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16 Nov, 2017 by Alberto ortiz
This counsel just advised to give into the other party will not fight for your rights or your case. Fails to defend your points just tells you how strong the opposition is that even the other side attorneys stated that it was not thier fault that we gave in so much..
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20 Jan, 2018 by Barry
Mr. Adan, is simply the worst attorney I ever hired to work for my sports marketing agency as our legal counsel/ sports marketing agent of baseball. He does not follow thru sufficiently on tasks at hand, messed up an eeoc complaint for me not once but twice in submission, does not return phone calls on time or stick to his word. I hired Mr. Adan in 2013 as an independent contractor to potentially eventually become a partner in SMG if he proved himself worthy on percentage which is the way agents work. He could not complete one single deal in a 2 year span or do one simple transaction properly being an ada and corporate attorney or as an agent. It seems he is more concerned with his personal life of having fun and games rather than working hard being a hustler on percentage as an agent.
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01 Mar, 2014 by Anonymous
I would NOT recommend this attorney to anyone. She is incompetent, not to mention very cruel and mean , , , which would be fine except that when children are involved you would think it would be her to make decisions based on what is in the best interest of the child instead of punishing the children because she "doesn't like" the parents (she needs to GROW UP). Please, avoid this attorney if you have children!!!! I have also read other bad reviews of her, she is a very poor attorney, not a nice person and makes basic spelling mistakes (just to name a few of her short-comings). She should be ashamed of herself.
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20 Mar, 2018 by Anonymous
This attorney has no heart. Helpful as a flea. I have Guardian legal that I pay through my employer. My son needed help and I forgetting I previously consulted him and was very dissatisfied with how he treated me, sent my son. Only to receive a call from my son saying how he belittled him and was unjustly demeanored. Full of arrogance and heartless behavior. To treat someone like that who perhaps has very little income but that was backed up by me who does have a good one, is not only unfair but reflects his inhumanity towards people. Huge mistake to consult this no good piece of attorney. To be polite
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14 Oct, 2014 by Enrique.
Mr. Engel charges what appears to be reasonable prices . . . That is until you find out that he is not to be trusted when you need things done right. I chose his practice to help me go through what appeared to be a simple divorce. I had been separated from my ex-wife for a couple of years, my son was already working away from home and providing for himself, I was able to keep a good relationship with my ex (I was the offended part) and I was willing to give up my rights to the property we owned together and for which we had a common Mortgage. So I paid this lawyer for his knowledge to get everything done, basically because nobody can learn everything and he was supposed to know what he was doing after years of practice. I explained him that it is a simple divorce and he agrees, he asks me if I want to short sale the property and I replied I did not want to get my ex out of the apartment because she had just refinanced and gotten a pretty good monthly payment (half of what it would cost her to rent something similar) and I just wanted to yield her the rights so she could stay there and I could get off the loan so there would be nothing linking me to her anymore and I could leave that chapter of my life behind. What did this lawyer do? He proposed to do a Quick Claim Deed which basically gave my ex full ownership of the property but still kept me as responsible for the loan. So at this moment I can't sale the property because I have no rights on it, I can't refinance, I can't get any part of the sale if it is sold and if my ex decides to stop the payments I am supposed to take over. I am responsible financially for a property which is not mine! I called Mr. Engel and he said: “that is the way it is” and hung up on me. No apologies, no feelings, no mention as to why he neglected to do what a lawyer is supposed to do: provide legal advise for which you are dearly paying. I went to the bank issuing the mortgage and they said the only way out of the mortgage is for my ex to refinance it and let me go since I have no right over the apartment, and to do it fast because if she stopped paying they will ask me to cover the payments. I can't purchase a new home because this loan brings down the liquid amount of money I can spend every month on a mortgage, and the loan will be there for the next 22 years of my life. There are many good lawyers out there, don't go with this one or you will regret it! I did and still do.
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09 Apr, 2018 by Anonymous
Ana Morales attorney at Reyes Miller in Miami, took on a civil case of mine. When she first took on our case she seemed knowledgeable and sure she could win the case. After taking our retainer, we heard very little from her, had poor knowledge into the laws that pertained to my case, and would not respond back to my emails. Seems to have some sort of disconnect between her secretary. It was hard to get in contact with Mrs. Morales, however, the law firm was quick to get in contact with me when they felt they needed more money, even though ZERO motions had been filed in my case. Her lack of attention towards my case ended with her having to ask for a continue and then trying to charge me for it. Also, her lack of attention, promptness and knowledge in my case caused my case harm. We did not obtain information in a timely manner, if we were even able to obtain it. The responded got away with an arrest because Mrs. Morales took no action. Like that many other issues. I of course dropped her and obtained new counsel. Shortly after, I realized the Reyes Miller firm had been double charging me for the few things they did handle in my case. It has been 7 months since I reported to Ana Miller that there was a discrepancy in their billing me, and to this day they have not responded back to me. Does not surprise me since I am already used to being ignored by her. The only time she promoptly responds back is when you are filing a complaint against her.
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10 Sep, 2020 by Yurima
I hired her to respond to a paternity case that my daughter's father filed against me asking for 50 % time sharing. She had my case since February 20 and in August 20 we had the mediation. I found out during this mediation that if I didn't accept the conditions of the time sharing that my ex was asking in his petition I had to pay him for the night's difference that I'd have my daughter with me base on the fact that I make 3 times the money he makes. This should be basics for any family lawyer. If she'd have told me that from the beginning I wouldn't have paid a 3 hour mediation ( $300 an hour) and I'd have accepted my ex time sharing request from the beginning without the need of spending over $4000.
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17 Dec, 2013 by Anonymous
Parker was retained for a routinue condo closing. The paralegal copied the wiring instructions incorrectly onto the final documents. I caught the error when the documents were notarized. It took five days for the money to transfer, and during that time, although I tried to contact Parker he did not return my calls or email me. He may be knowledgable. I really can't comment. But he runs a sloppy, careless office, and the paralegal I dealt with seemed more like a clerk. The contract involved was for more than a half million dollars, and I think most people would have sweated that five day delay as much as I did. Parker never even apologized. He's apparently involved in bigger projects, which is great for him, but it is really highly unprofessional to ignore small clients under such circumstances(half a million is small?), and I don't think he really earned his fee. Marjorie
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08 Jun, 2021 by Daydene
Be careful lady’s she like married mans, she’s have no moral she’s talking with my husband knowing that his a married man.
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24 Jul, 2024 by Isabel
This law firm took ownership of Emerald Terrace Apartments on August 2023. My previous owner gave us a copy of the tenant estoppel letter where it states that our security deposit was transferred to Adam B. Kenner. Adam B. Kenner and his team kicked everyone out with a letter taped onto the doors labeled August 11 (but actually taped on August 16) stating that we needed to leave the premises by September 10, 2023. With such short notices I emailed and called to see if I can get an extension. They never responded or cared to respond to my or any other tenants questions and concerns. I paid nights at hotels and an extra fee for moving in early to another apartment, but I finally managed to move out of there. From September 2023 to now, I’ve emailed and called Adam B. Kenner several times to request my security deposit back. I took pictures of my apartment and have proof that I left it in great conditions. However, I have yet to receive my security deposit back. They always respond with “we’ll send it to you soon,” but never do. We are almost in August 2024! I do not think I would have to wait this long to receive my security deposit back. In addition to that I know of a couple who were the tenants to move in last and they also failed to receive their security deposit back. What a scam! I will update my comment when I do receive my security deposit; for now all I can say about my experience with Adam B. Kenner is that they lack communication, don’t seem to care about others, and like to pocket people’s money.
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14 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Just a train wreck. I understand he's free as legal aid, but still. Doesn't really know what he's doing.
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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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