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Jon David Axelrod, experienced Adoption, Bankruptcy attorney in Mentor, OH with 67 reviews
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46,72
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4.8/5
Avvo
5.0
5 Reviews
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4.7
62 Reviews
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31 Oct, 2024 by Luis ortiz
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10 Sep, 2024 by Devin prindle
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13 Jun, 2024 by Sarah counts
If you want an educated defense of your case, you couldn’t find a better man in the area. Ken is intelligent, responsive, and knows his way through the system. Highly recommend!
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Kimberly Ann Baioni, experienced Family Law, Probate attorney in Mentor, OH with 61 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
43,71
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4.7/5
Avvo
4.5
15 Reviews
Google Maps
4.8
46 Reviews
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21 Jan, 2025 by Liam dewalt
Jim Reardon is a great lawyer. I have had help from him in multiple occasions. He always did everything he could to help me get the best outcome of my situation. The price has been fair and he was always willing to work with my budget.
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03 Jan, 2025 by Amanda kaiser
I worked with Jim and he was very professional, he listened well, he communicated well, and he informed me of how things could go. I did not have to talk to 8 different secretaries every time I had a question or concern. Jim was my main point of contact during my entire case. If I were to ever need legal help in the future, I would go to Jim without a second thought.
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02 Jan, 2025 by Steel kareima
I don't write reviews often, but when someone far exceeds my expectations, I do. I hired Jim as my criminal defense attorney. In my case , he charged a one time flat fee, so you know exactly how much you will be paying. His fee is very reasonable for the caliber of attorney he is. It is obvious he has been doing this for a long time. He knows the ins and outs of criminal defense. Too often you read attorney reviews complaining how the attorney is hard to get a hold of, or won't return calls. Every single time I reached out to Jim with a question, he returned my call or email within hours. Jim got the case dismissed, the record sealed, and charges expunged. Couldn't ask for a better outcome. Thanks again Jim.
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David Jay Sternberg, experienced Bankruptcy, Child Custody attorney in Mentor, OH with 13 reviews
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43,40
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
13 Reviews
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18 Jan, 2022 by Pat
David handled my divorce very professionally. He has a sharp mind, years of legal experience, and is an excellent negotiator. I appreciate that he was available to answer questions and respond to concerns promptly through e-mail and by phone, as well as being confident and reassuring during stressful times at the court house. I highly recommend David J. Sternberg because he knows the law, can analyze complicated situations, and is able to communicates in a fair and direct manner with clients, defendants, and other lawyers.
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12 Oct, 2021 by Anonymous
I first contacted Mr. Sternberg for a bankruptcy consultation. He was very thorough and professional and made me feel comfortable. Once he filed my bankruptcy, he remained available with answers throughout the proceedings. I would highly recommend his services.
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26 Jun, 2021 by Rachel
I had a bit of a unique divorce agreement. David knew to ask questions that I didn’t know to ask even after our divorce was final. He truly looked out for me and my children and our assets. He is kind, personable, and professional. David Sternberg truly knows what he is doing. He is worth every penny! I have recommended him to everyone that needs a good lawyer.
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Bryan Anthony Reo, experienced Appeals, Consumer Protection attorney in Mentor, OH with 8 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,25
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
8 Reviews
star star star star star
28 Dec, 2021 by Anonymous
Great As Usual. He helped win both of my husbands cases. Would recommend him to anyone in this area who needs a ethical, assertive and prominent attorney!!!!!!!
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18 Aug, 2019 by David
Bryan Reo is highly recommended for legal services. I have known him for several years, at first as a college student in few a classes I taught. Since becoming a lawyer I have used Mr. Reo for legal consultations several times and have found him generous with his time, and decisive in his advice. He is able to explain the law with great clarity to the layman.
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05 Jun, 2019 by Jamie
Bryan is an absolute beast in litigation. He will not hesitate to get his hands dirty and fight hard when the opposition decides to be difficult. Bryan is a friendly and reasonable guy, but he doesn't tolerate any BS from defense attorneys. My experience with Bryan as my attorney has been awesome. You want him on your team.
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James William Reardon, experienced Family Law, Personal Injury attorney in Mentor, OH with 2 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,06
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
18 Nov, 2022 by Anonymous
Very professional, attentive, and knowledgeable. Highly regarded in his field.
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14 Oct, 2020 by Anne
Jim Reardon is an excellent lawyer for family law matters. He is knowledgeable, skilled, whip-smart, experienced, listens and was very helpful. I am very grateful he was assisting me through a difficult divorce. I would highly recommend him.
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William Robert Joherl, experienced Car Accident, Family Law attorney in Mentor, OH with 10 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
38,61
star star star star star
4.9/5
Avvo
4.9
10 Reviews
star star star star star
29 Jul, 2021 by Jack
I hired Bill to represent me in a divorce proceeding in 2016 and i have referred many friends and family members to him since then . He is accessible (provides his cell phone number to clients), approachable (has very down to earth demeanor), effective (provides quality representation) and very cost efficient.
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04 May, 2021 by J.h.c.
William (Bill) Joherl has been my personal attorney since 1991. He has represented me in a number of civil matters (insurance contract dispute and family law) with the utmost efficiency and effectiveness. For example, I recall that my own automobile insurance company wrongfully denied my claim from a hit and run automobile accident. Attorney Joherl sued my insurance carrier and "he made them pay" ... I received the full amount of my policy coverage. "Now that's what I am talking about!!!" If you are looking for an Attorney who takes the time to know you while handling your matter, then look no further.
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16 Mar, 2020 by Anonymous
He was a very patient attorney and he surely took his time to explain all the necessary steps needed in my case. Very knowledgeable lawyer would surely refer him to family and friends.
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Brian Christopher Stevens, experienced Business, Child Custody attorney in Mentor, OH with 34 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
38,34
star star star star star
4.9/5
Google Maps
4.9
34 Reviews
star star star star star
31 Mar, 2022 by Angella kelley
What a great attorney and he was my landlord as well. I didn’t know he passed until long after he was gone. He was always honest. I wish he would have took his health more serious. God bless him for the wonderful life he lived and all the people he saved from jail, debts and so much more
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star star star star star
21 Aug, 2020 by Theressa evans
Professional, Kind and understanding.
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23 Jun, 2020 by Jamie marsey
Biales Delchin is an outstanding Lake County criminal defense and OVI attorney law firm. My close friend and one of our family members have used them and they were both very pleased with the results.
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Gary David Zeid, experienced Car Accident, Child Custody attorney in Mentor, OH with 12 reviews
Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
38,20
star star star star star
4.6/5
Google Maps
4.6
12 Reviews
star star star star star
19 Mar, 2024 by Rachel foote
David Sternberg is professional, empathetic and thorough. He looks out for his clients in ways that they don’t even think about. I go to Sternberg for all my legal advice now!
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09 Jan, 2024 by Nathan meyer
Highly recommend David very knowledgeable and super helpful.
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19 Oct, 2023 by Thomas anger
Cold hard pancakes, dry cold meat, The waitress was good. She brought the stuff out fast. Never again.
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Tomas Jonas Tatarunas, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Mentor, OH with 39 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
35,76
star star star star star
4.8/5
Google Maps
4.8
39 Reviews
star star star star star
20 Nov, 2024 by Virginia bliss
Amazing attorney! Would recommend Tomas J. T anytime to anyone. I didn't regret the decision to choose him to handle my case. He is Very knowledgeable about the law, and would educate you down the road so you know and understand the possibility of an outcome. His professionalism is up to the sky, his pricing is fair, and I didn’t regret the extra cost at the end because he fought for me to get what I wanted. Thank you
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20 Nov, 2024 by Jordan dengel
Thank you, Tomas. Your work ethic is unrivaled. Will certainly be referring you for a lifetime.
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25 Aug, 2024 by Tevin n
Tomas is a very good lawyer! Great communication, Prompt, Informative. He helped me win my case with full custody.
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Melissa Ann Yasinow, experienced Civil Rights, Family Law attorney in Mentor, OH with 203 reviews
Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
35,66
star star star star star
4.6/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
Google Maps
4.7
202 Reviews
star star star star star
27 Nov, 2024 by Jasmine bufford
Google Maps
star star star star star
14 Nov, 2024 by Hester williams
Thanks to the Best team in Ohio to represent you. They hit a home run for me.
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29 Oct, 2024 by Lisa phillips
fast, efficient, answered questions in a timely manner
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Thomas Joseph Sacerich, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Mentor, OH with 1 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
35,03
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
08 Jan, 2013 by Barb
I was very pleased with Tom. I now have him doing some follow-up work for me on my trust.
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Lisa Maria Klammer, experienced Criminal Defense, Estate Planning attorney in Mentor, OH with 2 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
35,00
star star star star star
5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
11 Nov, 2023 by Eric kaleal
Lisa is great.
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27 Jul, 2018 by Mark bukovnik
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Tina Marie Scibona, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Mentor, OH with 34 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
34,34
star star star star star
4.9/5
Google Maps
4.9
34 Reviews
star star star star star
31 Mar, 2022 by Angella kelley
What a great attorney and he was my landlord as well. I didn’t know he passed until long after he was gone. He was always honest. I wish he would have took his health more serious. God bless him for the wonderful life he lived and all the people he saved from jail, debts and so much more
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
21 Aug, 2020 by Theressa evans
Professional, Kind and understanding.
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star star star star star
23 Jun, 2020 by Jamie marsey
Biales Delchin is an outstanding Lake County criminal defense and OVI attorney law firm. My close friend and one of our family members have used them and they were both very pleased with the results.
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Rochelle May Swan Hellier, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Mentor, OH with 62 reviews
Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
32,96
star star star star star
4.7/5
Google Maps
4.7
62 Reviews
star star star star star
31 Oct, 2024 by Luis ortiz
Google Maps
star star star star star
10 Sep, 2024 by Devin prindle
Google Maps
star star star star star
13 Jun, 2024 by Sarah counts
If you want an educated defense of your case, you couldn’t find a better man in the area. Ken is intelligent, responsive, and knows his way through the system. Highly recommend!
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Earl Francis Ghaster Jr., experienced Estate Planning, Family Law attorney in Mentor, OH with 36 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
28,75
star star star star star
4.1/5
Avvo
5.0
3 Reviews
Google Maps
4.1
33 Reviews
star star star star star
05 Nov, 2024 by Jon
Would not recommend
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04 Oct, 2024 by Sean henry
I had Russ Kubyn on a child custody case. It was his way or no way and he was kind of a condescending prick but as far as child custody lawyers go, he did his due diligence and didn't require a lot of money down and knows his shit. RIP Russ.
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20 Jun, 2024 by Shane starlin
Mr. Kubyn was the best attorney I have had the privilege to work with to date. He was absolutely amazing and understanding of my case, he worked hard and fought for me. I am sorry that he is no longer with us but I know he will be here in spirit as I continue. I will always recommend Kubyn and Gahster to anyone needing anything in my local area. The staff is absolutely the best there is.
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Darya Jeffreys Klammer, experienced Child Custody, Criminal Defense attorney in Mentor, OH with 4 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
24,09
star star star star star
4.0/5
Avvo
4.0
4 Reviews
star star star star star
04 Mar, 2021 by Mladen
This place was terrible. I paid my retainer and since I was not calling them and asking for enough assistance they would call me and check in, but they charged me for the call. Wanted to make sure I used up my retainer. I 'm also fairly certain they charged the attorney rate when a secretary would call me or when I met with the paralegal. Not sure how this really works. Then they sent me a bill asking for more money and when I requested an itemized list of the charges they sent a vague list of phone call, 15 minutes and other vague charges. When I asked for a more specific list, like why did you make all these phone calls, example, call for 15 minutes on the list, but for what? They would "check in" all the time just so they can charge me. When I asked the firm about the specific itemized list the response was, pay your bill. She came to court unprepared and my divorce papers had to be amended 6-7 times before we could even see the judge. Which delayed things a half hour, she charged me for her screw ups and the extra time it took. My ex-wife did not have any of these issues with her divorce papers. The firm continues to send me the bill, 5 years later. First time in my life I did not pay a bill and I have a credit rating of 800 to prove it. I'm not just an angry guy trying to save a buck, I would rather burn the money then give it to a shady business that only cares about making more money and ripping off good, honest people.
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15 Oct, 2014 by Patty
Darya is very professional and great to work with, making sure you know the law, explaining it in terms that I can understand. My dissolution is not settled as of this date, but I am very confident Darya is working in my best interest to settle my case in a timely manner. I feel very fortunate to have found her to represent me in my dissolution case.
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07 Feb, 2013 by Paul
Darya has been helping me throughout a child custody matter. She has gone above and beyond my expectations and has been fantastic in addressing all of my concerns. She is very professional and has been instrumental in maxamizing my rights as a father. The most impressive thing I have seen with Darya's work was her foresight when helping me with a Shared Parenting Plan. She was able to place clauses in my original Shared Parenting Plan that have come to benefit me years after it was implemented. This has saved me so much stress and time over the years by avoiding the necessity to try to amend it as new scenarios and events have happened concerning my children.
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John Steven Salem, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Mentor, OH with 34 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
18,55
star star star star star
3.5/5
Google Maps
3.5
34 Reviews
star star star star star
14 Jul, 2024 by Scott hayes
Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Jul, 2024 by Gold miner
This was a very professional firm. They did not charge for an initial consultation and gave proper lawyerly advice to my corporation. This is a an honest attorney. Seems like the past negative reviews were of people who were not transparent with their attorney. This firm I would recommend.
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28 Apr, 2024 by Ivica kovacevic
Very dissatisfied. Retained attorney Selman 4 yrs ago to handle my bankruptcy after my divorce. I paid my $1300 and nothing has happened. My e-mails go unanswered and my phone calls do not get returned. I almost lost my house so I had to hire another attorney to do my bankruptcy. It was cheaper and was done in 1 month. I have contacted his office numerous times to request a partial refund and he will not return my phone calls. I understand why lawyers get a bad name, Stay as far away from John Selman as you can. Do not recommend, very disgusted with the whole situation. I will be contacting the Bar association.
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Laura Ann DePledge, experienced Criminal Defense, Divorce attorney in Mentor, OH with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Sara Elizabeth Tackett, experienced Estate Planning, Family Law attorney in Mentor, OH with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Paul Eugene Miller, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Mentor, OH with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Brooke Farren Kocab, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Mentor, OH with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Stacey Layne Grether Kubyn, experienced Family Law attorney in Mentor, OH with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Sharon R. Ditko-Bevione, experienced Child Custody, Domestic Violence attorney in Mentor, OH with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Eric John Amery, experienced Family Law, Tax attorney in Mentor, OH with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Eileen Noon Miller, experienced Family Law, Juvenile Law attorney in Mentor, OH with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Mark Anthony Ziccarelli, experienced Business, Family Law attorney in Mentor, OH with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Laurie Anne Koerner, experienced Family Law attorney in Mentor, OH with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Carol Grace Grasgreen, experienced Civil Rights, Criminal Defense attorney in Mentor, OH with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Barbara Martincic, experienced Estate Planning, Family Law attorney in Mentor, OH with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Lisa Spano, experienced Business, Divorce attorney in Mentor, OH with  reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0/5
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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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