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19 Jul, 2023 by Tamar jackson
Deborah is a blessing in a lawyer, not only is she professional but also caring. She is my go to and has been a great help from Pfa’s to custody and everything in between. 10/10
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19 Jul, 2023 by Nancy graham
Deborah is my go to she remains calm and level headed. I look to her for answers and she gives me such good advice. I feel better knowing that she is well educated with the process of child support, custody and PFAs. I am at ease knowing I have her on my side
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08 Nov, 2022 by Rose woods
Deborah Roffman is balanced and knowledgeable and combines the perfect mix of head and heart. After dealing with multiple attorneys, I found that she is exactly the kind of attorney that is best for parents like myself in difficult custody situations. She stays focused on the goal while also being aware of how the system works and how to stay grounded. She sees the whole picture and brings years of experience to her work. She works tirelessly for her clients and has great wisdom, and you can trust her. I highly recommend her!
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19 Jul, 2023 by Tamar jackson
Deborah is a blessing in a lawyer, not only is she professional but also caring. She is my go to and has been a great help from Pfa’s to custody and everything in between. 10/10
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19 Jul, 2023 by Nancy graham
Deborah is my go to she remains calm and level headed. I look to her for answers and she gives me such good advice. I feel better knowing that she is well educated with the process of child support, custody and PFAs. I am at ease knowing I have her on my side
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21 May, 2023 by Patrick
Deborah represented me in an adoption case. She was absolutely horrible. Saying she was unresponsive was an understatement. She went a year without one response. She took thousands of dollars and accomplished absolutely nothing. We were only able to recoup a minimal amount. It was highway robbery. Mostly, she simply did not know what she was doing. When I hired a new attorney, things went smoothly and we were able to complete the adoption. Unfortunately, the cost was much more than it should have been. Please spare yourself and look elsewhere.
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29 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
Not worth the 5k retainer, Patrick Daley is a passive attorney for male clients.
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02 Mar, 2018 by Alison
Attorney Daley handled a very difficult issue in my life for me. He was professional and understanding. His knowledge of the law , and his ability to use it was awesome.. I would not hesitate to refer the most difficult case to him. Also a great person!
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01 Mar, 2018 by Allison
Mr. Daley is an excellent attorney. He helped me tremendously with a very difficult divorce that I was going through. I highly recommend him to anyone needing legal advice regarding any sort of domestic relations matter.
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05 Jun, 2018 by John
Katherine guided me through a long drawn out divorce (over 2 years), involving two children. She was absolutely both Professional & Pleasant the entire time. The only reason I gave her 4 stars and not 5 is; at times I felt she could of been more proactive at touching base, and letting me know where we stood. But to be fair that probably would of eaten away my retainer much faster. Yes i have recommended Katherine to others and will continue to do so base don my experience
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16 Feb, 2020 by John may
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27 Nov, 2019 by Gina sudler
Never called back
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05 Oct, 2018 by Kathleen ann carney
Mike has been my attorney for years. He has personally helped me through some tough times and also has helped many of my clients. He is one of the best attorneys in the and Delco and Chester County area.
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27 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
Mr. Browning was hired for a criminal matter in Delaware County and I am very pleased with the outcome. Mr. Browning was by side during the whole process offering the best legal representation possible for me. Thanks to Mr. Browning I was never arrested and was able to walk away from the case with no charges. He really works with you and his firm makes you feel like family. I would recommend this lawyer a thousand times.
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03 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
Mr. Browning was hired as a divorce attorney in 2018, after paying him over $4,000 he still remains unreliable in conduct and action. He does not return phone calls and missed appt without explanation. I regret hiring this lawyer.
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30 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
he never calls back clients. He doesn't always show up for hearings he sends an associate who knows nothing about your case. He never goes to see the incardinated unless its the first time to speak to them in which he tells nothing but lies stating what he can do for them. He takes your money and then you don't hear from him. I wouldn't get this lawyer for my child if he/she was in need. he is a horrible criminal attorney. please do not waste your money. believe me. I know a lot of inmates that used him and they all say the same thing. I spoken to wives mothers of inmates who used him.
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18 Jan, 2024 by Ashley hall
I reached out to this law firm to just explain a situation I was having with my landlord. I wasn’t seeking a lawyer but just had one legal question I was hoping maybe they could answer for me. I inquired online which sends an email to notify their office. When I received a response, it was an accidental response that one of the members had meant to send to to all of his colleagues, that read “now this one we do not want” . I never received legal help nor hired a lawyer from this firm , & my review is no reflection on how they handle their actual clients or legal cases , however it is a proper representation of my experience with them.
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10 Jan, 2022 by Ciara richardson
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22 Jul, 2019 by Maria twining
I highly Recommend Gibson & Perkins. I have used their services for approximately 6 years now and been through a few cases together with very positive outcomes. Personally, I have used Paul Fellman and Walter Timby on those occasions. Both, as a team & separately these Attorneys were wonderful to work with and easily accessible to reach if I had any questions. Professionalism is the word that comes to mind to describe the firm, as a whole. Always completely prepared for any surprises that may pop up during a trial. They were well versed on all pertinent info pertaining to each case. As I client, I always felt I was an integral part of the team, not an after-thought, that had to be brought up to speed a half hour before the trial started. I could not recommend this firm and Mr. Fellman and Mr. Timby any higher.
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22 Apr, 2018 by Anonymous
Scott Aldridge represented me many years ago in both my divorce and child custody issues. He was superb -- calm, efficient, decent, and a great listener. He stood up for me and my children in our last four-way meeting prior to finishing the agreement -- and, true to form, he predicted the outcome exactly. Through him, I was able to retain my children and my house, and have still managed to be on good terms with my ex husband. Scott always took the high road. I commend him without reservation or hesitation.
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16 Mar, 2018 by Anonymous
I am very surprised at the other review on this site. I have used the services of Scott and so have friends/family of mine. Very professional and his integrity is unmatched. Always accessible. Would highly recommend.
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23 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
He failed to Represent me and my children's best interest he had another agenda which I was not in agreement with,also discussed my personal information about court with other family members who he also represented.
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04 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
Donna is extremely unprofessional and downright rude. I am a professional in the field and had to work with her on a case. She was easily swayed by opinions and struggled to focus on the actual facts of the case. Her style of communication is yelling and talking over you, and she often has little evidence to back up the very skewed claims that she makes. I don’t know how she gets any work at all.
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28 Sep, 2023 by Debra
This attorney was assigned to me and she refuses to give me my 300.00 back she said she sent it to 19131. thanks she never helped me and it was through legal aid or senior law center and she always treated me rude abrupt and nasty on the phone. beware of this person. I told her if she doesn't make sure I get my money I will sue her in court for my money she owes me and her last words were good luck with that and hung up the phone. Wow
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21 Nov, 2019 by Irena
I hired Donna to get a PFA for my young child. She.misrepresented my case by saying that she would be able to get me the PFA so I signed the contract and sent the payment. However on day of the hearing, she was unprepared and she couldn’t argue the defense lawyer. Afterward her attitude suddenly changed, and said that I pursue a PFA for selfish reasons and some other untruthful things she copied from the defendant’s lawyer. She charges hourly and I was charged for phone calls I made to discuss about payment. With the case dragged unnecessarily by her, the bill skyrockets so fast and there will be more bill.
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30 May, 2012 by Anthony
Michael met with my wife and me at least three separate times, as we updated our wills, power of attorney and advanced healthcare directive. Before we even discussed the "paperwork", he was so careful to discuss all of the alternatives on trustees, investment considerations and our own personal needs and directives. Never once did we feel like we were being handed a "boiler plate" or "cookie cutter" solution to our wills and other estate matters. The staff at Pierce/Hughes was extremely attentive and followed through with meeting arrangements, copies of the needed paperwork and other items to make this necessary process bearable.Through Mike and his team, we have been able to achieve peace of mind and also know that he will be there in the future for us and our children if needed.
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04 May, 2009 by Anonymous
Took advantage of my situation and was not thorough in expaining or with guidence regarding divorse issues. I felt that he was in the game just to make easy money and did not fight hard for me. I never felt that he was working in my best interest.
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09 Apr, 2021 by Nichole
I retained Michael Handley's legal services in October of 2020. I fully trusted that he had my best interest at heart, and that he would fight to get me the best settlement, wrong. Months went by without a word from Michael Handley. When Michael finally reached out to me, it was by phone, a 50 minute chat about how, personal injury is not his field. Not even a phone call to the company the suit was against, not even a letter was sent. All this time wasted.
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27 Aug, 2015 by Jeffrey
I came to Michael for help with my DUI and everybody that I spoke to said I would lose my license and do some jail time and he was the only one able to get me out of losing my license and doing any jail time. I would definitely recommend my friends and family to go see him for any legal advice or to hire him.
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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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