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21 Jul, 2022 by Kellie
I must say Kyrsten is an amazing lawyer! She helped me with my custody case and I am so thankful I found her! She is always up front and honest with her clients. She made it very clear she was here to help me tell my story to the court system and she did one hell of a job! She was always very responsive in a timely manner when calling or emailing her. She truly goes above and beyond as a lawyer and truly cares about her clients. I would defiantly hire her again if ever needed!
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02 Feb, 2021 by Neva danes
Krysten niemiec represented me in my divorce. I highly recommend her. She is very knowledgeable and professional. And keeps you updated at all times. Makes sure you are prepared in your hearings and know exactly what is going to happen. She got me everything I asked for and more. I didn't even have to wait the 6 months to be final.
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06 Jul, 2019 by Anonymous
Kyrsten Niemic has been a hard working lawyer committed to helping my family. She’s been honest, bold and on top of communicating regularly with us. I greatly appreciate her commitment for years to help us.
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03 Nov, 2022 by Anonymous
compassionate,intelligent, and knowing .Covers all fields of law. Only practice is local.
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06 Nov, 2010 by Anonymous
She was very knowledgeable and friendly. She also did not over-charge me.
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02 Feb, 2016 by Milo
Out of great appreciation and respect for Joel I would like to share with everyone what a great job he has done and I'm sure would do for anyone else. Joel Kershaw is a very respectable person and lawyer. He always went the extra mile for me and remained attentive and concerned with my case, situation, and needs therein. Joel also did whatever possible to remove stress from the situation on my behalf. It would be a great decision and opportunity to acquire Joel as your counsel. Thank you Joel Kershaw for your exemplary services.
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27 May, 2023 by Heather
Case was very many years ago. Dale Lockwood was top-notch and highly respected. Often O wonder about life if there had been a different outcome. Thank you, Dale
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12 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
She represented me for a trial in Monroe County. Went above and beyond.
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30 Mar, 2015 by Ken
I have used Cheryl to handle several matters and am astounded at the success. She is the most knowledgeable attorney I have met in regards to divorce, PPO's and the legal process in general. The nice thing about Cheryl is that she knows Monroe county, she understands how the judges think and makes her plan around that. She is almost like this quite lioness hiding in the weeds, she jumps out and pounces on her prey and they never see it coming. She uses everything to her advantage in one way or another, the law is still the law don't get me wrong but she has a very keen way of getting her point across. Thank you for the successes !!
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29 Jan, 2015 by Anonymous
I used her twice for getting custody of my daughter. Once to get custody, the second to keep custody from a drug addicted father.
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04 Jul, 2013 by Jamie
Cheryl helped me through some of the toughest times in my life. I had less worries with Cheryl representing me! She is honest, fair, and trustworthy....she is like family to me.
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05 Jan, 2023 by James rivet
Conly is always pleasant and provides excellent legal service
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03 Apr, 2022 by Fran rayce
Patient, understanding, and efficient.
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28 Aug, 2021 by Pam d
Talking to Conley was like talking to an old friend!
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21 Sep, 2019 by Candace
I was very happy with Christina's services. I didn't have a very good shot at getting any type of custody since I am an Aunt and not mom or dad. I ended up getting residential custody and shared parenting with dad. Mom not in the picture... But I am so very happy with the outcome.
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28 Nov, 2018 by Vincent
Christina D. Hills handled my case in the most professional way. She was prompt in returning phone calls, and took the time to listen and care. She went the extra mile for me and worked hard on my case, I couldn’t be more pleased with the outcome. We would recommend her to everyone!
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22 Jun, 2018 by Anonymous
My son wanted to get his record expunged and I had no idea what lawyer I should choose. I looked at Christina's reviews and made an appointment and all I can say it I'm so glad I did. She explained everything clearly and if we had questions she was happy to answer them. She took care of everything and the process was completely smooth. I highly recommend Christina. I would hire her again in a minute.
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07 Oct, 2024 by Brian stein
She helped me with a child support case I had and she was very professional and made sure I knew what was going on at all times highly recommend if you need any legal help
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29 Sep, 2024 by Carolyn shipp
After 34 years of marriage I was shocked when my husband served me with divorce papers. Christina came very highly recommended by friends and others in the legal community. She was a godsend, she cared not only about the case but about me as a person. I'm happy to say that my case was settled without me being taken advantage of, and I will be on stable ground going into retirement in the next few years. Both she and Jill answered all my questions and guided me through this devastating process.Thank you to them both.
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19 Apr, 2024 by Dave johnson
I contacted the office with a situation that was a bit on the difficult side and I am now in Florida which for me made this more difficult to take care of on my own. Christina took very good care of me with all the information that I needed and went above and beyond in taking care of my situation. And above all this was done for a very very reasonable amount of money. She was very understanding of the situation, I was always made aware of the progress of the issue at hand. She made sure that I was aware of all the options I had in which I could have done on my without her at no charge. This situation to me was extremely scary as it could effect my business and career. The way she handled this made me feel at ease that it would be taken care of completely and at a reasonable cost. She did just that.
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25 Nov, 2019 by Stephanie
Going into court, I was positive I had a case where I had no worries; an easy in and out. Matt made it very clear all the legal angles that I had not considered; ALL possible ways the case COULD end. There was no sugar coating...he was straight to the point and wasted no time getting what needed done, done. I am 100% confident had I had other representation, my criminal defebse outcome would not have turned out as well as it did.
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30 Aug, 2019 by Devante
I’ve had a $10000 Attorney and I’ve also had a $500 dollar Attorney Mr. Vititoe did an outstanding job, he made sure I had no jail time, he had a clear understanding of my case and the process I would be going through. I highly recommend this attorney rather paid for or court appointed.
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19 Apr, 2017 by Teresa
Mr. Vititoe is knowledgeable, dependable, and has taken a real interest in my proceedings. He is the first person I call when I need an attorney. And I would highly recommend him to anyone needing an attorney. He has an attention to detail and sees each client as a person, rather than a paycheck.
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05 Oct, 2024 by Erica bolt
Efficient, kind, and took the time to explain every step.
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24 Jun, 2024 by Jessica fendt
Leah has been an incredible attorney for me through both my divorce proceedings and custody hearings. She goes above and beyond, especially for the voiceless (children) and I couldn’t be more grateful for her thorough representation. I have felt nothing but heard, protected and championed throughout my time working with her and highly recommend her services. You want Rurka Law in your corner no matter what you are facing.
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24 Jun, 2024 by Ricksard chenot
Can not say enough about Ms. Rurka. She was so patient with me, explaining everything as we went through the adoption process. I felt very confident having her represent us. Will be using her services for estate planning. HIGHLY recommend!!!
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29 May, 2024 by Bobby
Super unresponsive !!! To the point it’s descusting!
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27 Apr, 2024 by Curtis cilley
Great attorney. Very smart and reasonable priced. I recommend 10 out of 10
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04 Feb, 2023 by Sharon slinker
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10 May, 2020 by Anonymous
At first she showed to be very understanding and passionate about what she does. Made me feel very comfortable but, as soon as money got involved i asked her specific detailed questions but she failed to answer all of them. There were charges that she mentioned that i did not agree with, so after requesting for a more detailed answer and getting one. I just decided to hire someone else. Overall she may be a good lawyer but i had the feeling i would be surprised with various charges .
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06 Feb, 2018 by Tee
Gina was amazing in my divorce case even moving the case up (she had to get special permission from the judge!) She was very persistent and fought for exactly what i wanted. And she actually met with both of us during the process!!
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15 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
Attorney Donnelly knows the law and will work hard for you. If there is something she doesn't know, she wont b s you, she will find out. She puts the work in and expects honesty. She always returned my calls and let me know what was going on in my case. I appreciate her for always keeping it real with me and doing a great job.
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16 Aug, 2024 by Mike carrabino
Ron is awesome, he personally cares, offers excellent advice, seems to have the answers, and knows the culture of the court system in Monroe Co. since my first experience with Ron nearly 10 years ago, I have utilized only his services for all my legal affairs. Melissa who runs his office is very experienced and great to work with as well. I recommend Ton Bruce for legal help with any situation you may find yourself in. Sincerely, Mike C
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03 Aug, 2024 by Ben gardner
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27 Jul, 2024 by James atkinson
Ron did a great job resolving my Monroe county traffic violation. Definitely recommend Bruce Law Firm!
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25 Sep, 2024 by Drew clark
I've been a defendant against this office in a civil case. Attorney Braunlich was nothing short of wonderful in the case and regularly reached out, assisting myself and the plaintiff in settling the case outside of court. They were professional, helpful, and understanding throughout.
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20 Apr, 2024 by Generic consumer
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23 Sep, 2022 by Valerie vandevelde
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20 Nov, 2017 by Kare
Jessica has been an amazing attorney, I have no issues with getting ahold of her like I did the last attorney, since she has taken over my case she has been nothing but amazing and is sure to always set a meeting to go over things before you actually go to court. I will have to admit she is definitely an attorney I'd recommend people to hire.
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26 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
Impossible to get Jessica to call me back. I had an emergency with my ex holding the children from me and even left the office a message saying just that for Jessica and never received a response on how to handle the situation. She did absolutely nothing for me in court and on top of that was even late to my court date. She came unprepared and just works for the money. Your life dont matter to her.
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11 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
I was referred to Ms. Richileau by another attorney in Monroe. She provided me with great representation on my divorce case. She is well versed in the law and was aggressive throughout the case. I recommend her to anyone going through a messy divorce.
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28 May, 2019 by Alan w
Rebecca Hicks is awesome. Very intelligent and professional. She has helped me and family thru tough times. Never overcharged. she’s more than reasonable.
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26 Jan, 2017 by Anonymous
I would not recommend Rebecca Hicks. I found her to be very incompetent as an attorney. Her fees were quite unreasonable. The end result in my divorce was awful and Rebecca's legal guidance was poor at best. I would strongly suggest seeking another attorney if you are going through a divorce. Thank you.
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24 Sep, 2016 by Anonymous
Do not hire this attorney. I made the terrible mistake of employing her and lost everything in my divorce. She's easily intimidated by other lawyers and saves her aggression for you to cover up what she clearly doesn't know. You've been warned.
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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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