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15 Dec, 2024 by Joel emilio perez
So….My accident happened in August, I waited a day to get a lawyer, it was my first accident. I never been through any legal matters in my life. I get a big law firm to represent me and they tell me to keep them posted as I go through everything regarding my accident as far as medical treatment, after about 2 months I find out I need surgery. My wife just had surgery so she is out of work and I’m about to be go on leave. The law firm I hired calls me the day of my wife surgery and tell me they can no longer represent me….it took 2 months to get this info. I’m furious but I can’t waste time I need to find a lawyer, I call 5 law firms and 4 get back to me. The first 3 firms I speak to were almost exactly the same, have me explain my case and have me signed up, so they can start, I was losing hope and I get a call back from Ayme Calderon from Law offices of Michael E. Skiber, she was the first to ask me questions, and to give me insight on how cases like mine work. She answered every question I asked, kept me informed on everything going on, and always explained everything to me so I understand everything happening with my case. She managed to get me the max settlement before Christmas. Ayme Calderon helped me give my family a Christmas that will be talk to for years to come. I am so grateful for her time and effort, and how quickly this all happened. Thank you Ayme, you helped me make this Christmas a happy one. God bless you!
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21 Nov, 2024 by Karin cammilletti
The team is very knowledgeable!
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15 Nov, 2024 by Daniel lopez
Very great work & they Always get you the maximum pay out!!!!!
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15 Dec, 2024 by Joel emilio perez
So….My accident happened in August, I waited a day to get a lawyer, it was my first accident. I never been through any legal matters in my life. I get a big law firm to represent me and they tell me to keep them posted as I go through everything regarding my accident as far as medical treatment, after about 2 months I find out I need surgery. My wife just had surgery so she is out of work and I’m about to be go on leave. The law firm I hired calls me the day of my wife surgery and tell me they can no longer represent me….it took 2 months to get this info. I’m furious but I can’t waste time I need to find a lawyer, I call 5 law firms and 4 get back to me. The first 3 firms I speak to were almost exactly the same, have me explain my case and have me signed up, so they can start, I was losing hope and I get a call back from Ayme Calderon from Law offices of Michael E. Skiber, she was the first to ask me questions, and to give me insight on how cases like mine work. She answered every question I asked, kept me informed on everything going on, and always explained everything to me so I understand everything happening with my case. She managed to get me the max settlement before Christmas. Ayme Calderon helped me give my family a Christmas that will be talk to for years to come. I am so grateful for her time and effort, and how quickly this all happened. Thank you Ayme, you helped me make this Christmas a happy one. God bless you!
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21 Nov, 2024 by Karin cammilletti
The team is very knowledgeable!
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15 Nov, 2024 by Daniel lopez
Very great work & they Always get you the maximum pay out!!!!!
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12 Feb, 2025 by Patrick
"I had the pleasure of working with Law Office of Michael L. Chambers, Jr. and I was incredibly impressed with the level of professionalism, expertise, and personal care they provided. From the initial consultation to the resolution of my case, Mr. chambers was attentive, communicative, and highly knowledgeable. They took the time to explain every step of the process in a way that made me feel comfortable and informed.would highly recommend
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10 Feb, 2025 by Mandy kwarteng
The Best there is👍👍
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04 Feb, 2025 by Shaa
very good and fast lawyer, calls with updates and important imformation very caring and quick would reccomend
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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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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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23 Dec, 2024 by Pace picone
I can’t not help but say they are the best law group in the world !
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17 Dec, 2024 by Michael picone
15 Dec, 2024 by Timothy binkoski
Much Appreciation and thanks for Jeff and Jennifer and for their professionalism, time and efforts.
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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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22 Jan, 2025 by Thomas egan
I recently engaged with the attorneys at Rogin Nassau and was thoroughly impressed by their professionalism and promptness. They consistently returned my calls quickly, ensuring that I felt supported and valued as a client. I highly recommend their services to anyone looking for reliable and attentive legal assistance.
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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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16 Dec, 2024 by 1 2
An excellent attorney. She provides great insight in the process, guides you through each steps, and provides regular case updates. Good to have on your side when things are hard and confusing.
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16 Dec, 2024 by Abduls
I worked with Attorney Phyllis MacCutcheon during one of the most challenging periods of my life—a high-conflict divorce. From the outset, she exhibited exceptional professionalism and strategic expertise, skillfully navigating the complexities of my case with clarity and confidence while ensuring I was fully informed at every step of the process.
Her office administrator, Briana, was equally remarkable—organized, responsive, and always willing to go above and beyond to keep everything running smoothly. Their collaboration provided a seamless and reassuring experience during a very difficult time.
Thanks to Attorney Phyllis’s expert guidance and Briana’s steadfast support, I achieved many critical outcomes that safeguarded my rights as a father and allowed me to move forward with stability, confidence, and dignity for both myself and my children.
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10 Dec, 2024 by Josh buckley
My current attorney is Jenna Hyler. She's extremely competent of family law and very responsive.
She will let you know what will fly in court and what won't. You won't be left out in the dark about what's going on in your case if you retain her services.
She's currently helping me try to gain custody of my daughter and I feel a lot better having her on my side.
I would highly recommend her if you're a father in a custody/divorce case and want an attorney who cares and who is straight-forward and honest with you.
She discloses information that the average person would not think of, nor are they aware of.
Highly recommended!
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11 Dec, 2024 by Holly palmieri
Highly recommended Attorney Faccadio and team. They are a great team and always there for me no matter day or time. And needless to say, getting things taken care of.
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03 Dec, 2024 by Ngan le
Very professional and compassionate! Attorney Brandy Thomas was extremely organized, responsive, and efficient. I really appreciate that she truly had my best interest in mind and laid out all available options along with pros and cons right at the start and let me choose how to proceed instead of just pushing for the most expensive route (litigation) like other attorneys. The firm sent flowers, post cards, and checked in with me to make sure I’m doing ok even months after my case was closed. Well worth the money!
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15 Nov, 2024 by Anne hunter
Attorney Lisa Faccadio represented a friend of mine in a high-conflict divorce/custody matter and achieved a full victory! Thanks Lisa!
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27 Nov, 2024 by Exchange st station
Attorney Mark Colson provided exceptional service. He was knowledgeable, professional, and communicative throughout the entire process. His expertise made a stressful situation much easier to navigate. I highly recommend him to anyone in need of legal assistance
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25 Nov, 2024 by Ariel harper
From our initial consultation, Mr Colson listened carefully to my concerns and provided tailored advice that made me feel confident in pursuing my case. His communication was excellent, he kept me informed throughout the process, and his attention to detail ensured everything was handled perfectly.
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24 Oct, 2024 by Alejandro linares
16 Dec, 2024 by 1 2
An excellent attorney. She provides great insight in the process, guides you through each steps, and provides regular case updates. Good to have on your side when things are hard and confusing.
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16 Dec, 2024 by Abduls
I worked with Attorney Phyllis MacCutcheon during one of the most challenging periods of my life—a high-conflict divorce. From the outset, she exhibited exceptional professionalism and strategic expertise, skillfully navigating the complexities of my case with clarity and confidence while ensuring I was fully informed at every step of the process.
Her office administrator, Briana, was equally remarkable—organized, responsive, and always willing to go above and beyond to keep everything running smoothly. Their collaboration provided a seamless and reassuring experience during a very difficult time.
Thanks to Attorney Phyllis’s expert guidance and Briana’s steadfast support, I achieved many critical outcomes that safeguarded my rights as a father and allowed me to move forward with stability, confidence, and dignity for both myself and my children.
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10 Dec, 2024 by Josh buckley
My current attorney is Jenna Hyler. She's extremely competent of family law and very responsive.
She will let you know what will fly in court and what won't. You won't be left out in the dark about what's going on in your case if you retain her services.
She's currently helping me try to gain custody of my daughter and I feel a lot better having her on my side.
I would highly recommend her if you're a father in a custody/divorce case and want an attorney who cares and who is straight-forward and honest with you.
She discloses information that the average person would not think of, nor are they aware of.
Highly recommended!
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02 Aug, 2024 by Eddie lackard
When I contacted Attorney Acosta, he seemed genuinely interested in helping me through the employment scenario I was dealing with. He listened, understood then provided a favorable move forward plan. An excellent choice if you're looking for a competent attorney that looks out for your best interest,,, I highly recommend attorney Acosta!
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16 Apr, 2024 by David figueroa
08 Mar, 2024 by Yesenia rodriguez
I contacted the Law Office of Ruben E. Acosta, Llc regarding a situation with my former employer. Attorney Acosta provided thorough and insightful counsel and ultimately negotiated an agreement with them. His expertise, professionalism and dedication were evident throughout the entire process and his strategic approach and attention to detail played a pivotal role in achieving a favorable outcome for me. He not only helped manage the legal aspects but he also provided much-needed reassurance that we were on the right track during a stressful period. I highly recommend Attorney Acosta.
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09 Mar, 2024 by Taks towing (tak)
The best in the whole area.
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15 Dec, 2023 by E a
26 Oct, 2022 by Elizabeth villanueva
Great
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20 Dec, 2023 by Elizabeth
My experience with Attorney Hide Inga was horrible. I tried for months, from approximately March 2023 to the ending of my case in November 2023, Attorney Inga did not do his due diligence. I asked for several documents that he never got from the opposing lawyer. I repeatedly asked in emails and in person and he repeatedly ignored my insistence to get that paperwork. When I asked for my alimony to be amended he told me that he would do it and it was never done. The court in March had ordered the alimony to be ammended. I told him that more than once. His paralegal Duane told me that he had done it and in fact it had not been done. When I asked to update the equity of the home to the present at the time, his response was that it would only be a little bit more money and he ultimately never did it. He seemed to have very little concern for my future financial situation. He was not sensitive at all to my disability and what my divorce meant for my future stability as a disabled person. I was forced to accept an outcome that I was not happy about because he repeatedly allowed the opposing lawyer to wait until the last minute to submit an agreement. In an email it was communicated to him that I needed atleast two weeks to look over paperwork and make a decision. The last agreement by the opposing lawyer was submitted on October 30th and my court date was November 1st. It was not the same as the agreement I had signed approximately a month prior. I was told by Duane that it was the same but the legal language was a bit different, and in fact it had a lot more added on to it. Because of the increasing fear as a result of the constant back and forth with Attorney Inga and his paralegal Duane, and inability to continue being at odds with my own lawyer, the fear of not knowing what would happen in court with the situation and not having any money to get another lawyer, I consented to the last agreement. Because at that point I could clearly see that he was not really interested or concerned about my case. I was under too much stress and felt worn down. He repeatedly acted as if a little more money was of no consequence, but when it came to the last $1,000.00 that I owed him, he took it without a problem from me and he even tried to get me to forget about the worth of the plow that I asked for, stating that I would only get about $1,200. 00. It was only a little bit of money for me and my future, but for him every penny counted. I regret hiring him and wish I had noticed that he had a disciplinary action against him in the past. I am distraught at the way he and Duane treated me. I am distressed about the negligence and indifference that he showed during the months he represented me. I felt run over and mistreated by him and his office and I do not recommend Attorney Inga.
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19 Sep, 2023 by Samuel dixon black stallion entertainment
Totally wasted my time and money. If you’re a tenant looking to sue a landlord this is not her strong suit. They clearly are not for the people. They will give you the run around save your money.
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07 Aug, 2023 by Latesha
I would recommend Mr. Inga to family, friends and anyone else who is looking for a reliable attorney who will fight for you every step of the way. Mr. Inga will make you feel like you're part of the family and will keep you updated with any information needed on your case.
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16 Dec, 2024 by 1 2
An excellent attorney. She provides great insight in the process, guides you through each steps, and provides regular case updates. Good to have on your side when things are hard and confusing.
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16 Dec, 2024 by Abduls
I worked with Attorney Phyllis MacCutcheon during one of the most challenging periods of my life—a high-conflict divorce. From the outset, she exhibited exceptional professionalism and strategic expertise, skillfully navigating the complexities of my case with clarity and confidence while ensuring I was fully informed at every step of the process.
Her office administrator, Briana, was equally remarkable—organized, responsive, and always willing to go above and beyond to keep everything running smoothly. Their collaboration provided a seamless and reassuring experience during a very difficult time.
Thanks to Attorney Phyllis’s expert guidance and Briana’s steadfast support, I achieved many critical outcomes that safeguarded my rights as a father and allowed me to move forward with stability, confidence, and dignity for both myself and my children.
Read more
10 Dec, 2024 by Josh buckley
My current attorney is Jenna Hyler. She's extremely competent of family law and very responsive.
She will let you know what will fly in court and what won't. You won't be left out in the dark about what's going on in your case if you retain her services.
She's currently helping me try to gain custody of my daughter and I feel a lot better having her on my side.
I would highly recommend her if you're a father in a custody/divorce case and want an attorney who cares and who is straight-forward and honest with you.
She discloses information that the average person would not think of, nor are they aware of.
Highly recommended!
Read more
02 Aug, 2024 by Eddie lackard
When I contacted Attorney Acosta, he seemed genuinely interested in helping me through the employment scenario I was dealing with. He listened, understood then provided a favorable move forward plan. An excellent choice if you're looking for a competent attorney that looks out for your best interest,,, I highly recommend attorney Acosta!
Read more
16 Apr, 2024 by David figueroa
08 Mar, 2024 by Yesenia rodriguez
I contacted the Law Office of Ruben E. Acosta, Llc regarding a situation with my former employer. Attorney Acosta provided thorough and insightful counsel and ultimately negotiated an agreement with them. His expertise, professionalism and dedication were evident throughout the entire process and his strategic approach and attention to detail played a pivotal role in achieving a favorable outcome for me. He not only helped manage the legal aspects but he also provided much-needed reassurance that we were on the right track during a stressful period. I highly recommend Attorney Acosta.
Read more
19 Sep, 2023 by Samuel dixon black stallion entertainment
Totally wasted my time and money. If you’re a tenant looking to sue a landlord this is not her strong suit. They clearly are not for the people. They will give you the run around save your money.
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06 Jul, 2022 by Merelyn gardner
Met the attorney... very nice and beautiful lady! Would recommend her services
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02 Sep, 2021 by Bill hinds
Attorney Dumont is an excellent lawyer. She knows the law in the areas she practices better than any attorney I have ever worked with in over 70 years. She wins a very high percentage of her cases and is responsive to her clients throughout.
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27 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
John has been handling a custody case for me. He's been thoughtful of all involved, knows the system well and is genuinely there for me and my child's best interest. He comes prepared and ready to all court appearances and is always available via phone. I would strongly recommend his services if you are in need.
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05 Jan, 2014 by Jane
Attorney Andreini handled my 15 year old son's juvenile court case recently. He very skillfully represented my child's legal interests and simultaneously went to great lengths to make sure my son understood all the ramifications of his conduct. John gave my son excellent advice and developed a trusting relationship with him while the case was pending. Now my son wants to go to law school!
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07 Aug, 2012 by Arthur jr.
We needed an attorney for our son (for a bogus domestic dispute warrant issued almost a year ago). Out of the twelve lawyers I contacted through my company’s 'pre-paid' legal plan, only ONE (Atty. Andreini) responded to my needs quickly, with empathy and a firm commitment to help. The next day in court, he came when promised, worked with the prosecutor and gave us the 'straight facts'. His skill as a negotiator and his reputation with the court enable us to get our son out with a promise to appear. To put it bluntly, the public defender could care less concerning our child, but Atty. Andreini came through and he earned his pay that day!!!
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15 Apr, 2024 by Zach leone
Pullman & Comley did a fantastic job helping me navigate my divorce and custody challenges. With a young special needs daughter involved, it was important to have a team with a broad range of expertise. Jon Kukucka specifically gave invaluable advice and was was spot on with his approach and arguments both in court and with mediators. I highly recommend Pullman & Comley.
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13 Apr, 2024 by Kendra richards
Worst experience with an attorney in my lifetime. The performance falls well below the standard of care expected of an attorney and firm. I felt unheard and undervalued as a client. I do not recommend them to anyone going through divorce.
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05 May, 2019 by Anonymous
Campbell Barrett took on my divorce case but had limited time to work on my case. After a year of filing motions and never appearing in court, to defend the filed motions I hired a second lawyer to get me through the divorce process. If I had not done this we would have gone to trial and spent most of the settlement. Please don’t let his lash offices fool you… You are paying dearly for them with. He offered very few results
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24 Aug, 2024 by Andy farbinni
08 Mar, 2024 by Larry j
They at least gave me information pertaining to my issue. More personable and professional.
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05 Sep, 2023 by Liza pelletier
24 Aug, 2024 by Andy farbinni
08 Mar, 2024 by Larry j
They at least gave me information pertaining to my issue. More personable and professional.
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05 Sep, 2023 by Liza pelletier
24 Aug, 2024 by Andy farbinni
08 Mar, 2024 by Larry j
They at least gave me information pertaining to my issue. More personable and professional.
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05 Sep, 2023 by Liza pelletier
15 Apr, 2024 by Zach leone
Pullman & Comley did a fantastic job helping me navigate my divorce and custody challenges. With a young special needs daughter involved, it was important to have a team with a broad range of expertise. Jon Kukucka specifically gave invaluable advice and was was spot on with his approach and arguments both in court and with mediators. I highly recommend Pullman & Comley.
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13 Apr, 2024 by Kendra richards
Worst experience with an attorney in my lifetime. The performance falls well below the standard of care expected of an attorney and firm. I felt unheard and undervalued as a client. I do not recommend them to anyone going through divorce.
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09 Aug, 2018 by Belogvardeets
I had a very difficult international family law matter concerning child custody, case jurisdiction and the UCCJEA.
The situation was adverse. Stakes were high. Notwithstanding, Campbell Barrett and his team pulled the proverbial rabbit out of the hat and did a stellar job for me and my children who would otherwise been relegated to a bleak future.
As a family law attorney, Campbell Barrett of Pullman and Comley is worth his weight in gold ... or even platinum for that matter!
My boys and I have him to thank along with his team members Johanna Katz and Stacy for saving their future.
When the going gets tough Pullman and Comley get going and do the job done as none other.
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23 Nov, 2021 by Anonymous
Kept 99% of retainer after poor representation! Disorganized. Did not keep confidences from opposing counsel/client! Forgot critical information shared. Lost valuable time. BEWARE.
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11 Oct, 2019 by Adrienne
My family and I have known Bob Fried for over 30 years. He has helped us with multiple legal issues, and in all cases he is professional, helpful, and extremely effective. I always recommend him when asked for a legal referral and he is the first person I connect when I have a question! Most recently he helped me with my house closing. With in a week he efficiently coordinated everything to a successfuly closing!
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16 Oct, 2024 by Daniella
I never saw agent like Frank,unprofessional,never answer on messages,phone calls….very bad and unprofessional agent!!!!
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10 Dec, 2021 by Linda
If you want to pay money to have your calls and emails go unanswered, watch your attorney defend the actions of someone they should be holding in contempt and go months without seeing your kid only to be told to “keep waiting until court” and “find solutions”, hire him.
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21 Mar, 2017 by Brian
Frank is an excellent attorney who cares about his clients. I was happy that I hired him. He helped me more than once and went the distance to get things thrown out in court. He knows his stuff. I recommend using Frank if you have a problem.
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19 May, 2013 by Buffee
This lawyer uses all the supportive words a mother needs to hear. I trusted him and signed agreements that I should not have. When finances dry up, so does his services. Leaving a daughter with out her mother. Broke my heart in more ways than one.
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12 Jan, 2024 by Bob
In summary, engaging Attorney James Ruel proved financially and legally Ruinous. See details below.
**Mediation Proceedings and Abandonment
*4/21/15 Engaged Atty James Ruel to review mediated Lump-Sum (LS) settlement.
*Ruel was strongly against LS & favored paying alimony for 11 years,132 alimony payments
*I directed Ruel to pursue LS agreement only
*9/28/15 Mediated LS settlement approved by all parties
Mediated LS (near final) total cost = $15K
*Ruel convinced parties to leave mediation by stating that the LS agreement would never be Judge approved due to my age and amount of savings.
*My appeals lawyer contradicted Ruel’s statement as did the Judge’s approval of a LS agreement reached during the appeal.
**Ruel Competency Issues
*Ruel failed abide by his fiduciary and competent representation duties driving costs from 15K to $350K
*Inaccurate financial models were run by Ruel team members lacking any accounting or financial planning SME or industry certifications necessary to identify model output errors or to competently analyze financial offers from spouse.
*My post-divorce financial health was predicated on having accurate financial models
*Model’s inaccuracy forced an emergency 401K withdrawal of $125K and an associated tax penalty of $1000 per month for 36 months.
*Ruel’s discovery process failed to ask spouse for information about any uncollected alimony or child support awards from her 1st marriage.
*My appeals lawyer identified $100K of assets due to spouse from 1st husband that she chose not to collect or to ask the court’s assistance to do so.
**Ruel Advocacy Shortcoming**
*Opposing Counsel OC subjected me to constant character assassinations and baseless accusations during negotiating calls and in front of the special masters.
*Pleas to Ruel to address OC’s behavior were met with condescension (e.g. quote from Ruel’s response to intervention request, "I can address OC’s behavior or get this agreement finalized, which do you want?”
*My response was I want both to be addressed and Ruel chose not to call out OC’s behavior.
*Refused to support audit request to verify compliance of OC’s billing against client funded retainer.
*Violated fiduciary duty by joining with OC to belittle me regarding above
*Allowed OC to cover for constant missed deadlines
*Above caused increased time/expense for travel, wasted PTO &months of increased time/cost to finalize divorce.
*Ruel failed to inform me that If it is clear your spouse is wasting your time and money, you can petition to have them pay for a portion or all of your divorce attorney fees and that the fees must be consistent with normal industry parameters
*Ruel responded to post divorce requests for assistance with reopening the settlement by saying there were no viable options and that I should live with it.
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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:
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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.
