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27 Aug, 2024 by Claudia lopez
After shopping around for a while I finally found the right lawyer to handle my difficult situation. Yuliana was so detail oriented in my case that even the judge was complimenting her tedious care for the fine print. She put my nerves at ease and walked me through the process step by step. I am so happy with the outcome and how everything transpired that I could not imagine having another representing me. From start to finish she is top notch, I highly recommend her to my friends and family in any domestic related issue.
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27 Aug, 2024 by Koos amak
You will not find a more caring and dedicated lawyer to fight for you. I had some unfortunate battles with my ex and Yuliana was able to get everything that was fairly due to me. She came highly recommended and I am so happy for that and now I'd like to pass on the recommendation to anyone that needs a tough ally by their side you won't be disappointed!
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27 Aug, 2024 by Michelle somogyi
I had the pleasure of working with Yulianna recently and cannot recommend her enough! She truly cares about her clients and it shows. She was always readily available for any questions or concerns I had and always made me feel comfortable during the process. Thank you for everything!
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17 May, 2024 by Iryna malikova
I cannot speak highly enough of Voloshen Law Firm P.C. and their outstanding team! My experience with them while preparing for my USCIS interview for petition N-400 and i-751was simply exceptional. From the moment I reached out to them, I was met with professionalism, expertise, and genuine care for my case. Igor Voloshen, the attorney, went above and beyond by personally coming to Chicago to be present at my interview. His dedication and commitment to ensuring my success were truly remarkable. Also, I am very thankful to Liliia, whose attention to detail, strategic guidance, and thorough preparation with documents were crucial in my interview readiness. Thanks to the expertise and dedication of the Voloshen Law Firm team, I felt confident and well-prepared during my USCIS interview. I am incredibly thankful for their assistance and highly recommend their services to anyone in need of immigration legal support. They truly show excellence in their field!
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14 May, 2024 by Mariana koziar
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09 May, 2024 by Firuz suyarov
Good 👍
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15 Feb, 2024 by Jyldyz jakypova
Alex Moretsky helped me a lot. High level of the professional ethics, very helpful and empathetic lawyer . Alex is amazing, great person! Thank you so much for your quick actions. Responsive and responsible.
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06 Oct, 2023 by Kevin thorn
I have known Alex Moretsky for over 20 years and I have been a client of his for the past 10. He is a fantastic person and an excellent attorney. I would highly recommend Alex for any IRS or Bankruptcy litigation matter or planning your may need help with or for any legal work for that matter. He is thoughtful, intelligent and highly skilled at his craft.
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04 May, 2023 by Carol shin
Alex is a consummate professional who is always available to help his clients and gets the deal done! I highly recommend him and I look forward to working with him again!
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10 Apr, 2024 by Philip
Most unprofessional legal firm do not return calls get to keep all the legal fees without representation and they lost my deposition documents. When it came to getting my documents back after Mr Donovan set an appointment never appears and I had to call the police into there law firm.
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11 May, 2022 by Steve
Well it was a gamble when we first hired James and his staff for our child custody battle, but I must say I have never saw or heard a lawyer to do what James and his staff has done! They are the best at what they do, his demeanor and strategy is above all the rest! Thanks James you are the best! We won!
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30 May, 2019 by Jose
My husband and I had an immigration case that needed to be taken care of. From the moment we came in everyone was courteous and helpful. They kept us informed every time we had paperwork sent to us by USCIS. They were with us every step of the way and along side when we had our interview. The same day of our interview we were approved and got my green card within 5 business days. I would highly recommend James Donovan ESQ. Thank you James, Raniah, Samantha and Sauri. We will be forever grateful for being there with us.
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10 Oct, 2024 by Sharlene
Posting a review that could easily consume several pages. Over the past year, Deb has provided an outstanding level of advice, moral support and professional services as I explored and committed to adoption. Not only was she extremely knowledgeable and well organized but she was punctual, professional, has clear communication and great follow-up! I was very fortunate to have Deb by my side, who provided the kind of support you would normally only receive from your closest loved ones. Always professional, but also personable enough to see and understand Deb’s profession is her passion! Our journey was long and at times wearing but I was consistently blown away by her commitment to us as clients and you will be too.
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20 Aug, 2021 by Roman
I initially engaged Deb for a custody case and have been very grateful ever since. She was able to win sole custody for the father, which seemed like a dream when we started the process. Deb was able to accomplish what seemed like an impossible task in the City of Philadelphia, and a child's life and our lives are immeasurably better as a result. She was understanding of the matter, an excellent communicator with the child, and fantastic with keeping us in the loop on all procedures. I would recommend her to anyone seeking counsel in any of the fields she specializes in.
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16 Nov, 2018 by Kara
During one of the most critical and emotional times of my life, Debbie with ZERO NOTICE jumped into my case with little to no questions asked except for necessary questions for immediate filings! I cannot express how wonderful it has been working with Debbie and how on top of her cases she is and how she works collaboratively with her client and really listens to her clients. I would recommend Debbie with any of your family law needs!!
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04 May, 2022 by Anonymous
Mr. Sipe represented me in my divorce case. We went all the way to the judge and I got the best outcome that I could have hoped for. I am very satisfied with my representation!
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01 Jul, 2020 by Anonymous
Brian was late to both hearings and I was not prepped well at a short hearing that ended up being a formal custody hearing. He did not have questions ready for cross examinations and allowed opposing counsel to bring in surprise witnesses without notice to a short hearing. He's nice but I would spend the money to hire someone more aggressive if you want to win your case.
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15 Nov, 2019 by Anonymous
I had a smoother divorce than I expected with Mr. Sipe. He stood up for me in court and made sure that my rights were protected. He really fought for me!
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26 Sep, 2019 by John
Paid retainer by taking out a bank loan, as we did not have that much money in savings. She wrote a single one page letter on our behalf, which we had to edit for her. We decided not to take the civil matter any further and requested a copy of the billable hours on August 23, 2019 and a refund for our remaining balance. It is now September 26, 2019 and we have not gotten a response to the 4 emails and phone message we have sent her.
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21 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous
She was beyond knowledgeable in the subject and handled the situation in the most appropriate professional way. Made me feel at ease about my case knowing that I'm in the best hands and I am winning having her as my attorney.
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27 Nov, 2017 by Anonymous
I love everything about Lilian Perelshteyn and her office. The staff are amazing here and I’ve gotten great result so on my case! Forever grateful for Lilian Perelshteyn for getting me off!
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07 Apr, 2020 by Marimah
I highly recommend Leslie Ditlow as an attorney for family law. She is extremely knowledgeable, relatable, empathetic, compassionate, and take definitive action to help your case. Her care for and support of my children and my family has been a comfort, and a great help in navigating this difficult custody situation. A tremendous attorney!
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11 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
I really liked Leslie on a personal level. We hiredanother lawyer for a criminal case and he brought her in to consult as he was not experienced enough to handle it. She really knew her stuff and showed much compassion. We were supposed to have another hearing within a month of going to court and it was never scheduled. I repeatedly asked her what the status was and if I got a response at all she would say "I'll see what I can do to speed up a date." and nearly a year later we finally got her to have the court schedule it after going back to our original lawyer who had to contact her twice. I would not have hired her again for custody due to this but she was very good. I also looked up the docket sheet myself and saw that the court had scheduled this hearing for 2015, 2 years after it was supposed to be scheduled. I assumed this is what took so long and that it was not her not doing the job. I figured she was having trouble with the courts bc the hearing was scheduled and no one could find it. So, my husband and I hired her agin to handle child custody. I asked her she would be able to file papers the first week in Dece,bet and she said yes. The case took an unsurprising turn and so we waited 3 weeks to make a decision on what to do. We needed to add a lot more detail to our filing and decide if we wanted to go that route. We did and she was to file the papers the week of Christmas. Never happened. I did not hear from her from the day we returned the papers to her that week u til January 23. The response Ito was that she had some health problems and was down for a little while and she would see what she could do about a date. I knew then and there that she never filed the papers because if she had we would have gotten a letter in the mail from the court with the date. I have contacted her weekly since that day in January and gotten no response. NONE. I finally asked for a refund for the deposit we gave her and haven't heard back on that either. Surprise, surprise. She really messed up this case for my husband bc we needed to act on something his daughter's mother was doing immediately. She totally dropped the ball. If you can get her to respond to you though, kudos bc she really does know her stuff. What good is that though if she doesn't do the work you hire her to do?
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27 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
Leslie was great. I had a DUI case and she was really able to help me out. She kept me very informed on what was going to happen and kept my mind at ease during the stressful time. I couldn't ask for a better lawyer I would recommend her to everyone I know if they had legal issues.
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What a Family Law Lawyer Can Do for You

A family law lawyer provides legal services related to family relationships, including marriage, divorce, child custody, and adoption. Family lawyers help clients navigate emotionally charged legal issues, providing guidance and representation in disputes that affect spouses, children, and parents. Whether you're going through a divorce, seeking custody of your children, or drafting a prenuptial agreement, a family law lawyer ensures your rights are protected and your interests are represented.

Family law attorneys often handle sensitive matters and offer objective legal advice, helping clients reach fair outcomes either through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.

When Should I Hire a Family Law Lawyer?

Hiring a family law lawyer is beneficial in several situations, especially when legal matters involve close personal relationships. Common reasons to hire a family law lawyer include:

  • Divorce or separation: When ending a marriage, a lawyer can help you navigate issues such as division of assets, spousal support, and child custody arrangements.
  • Child custody and visitation disputes: If you and your co-parent can't agree on custody or visitation, a lawyer can represent your interests and work toward a solution that benefits your children.
  • Child support: Whether you’re seeking child support or defending against a claim, a lawyer can help ensure the appropriate amount is calculated and enforced.
  • Prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: A lawyer can help draft or review agreements that protect your assets in case of divorce.
  • Adoption: Family law lawyers guide you through the legal process of adoption, ensuring that all requirements are met.
  • Domestic violence or restraining orders: If you're a victim of domestic violence or being falsely accused, a lawyer can help you obtain or challenge protective orders.
  • Paternity cases: If there are questions about the paternity of a child, a lawyer can help establish or dispute legal fatherhood.

Hiring a lawyer early can prevent issues from escalating, and they can offer you the best chance of achieving a favorable outcome in emotionally charged situations.

What Does a Family Law Lawyer Do?

A family law lawyer provides a wide range of services depending on your specific legal needs. Their responsibilities may include:

  • Advising on legal rights and options: Helping you understand your legal rights regarding divorce, child custody, support, and other family law issues.
  • Filing legal documents: Drafting and filing petitions, motions, and agreements with the court, such as divorce papers, custody agreements, or support orders.
  • Representing clients in court: Arguing your case in front of a judge if a settlement can’t be reached through negotiation or mediation.
  • Mediation and negotiation: Assisting with alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, to reach agreements on issues like custody, property division, and support without going to trial.
  • Enforcing court orders: Helping you enforce court orders related to child support, alimony, or custody if the other party fails to comply.
  • Drafting prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: Creating agreements that protect your assets in the event of a divorce.
  • Handling adoption proceedings: Ensuring that the legal process of adoption is followed, from filing paperwork to finalizing the adoption in court.

How Are Family Law Lawyers Paid?

Family law lawyers typically charge clients in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Common payment arrangements include:

  • Hourly rates: Most family lawyers charge by the hour, with rates varying based on experience and location. Clients are billed for the time spent working on their case, including consultations, court appearances, and document preparation.
  • Flat fees: For more straightforward legal services, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, some lawyers offer flat-fee arrangements.
  • Retainer fees: In cases that are expected to require significant time and attention, such as contentious custody battles, a lawyer may charge a retainer, which is an upfront payment that covers the initial costs of legal services. The lawyer then bills against the retainer as they work on your case.

The exact cost will depend on the complexity of your case and the lawyer’s fee structure, which should be discussed upfront.

How Much Does a Family Law Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a family law lawyer varies based on factors such as the lawyer's experience, the location, and the complexity of your case. Here are some general cost guidelines:

  • Hourly rates: Family law lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour, depending on their experience and the complexity of the case.
  • Flat fees: For simpler cases, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, fees may range from $1,000 to $5,000.
  • Retainers: For more complex matters, such as contested divorces or custody battles, lawyers may charge a retainer ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 or more. The lawyer will bill against the retainer for the work they do on your case.
  • Additional costs: You may also be responsible for additional costs, such as filing fees, mediation fees, or expert witness fees.

Always ask for a clear breakdown of the lawyer’s fees and any additional expenses during your consultation.

Top Questions to Ask a Family Law Lawyer

Before hiring a family law lawyer, it's important to ask questions to ensure they're the right fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:

  1. What experience do you have with family law cases like mine?
    Make sure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it's a contested divorce, child custody dispute, or adoption.
  2. How will you charge for your services?
    Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, a flat fee, or requires a retainer. Ask for an estimate of the total costs involved.
  3. What are the possible outcomes of my case?
    An experienced lawyer should be able to give you a general idea of what to expect based on the facts of your case.
  4. What is your approach to resolving disputes?
    Ask whether the lawyer tends to favor negotiation and mediation or whether they prefer to take cases to court. This can help you determine if their style matches your goals.
  5. How long do you expect my case to take?
    While it’s difficult to predict, the lawyer should give you an estimate based on similar cases.
  6. Who will be handling my case?
    In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may do much of the work, so make sure you understand who will be your main point of contact.

How to Check the Credibility of a Family Law Lawyer

To ensure you're hiring a reputable family law lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and reputation:

  • Check state bar association records: Verify that the lawyer is licensed to practice in your state and is in good standing with no disciplinary actions.
  • Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on websites like Avvo, Google, or Martindale-Hubbell. Previous clients can give you insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and success in family law cases.
  • Request references: Ask the lawyer for references from past clients who can speak to their experience with the lawyer.
  • Review their website or professional profile: Look at the lawyer’s background, case history, and areas of focus to ensure they have substantial experience in family law.
  • Look for professional memberships: Membership in reputable organizations, such as the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), can indicate a lawyer's expertise and dedication to family law.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To get the most out of your first consultation with a family law lawyer, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what you should bring:

  • Relevant documents: Bring any documents related to your case, such as marriage certificates, prenuptial agreements, financial records, custody agreements, or court orders.
  • List of assets and debts: For divorce cases, prepare a detailed list of all assets (e.g., homes, bank accounts, retirement funds) and debts (e.g., mortgages, loans, credit card balances).
  • Details of the family issue: Provide a written summary of the situation, including key dates and facts related to your divorce, custody dispute, or support issue.
  • Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions you have about the legal process, costs, and potential outcomes.
  • Your goals: Be prepared to discuss your objectives, such as custody arrangements, property division, or spousal support, so the lawyer understands your priorities.

Being organized and clear about your situation will help the lawyer evaluate your case more effectively and offer the best advice for moving forward.

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