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17 Oct, 2024 by Jl
I hired Hanan earlier this year to help me get through an extremely difficult situation with my employer. He was very knowledgeable and accurate as to what to expect through the ordeal. Even though this was an incredibly stressful time in my life, I felt very confident I chose the right attorney to have in my corner. My situation had a positive conclusion and I am grateful Hanan was there to get me through it.
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19 Aug, 2024 by Joanna
I contacted attorney for help with my employment challenges.
He advised me how to proceed and explained how the process would work.
He also realistically approached the issue,explained applicable laws and set expectations.
This is the most crucial in attorneys consultations and outcomes.
My case was won.I was able to communicate by having competent representation ,express my case,apply law and hold my former employer to a lawful standard.
I'm foreign born female business professional of many years.
Thank you!
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21 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
The Kingston Law Group has successfully delivered for me on three different legal issues over the past decade. These range from employment issues to alimony termination. Hanan Isaacs represented me, providing sound advice, excellent communication, solid preparation, expert legal knowledge and tenacious advocacy. Hanan is backed up by an incredibly skilled, hard-working, kind and empathetic staff. This includes Shelby and Lori, who I feel were truly invested in my success. Misty Avallone, another talented attorney in this office, was brought in to assist most recently. Misty kindly provided expert knowledge and direct assistance with a significant amount of detail work required to facilitate full preparedness for the best outcome. The entire office went over and above to accommodate a disability. Hanan and his team did a phenomenal job, and I couldn't be happier with the outcome. It was a true pleasure to work with such talented, motivated and kind-hearted people.
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15 Dec, 2020 by Elizabeth
Dale Console will relentlessly pursue justice - equitable and reasonable rulings based on the fair intention of the law. Experienced across ALL divorce proceedings - mediation, arbitration, trial, and appeals. Has the expertise and network of experts to readily handle the most complex of divorce cases if needed. Monetarily prudent.
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13 Oct, 2015 by Lois
I have worked with Dale Console on my divorce and several post divorce motions including the appellate court over many years. She was the second lawyer I worked with during a long drawn out multi-year divorce negotiation, so I have a comparison. Her knowledge of the law, ability to remember facts, and stay focused on what's relevant have been key factor's to having positive outcomes. She has always handled matters with a high level of integrity and treated me with great respect.
Divorce is an extremely emotional experience. Dale's legal counseling helps to keep you realistic and level-headed. She doesn't waste your time or money. You feel you have a partner in Dale.
Her assistant, Michelle, is also excellent to work with. She promptly responds to questions, handles all paperwork with accuracy and timeliness, and always has a pleasant disposition.
I highly recommend Dale Console and would not hesitate to hire her as your divorce attorney.
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18 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
Misty made my case as expensive, painful, long, drawn out, and miserable as possible. She sought extension after extension after extension, effectively tripling anticipated costs. She performed needless busywork to run up the bill to astronomical proportions, and her work product displayed a fundamental lack of understanding of even the most simple legal propositions. My experience of her was that she was dangerously incompetent, and easily manipulated and outmaneuvered by the other side. She aggressively demanded astronomical sums for her services and made threats when they could not be paid in full immediately. There are a lot of lawyers out there, this one was my worst nightmare. I would hate to see others suffer as we did.
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18 Sep, 2024 by Beth
She knew how the case should be handled and what the outcome should be from day 1. Run for judge if that’s how you’re going to be.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Allison
I have had the pleasure of working with Ms. Avallone and would highly recommend her. She truly cares about her clients and is a great advocate!
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FAQs
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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:
-
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.
