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08 Jun, 2024 by Sadana
I hired Heidi in 2020 based off of a recommendation and referral from a good friend. As a woman I feel comfortable with Heidi from the start because it's always easier to discuss domestic problems with someone you can relate to. My ex was working cash jobs so consistently thought it was hard to prove income yet Heidi was able to impute income at a higher degree than what I figure any other attorney would have been able to obtain. Every step of the way was explained, and she also lets you make choices of your choosing which makes you feel like you have a say in a legal battle. I would recommend her to anyone who wants a strong, knowledable attorney with a Compassionate Heart.
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07 Jun, 2024 by Stephanie erdel
Bernstein & Gray Law Group got me through a very challenging case. I wound up getting the best possible outcome imaginable. You are in good hands with Heidi. She is trustworthy, thoughtful, professional, and honest.
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21 Sep, 2021 by Jennifer curran
I was represented by Heidi during my divorce and through the hardest and most painful time in my life. Heidi and her assistants always helped me to feel strong and safe in their hands. I do not think I could’ve done it without their help. Heidi listened to all my concerns and understood exactly what I wanted for myself, my son and coparenting. She informed me of all my rights and all my entitlements. My divorce was fast and seamless, exactly how I wanted it. My ex husband and I now have peace between us and are doing really well at co-parenting together. She was always there to listen and I never had to wait long for a phone call back or email back even on days when she was very busy. If she couldn’t get to me I’d always receive an email by the end of the day. She helped me through so many emotions and fears that divorce brings and is truly a professional but also cares about her clients. I would definitely trust Heidi with any future legal needs I may need.
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14 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
Lauren mediated my divorce and made it as easy as possible. She always answered any questions I had and helped us get through the tough issues. Would highly recommend
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25 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
Horrible! As his clients he never returned my phone calls and I had to hired another lawyer to get in touch with him for my divorced paper . He doesn’t answer my phone calls and called me to requested rest of the payment and he received the rest of the money and he still haven’t gotten back to me even in his own client. I would never recommend him to someone . I’m wondering all this good reviews it might be people he pay too or he asked friend to leave good review, because on my side bad experience and I still waiting for him to answer me or call me as his client.
Very disappointed! Thank you
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07 Mar, 2022 by Robert
I found Garret through a high recommendation from a very good friend of mine and he did NOT disappoint. I caught a pretty serious DWI charge and he got it DISMISSED . It was a pleasure to watch him work ! Thanks again Garret!
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18 Nov, 2019 by Anonymous
I’ve had to hire Garret twice within a 3 month period for 2 separate serious criminal cases. The outcome on both were incredible. If you’re in need of a tremendous lawyer then do yourself the favor and hire this man.
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26 Apr, 2016 by Paulie
I'm a former member of the NYPD and I was charged with serious felony charges. Ms. Eves was incredibly honest about my chance at trial and used her previous experience as an Assistant District Attorney to project how the ADA was going to present their case. She told me the law, presented me with copies and told me her experience with the judge, who had his own view about suppression and admissibility. When I decided to take a plea, she negotiated very hard for me. Few attorneys are honest with clients. My prior attorney stroked me, telling me what everyone wants to hear. Ms. Eves tells it like it is. I recommend her to my former colleagues and friends.
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26 Apr, 2016 by Anonymous
Thanks to her fine trial skills, my ex wife learned that the criminal justice system isn't a place to make up stories and lies. Eves put on a terrific defense case. The acquittal took 10 minutes.
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25 Feb, 2014 by Michele
Stacey Eve is defense lawyer for my son and is by far the worst defense attorney I have ever had to experiences. Her law practicing skills on defending my son is to wait and use what the ADA evidence that can be handed over at his leisure. As the only way to defend my son. I didn't agree with this method being a retired police officer went out and found the evidence needed for full defense handing it over to Mrs Eves for her not to use it in pretrial hearing this case could have been clearly tossed or at the very least evidence suppressed. She actually refuse to use case laws, lied that witness were not necessary had to be made to speak to witness never went over the evidence given to her by the me or ADA never spoke to my son in detail what was going on with his case no strategies never fought a deal it's was what ever the ADA offered,refuse to give him discovery packages until a week before pretrial hearing and so much more. The public defender had my son a deal on the table for 7 yrs Stacey Eves take over at 7500$ fee and the deal on the table now is my sons facing 15yr no deal something's wrong you think.
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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.
