Filter by

star star star star star
12 Jul, 2019 by Anonymous
I was scared of trusting any attorney because I had a experience that left me traumatized: Jason understand my needs and was nice about explaining and enlightening me . I left his office feeling confident and restored I would recommend anyone to him.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
25 Aug, 2018 by Deborah s.
Mr. Falcone has been my attorney for almost 30 years. He is knowledgeable, diligent and appropriately aggressive in representing me. I have no idea what happened with the negative review person but I trust Lenny completely. I would advise anyone looking for legal representation to do the same!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
27 Apr, 2017 by Sidney leonidas
Awesome attorney! Knowledgeable, thorough and accessible.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
06 Nov, 2020 by Anonymous
I HADA TAFF CASE SHE HELP ME SHE SO SWEET TOOK TIME TO EXPLAIN GOOD TO HAVE HER AS MY LAWER
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
05 May, 2017 by Quan j starks
Camille Russel is a strategic and extremely argumentative on side of the District Attorney and in front of the Judges. ..She is a informative activist on behalf of the Client and by far an excellent Attorney. . She fought and WON all of my criminal defense cases as well as the cases of my referrals. .. Camille Is indeed a fighter and is never afraid to take the road less traveled in the courtroom... She knows the Law is an understatement by all means. . If your Freedom is at stake , I totally Recommend Camille Russel as your Legal Bodyguard.. Respectfully Submitted, Mr. Starks
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
17 Oct, 2015 by Viktoriia greenfield
Victor is a very knowledgable man with a polite and educated background. i am in country for only a few weeks and not familiar with all the custms and things america has to offer. Victor was patient and understanding and showed me that he was a very qualified attorney with the total capability of helping me in my legal needs. Victor showed me his confidence and dealt with me in a helpful and understanding manner. i appreciated all his input and felt very secure with his legal advice.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
12 Oct, 2024 by Alex guevara
Really Bad Experience With This People, I drop Documents from My Daughter And Me To Open Inmigration Case, But After I Found Better Attorneys and Affordable Prices. Call To Pick up My Documents Back and The Secretary was Rude and Still Don’t Back my Inmigration a documents. Unprofessional Peoples in this buffet! Never Recommend this Attorneys!!!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
07 Oct, 2024 by Angelith usuga
They take forever to reply, and when they do, some are so rude.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
17 Sep, 2024 by Eric ki
I highly recommend Stefanie Tocci at Talarico Traffic Lawyers for their exceptional professionalism, diligent work ethic, and successful dismissal of my speeding ticket, which alleviated my stress and saved me from fines.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
09 Jun, 2020 by Anonymous
Sharman represented me in a family law matter and was incredibly opinionated and unprofessional. Heard more about her personal critique of my character before court than the situation she was there for. Felt like she was representing my Ex and not myself. I resent ever having dealt with this person. Clearly she did not want to be there and clearly made her judgement of me well known.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
31 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
When I was being investigated by at least two prosecuting agencies, I immediately contacted and hired Sharman. She guided me through the process, and allowed me to have my sanity when I felt that everything was crashing down. She gave me the peace of mind to know that my case was being defended in the best way possible. If you are ever charged with a crime, or are being investigated for a potential one, then you will know exactly what I mean. Sharman is highly skilled, but most importantly, trustworthy.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
09 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
I was referred to Cindy by a friend. I retained her for a custody/ relocation case. I was dating someone who was extremely wealthy at the time and gave me the $10k for the retainer. She went through the retainer in 2 months and quickly accrued $29k. The courts hated me. She told me I was going to lose custody and will have to move back to ny from Texas. I asked her to drug test my ex which she said I couldn’t afford. My best friend handed over her Cc. The only reason I won was because he failed. She didn’t do anything besides cause me anxiety and stress. I would NEVER recommend her.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
11 Oct, 2022 by John
My very humble opinion and I believe the following: Most of my claims I have proof of. Cindy a. Prusinowski Esqs. 64 Hilton Ave, Hempstead, NY 11550 (516) 307-1940 One of the worst attorneys I ever hired. As the another reviewer states SHE GETS NOTHING ACCOMPLISHED and is constantly yelling. Which is what I experienced. I would NEVERRRRR recommend anybody have this as their representation. She was a total waste of time and $$$. She I believe abusively loud obnoxious, belittling, makes many comments including“I don’t give a sh*t” when I was explaining to her my case and ETC. I paid her $250 per hour I guess like the old saying goes you get what you pay for. She has 40 years of practice with only a few reviews and a surprisingly amount of negative reviews speaks volumes. I highly recommend people L@@K at read her negative reviews. She is very abusively loud and Obnoxious at one point  I had to say why are you yelling. She abusively curses like a truck drivers mouth and calling her adversary a pr*ck,***,etc. I will be filing complaints with government agencies and negative reviews. I filed complaints with the New York State grievance committee, attorney grievance committee, Appellate division of the New York State Supreme Court, the New York State Attorney General‘s office, NYS governor office, law firm for legal shield who referred me to her, etc. I believe she should be disbarred. The so called over site is Attorneys handling complaints against other attorneys probably why I believe there’s nepotism. I could say sooooooo much more about my experience.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
14 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous
SHE GETS NOTHING ACCOMPLISHED AND IS CONSTANTLY YELLING EVEN IN THE COURTROOM. I FOUND OUT SHE HAS A REPUTATION FOR DOING THIS AND JUDGES -AND OTHER LAWYERS-DO NOT HAVE PATIENCE FOR HER TOO LATE FOR ME. DO NOT HIRE HER. SHE IS NOT A COMPETENT LITIGATOR AT ALL.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
05 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
Mr. Hirsch did not provide adequate services for any of our requests. He did not work toward his client's best interests. His experience does not confirm his abilities. We certainly would not recommend him to others.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
14 Mar, 2014 by Anonymous
I received a letter after my DWI arrest from several attorney's. Of the several letters I received I made the mistake of choosing Mitchell from Hirsch & Hirsh without ever consulting any other attorney. He may be a good real Estate attorney, But business must be slow so he looked to expand into DWI. It is clear he does not have the skills to represent DWI cases. Choose another attorney, you will not be happy with his performance. Nassau is tough enough with an A+ attorney.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
05 Feb, 2014 by Anonymous
I hired Mitchell Hirsch after being charged with a DWI in Nassau County, late in 2012. Having no prior offenses, or for that matter, no prior experience whatsoever with the judicial system, I relied heavily on Mr. Hirsch's council. On his recommendation, I accepted a plea bargain in which my license was revoked for 6 months; I was fined - quite a lot - and was sentenced to 3 years probation. The day I accepted the deal, Mr. Hirsch pulled me aside and assured me, the length of the probation, he said, would, really only amount to 6 months. "With good behavior they'll let you off in no time," he promised. I've been on probation now for 265 days and counting, and I've been good. The first time I met my probation officer, she laughed and said there's no such thing as "good behavior", I'd be seeing her, every week, for the 3 years. I was naive. I put my faith in Mr. Hirsch. I'm also required attend what's called a step-DWI program, a grade school-like class, 2 nights a week for 6 months - to learn scary facts about alcohol. What I've learned is that my sentence was really, really, really, harsh. Especially compared with my fellow drunk-driving classmates. I'm the only one - out of 20 - on probation. The class includes 2nd, even 3rd-time offenders, some crashed cars, some ran from the police, yet all of them are probation-free. Fines, classes, that's it. (I was pulled over for driving "too slow", 25 mph, around 4am, on the Long Island Expressway). Being on probation, I'm drug tested weekly, my P.O. officer randomly visits my apartment, plus I can't leave the state of NY without her permission, (which she refuses to give), again --- for 3 years. (the max for a 1st time offender) I've lost a whole lot of freedom and I feel like some kind of ex-con... who got conned by Mitchell Hirsch. Looking back, I'll always regret taking his advice, or really just hiring him in the first place. I was offered a raw deal and advised to take it. My advice to you: find a another lawyer.
Read more Avvo
See more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
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.

Scroll to top