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09 Aug, 2024 by Christina aguilar
Knowledgeable, helpful, and trustworthy legal services
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02 Aug, 2024 by Choochoo cutie
Annemarie is an incredibly dedicated professional who always puts her clients' needs first. Her outstanding efficiency and commitment to her work make her a truly valuable asset.
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24 Jul, 2024 by Rebeka reyes
Ms. Josephine Norton was the attorney assigned to my case. She was very professional, caring, patient, and thorough. The communication was excellent and I would definitely recommend Merel family law services to anyone in the future!
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04 May, 2021 by Anonymous
I had first contacted Nancy Chausow-Schaeffer on a referral in early 2014 when my previous marriage, where I had two young children, was having alarming marital issues. Nancy was able to take an objective view and guide me through the process of divorce in a calm and patient manner while also being very professional while interacting with my soon-to-be ex-wife's attorney. The divorce went smooth and finalized quickly over two months. Nancy reassured me that she would be there for me if issues arose over the next 17 years.
I ended up retaining Nancy’s services again, just a few years post decree due to a JPA modification my ex-wife requested. Over the next 5 1/2 years, my ex-wife had a few marital changes, employment changes, and created a very challenging co-parenting environment. Nancy was by my side the whole way and kept us focused non-related topics arose. With a final order in place, I believe Nancy did the best she could to obtain a fair outcome and will be by my side if challenges come up again in the future. I would recommend Nancy to anyone looking for an attorney who will objectively guide you through the divorce process and then be there when future family law needs occur.
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01 Apr, 2021 by Amy holleman
What Nancy is doing is saving people who are going through the dark night of the soul. I know what it’s like to go through trauma. I know how much it hurts. I got to the other side.
If you feel like you don’t know exactly where to go or what to do, Nancy has the answers. Regardless of how despondent you are or your situation is, Nancy will fight for you. Nancy fought for my future and negotiated my best life. There are few people walking this earth that have a rare and powerful combination of compassion and dedication for their clients.
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12 Mar, 2021 by Martina swarbrick
Taryn Fisher made a stressful, life changing experience as seamless as possible. Her diligence and attention to detail was much appreciated. I could not recommend her & the team at Chausow Shafer more highly. I appreciated her kindness, while keeping me informed at all times during the process and my divorce was resolved amicably largely due to her suggestions and negotiations.
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5.0
3 Reviews
04 Oct, 2017 by Suzan
Arnie is excellent, understanding and always did what was best for me, whether I knew it or not at the time. He had an excellent relationship with my judge and worked effectively with the GAL and my ex's lawyer to bring resolution to all the issues I experienced. He was available for consultation at all hours, including weekends and evenings when critical issues arrived. I could not have gotten through this divorce without his support and guidance. His paralegal, Emily, was amazing and super supportive, too.
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06 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
Arnie is a competent professional who handled post decree matters that were both time consuming and complex yet he achieved results that other attorneys said were unattainable. He is a tireless and relentless advocate and a good man to have in your corner. My prayers were answered when Arnie agreed to represent me and my children. Attorneys with his qualities and qualifications are few and far between. I highly recommend him.
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10 Aug, 2013 by Lamar
Attorney Goldstein has been awesome from day one. He is on top of situations before they even arise. Retaining him to handle my divorce and custody hearing was the best decision I made.
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01 Aug, 2012 by Michael
Darren Miller did an excellent job at representing me against a case of a vendor that wanted to charge me thousands of dollars for work not done (a broken construction contract due to incompetence). Not only did he address the other lawyer in a very professional way, he asked good questions and did not give up. I won my case. I have a rule, that my attorney has to be very intelligent and competent and Darren Miller fits the bill. I would use him for larger cases as well.
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12 Apr, 2017 by Kelley
I retained Tina as my divorce lawyer in April 2016. She was very thorough and handled my case extremely well. Tina was very quick to respond to any questions I had and I felt very confident that she had my and my son's best interests in mind. I would very highly recommend Tina!
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30 Jun, 2016 by Anonymous
I have never had a better experience with a lawyer, and unfortunately I've had more than my fair share. Tina didn't just talk like she knew what she was doing but she got my case dismissed! But what made me want to write this review more than getting a favorable outcome, I felt she was truly concerned with me and my situation, and though I know it isn't true, she made me feel like I was her only client. That is the biggest difference to me. She always knew everything about my case, and even reminded me of things I had forgotten. Tina, if you are reading this, you are the best, I can't thank you enough. Though I hope there isn't a next time, you will be my first and only call!
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23 Jun, 2016 by James
All I can say is I was very happy Tina Marie was great in court and I'm so happy with the outcome it just don't get any better , Thank you to Tina and everyone involved helping defend my case you guys are great and I will never forget what you done to help me, I highly recommend you and you are the very very best
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14 Jun, 2023 by Susan
Anne went above and beyond to help me with my QDRO's, pension information and IRA's during my divorce. She was patient, kind and explained everything in detail. Anne exceeded my expectations and I highly recommend her! She's the best!!
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09 Jun, 2023 by Brian
Terrible experience. My credit card was charged under a different law firm name, when the charge was contested by my card provider. she sends a nasty email indicating she was dropping the case. Once this is resolved, she completes the work and has the audacity to send a $15 bill for fees incurred by my card provider due to her billing me under a different law firm name. When this nominal fee is contested she refuses to relent citing “small margins” . In a power play, she refuses to file the final paperwork with the court and walks away. No empathy or understanding that her clients are dealing with a divorce and all the challenges which come with it.
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17 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
Anne and her team are true QDRO subject matter experts. For my situation, they developed an efficient and steam lined approach to process several QDROS including a military QDRO.
Their expertise, recommendations and attention to detail in the complicated military QDRO process and procedures were stunning. The military QDRO was reviewed and approved in 10 days!!! (Due to potential complexities, we were told to be prepared for an extended timeframe - up to several months).
I Highly recommend Anne and her team: trusted, collaborative and empathetic partners during a painful and extended divorce.
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22 Feb, 2022 by Anonymous
This attorney consulted us as an expert witness and never paid the bill. Will not return emails or phone calls to address the issue.
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25 Aug, 2013 by Courtney
When I entered this battle with my sons father I knew that I needed someone that I could trust and rely on. A friend referred me to Debbie because she did such a great job with her case. I met with her and felt how passionate she was towards the best interest of the children, in these cases. It made me feel secure in hiring her. Debbie has been my attorney for over a year and not once has it taken her more then 2 hours to respond to an issue that was at hand, another attribute of her practice that made me feel secure. I am extremely pleased with the outcome of my situation. Debbie makes her self available whenever needed including last minute. When it comes down to my son, I will do everything to protect him. Debbie has also made it extremely clear that she is there for the best interest of the child and will defend my son the same as I would. I greatly appreciate having her as my attorney and have referred her to friends that have needed counsel, due to her passion for justice.
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24 Aug, 2013 by Susan
I'm a former client of this attorney. I hired her after i had a very bad experience with another attorney. Attorney Kimmelman is extremely knowledgeable and competent. She fights for every client and every issue. I had the best possible experience with her. She was proactive and was able to predict every step of the opposite side. She is available 24/7 and never suggests unnecessary motions or steps to bill extra fees. BTW, she is extremely generous with her fees and very honest. NEVER will suggest something that makes no sense. My divorce was very difficult and I had to continue professional relationships with this attorney for another two years after the date of the divorce. The results exceeded all possible expectations. I will provide few fact which speak volumes about professionalism of this attorney, During 2.5 years of this nightmare called divorce the opposite side did not win a single motion. When my divorce was finally over, my ex husband recommended my attorney ( not his) to his colleague/friend, which attests the best to the professionalism and personal skills of Debra Kimmelman. I would not ask for a better divorce attorney.
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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.
