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15 Feb, 2024 by Allison burdick
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21 Sep, 2022 by Md muktadir
They are so nice and fruits
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22 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous
I first used Mr A. ANGELO DI'MILLO when I was 18, I am now 29 and have been through a lot, both criminally, and with family issues. I got in quite the mess of trouble in 2008 with a total of 8 felony charges, and 14 misdemeanors, 3 separate instances(dockets), 2 different local police agencies (city, and county). Upon first meeting Angelo I immediately new this guy meant business, he was very thorough, slick, and professional. Immediately I knew I could trust him and wanted his representation. With the amount of charges I had, not many lawyers are even willing to try to tackle such a case. Angelo was there for me from start to finish, he was able to combine everything into one case, pleading to one 'E' felony, and the diversion program, Mr DiMillo saved my freedom, and therefore my life. I will never think of hiring any other lawyer. In 2012, I was blessed with the most important thing in my life, my son. This year, 2014, his mother and I split up. I had to fight for my son, so I went to Angelo, the result.... I am now sitting with the most important person in my life, the person that taught me what love really is, my son. Angelo DiMillo is the absolute best lawyer in Lockport, NY and wny. In my eyes, he's the best in the world. I am forever grateful. From criminal defense, to family law and everything in between, Mr DiMillo is the best, and trust me I've seen a lot come through the court rooms, and stand in front of a very tough judge.
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18 Jan, 2016 by Douglas
I'm having issues with a new tenant that moved in from Arizona I was happy for them at first because it was my downstairs neighbor daughter and husband one day I asked them not to use anything on my side of the garage and he came running out to me as I was getting the mail and using vulgarity and flipping me off he got in my face and then lifted his jacket I seen something and then he push me and I'm disabled so I gave them a little shop back grabs his shirt and just held my hand on his neck and held him down didn't put them on the ground and nothing and I asked him if he was done he said yes and walked away I called the police and press charges against him the landlord is not doing his job and telling him about what's going on I've been here for almost 8 years it's a four unit apartment building right now I'm waiting for the place to send me a letter because I wanted an order of protection against him because he's purposely slamming doors making it rough for me to even go downstairs and wash my clothes and yes he did have a handgun that he brought from Arizona to New York the police did take the gun and all they've been doing is lying about the situation to the landlord I am very very afraid for my health because any other sudden push could basically snap my back and I'd be paralyzed its been 2 weeks since the incident and my neck my left arm are still numb because it pinched a nerve in my neck my sciatica I need to know if there's anything that I could do because I really don't want to move and the landlord doesn't want me to move because I've been here so long and I'm a good tenant Plus I've been taking care of her father that is downstairs below me 93 years old he fought in World War 2 he can barely walk so I've been washing his feet and legs and cutting his toenails shopping for him and taking him to the doctor when you can't drive Plus the tenant was told not to go in my mailbox at all I have a mind Video camcorder of him first flipping me off which he didn't know I had a camcorder going and then he went to the four mailboxes he told the landlord that he was only going to go in the middle to well I got him again going to all the mailboxes again I need to know what to do and how to proceed I have no charges against me from him but I have a feeling I need to protect myself so if you can get back to me and let me know what to do with the sheriff's department and with the video I had to have my email stopped from being delivered have to pick it up every six days at the post office thank you very much Douglas Lozina
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03 Sep, 2024 by Alicia vanderwalker
Worked with this law firm to buy property in March. It has been over 5 months and we still do not have the deed to our property. We called multiple times with no return phone call and went into the office 2 times to be told they don’t have it but not to worry they have a photo copy. The county says it was sent to their office months ago.
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07 Aug, 2024 by The kennedy real estate team
Walter Moxham and his staff are always available to my clients and my team. His office is always one of our recommendations to the buyers and sellers we work with.
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17 Jun, 2024 by Donald robinson
Always thoroughly efficient and effective for decades. Pretty decent at Pickleball
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10 Jun, 2024 by Mary stidham
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01 May, 2024 by Alexa a
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30 Oct, 2023 by Tamara pessah (omom)
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06 Feb, 2017 by Sam
Hired Mr. Vona to handle multiple real estate closing (2 residential & 1 commercial). Always kept me informed and all 3 closed on time. Also used for multiple promissory notes. Mr. Vona always gave great advice which really helped when it mattered most. Would I recommend him? Absolutely!
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01 Apr, 2015 by James
I retained andrew Vona for a divorce, it was extremely hard to get ahold of him it seems as though he had to many clients to get back to me in a timely manner (a week). andrew was asked on several occasions to call witnesses that could of been important parts of my case and he did not. Early on in my case my soon to be ex wife' s boyfriend called andrew and told andrew that he was dating my wife, andrew told me about it because andrew's response was "he was a client of mine, I handled his divorce" meaning my wife's boyfriend, I then asked if it would be a conflict for andrew and if he hangs out with this guy or knows him outside of the previous divorce, Andrews response "No". As my case continued and there was a chance I was going to need an order of protection for my kids and I from this guy andrew continued to rack up my fees and then the day before one of my court dates that was crucial to custody of my three children andrew resigned because he said "it was a conflict of interest to put a order of protection on his client meaning my wife's boyfriend.
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03 Jul, 2024 by John56
Over priced. Under results to no results. I assure you that you will be dissapointed in her services and SHOCKED with her bills. I found out the hard way.
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08 Feb, 2022 by Tina
For all parties that post here. Please contact the Attorney Grievance Committee of Erie County. The email address is:
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08 Feb, 2021 by Jessica
this was an uncontested divorce and she over charged and did not give straight answers. totally unhelpful and not worth the ten grand. even screwed me out of the last $100 dollars. in the account she made me open and demanded i send an authorization to pay the last $200. there was at least $370 left she took it all!
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09 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
This "attorney" has done nothing but make things worse and billing a lot all the time of course
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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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