, keeping me informed every step of the way. She was extremely knowledgeable and confident about my particular situation. In addition, Sana addressed all of the issues with professionalism, vigor, and in a timely manner; while also demonstrating an immense amount of compassion towards me throughout the entire process. Trusting her enabled me to focus on picking up the pieces of my life and work on creating a new “Normal” for my children and myself. I highly recommend Ms. Sana Abbasi, as her expertise was invaluable and afforded me with the outcome that I desired.
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21 May, 2016 by Georgie
Attorney Sana Abbasi, member of the premier Southern California law firm, Holmes & Holmes, is who you need to represent you with your family law matters. She is exceptional. She is knowledgeable and understands current legal codes. She has access to a strong support team and technology allowing her to prepare cases efficiently and economically. She demonstrates her courtroom experience with confidence. I was fortunate and am thankful to have had Ms. Abbasi represent me. Her relentless concern for my interests and all of the aforementioned helped me achieve the best result for a successful outcome my case. I have recommended, and will continue to recommend, Ms. Abbasi to anyone in need of a professional, legal expert in family law.
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15 May, 2016 by Claude
After four years of court appearances and a trial due to a very difficult and cruel ex, I came out of this experience feeling like my Guardian Angels were helping me all along. First by stumbling into Holmes & Holmes office and second by having Sana represent me as my lawyer.
She explained reasons and outcomes of every legal step.
After 26 years of marriage, she dug and combed through all the information I gave her and told her. I was very impressed by her thoroughness, knowledge and precision. she worked full heartedly and her work paid off for me. I felt blessed having Sana work and protect my interest. She returned my calls always and in the chaos of the Courthouse she displayed professional mannerism and was always prepared and ready even for unexpected situations. I recommend her highly.
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04 Nov, 2016 by Laura
I let my boyfriend buy a truck with my credit in 2000. He got in a bad accident. My boyfriends insurance settled the accident for 250k. But the other guys insurance kept harassing me and threatening to sue me. Oscar got them off my back and they never contacted me again! Thank you Oscar!
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05 Oct, 2012 by Andrew
I would truly recommend Oscar Toscano in any court matter. He is a Excellent criminal defense lawyer. Without him I truly believe the out come in my case would be very different. He pushed so much for me in my case and he never let me down. I had the toughest district attorney in la county and he could keep with Toscano. It was truly a blessing to have him as a lawyer.
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27 Sep, 2012 by Hector
Mr. Toscano provided me with services for a criminal case I was involved with. He was very knowledgeable and was able get all charges dropped against me. He helped change my life and my family and I are very thankful for his services.
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12 May, 2016 by Steven
Nina set up the dissolution of my 11 year marriage that included Child custody of my daughter. She was very knowledgeable, responded to my questions quickly and made a point of truly understanding my needs and wants when crafting my settlement.
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24 Nov, 2012 by Arthur candle
Recently, and he was more after my interests, than his. One of a few Honest lawyers left today.
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15 Jan, 2020 by Lily
Wendy really personalized for my exact needs and desires. She has done the same for friends I recommended. She really knows the law and tax ramifications. Terrific.
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28 Apr, 2023 by Anonymous
Mrs. Alpert is one of an amazing lawyer. Who is very knowledgeable, wise, intelligent, and experienced. I highly recommend her for your divorce and child custody case. She is very responsive, whenever I texted her she always responded me quickly. She's not just a great lawyer, she's also a great human being. I've never seen a divorce lawyer, who cares and have a good heart like her. She's a rare gem. I am so thankful for her being always by myself whenever I needed her.
Her legal representation restored my faith in the justice system. And made me believe that there are still good hearted, caring, genuine people.
And a rare lawyer, like her who truly cares, and have your best interest. If you're seeking legal help in Divorce and child custody cases, call Alpert law
today.
She will never let you down!!
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07 Aug, 2009 by Anonymous
Highly knowledgeable and professional. Happy to say found an excellent lawyer. Highly recommend. Thank you. Cynthia S.
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12 Aug, 2014 by Jessica
I can't say enough positive things about Ms. Dubini. She was smart, responsive, and truly interested in working with me to meet my goals during this really tough time. She explained the process and all of my options so I could make an informed decision that ultimately met my needs. I have recommended her repeatedly to people, who have told me they have had the same experience with Ms. Dubini.
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27 Aug, 2024 by William hernandez
22 Aug, 2024 by Virsen worlikar
19 Aug, 2024 by Gabriela hernandez
18 Jun, 2020 by Neal
In legal trouble, hire Mr. Kraut ASAP!! Simply the best, Michael is very aggressive in defending the charges. He got my charges rejected in less than a week. I can't thank him enough!! He saved my job and my reputation!! Michael and team are hard-working and pro-active. Mr. Kraut is well respected by his peer and the legal community. IF retained at early stage, he will work to get the charges rejected. Michael is very genuine who really cares for his clients. Please, do yourself a favor and hire Mr. Kraut!!
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20 Dec, 2018 by Gertrude ogega
The name Michael Kraut is one I'll never forget. 2 weeks ago, I was sitting in a cell, SURE, that life as I know it was over. I was facing a felony charge, which would have led to my deportation. I reached out to one criminal lawyer after another...and they all advised me to start seeking an immigration lawyer, in addition to a criminal lawyer, ASAP. I was forwarded Michael's info, & reached out to him way outside business hours (I know--for shame) and, to my surprise, he responded IMMEDIATELY! He was also the first lawyer to ask me to come meet with him, in person, which I appreciated. He was also the first to even mention that getting my charges dropped was a possibility! Meeting with him put me at ease...which is not an easy task! Khaleesi is the mother of dragons, I'm the mother of stressing....that's my thing. To have calmed me down enough that I was eating again really says a lot about Mr.Kraut. Not only is he an extremely talented lawyer, but an outstanding human being. Talking to him didn't feel like talking to a lawyer -- it felt like talking to a friend. A VERY knowledgeable friend, who's just as invested as you in obtaining the BEST possible outcome. For me...that was getting my CHARGES DROPPED...which he did...in just 2 weeks!!!!!! If you need a lawyer, CALL HIM. Fantastic lawyer with an absolutely amazing team.
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10 Dec, 2018 by Ashu kotha
I have been in a horrendous situtation and I have reached out to multiple law firms and no one received nor gave me correct information on how to solve my problem. Mike and team stepped in with thier best foot forward and helped me in every possible way to work out a solution after completley listening to what I had to say. This helped me lot both personally and professionaly!
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17 Sep, 2024 by Evelyn leon
I had a remarkable experience with Big Ben Lawyers Law Firm after my auto accident . I was involved in a car accident in Glendale, California. From the moment I contacted them, the team was courteous, prompt, and dedicated to my claim. Ben exceeded expectations, ensuring I comprehended every aspect of the legal process and keeping me updated throughout. His meticulous approach and dedication led to a superior outcome. They made the entire process seamless during a challenging period. I highly recommend Big Ben Lawyers to anyone seeking a car accident attorney.
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27 Aug, 2024 by Tenny belderian
Shiraz is very professional and helpful . I would give more stars if I could . He is caring and knowledgeable . I would definitely recommend him !
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22 Aug, 2024 by Autumn socaldsc
Very caring and professional, Helpful, I Highly recommend Levon
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09 Oct, 2024 by Александра послушная
I got car incident and advocate did very nice work. I really recommend him.
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27 Aug, 2024 by William hernandez
22 Aug, 2024 by Virsen worlikar
09 Oct, 2024 by Александра послушная
I got car incident and advocate did very nice work. I really recommend him.
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27 Aug, 2024 by William hernandez
22 Aug, 2024 by Virsen worlikar
09 Oct, 2024 by Александра послушная
I got car incident and advocate did very nice work. I really recommend him.
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27 Aug, 2024 by William hernandez
22 Aug, 2024 by Virsen worlikar
09 Oct, 2024 by Александра послушная
I got car incident and advocate did very nice work. I really recommend him.
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27 Aug, 2024 by William hernandez
22 Aug, 2024 by Virsen worlikar
11 Sep, 2024 by Nicole
Alicia Chavez was awesome! She’s knowledgeable, patient and gave me the “hand holding” treatment. She gave me her direct contact info and advised me to call her if there are any questions and/or further concerns. Thank you so much Alicia 🙏🏼😊
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09 Sep, 2024 by 020606kaylee
09 Sep, 2024 by Sippa chao
25 Aug, 2024 by Constantin g
Great attorney! Helped me navigate a very difficult case. I highly recommend Ana as your lawyer if you want someone who is detail oriented and truly has your best interests at heart. Thank you so much for all your help! 5/5 stars
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22 Jul, 2024 by Sona a. tatiyants
I'm an estate planning and probate attorney and have worked with Ana Barsegian for the past 15 years. We have multiple clients in common and I often call her with questions re: divorce clients or prenuptial / postnuptial agreements. She is thorough, knowledgeable, trustworthy and pragmatic. Ana is a pleasure to work with and I would highly recommend her for your divorce / prenuptial and postnuptial needs.
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22 Jul, 2024 by Jess norton
Ana is fantastic! She was clear, prompt, and gave me such good advice along the way. She always got back to me so quickly and helped me troubleshoot along the way.
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23 Sep, 2024 by Lou asis
Srpui is the best WC lawyer in town! Very knowledgeable, honest, professional and very supportive during my challenging time. She went above and beyond to help me navigate through this very confusing and overwhelming experience. She comes highly recommended. Thank you Srpui for getting us the best results that we both deserved!
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30 Apr, 2024 by Jack terharutyunian
Srpui is very knowledgeable when it comes to her profession. She is prompt with her communication, she is thorough and patience when answering questions, and she's a wonderful person. Thank you for your help.
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15 Apr, 2024 by Ana arias
14 Apr, 2024 by Brandon usher
I got a DUI and was referred to David Chesley by a colleague who also had a previous case. I must say I am satisfied by the results and it was cheaper than other law offices. Communication was key and I felt like I wasn’t alone in this case. When I got the DUI, I thought my consequences would have been the worst. My lawyer informed me that she will do her best and not to worry. In the end, she delivered and I highly recommend Law Offices of David Chesley.
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29 Dec, 2021 by Harvey anderson
David Chesley outlined his plan for me, which included what he felt would be realistic steps for us to take and how much time each step might require. He gave an honest promise that if everything else fails we could always go back to this point as it has worked out well so far! After we won in Court there are no more negative feelings blocking my way forward anymore... I can't say enough about how great Mr. Chesley's professionalism showed through during all those times where things got tough.
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11 Aug, 2021 by Humberto mariscal
David was excellent and made sure that my trial was handled fairly and protected my career. Despite the difficulty of dealing with a DUI charge, David and his staff made me feel welcome. Quality of service - solved the case with one phone call! The Law Offices of David Chesley were honest, realistic and helpful throughout the process.
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14 Apr, 2024 by Brandon usher
I got a DUI and was referred to David Chesley by a colleague who also had a previous case. I must say I am satisfied by the results and it was cheaper than other law offices. Communication was key and I felt like I wasn’t alone in this case. When I got the DUI, I thought my consequences would have been the worst. My lawyer informed me that she will do her best and not to worry. In the end, she delivered and I highly recommend Law Offices of David Chesley.
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29 Dec, 2021 by Harvey anderson
David Chesley outlined his plan for me, which included what he felt would be realistic steps for us to take and how much time each step might require. He gave an honest promise that if everything else fails we could always go back to this point as it has worked out well so far! After we won in Court there are no more negative feelings blocking my way forward anymore... I can't say enough about how great Mr. Chesley's professionalism showed through during all those times where things got tough.
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11 Aug, 2021 by Humberto mariscal
David was excellent and made sure that my trial was handled fairly and protected my career. Despite the difficulty of dealing with a DUI charge, David and his staff made me feel welcome. Quality of service - solved the case with one phone call! The Law Offices of David Chesley were honest, realistic and helpful throughout the process.
Read more
14 Apr, 2024 by Brandon usher
I got a DUI and was referred to David Chesley by a colleague who also had a previous case. I must say I am satisfied by the results and it was cheaper than other law offices. Communication was key and I felt like I wasn’t alone in this case. When I got the DUI, I thought my consequences would have been the worst. My lawyer informed me that she will do her best and not to worry. In the end, she delivered and I highly recommend Law Offices of David Chesley.
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29 Dec, 2021 by Harvey anderson
David Chesley outlined his plan for me, which included what he felt would be realistic steps for us to take and how much time each step might require. He gave an honest promise that if everything else fails we could always go back to this point as it has worked out well so far! After we won in Court there are no more negative feelings blocking my way forward anymore... I can't say enough about how great Mr. Chesley's professionalism showed through during all those times where things got tough.
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11 Aug, 2021 by Humberto mariscal
David was excellent and made sure that my trial was handled fairly and protected my career. Despite the difficulty of dealing with a DUI charge, David and his staff made me feel welcome. Quality of service - solved the case with one phone call! The Law Offices of David Chesley were honest, realistic and helpful throughout the process.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Armen ghimoyan
This Firm handled both my immigration and accident cases. I cannot thank Alan and his staff enough for their kindness and professionalism. My situations made me very anxious, but after hiring them I felt at ease knowing that I am in good hands.
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01 Oct, 2024 by Mariia mriia
I had an outstanding experience with the Alan Agabegian Law Group! The team was always professional, kind, and kept me informed every step of the way, making the entire process smooth and stress-free.
Alan, the head of the firm, is an amazing attorney who genuinely cares about achieving the best results for his clients. His dedication and professionalism really stood out.
If you’re looking for a law firm that combines expertise with genuine client care, I highly recommend the Alan Agabegian Law Group. They exceeded my expectations and made me feel confident and supported throughout the entire process.
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24 Sep, 2024 by Arshak rostomyan
Mr. Alan Aghabegian, Robert And the entire professional firm, is has Been miracle for myself and Family and friends Including business matters. Just one of the cases that Alan and Robert did for me was car accident $250,000.00 And if I wanted it, they could have gotten me over a Million dollars. We have best attorneys In entire california and no one But Alan's fir Can do this for everyone else. I highly recommend Everyone to go Them for help and You will get best results ever again.I can't thank them enough!
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03 Oct, 2024 by Armen ghimoyan
This Firm handled both my immigration and accident cases. I cannot thank Alan and his staff enough for their kindness and professionalism. My situations made me very anxious, but after hiring them I felt at ease knowing that I am in good hands.
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01 Oct, 2024 by Mariia mriia
I had an outstanding experience with the Alan Agabegian Law Group! The team was always professional, kind, and kept me informed every step of the way, making the entire process smooth and stress-free.
Alan, the head of the firm, is an amazing attorney who genuinely cares about achieving the best results for his clients. His dedication and professionalism really stood out.
If you’re looking for a law firm that combines expertise with genuine client care, I highly recommend the Alan Agabegian Law Group. They exceeded my expectations and made me feel confident and supported throughout the entire process.
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24 Sep, 2024 by Arshak rostomyan
Mr. Alan Aghabegian, Robert And the entire professional firm, is has Been miracle for myself and Family and friends Including business matters. Just one of the cases that Alan and Robert did for me was car accident $250,000.00 And if I wanted it, they could have gotten me over a Million dollars. We have best attorneys In entire california and no one But Alan's fir Can do this for everyone else. I highly recommend Everyone to go Them for help and You will get best results ever again.I can't thank them enough!
Read more
03 Oct, 2024 by Armen ghimoyan
This Firm handled both my immigration and accident cases. I cannot thank Alan and his staff enough for their kindness and professionalism. My situations made me very anxious, but after hiring them I felt at ease knowing that I am in good hands.
Read more
01 Oct, 2024 by Mariia mriia
I had an outstanding experience with the Alan Agabegian Law Group! The team was always professional, kind, and kept me informed every step of the way, making the entire process smooth and stress-free.
Alan, the head of the firm, is an amazing attorney who genuinely cares about achieving the best results for his clients. His dedication and professionalism really stood out.
If you’re looking for a law firm that combines expertise with genuine client care, I highly recommend the Alan Agabegian Law Group. They exceeded my expectations and made me feel confident and supported throughout the entire process.
Read more
24 Sep, 2024 by Arshak rostomyan
Mr. Alan Aghabegian, Robert And the entire professional firm, is has Been miracle for myself and Family and friends Including business matters. Just one of the cases that Alan and Robert did for me was car accident $250,000.00 And if I wanted it, they could have gotten me over a Million dollars. We have best attorneys In entire california and no one But Alan's fir Can do this for everyone else. I highly recommend Everyone to go Them for help and You will get best results ever again.I can't thank them enough!
Read more
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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.
