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10 May, 2024 by Cnote fyb
Did a great job! on my case was well taken care of. i definitely Recommend This law firm!!!!!!!
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09 May, 2024 by Yamielys solis
Attourney Chambers is very responsive, made the process fairly easy, and got me my settlement much quicker than I expected. Very satisfied! 10/10 would definitely recommend!
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09 May, 2024 by Wes
This is the right guy to go with he will keep you updated. His work won’t disappoint you !
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01 Aug, 2024 by Dan
Attorney Kathleen Scelfo was extremely knowledgeable,understanding, compassionate, and very supportive to my situation. She has tons of experience and it shows during the litigation process. I would highly recommend Kathleen to anyone looking for a quality top notch personable attorney thank you Kathleen and Michelle
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31 Jul, 2024 by Anonymous
I highly recommend Katie Scelfo to be your advocate for your case. Katie was extremely professional and efficient in gathering my information and recommending how we should proceed with my divorce case. She was very kind and took her time in explaining all legal matters and terminology. Katie's sound advise and quick responses guided me throughout this tumultuous time in my life. I felt safe and protected with Katie's knowledge during the proceedings and I am so satisfied with the outcome of my case. I would definitely recommend Katie to family and friends.
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21 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
I never want any of my friends to have to use a divorce attorney, but if they do I am 100% recommending Katie. She went above and beyond getting my papers written up ASAP, laying out the options, walking me through the process and explaining everything in terms that anyone could understand. Pretty sure I had the fastest and most cost effective divorce in the history of divorces thanks to Katie.
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18 Feb, 2021 by Heather
Attorney Kim Duell is an outstanding person. Kim is compassionate and caring. Kim made a difficult experience for me easier to deal with. Kim always made her self available to me with any questions i had even if they were - well - stupid. Kim worked with me on payment arrangements. I am forever grateful for her guidance and knowledge.
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17 Feb, 2021 by Geoff
Attorney Kim Duell handled my divorce using the collaborative process. I find Kim to be insightful, compassionate, knowledgeable, and very representative of the collaborative process. I’d like to emphasize that I find her to be a caring human being. When I was feeling very stressed, Kim’s was a calm and empathetic voice of reason.
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14 Nov, 2018 by Mike
In my family court experiences with Attorney Duell, I have found her to be a no-nonsense, practical advocate that provides a real perspective of a case and professionally assess the situation at hand in order to best determine a course of action. Kim and her staff are extremely responsive, detailed and, thankfully, do not "over-lawyer" a case as some practitioner tend to do. Kim supplies useful advice and is steadfast in her commitment to her clients. I fully endorse her !
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06 Aug, 2024 by Olivia
Meghan is simply the best, from the first phone call until now, I've been taken care of in the best way.
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06 Aug, 2024 by Kristi
Ms. Freed assisted us with a family law case in Florida in which the original divorce was finalized in Connecticut. Ms. Freed was extremely knowlegable and responsive. I would highly recommend Ms. Freed for any family law matters. Thank you!
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02 Aug, 2024 by Ashley
She is a phenomenal attorney who always had my back. I knew from the first consultation that I was in good hands. Looking back now after my divorce is over, I know I made the right decision.
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02 Oct, 2024 by Gary
I am thankful and grateful Attorney Siegel represented me in my divorce case and told the judge that. I also told the judge with her knowledge, expertise and professionalism she has unlimited potential helping not just me but many more people and families. You can trust her to do her best for you and your family, I do and did...
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07 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Worked with Jenny successfully through a custody challenge and then a support modification. She was great to work with, would listen to my concerns and guide me through the process. She was an absolute pleasure to work with, knowledable of the law and to the best approach to each challenging situation.
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04 Aug, 2024 by Erin
Jenny helped my through my challenging custody case and divorce. She explained the entire process and made me feel confident with the choses I was making throughout the process. I would absolutely recommend her for anyone in need of a family lawyer.
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21 Dec, 2022 by Coko brown
19 Feb, 2021 by Ghost in nc
Best law firm in Ct
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18 Sep, 2020 by Julianne braziel
06 Aug, 2024 by Olivia
Kristen was so easy to work with, I'd recommend her and her firm ten times over.
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20 Jun, 2017 by Irene
When I first contacted the firm of Freed, Marcroft, I was really in a bad place emotionally. Both Kristen and Robin were 'present and empathic' right from the get-go. Kristen was also very realistic with me and encouraged me to try mediation if at all possible. I came through this difficult process feeling whole and respected knowing that Kristen and everyone at the firm 'had my back'.
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04 Jun, 2015 by Phil
Appoximately one year ago my wife of almost 27 years asked to end our marriage. A few days later we agree to get a divorce. A close business associate gave me a referral to the law firm of Freed/Marcroft in Hartford on Main Street. Our first meeting was in early August 2014 and our divorce proceedings ended just before Christmas of 2014 with the guidance of Lawyers Meghan Freed and Kristen Marcroft.
During a lengthy initial meeting between all parties they suggested we take a collaborative approach to completing our divorce. In this approach the attorneys help/guide the two parties involved to come to agreement on a couple dozen issues that will ultimately make up the divorce agreement that would be acceptable to the courts. They took a great deal of time to understand our years of marriage, and how each person fit into the marriage and how each person viewed the end of the marriage. At every meeting and with every phone call or email they would stress that every decision made would have to be very fair for each party. They constantly sought to educate on each topic, and remind each party of the attorney's role in this type of divorce process.
Kristen and Meghan handled the stickiest problems and contentious points with great expertise and finesse. They showed the utmost compassion and a caring attitude to both parties, which is surely not the case in most proceedings. By having two lawyers helping through the process, you get two distinct skillset and two checkers. That was most useful in overcoming some of the sticky situations that arise in the divorce process.
Kristen and Meghan move us through the entire process on a schedule they set up based upon our wishes and parameters. True to their word and nature they took us through that horrible day in court with compassion and understanding. They were able to interject themselves into the proceedings where many other of their contemporaries might not bother, which made our day easier.
Freed/Marcroft handled all our paperwork and filings under the watchful eye of Robin, the practice manager. Phone calls were returned within a sort of reasonable time, with emails and texts returned much quicker. I'm over fifty and still like voice. Email does seem to be the preferred method of communication. Kristen and Meghan were very upfront about how they get paid, what options for payment were available to us and ultimately what they felt would be the most cost efficient way to proceed.
Let me stress that the collaborative approach to divorce is not for everyone!! Kristen and Meghan will tell you as much right up front. If you want a team to help end a an important part of your life in a dignified way that is fair to all you should highly consider using Kristen Marcroft and Meghan Freed.
Phil, Avon Ct
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25 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
Attorney Ron Scott is an excellent lawyer. He represented me (pro-Bono) in a divorce lawsuit that was embroiled in a tedious custody & child support gridlock, with international jurisdiction complications. In all, and throughout the unnecessary 2.5 years lengthiness that included lawsuits in family courts and the higher court of Appeal, he provided top notch representation by brilliantly assessing facts and impeccably arguing to achieve victory, in multiple motions and hearings. His negotiation skills are stellar and he works very well with the different aspects of the entire ordeal including court administration, the bench and interface civil and public legal system reps (e.g. GAL, Family Relations, Child Support Bureau). I gladly recommend Attorney Ron Scott to anyone looking for a lawyer and hoping to achieve victory in family related lawsuits.
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09 Apr, 2015 by Robert
Attorney Scott first represented me in 2009 in a divorce and did a thorough and professional job. He has since represented me on a number of other legal matters with my ex wife, and each time, he has impressed me with his compassion, his responsiveness, his legal savvy, and his legal knowledge and preparedness. Each time he took difficult and tense moments, and simplified and eased them so that we were able to arrive at favorable outcomes. I would recommend him without hesitation, and I would hire him again if the need ever arose.
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14 May, 2014 by Donna
I had an out of state custody case but needed clarification and a legal document from a CT judge regarding jurisdiction. I called on Attorney Ron Scott. He took my call right away, worked miracles to get exactly what I needed and in record time! It might have been a small request compared to the large cases he handles but his timely facilitation of the legal paperwork was far from small. I wasn't going to move forward without it. I was very impressed that he even took my call, returned all my calls quickly and expeditiously handled my requests! He made no distinction between a very small client and one who would bring in a huge case for the firm. I can't give him enough praise at how impressed I was.
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18 Jan, 2013 by Sarah kaiser
Amie was my lawyer for my house closing in Wilton CT last Summer. She was highly professional and extremely reliable. I highly recommend her services.
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17 Jan, 2013 by Amy
Ms. Kingman has handled numerous closing for my clients. She has consistently been up to date on new regulations, organized, and personable. Ms. Kingman, on more than one occasion, has been able to make last minute closings happen, she does allow her clients to be taken advantage of. She genuinely cares for her client's best interest.
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17 Jan, 2013 by Gino
When working with Amie as well as her partner Jennifer they kept me informed on all details. They also helped to simplify the process making my situation very easy. Both Amie and Jennifer are passionate about there profession and always keep their clients BEST INTEREST!
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25 May, 2021 by Sasha
He is a pleasure to work with. He made my divorce go nice and smooth. He is also very knowledgeable and he gave me great advice. I highly recommend him.
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21 May, 2021 by Jason
An all-around fantastic lawyer! I found Attorney Pezzulo to be knowledgeable, responsive and supportive.
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19 May, 2021 by Matt
Very prompt with communication and he was very knowledgeable about the area I was consulting him over.
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13 Aug, 2021 by Nicholas
I have seen first-hand Justin's supreme level of commitment to excellence and to the law on multiple occasions. Not only is he an awesome attorney, but he genuinely cares about his clients. He managed to turn what was the most horrible time of my life, into a positive life experience. He is straightforward and honest. Everything I thought attorneys weren’t. You can’t go wrong in hiring this man. I would definitely return for any other future needs due to the accommodations and services rendered in my experience working with Attorney Sargis.
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15 Nov, 2018 by Nick
Helped guide me through a custody challenge in a surgical manner. I would recommend him to my closest friends without hesitation.
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17 Sep, 2018 by Greg sargis
Not related. Atty Satgis was very professional and. Helped me in during a difficult time. Highly recommended.
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06 Oct, 2024 by Nancy
I am writing to express my deepest gratitude for the outstanding representation from Attorney Seth J. Conant in my case. The expertise and dedication have been instrumental in achieving a successful outcome. I wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude for the incredible kindness the strategic approach and attention to my case were truly exceptional.
The unwavering support and great relief during a challenging time.
I wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude for your incredible kindness
I am immensely thankful for your hard work and commitment. It has been a pleasure working with you.
Best regards,
Nancy M.
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14 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous
My experiencing working with Seth was nothing less than exceptional. Together we navigated difficult legal issues complicated by an out-of-state divorce, a poorly constructed financial agreement, and a highly litigious and unreasonable plaintiff who not surprisingly is also the mother of my children. I learned the hard way that being the sole breadwinner established me as the 2nd rate parent (she was the 'primary caregiver' because I went to work M-F) and set us up for all kinds of irresponsible family and financial expectations. Crazy stuff, but this is what happens when we find ourselves needing courts to sort out family matters. I fought hard to stay an involved father and to keep the family in-state where my job was successfully maturing. Following a 2 day trial I failed, and the children moved out-of-state against my wishes. I was left with an unsustainable parenting plan that involved a ridiculous amount of driving and the fallout of a hastily assembled financial agreement settled before the trial. This poorly worded and poorly understood agreement remained a source of problems for the next 10+ years.
Eventually I chose to relocate to CT to the same town my children lived in, compromising and eventually losing my now out-of-state job. While unemployed, I was unable to achieve a successful hearing to adjust child support and filed contempt of court charges while self-represented. Again facing a round of legal conflict I secured legal representation with Freed Marcroft and Seth was assigned to my case. It was one of the best decisions of my life.
Seth is both an exceptional lawyer and a person with integrity. Seth did an amazing job. He was easy to talk with, personable, and laser focused on sorting out legal arguments. What impressed me most about Seth was his ability to quickly see unproductive tangents for what they were: time consuming distractions that drive up legal costs and muddy the waters. Seth focused on key issues important to potential settlements or a judge's pending decisions. He was a rock star in the courtroom. Courteous, professional, and again laser focused. As a client, I also contributed significantly. I was honest and fully disclosed everything relevant to the case. I kept excellent records and made all of them available to Seth as needed. I was also an outstanding witness, speaking a truth fully consistent with all the supporting documentation. For 10+ years I did what was expected of me, and tried my best to stay on the high road. Finally it paid off. Following yet another 2 day trial the outcome was fully in my favor and reasonable adjustments immediately followed. My original contempt charges were upheld. I have no doubt that the legal advice I received, and the legal representation provided to me were key driving factors in this favorable outcome.
I highly recommend Seth to anyone who wants to take the high road and achieve fairness in their divorce settlement.
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25 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
Cantin Lawyers is a well-known Hartford firm known for handling difficult and contentious cases and opposition.
I felt protected and secure using John Morris from Cantin Lawyers. He handled my case and my extremely difficult ex with a reserved calm and professionalism.
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02 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
You should not underestimate this attorney. She may have only been in practice for four years but it is just a matter of time before she is recognized as a "super lawyer." In addition to her intelligence and nimble legal mind, she has an uncanny ability to assess the opposition's strengths and weaknesses. She has a quiet and professional demeanor that puts the client at ease. In my personal experience, this serves her well as the opposition tended to underestimate her. She is kind, helpful, insightful and always on the mark. You definitely want her in your corner. If she agrees to represent you, then you should be grateful. Become one of her clients now!
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30 Sep, 2016 by Lu
Cynthia has been my attorney on several cases over the years. She is professional, thorough, kind and considerate. I would recommend her with great compliments.
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19 Feb, 2017 by Lois
I will be forever grateful to Attorney Christine Whitehead for the outstanding legal representation that she provided from start to finish in my unwanted divorce. She was top-notch in all ways and offered the most amazing support throughout a terribly painful time in my life. I truly can't say enough about what a wonderful attorney and human being Chris is. She was the silver lining in my divorce.
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22 Oct, 2016 by Javiera
Very helpful and professional.
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14 Mar, 2017 by E
Counsel Ira was a reliable, excellent advocate for me throughout the divorce process. He answered questions thoroughly and thoughtfully. He accomplished this via email and phone conversations. Also, he displays a caring and punctiliousness towards his clients. I can personally vouch and have seen him in action. At times, in intense negotiations, when the parties emotionally break down due to the difficult process, he his calm and continues working for the client. I only plan on going through the a divorce process once. I am forever grateful that Attorney Ira was with me all the way through and afterwards.
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08 Apr, 2014 by Shari
She was exactly the lawyer I needed at the time, she fulfilled every aspect of what is required of a lawyer.
She was also personable, understanding, and empathetic. I will never forget her, I was very young at the time, and in great need of guidance.
She helped me get a legal separation from my husband at the time who was an abuser.
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17 Feb, 2011 by Kay
Mr Delpiano is very good at what he does. Very Knowledgaeble and really fights for his clients. A little expensive but worth every penny.
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07 Apr, 2010 by Donna
She was excellent. Very aggressive in working on my behalf yet also very responsive to my calls and emails. I would highly recommend her.
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28 Aug, 2023 by Jessica bauer
David McGrath is an outstanding attorney. His knowledge of the law along with his compassion for his clients, professionalism, comprehension of complex cases, and humor at just the right moments, is unmatched.
David always made me feel supported in my goals and heard in what my concerns were. He took the time to guide me through understanding the legal process, which at times, felt frightening and overwhelming. My custody case was complicated and contentious. Fortunately, in working with David, I feel we were able to meet our desired outcomes.
I have, and will continue to, recommend David McGrath as a family attorney.
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22 Aug, 2023 by Jessica
David McGrath is an outstanding attorney. His knowledge of the law along with his compassion for his clients, professionalism, comprehension of complex cases, and humor at just the right moments, is unmatched.
David always made me feel supported in my goals and heard in what my concerns were. He took the time to guide me through understanding the legal process, which at times, felt frightening and overwhelming. My custody case was complicated and contentious. Fortunately, in working with David, I feel we were able to meet our desired outcomes.
I have, and will continue to, recommend David McGrath as a family attorney.
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20 Apr, 2023 by Marc atkinson
McConnell Family Law Group was an excellent choice for me. Not only were they responsive and knowledgeable, but they went above and beyond to guarantee my case was handled with the utmost care. If you need a divorce mediation lawyer in Hartford, look no further than this team!
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29 Jul, 2024 by Mark b
In a process where I felt utterly lost, Attorney Cervin provided clear feedback on the process, set expectations, managed all deliverables according to the timeline. I highly recommend Attorney Cervin for anyone in need. It's a difficult process, but Ashley's legal guidance/support helped me navigate through it.
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12 Dec, 2023 by Kristen
I came to Ashley from another law firm because I wanted a different approach. I was beyond pleased with not only the legal services but the person I chose to represent my case.
Attorney Ashley Cervin embodies the epitome of professionalism, delivering timely responses and maintaining a child-focused approach throughout all interactions. Her unwavering commitment to securing positive outcomes, coupled with thoroughness and a clear, non-emotional, and intelligent demeanor, sets a remarkable standard. Punctual, communicative, and profoundly knowledgeable in family law, Ashley remains personable, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of every step, never proceeding without full client permission. Her cost-effective, precise, and favorable billing practices further exemplify her dedication.
I will undoubtedly continue to engage her services and highly recommend Ashley Cervin for anyone seeking exceptional legal representation.
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20 Sep, 2023 by Margaret
Attorney Cervin is a fantastic attorney. She was able to help me understand every step from the beginning to the end in my divorce and make sure we receive the best possible outcome for my children. She is very easy to talk to about any issue that arose from my divorce. She was always prepared and ready to handle any situation even in the most stressful time. I would highly recommend Ashley to anyone in need of a good divorce attorney who actually listens to their clients.
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28 Aug, 2023 by Jessica bauer
David McGrath is an outstanding attorney. His knowledge of the law along with his compassion for his clients, professionalism, comprehension of complex cases, and humor at just the right moments, is unmatched.
David always made me feel supported in my goals and heard in what my concerns were. He took the time to guide me through understanding the legal process, which at times, felt frightening and overwhelming. My custody case was complicated and contentious. Fortunately, in working with David, I feel we were able to meet our desired outcomes.
I have, and will continue to, recommend David McGrath as a family attorney.
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20 Apr, 2023 by Marc atkinson
McConnell Family Law Group was an excellent choice for me. Not only were they responsive and knowledgeable, but they went above and beyond to guarantee my case was handled with the utmost care. If you need a divorce mediation lawyer in Hartford, look no further than this team!
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05 Apr, 2023 by Linda prestley
Atty McGrath is awesome. He appeared before me often over my tenure in family court. Very well respected, prepared and does a great job for his clients!
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28 Aug, 2023 by Jessica bauer
David McGrath is an outstanding attorney. His knowledge of the law along with his compassion for his clients, professionalism, comprehension of complex cases, and humor at just the right moments, is unmatched.
David always made me feel supported in my goals and heard in what my concerns were. He took the time to guide me through understanding the legal process, which at times, felt frightening and overwhelming. My custody case was complicated and contentious. Fortunately, in working with David, I feel we were able to meet our desired outcomes.
I have, and will continue to, recommend David McGrath as a family attorney.
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20 Apr, 2023 by Marc atkinson
McConnell Family Law Group was an excellent choice for me. Not only were they responsive and knowledgeable, but they went above and beyond to guarantee my case was handled with the utmost care. If you need a divorce mediation lawyer in Hartford, look no further than this team!
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13 Apr, 2023 by Anonymous
I was referred to the law firm where Kayleigh is an attorney
and had the option of working with a partner of the firm or Kayleigh . I chose Kayleigh and never regretted my decision. Kayleigh explained the divorce process that “we” would use, gave me an approximate time line and what information she would need from me. Any questions or concerns I had were addressed with clarity and in a timely fashion. She resolved a “sticky “ situation professionally and to my liking. Above all , Kayleigh was sensitive to my situation, was approachable and knowledgeable.
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28 Aug, 2023 by Jessica bauer
David McGrath is an outstanding attorney. His knowledge of the law along with his compassion for his clients, professionalism, comprehension of complex cases, and humor at just the right moments, is unmatched.
David always made me feel supported in my goals and heard in what my concerns were. He took the time to guide me through understanding the legal process, which at times, felt frightening and overwhelming. My custody case was complicated and contentious. Fortunately, in working with David, I feel we were able to meet our desired outcomes.
I have, and will continue to, recommend David McGrath as a family attorney.
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20 Apr, 2023 by Marc atkinson
McConnell Family Law Group was an excellent choice for me. Not only were they responsive and knowledgeable, but they went above and beyond to guarantee my case was handled with the utmost care. If you need a divorce mediation lawyer in Hartford, look no further than this team!
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05 Apr, 2023 by Linda prestley
Atty McGrath is awesome. He appeared before me often over my tenure in family court. Very well respected, prepared and does a great job for his clients!
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28 Aug, 2023 by Jessica bauer
David McGrath is an outstanding attorney. His knowledge of the law along with his compassion for his clients, professionalism, comprehension of complex cases, and humor at just the right moments, is unmatched.
David always made me feel supported in my goals and heard in what my concerns were. He took the time to guide me through understanding the legal process, which at times, felt frightening and overwhelming. My custody case was complicated and contentious. Fortunately, in working with David, I feel we were able to meet our desired outcomes.
I have, and will continue to, recommend David McGrath as a family attorney.
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20 Apr, 2023 by Marc atkinson
McConnell Family Law Group was an excellent choice for me. Not only were they responsive and knowledgeable, but they went above and beyond to guarantee my case was handled with the utmost care. If you need a divorce mediation lawyer in Hartford, look no further than this team!
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05 Apr, 2023 by Linda prestley
Atty McGrath is awesome. He appeared before me often over my tenure in family court. Very well respected, prepared and does a great job for his clients!
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12 Sep, 2024 by Kathleen mattox
Nicole Christie and her Team are the absolute Best in the State of CT! When you are dealing with serious issues, only the Best will do. Not only is the Christie Law Firm extremely knowledgeable, experienced, responsive, they treat you like family with great care and compassion. Everyone from the first call to your closed case, and everything in between is extremely professional, informative, and friendly! Nicole Christie came highly recommended to me from one of CT’s top lawyers and has an excellent, well respected reputation among her peers!
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30 Aug, 2024 by Rosa young
27 Aug, 2024 by Heather blanco
23 May, 2024 by Sam crusan
Chris successfully negotiated a reduction in the fine our company received for a permit violation.
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10 Apr, 2024 by Ioannis kaloidis
15 Mar, 2024 by Yagyavir singh verma
28 Aug, 2023 by Jessica bauer
David McGrath is an outstanding attorney. His knowledge of the law along with his compassion for his clients, professionalism, comprehension of complex cases, and humor at just the right moments, is unmatched.
David always made me feel supported in my goals and heard in what my concerns were. He took the time to guide me through understanding the legal process, which at times, felt frightening and overwhelming. My custody case was complicated and contentious. Fortunately, in working with David, I feel we were able to meet our desired outcomes.
I have, and will continue to, recommend David McGrath as a family attorney.
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20 Apr, 2023 by Marc atkinson
McConnell Family Law Group was an excellent choice for me. Not only were they responsive and knowledgeable, but they went above and beyond to guarantee my case was handled with the utmost care. If you need a divorce mediation lawyer in Hartford, look no further than this team!
Read more
05 Apr, 2023 by Linda prestley
Atty McGrath is awesome. He appeared before me often over my tenure in family court. Very well respected, prepared and does a great job for his clients!
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.
