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27 Mar, 2016 by Melanie
Mr. Issakhanian was very professional and knowledgeable. He was quick to respond to my questions anytime I reached out to him. From the first consultation to the very end, he was honest and transparent with me. Unlike other lawyers, he never overpromised and created false hope. I also appreciated his approchabilty and availability.
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18 Mar, 2016 by David
It was great working with Asbet. He was always responsive and timely to my inquiries. He put an extra effort to make sure he can be available for me. He provided updates on a timely basis and explained the process in detail to make sure that I understand how everything went. He was very honest and professional at all times and I was always at ease around me. I highly recommend him.
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27 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
Asbet Issakhanian and his legal advice helped me and my wife to resolve our bankruptcy situation once and for all. We are very happy with his performance and guidance and we will recommend him to everybody. Thanks Asbet Romel Soltanian
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09 Jan, 2024 by Jackie
I hired Stephen after my father passed. And he was very patient with my crazy family. He was on top of everything the whole step of the way. Always had answers to any of my questions.
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22 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
People!!! Do not spend your time, money and nerves at this unprofessional, aggressive sociopath who called himself a lawyer! He is not even close to this term! Protect yourself from his unprofessional rude team! They are really don't have to be the office of law!
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04 Feb, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr Drucker was personable, informative and helpful every step of the way in my Estate Planning venture. The process was something avoided... until my husband and parents all suddenly died and I was alone. Stephen helped guide me through the process of protecting my inherited assets by creating a trust. Likewise, my children are now protected from a probate situation should something happen to me in the future. Additionally, he prepared my advanced directive which details my wishes and further protects my children from having to second guess what it is I would want should my health decline. None of this was something I looked forward to... However, I must say that Mr Drucker and his staff made it painless.... and I am now able to sleep well at night!!!! Thank you Legal Action Workshop
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29 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
I was taken to the cleaner and misled by the attorney. His rates are for the rich and famous. He is only in the family business to make monry
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06 Sep, 2017 by Dm
Simpson and Cawelti are TERRIFIC! They were by my side through all of the typical (and non-typical) divorce challenges and provided constant emotionally support. They are very detail oriented and thorough in all areas. Stephen and Tom are highly regarded in the Family Law community and work with excellent resources (in needed) such as forensic attorneys, mediation experts, etc. Having interviewing other firms, and having started my process with another group, I would hire Simpson Cawelti LLP over ANY OTHER Westside or DTLA firm, anyday.
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16 Aug, 2017 by Elizabeth
The "T" Team...... Tyrrell & Tom I appreciate them both very much. The attention to detail was impeccable, always keeping my up to date on the lastest developments in my case. I also valued the understanding and compassion they showed me. In my opinion Simpson/Cawelti LLP is by far the best representation you can hire!
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04 Aug, 2014 by Paul
I used the services of Mr. Chappell for my divorce which had dragged on for a number of years under prior representation. Mr. Chappell handled the matter and got it resolved, once and for all. Subsequent to that, he has handled my estate planning, completing my will and establishing my living trust. Overall, I give Mr. Chappell top ratings and would utilize his services in the future, without hesitation.
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02 May, 2014 by Anonymous
unfortunately this is not the lawyer to hire if you need someone to advocate for you in a divorce. lawyers are expensive and court appearances are scary so one hopes to be fully informed and have their options well explained as they go along. I trusted that he was the 'expert' as i have never divorced before. Mr chappell had a habit of making promises to me as his client which i see now he had no business doing. he was continuously unprepared and vague and if it werent for the fact that my judge is very good and fair i would have walked away with only a bill. i am still divorcing and had to fire him and hire a mediator on my own to try to get things moving. perhaps his other fields of speciality are ones he is better at but sadly i would never reccommend him for a divorce.
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16 Oct, 2023 by G
Liana Stepanyan is the worst lawyer. I have never recommended this lawyer. They take money, but they don’t complete the job.
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24 Aug, 2022 by Eddie
Had an issue come up during the dissolution of a short term marriage, she was very warm and comforting as she expertly answered my questions. I’d recommend her to anyone.
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22 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Had a horrible experience , because of them my immigration case was dismissed from court and sent to immigration, Now I'll have to wait for many years to get an interview, There is a high chance to lose my case because it's Based on political reasons, If you want to make your hard immigration even more stressful He'll be a perfect choice
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07 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
Aris Artounians is a well respected and experienced attorney. Aris Artounians fought for my criminal case and got the best outcome we could off asked for D.A Reject honest generous with his clients. I owe him more than just a review.
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03 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
He claimed he got 30 years about criminal defense laywer. Maybe but he won't focus on your case. He won't work on your case until the day before the hearing or even just right on the hearing. He didn't explained to you what happened on your case. He would just ask you to let him handle and left lot of confusions. So if you think your case is important to you. Find another one.
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11 Jun, 2019 by Sivan
Unfortunately I had my worst experience with Ani Avetisyan for my divorce case. She is NOT an experienced attorney as she claims and charges for. Not only I lost all my rights with her, I was being overcharged by Ani Avetisyan; for writing hundred of pages to RFO's (as an essay fees) and charging over 20 hours to prepare a declaration, and talking too much. Yet she couldn't even make the judge hear her. After firing her, she still came to my hearings sat for full day, I believe she doesn't have lots of clients since she can invest all her day siting in the courthouse for a full day for someone (case) who she doesn't even represent. Her office in the Granda Hills was her house garage converted to office. Afterwards I went to LACBA Arbitration with her, And I won the case and confirmed that she did overcharged me with huge amount of $17,552 within two and a half months. She charged me before taking my case; now she's facing a violation of business and Professions code 6148 beside the other violations. She purposely called me to talk on the phone for hours, yet she writes hundred of pages just to charge you. Also she disclosed my private case documents including my settlement to the arbitrator. Still today she didn't refund me my overcharged fees and she's trying to vacate the LACBA's judgment. This shows how unethical attorney she is. It's so sad that I trusted her yet she takes an advantage of my vulnerable situation. Be Very Cautious before you hire her!!
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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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

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