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07 Nov, 2024 by Lisa cummings
Attorney Chris agreed to take on my case partway through my divorce. She walked into what I knew was going to be a challenging divorce with many complexities. I honestly thought there was no hope. I felt beyond helpless trying to pull my kids and myself out of an unfair situation that was only getting worse by the day. Immediately after having the first meeting with Attorney Chris, I felt a sense of hope and ease. I knew instantly that I was in great hands. Her ability to navigate and handle the complexities of my divorce was impeccable. With my ex-husband's highly dishonest, unfair, and intimidating acts and tactics, she was able to set the record straight and make it right. She was fierce when she needed to be and didn't hold back, SHE PUT THE 3 LAWYERS MY EX- HUSBAND HAD TO SHAME! Attorney Chris is fearless, she was not intimidated by anyone or any given situation that came her way. She is very knowledgeable with the law, and not once did she back down or settle for anything less than what I was entitled to. She fights for what's right! Attorney Chris treated me with the utmost level of respect and sensitivity throughout the whole process. She was a great support system and a great friend. I appreciated the many times she was always there when I needed to reach out to her for any questions, guidance, advice, or just to have "that support" through an extremely difficult time. She was there every time, I never once felt like I was a bother to her and she always responded in a timely manner. Attorney Chris's outstanding dedication, expertise, knowledge of the laws, strategic thinking, professionalism, and fearlessness proved to achieve an outstanding positive outcome in my divorce. She is solely why I was able to pull my kids and myself back above water and put an end to an abusive, intimidating, unfair, and dishonest marriage. I can't thank her enough for putting us on a path of healing, a path to recovery, and a path to a better life!! We thank you immensely Chris for all of your hard work, kindness, and dedication throughout this whole process!! Lisa Cummings
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28 Jul, 2020 by Samantha
I hired attorney Carima to handle my case. She was great. Christine is very knowledgeable was always professional and prepared. I know nothing about divorce and was scared and upset. She id very easy to talk to and calmed me down; answered all my questions. She got me the best outcome that I could have asked for. I have children and she explained that throughout life, as the needs of the kids and myself change, there may come a time to modify my divorce. I will be calling her again to handle that. I will be hiring her to take care of a civil matter as well. She also handles civil matters.
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15 Jan, 2019 by Kim
I contacted Ms. Carima in regards to an custody ruling from another state. She was extremely helpful in explaining what needed to be done to enforce the ruling in Massachusetts. She worked diligently and efficiently to provide us with the correct information, keeping in daily contact with us. She was knowledgeable and professional, while also bringing a personal feel to the situation. From my first contact with her to our successful retrieval of the child, she was there with us, every step of the way. I highly recommend her for any child custody issue you may need.
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11 Oct, 2024 by Darrleen campbell
Professional, accomplished, talented, caring, and effective. Witnessing Attorney Luther Henshaw in action is simply impressive. Effective research, calm demeanor, firm resolve. I have used Attorney Henshaw services on numerous occasions. He has always been upfront about everything with me and has guided me through legal processes with ease. Whenever you need the law on your side, you can always count on Attorney Henshaw. It is not easy to put your faith and trust into the legal system but with Attorney Henshaw it just comes naturally. I would highly recommend him for any of your legal needs.
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21 Nov, 2023 by V pet
● Great at answering the phone and/or returning calls ● Very nice guy
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25 Mar, 2022 by Anonymous
I have worked with Attorney Henshaw through the duration of my divorce. He has been able to guide me through the process of the settlement, custody, and establishing appropriate visitation that is not only fair for myself and former spouse, but safe for our common young child. He has been able to provide a great amount of support with knowledge of not only family law, experience working with the department of children and families - navigating procedures and appeals and criminal law - maintaining active and appropriate restraining orders. Throughout all of these processes Attorney Henshaw was professional, reliable, knowledgeable, patient and contact was easily maintained. Questions were quickly and easily answered in a professional and respectful manner, no matter how many, seemingly simple or repetitive. If another form of representation became necessary Attorney Henshaw has the resources to make an appropriate referral.
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28 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
The best attorney ever. I went through two other attorneys whose rating was above 9 out of 10 and they messed up my case. Thomas stood up for me and helped me get my rights. Thomas tracked all the money my ex husband was hiding and helped me get my share of it and also did a 10 hour deposition which showed the judge that he is a liar. Thomas is nice, attends your phone call right away, even on weekends, always on time, hard working, responds to text messages right away. He is very skilled in performing deposition and tracking down money. The only reason I was able to get my rights and my share for marital assets was because of his hard work and honesty. Best best best attorney ever.
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13 Oct, 2014 by Kenneth newman
i would like to say Mr ed Ryan was the best lawyer and guy i have ever met. he really looked out for me as a lawyer. i just want to let you know Ed Ryan that i really appreciated everything you did for me. Sincerly, Ken S.
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21 Jun, 2024 by Karen
I want to commend Attorney Aveni for being an excellent attorney, and one of the finest people I have ever met. He is a straight forward no nonsense lawyer who really knows the law, and gets it done correctly, without wasting time or money with unnecessary fluff. He did a wonderful job on a very confusing probate case, took the time to explain the process to me, and then offered his assistance to the other real estate attorneys after the probate was completed. I would highly recommend Jeff Aveni, he is a down to earth, honest, and ethical, and a fine person who I am very honored to have met.
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26 Apr, 2024 by Jeremy faulkner
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07 Dec, 2022 by Kelly webb
Patrick was so great to me throughout the whole process of filing a lawsuit due to a car accident that I was a passenger in. He worked very hard even throughout the pandemic to ensure that I was updated and understood each step that was being taken and why. He made a miserable situation just a little better with his kindness and understanding of what I went through and fought hard to get me what I deserved. I would work with Patrick again and recommend anyone who may be going through a similar experience to what I went through, to work with him as well! He truly cares about each client he has and makes each experience as personable as possible.
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14 Jan, 2025 by Santosh
I recently had the privilege of working with Attorney Gary M. Abrams to address a landlord-tenant dispute involving the delayed return of my security deposit. From the outset, Mr. Abrams demonstrated exceptional professionalism, expertise, and dedication to my case. When my landlord failed to returnmy deposit within the legally mandated 30-day period, Mr. Abrams swiftly drafted and sent a comprehensive legal notice outlining my rights under Massachusetts law. His strategic approach and meticulous attention to detail ensured my claim was clearly articulated. Within days of his correspondence, my landlord returned the full security deposit, bringing the matter to a swift and successful resolution. What impressed me most about Mr. Abrams was his ability to explain the legal process in a way that was clear and accessible. He was always responsive, kept me informed at every step, and approached my case with a level of care that exceeded my expectations. I highly recommend Gary M. Abrams to anyone in need of legal assistance. His expertise, professionalism, and commitment to his clients are truly unparalleled. Thank you, Mr. Abrams, for your outstanding support and for achieving such a prompt and favorable outcome on my behalf.
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07 Jan, 2025 by Jonathan
Gary helped me out very well preparing my case so well that they chose not to prosecute. He has your back, believes in you and is very confident and competent in what he does. Highly recommend, very lucky to have had him representing me !
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03 Nov, 2024 by M. teixeira
Attorney Abrams is an exceptional attorney that works hard to get you results! I came to Gary for a family matter and from the moment I spoke with him at his office, he gave me a most professional attention. He listened to my concerns and gave me realistic probable outcomes. Although the matter was a serious one, he lightened the mood with his at ease demeanor. I felt comfortable and confident Attorney Abrams would be able to defend me in court. He is prompt, thorough and kind. Anytime I reached out to him via email, he responded quickly with an answer. I would not hesitate to recommend Attorney Abrams to friends or family for a legal matter.
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14 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
His great professional, competent, I won causes that were impossible with him, excellent work, very patient and friend! do not find difficulties in languages, I recommend it to everyone !
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23 Apr, 2019 by Ruiz family
WE ARE VERY GRATEFUL TO HIM, HE DID AN AMAZING JOB AND SUPPORTING AT ALL TIMES. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED! THANK YOU VERY MUCH NICOLAS
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18 Dec, 2018 by Anonymous
This lawyer is one of the best I've ever met, honest, honest, understanding, everything you need, you do not need to worry, running behind, he solves everything, you can trust, all kinds of causes he solves, always be, I am very happy with this cause won by him today! God bless you Nicolas! A. L
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26 Nov, 2022 by Anonymous
Pauline took on my case and I had myself in a rut. Pauline Listened intently, took my calls, returned them & even worked with me late into the PM hours. This attorney never rested. I told her everything & she listened & never made me feel rushed. Caring, Sensitive & just absolutely a top shelf attorney. Pauline had excellent rapport with the Court & kept me updated and in line throughout. I would hire her all week long and twice on Sunday she’s simply that amazing. I might add as I got to know her she’s quite an amazing person as well. (& I’ve had many attorneys) PAULINE IS AWESOME! I am so THANKFUL for all she has done & she did allot! Every problem I presented / had Pauline had an answer for. Answered every question I had (& I had a ton) & did it so ethically & with such class. One time I had Court & wasn’t able to get there. Pauline said be ready at such and such time & I will come get you. AND SHE DID! Then she kept me out of trouble (and I was truly innocent But Pauline still had to prove it & wow… she just handled it) …PAULINE CORMIER is the example of what attorneys should be like… She may never see this but in the event she does… THANK YOU PAULINE CORMIER. You are AWESOME.
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13 Oct, 2014 by Kenneth newman
i would like to say Mr ed Ryan was the best lawyer and guy i have ever met. he really looked out for me as a lawyer. i just want to let you know Ed Ryan that i really appreciated everything you did for me. Sincerly, Ken S.
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08 Apr, 2024 by Nancy de la rosa
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28 Jul, 2023 by Lenny rivera
This law firm is very knowledgeable and experienced in handling car accident and injury cases.
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16 Jul, 2021 by Deborah fratturelli
I highly recommend this law firm to anyone who gets injured in an accident. They specialize in personal injury law, car accidents, workers compensation and medical malpractice cases. The attorneys are very knowledgeable, professional and informative and they get you a great result. I've recommended them to multiple people over the years and they've all been 100% satisfied with the results!
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09 Dec, 2024 by Julie dirusso
To be unfairly injured is a difficult thing. Mark & David Bodanza made a difficult situation easier. They were realistic, diligent and professional. They answered all of my questions in a timely fashion and got me the best result possible. I will always turn to them when I need legal assistance.
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13 Oct, 2024 by Dina watson
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21 Aug, 2024 by Marangely alvarez
Always on top of everything. 100% guarantie!
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21 Nov, 2024 by Angela harrison
I hired him over 3 1/2 years ago a & there’s still no resolution to this. After dozens of unanswered emails & phone calls, I took matters into my own hands & contacted the sheriffs department to get answers about the person I was suing. The sheriffs department had sent it back to Greg months ago & he still hadn’t followed up with me. The Sheriffs department also informed me that they don’t arrest anyone for having a judgement against them. Which Greg told me in the beginning of hiring him they do. Save your money. You won’t get any resolution, your emails will go unanswered & your phone calls will not be returned.
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01 Nov, 2024 by Kenneth j. hernandez
Attorney Greg Wheeler is a wonderful attorney. He is very skillful and very helpful in the areas of law I needed him. I highly recommend attorney Gregory Wheeler for all your legal needs.
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14 Sep, 2024 by Lindsey wheeler
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23 Jan, 2024 by Carynbaronebella barone
Attorney Larose is very knowledgable and attentive. It was a pleasure working with her.
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22 Aug, 2023 by Mohamed mahran
I was calling and leaving a voice message for days no one answered back. And finally when they answered my phone they said they can't take my case because they are very busy to help me .
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21 Jun, 2023 by Christen cushman
Not for helping women at all
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23 Jan, 2024 by Carynbaronebella barone
Attorney Larose is very knowledgable and attentive. It was a pleasure working with her.
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22 Aug, 2023 by Mohamed mahran
I was calling and leaving a voice message for days no one answered back. And finally when they answered my phone they said they can't take my case because they are very busy to help me .
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21 Jun, 2023 by Christen cushman
Not for helping women at all
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23 Jan, 2024 by Carynbaronebella barone
Attorney Larose is very knowledgable and attentive. It was a pleasure working with her.
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22 Aug, 2023 by Mohamed mahran
I was calling and leaving a voice message for days no one answered back. And finally when they answered my phone they said they can't take my case because they are very busy to help me .
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21 Jun, 2023 by Christen cushman
Not for helping women at all
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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:

  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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