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10 Jul, 2024 by Samantha hack
Thank you! Jonathan
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10 Jul, 2024 by Jose leon
10 Jul, 2024 by Rob fletcher
Recently we had very bad situation occur in our lives. Jon Ripps is world class, extremely knowledgeable, genuine with a sincere desire to get what is best for you! We thank you Jon!! You are a rockstar!!
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10 Jul, 2024 by Samantha hack
Thank you! Jonathan
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10 Jul, 2024 by Jose leon
10 Jul, 2024 by Rob fletcher
Recently we had very bad situation occur in our lives. Jon Ripps is world class, extremely knowledgeable, genuine with a sincere desire to get what is best for you! We thank you Jon!! You are a rockstar!!
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04 Jun, 2024 by Dwayne
I was extremely satisfied with Amanda Asala, Esq and her services. Amanda was highly professional and helped me during the toughest part of my life as I fought for visitation of my daughter. I am very happy with the outcome. Thank you, guys!"
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05 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
Desiree and Michael are the best !! Highly recommend them for all your legal matters. They actually care about you and are always eager and ready to help .
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11 Jan, 2024 by Edineia fonseca
I suffered domestic violence, I had to leave the house with my son with only the clothes on my back and our lives saved and go to a Safety & Change shelter, I have documented and video evidence of all the violence suffered by me and my son, I have video of my husband's betrayal with another woman. I sought help from the Legal Aid Society because I am undergoing pre-cancer treatment. The Legal Aid Society said they could help me and they did. I was referred to the law firm de Moya & Assoc PC I arrived at the office scared of everything because domestic violence is very difficult, we suffer a lot, we lose our dignity, faith and many other things and we also run out of money. What I heard from de Moya & Assoc PC was; I have to accept my husband's lawyer's conditions because the duration of the marriage was short, 2 years in January 2024. How many years would I have to suffer this violence to be entitled to my personal belongings under US law? I am writing this rant to share with others who experience domestic violence in my case at de Moya & Assoc PC it made it clear that I am not entitled to anything because the domestic violence I suffered was for a short period, HOW LONG DO WE HAVE TO SUFFER DOMESTIC VIOLENCE TO HAVE ANY RIGHTS? so I don't even have the right to my personal goals, I took what was placed outside the house, just a few things, de Moya & Assoc PC said that I have to accept the lawyer's conditions My husband, if I don't do everything, I will have a big problem with the Judge and I will have to pay my husband's lawyer a small fortune.
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21 Sep, 2023 by Noel
Mark Paige brought me back from ruin. I was in a serious situation with a divorce stipulation that was violated and I needed serious legal counseling. I tried numerous other legal options but none were developing a plan of action due to the complexity of my situation. I had a marital residency that was in severe financial distress (foreclosure). I had a deep financial crisis with child support that was in arrears over due to a miscalculation from over 8 years ago. Mr Paige set forth a roadmap that started with dealing with one issue at a time. From 2016 till 2023 he along with his team of legal professionals was able to fight the violation of the divorce stipulation. He then was able to challenge the Foreclosure of the marital residence. Have my Arrears recalculated finding an overpayment. Furthermore with the overpayment had my child support terminated due to the alienation that took place. Since I was left to deal with a foreclosure property that was abandoned by the other party Mr Paige was able to facilitate a short sale with a third party. This was the completion of the roadmap that he laid out from day one. To add to the success he was able to have my passport awarded to me which was an issue due to the arrearages that were shown prior to the recalculation.
Mr. Paige Commanded a presence that was of the highest regard due to him always showing the Judge as well as the other parties the utmost respect. He worked hard to make sure he left no stone unturned while preparing for court proceedings. I will always thank him for not turning me away and always giving 110% to me when others would not take my case again due to its complexity. Not only do I recommend him as a great hire but also a great source of knowledge to other lawyers who have clients who may be dealing with similar issues. Mine was super complex but a lawyer like Mark Paige is best suited to succeed in this undertaking.
Prior to me finding the service of Mark S Paige I was stonewalled in many proceedings that I thought I could handle pro-se. It was very frustrating and demoralizing. The day I saw I was moving in the right direction was when I was able to tell a support magistrate that I would like to refrain from any further comments due to me retaining the services of Mark S Paige. At this time the Magistrate said you have made a great decision regarding your retaining of Mr Paige … He is a very good lawyer. Fast forward to today I know this was the best decision I could have made for my life which Mark Paige gave me back. Look no further you have found a Great Lawyer right here.
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24 Mar, 2021 by Perry
Mark Paige is not only an outstanding lawyer, but a person that I would highly recommend to everyone.
I have been dealing with the same legal matters for years prior to meeting Mark. Other lawyers complicated issues instead of resolving them and I was stuck in the middle of a dog and pony show. However, from the first day I hired Mark Paige, I was able to breathe due to his professional demeanor. Within just a few months, everything was resolved. Mark got the job done and it was done right. No more wasting money and running around in circles. Words can never express my gratitude for his patience, knowledge, guidance, honesty and professionalism.
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19 Dec, 2019 by Anonymous
Mark was a great lawyer for me because he kept me sane through the misery of divorce and parental negotiations. His knowledge and experience was very helpful in having me understand how it works in NY. He was affordable as kept me from getting dragged into nonsense negotiations, and did not let situations get dragged out. Thank you Mark.
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31 Jan, 2016 by Najam
I had a problem My NJ state security sora License . Joyce took care very well and I have my Sora License now .
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09 Mar, 2015 by Alex
Joyce to say the least is one of kind. Great work ethics, honest and driven. She was involved, methodical and relentless pursuing a legal remedy. Its never easy going through a legal confrontation but having the right person by your side can make a world of difference. I would highly recommend working with Joyce Davis.
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05 Mar, 2015 by Margo
Ms. Davis is a staunch, effective, aggressive, eloquent and articulate advocate, and overturned every stone in furtherance of my very complex case. She handled my matter effectively and efficiently, and her calm and personable demeanor was very refreshing. I recommend her implicitly.
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04 Dec, 2021 by Rachel
She is very fast and efficient. I’m grateful for your dedication and professionalism. Thank you very much !
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09 Apr, 2015 by Claude
It was unbelievable for me to bring my daughters so quick in USA. But Jaclyn M Miller did it!
She explains many concerns about the case before act. Agree with her point then she start the process efficiently and i sleep in peace and quiet to wait for my result.
Confidentiality and efficacy describe her as a top in immigration matters in Rockland.
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23 Jul, 2013 by Anonymous
Jackie is very professional, and clear from the beginning. She answers all your questions, and replies back very quickly through email or phone. Her prices are very fair and consistant. I've had many family members go to more expensive lawyers in NYC and they have all had lawyers that are impossible to reach or don't seem to be very helpful or seem to care. That includes my parents and siblings. I hired Jackie in order to apply for a green card, and she has answered my questions/concerns even after she completed her services. I always recommend Jackie to everyone that needs an immigration lawyer. If you are in Rockland, I suggest you use her as your attorney. Jackie is the best not just to me but also to my sister, and friends that have now used her. I will continue to recommend her to others that I know!
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05 Dec, 2016 by Anonymous
Lynn is an excellent lawyer! I met her after I was divorced. My ex wanted to pay less child support. She got me more than I imagined and even got my portion of my kids college deceased, my ex is paying most of it.
I was terrified going into this, but Lynn and her staff were always available to listen to my fears and calm me down. I am so grateful that I found her. She really cared about me, my children and made sure we got what I needed for them. I highly recommend her!
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16 Nov, 2016 by Anonymous
Lynn was wonderful to work with. She is compassionate and warm and really took the time to understand my needs. She allowed me to be a partner in the process listening to me. I felt like Lynn truly cared about me and doing the right thing for me and my family .Lynn was tough when she needed to be. She made a painful experience bearable helping to ensure the process did not extend longer than it needed to. I would highly recommend her.
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16 Nov, 2016 by Riva
Lynn served as my attorney and made the stressful and agonizing process of divorce much easier. Her warmth, caring and compassion (not to mention humor which saved me) was only surpassed by her knowledge and creativity in settling the matter as quickly and painless as possible. Great attorney!
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29 Jun, 2020 by R & r
Mike Negri helped us close our house sale. He was supportive and professional all the way through. He was super organized with all the paperwork and patient with our anxiety during the Covid crisis. He is a pleasure work with and I highly recommend him.
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22 Feb, 2016 by Scott
Stellar representation. Michael alerted me to potentential problem in the agreement and rectified them immediately to ensure my interested are protected.
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06 Dec, 2017 by Trish and paul
Alan Rosenblatt, partner at Montalbano, Condon & Frank, P.C. in New City, NY, was highly recommended to me by a fellow lawyer in Rockland County, NY. Mr. Rosenblatt was involved from the beginning as my case was set up. David Warren, fellow partner at the firm, expertly litigated the case and achieved a highly favorable outcome. I commend Mr. Rosenblatt and Mr. Warren for their dedication and commitment to provide excellent service to their clients as they expertly navigate the field of NYS Family Law.
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06 Dec, 2017 by Trish and paul
David Warren, partner at Montalbano, Condon & Frank, PC, in New City, NY, is an excellent litigator who successfully defended me when my ex-husband sought to have my child support obligation to him re-calculated based on his request that my imputed income be increased 250% to nearly $100,000.00. A former stay-at-home mom for over 14 years, I received excellent representation from Mr. Warren who thoroughly prepared me for cross-examination in Court and deftly handled my case with up-to-the-minute knowledge of relevant case law. David Warren knew specifically what information to look for and knew exactly what questions to ask my ex-husband during cross-examination. Mr. Warren was eloquent, efficient, and comprehensive, with complete command of the facts. An excellent communicator, he succinctly and effectively laid out the facts of the case to the judge. Through David's efforts, the case was wrapped up in an extremely timely manner, with an excellent outcome. Should new post-judgment matters arise in the future, I will definitely retain David Warren again.
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31 Aug, 2024 by Sarah
Mrs.Gionta is nothing short than an excellent lawyer. She walks by your side the whole process while maintaining professionalism and guiding you to excellence. She will answer any questions you have and doesn’t treat you like just another job. She was with me during the worst time of my life that I wasn’t sure I was going to be able to get through. She pushed me through to win and on pure honesty. She is never short on details when other lawyers did not want to take the time to even listen. She gave her heart to my case and made me feel seen. I can’t say that other lawyers have passion like she does. I would recommend her to absolutely anyone who is in legal need. Mrs.Gionta will always hold high respect to me due to everything she did to help me during the hard time.
THANK YOU MRS.GIONTA!!!!!
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01 Oct, 2024 by Damisia leon
This was my first time being involved in a lawsuit so I wasn't really sure what to expect. I was definitely nervous but from the beginning Matt Rice and paralegal Cindy Rivera put me at ease. They made me feel comfortable, heard and like they really understood me. Throughout the entire process they kept me informed and were always available for any questions I had which was very important to me since I was not familiar with this process. I absolutely felt like I was important and my case really mattered to them. I am beyond pleased with the results, and while I hope to not need legal services again, if I do, Fellows, Hymowitz and Rice will definitely be my first call.
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27 Jul, 2024 by C du
Thank you once again for your exceptional service. We couldn't have asked for a better experience, and we are thrilled to have had you managing this important transaction.
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19 Jul, 2024 by Alicia ware
It was truly a pleasurable experience. Jay was extremely knowledgable and articulate as he explained every step along the process. Clearly and patiently we were never perplexed at any time throughout the entire process and would do it all over again. We would most definitely referJay and the entire team.
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01 Oct, 2024 by Damisia leon
This was my first time being involved in a lawsuit so I wasn't really sure what to expect. I was definitely nervous but from the beginning Matt Rice and paralegal Cindy Rivera put me at ease. They made me feel comfortable, heard and like they really understood me. Throughout the entire process they kept me informed and were always available for any questions I had which was very important to me since I was not familiar with this process. I absolutely felt like I was important and my case really mattered to them. I am beyond pleased with the results, and while I hope to not need legal services again, if I do, Fellows, Hymowitz and Rice will definitely be my first call.
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27 Jul, 2024 by C du
Thank you once again for your exceptional service. We couldn't have asked for a better experience, and we are thrilled to have had you managing this important transaction.
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19 Jul, 2024 by Alicia ware
It was truly a pleasurable experience. Jay was extremely knowledgable and articulate as he explained every step along the process. Clearly and patiently we were never perplexed at any time throughout the entire process and would do it all over again. We would most definitely referJay and the entire team.
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01 Oct, 2024 by Damisia leon
This was my first time being involved in a lawsuit so I wasn't really sure what to expect. I was definitely nervous but from the beginning Matt Rice and paralegal Cindy Rivera put me at ease. They made me feel comfortable, heard and like they really understood me. Throughout the entire process they kept me informed and were always available for any questions I had which was very important to me since I was not familiar with this process. I absolutely felt like I was important and my case really mattered to them. I am beyond pleased with the results, and while I hope to not need legal services again, if I do, Fellows, Hymowitz and Rice will definitely be my first call.
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27 Jul, 2024 by C du
Thank you once again for your exceptional service. We couldn't have asked for a better experience, and we are thrilled to have had you managing this important transaction.
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19 Jul, 2024 by Alicia ware
It was truly a pleasurable experience. Jay was extremely knowledgable and articulate as he explained every step along the process. Clearly and patiently we were never perplexed at any time throughout the entire process and would do it all over again. We would most definitely referJay and the entire team.
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13 Aug, 2024 by Sarain martinez
Excelente servicio
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24 Jul, 2024 by Hope emore
19 Jul, 2024 by Camilo varón
Exelente trabajo
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07 Aug, 2024 by Robyn sokol
The best law firm
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28 Jul, 2024 by Global collision
Good to use very experienced
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24 Jul, 2024 by Joan doran
Steven Beldock is a great attorney. I was very pleased and impressed how he and his team worked with me on my case ..I would highly recommend his firm .. thank you for all your help Steven .
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20 Jun, 2024 by Flora rondel
My experience with Mr. Koplen was great. My case was handled very professionally. Mr. Koplen always answered my questions and concerns. Would highly recommend.
Flora R.
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09 Apr, 2024 by L depp
Jeff is an excellent attorney. He stands up for his clients in the court room, I am truly grateful to have him on my side. I strongly recommend Jeff for any matters, especially in stressful court cases.
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13 Mar, 2024 by Ahad taher
One of the greatest lawyers I’ve ever had the privilege to have on my side. He’s great, communicative, and overall amazing at his job. Will always go to him and recommend him to others, 100%.
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20 Jun, 2024 by Flora rondel
My experience with Mr. Koplen was great. My case was handled very professionally. Mr. Koplen always answered my questions and concerns. Would highly recommend.
Flora R.
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09 Apr, 2024 by L depp
Jeff is an excellent attorney. He stands up for his clients in the court room, I am truly grateful to have him on my side. I strongly recommend Jeff for any matters, especially in stressful court cases.
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13 Mar, 2024 by Ahad taher
One of the greatest lawyers I’ve ever had the privilege to have on my side. He’s great, communicative, and overall amazing at his job. Will always go to him and recommend him to others, 100%.
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29 Sep, 2024 by Donna
Grateful for his quick response and Excellent professional skills. Allowed me to relax because I could sense he could take care of the injustice done to me and would follow through because of his attention to details. Excellent knowledge of the laws and exactly what to do. Appreciate it being recommended to him by another lawyer that I trusted. That way I did not have to sift through hundreds of empty promises. Save me time and allowed my heart to relax. Reasonably priced with your circumstances. Used his time efficiently to gather all the information because a lot of it was beyond me and that is a great value. Rarely do I recommend people, but I feel compelled to leave this review to benefit others. Well done. Thank you, Mr. Fischer.
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20 Jun, 2024 by Flora rondel
My experience with Mr. Koplen was great. My case was handled very professionally. Mr. Koplen always answered my questions and concerns. Would highly recommend.
Flora R.
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09 Apr, 2024 by L depp
Jeff is an excellent attorney. He stands up for his clients in the court room, I am truly grateful to have him on my side. I strongly recommend Jeff for any matters, especially in stressful court cases.
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20 Jun, 2024 by Flora rondel
My experience with Mr. Koplen was great. My case was handled very professionally. Mr. Koplen always answered my questions and concerns. Would highly recommend.
Flora R.
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09 Apr, 2024 by L depp
Jeff is an excellent attorney. He stands up for his clients in the court room, I am truly grateful to have him on my side. I strongly recommend Jeff for any matters, especially in stressful court cases.
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13 Mar, 2024 by Ahad taher
One of the greatest lawyers I’ve ever had the privilege to have on my side. He’s great, communicative, and overall amazing at his job. Will always go to him and recommend him to others, 100%.
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25 Apr, 2024 by Lauren desimone
Working with Attorney Ciganek was the best decision I have ever made. She was always available via text, email, phone. I never had to follow up with her. She held my hand through a stressful time and eased my mind with everything that was going on. She is now and forever will be the person I will call when ever I need when I need a lawyer. My girls and I have been in a better place because of her.
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18 Apr, 2024 by Stephanie h.
Peter helped me through a series of complex family law matters for numerous years, and stood by me every step of the way. What sets him apart from other attorneys in my opinion, is that he gives very realistic advice and legal guidance, and knows the judges, and other attorneys in the court very well, and they know him to be fair, ethical and he's well respected. I would, and have recommended him as solid representation for family court matters.
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03 Apr, 2024 by Gregory hazell
An excellent experience! Kristine helped me sort out an issue with the DMV with ease. She is transparent and pleasant to work with. Highly recommend!
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20 Jun, 2024 by Flora rondel
My experience with Mr. Koplen was great. My case was handled very professionally. Mr. Koplen always answered my questions and concerns. Would highly recommend.
Flora R.
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09 Apr, 2024 by L depp
Jeff is an excellent attorney. He stands up for his clients in the court room, I am truly grateful to have him on my side. I strongly recommend Jeff for any matters, especially in stressful court cases.
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13 Mar, 2024 by Ahad taher
One of the greatest lawyers I’ve ever had the privilege to have on my side. He’s great, communicative, and overall amazing at his job. Will always go to him and recommend him to others, 100%.
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20 Jun, 2024 by Flora rondel
My experience with Mr. Koplen was great. My case was handled very professionally. Mr. Koplen always answered my questions and concerns. Would highly recommend.
Flora R.
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09 Apr, 2024 by L depp
Jeff is an excellent attorney. He stands up for his clients in the court room, I am truly grateful to have him on my side. I strongly recommend Jeff for any matters, especially in stressful court cases.
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13 Mar, 2024 by Ahad taher
One of the greatest lawyers I’ve ever had the privilege to have on my side. He’s great, communicative, and overall amazing at his job. Will always go to him and recommend him to others, 100%.
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08 May, 2024 by Stephanie
Peter helped me through a series of complex family law matters for numerous years, and stood by me every step of the way. What sets him apart from other attorneys in my opinion, is that he gives very realistic advice and legal guidance, and knows the judges, and other attorneys in the court very well, and they know him to be fair, ethical and he's well respected. I would, and have recommended him as solid representation for family court matters.
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10 Jan, 2024 by Susan
Awful!! So many items NOT put in my divorce settlement that I lost thousands and thousands of dollars. Other lawyers that read it say it’s terribly written.
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08 Sep, 2023 by Fatima
I was so lucky and grateful that Peter was my Divorce attorney. He sincerely cared and handled my case with kindness and compassion. He is highly professional and a gentleman. I would recommend him til eternity and wish him prosperity.
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13 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
This lady represented me in 2008 and advised me to pled to a deportable crime without making me aware of the immigration consequences!!!! She doesn’t work with an immigration lawyer to help her clients however she is a ex DA that stills help poor immigrants to plea to deportable offenses!!!! She will then say she advised you of the immigration repercussions when that would not have been the case!! You lady are a part of the system of deportation and imprisonment.
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22 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
I am at the beginning stages of working with Yvonne Garbett, and I am so incredibly thankful I found her. My custody case is very complex with a lot of variables, and is definitely not a “run of the mill” scenario. Due to the situation, I specifically sought out someone with criminal and family law experience. I’ve spoken to several lawyers over the last few years, and not a single one of them seemed to grasp the gravity of my case the way Yvonne did. She told me all the things I wanted to hear, and all of the things I didn’t want to hear about the possible outcomes of my case and the direction it could go. I will update this review when I am at the “end” of my case, but if you are looking for a lawyer with expertise, compassion, and an understanding of personality types and behavioral patterns - do not look any further. I am so thankful I found someone I can trust. Highly recommend.
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13 Jul, 2021 by Brian
To put it plainly, Ms. Garbett kept me out of jail when the judges thought otherwise. Her fees are reasonable, she responds to all communication and gives clients sense of confidence in courtroom…which I believe all good lawyers should. Would highly recommend.
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26 Jun, 2017 by Rich
Maureen was direct with me with what she expected. No surprises at all. She got me such a good deal, that the judge seemed dumbfounded. Would recommend her to anyone needing criminal or other legal services!
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10 Apr, 2017 by Cg
Maureen has always been been available no matter what time of day I had questions. She will fight for you till the end. She believes in her clients. She is so compassionate. I went through her reviews and all were 5 Stars with the exception of her first review. All I have to say is that 1st review was a liar. That person's comoments Contradicted themselves. Carry on Maureen you really fight for the truth.
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19 Mar, 2015 by Will
I never take the time to leave reviews but after the stuff I put my lawyer through she deserves it! I did not know a lawyer could be so compassionate and have so much fortitude. My ex turned out to be certifiable but Maureen walked me through every step with ease. The thing that impressed me the most was that I could always get in touch with her, no matter what time or day. She even responded on Mother's Day! That was the most important thing to me was being able to get in contact at any time. Maureens pricing was also extremely fair, and I was surprised to find she returned the remaining funds of the retainer within a few days of settlement.
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12 Jul, 2024 by Rafael rodriguez
Mark embodies the quintessential sleazeball lawyer; it is astounding from where he got his degree. He is ridiculous and embarrassing since all he does is make ridiculous, false promises and believes he is above the law. I could continue but not even this brief review is worth my time.
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01 Mar, 2024 by Spencer lauterbach
Mr. Paige is a skilled attorney who has provided excellent legal services to the clients I have referred to him. As a fellow attorney, I always feel confident that people I send his way will receive top notch legal representation, delivered with competence and compassion.
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19 Jan, 2024 by Sakvani
Mark has consistently giving me the best legal advice. He has saved me time, money, and aggravation. He understands what the judges are looking for and is able to have respectful effective negotiations with opposing lawyers. Thank you Mark for your professionalism.
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15 Jan, 2022 by Luis lopez
Best Lawyer On Rockland County
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09 Feb, 2021 by Richard hong
Kind and cleaned
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19 Nov, 2020 by Billy mazzulla
22 Aug, 2024 by Milton ochoa
16 Jul, 2024 by Janille compress
She is a Great lawyer she always there for you +++++AAAA
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16 Jul, 2024 by Franto deland andre
Jacklyn is an outstanding Lawyer. She is very knowledgeable and knows how to communicate. she made my case went very smoothly. I am thrilled to had her. I can't thank her enough. I would definitely recommended her.
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24 Jun, 2024 by Gabrielle graham
All of the people at The Hobbs Law Firm were welcoming and helpful with everything I had going on. I highly recommend Rita and Chuck for any of your legal problems.
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07 Jun, 2024 by Brian dural
06 Jun, 2024 by Edgar ruano
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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:
-
What experience do you have with family law cases like mine?
Make sure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it's a contested divorce, child custody dispute, or adoption. -
How will you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, a flat fee, or requires a retainer. Ask for an estimate of the total costs involved. -
What are the possible outcomes of my case?
An experienced lawyer should be able to give you a general idea of what to expect based on the facts of your case. -
What is your approach to resolving disputes?
Ask whether the lawyer tends to favor negotiation and mediation or whether they prefer to take cases to court. This can help you determine if their style matches your goals. -
How long do you expect my case to take?
While it’s difficult to predict, the lawyer should give you an estimate based on similar cases. -
Who will be handling my case?
In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may do much of the work, so make sure you understand who will be your main point of contact.
How to Check the Credibility of a Family Law Lawyer
To ensure you're hiring a reputable family law lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and reputation:
- Check state bar association records: Verify that the lawyer is licensed to practice in your state and is in good standing with no disciplinary actions.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on websites like Avvo, Google, or Martindale-Hubbell. Previous clients can give you insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and success in family law cases.
- Request references: Ask the lawyer for references from past clients who can speak to their experience with the lawyer.
- Review their website or professional profile: Look at the lawyer’s background, case history, and areas of focus to ensure they have substantial experience in family law.
- Look for professional memberships: Membership in reputable organizations, such as the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), can indicate a lawyer's expertise and dedication to family law.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a family law lawyer, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what you should bring:
- Relevant documents: Bring any documents related to your case, such as marriage certificates, prenuptial agreements, financial records, custody agreements, or court orders.
- List of assets and debts: For divorce cases, prepare a detailed list of all assets (e.g., homes, bank accounts, retirement funds) and debts (e.g., mortgages, loans, credit card balances).
- Details of the family issue: Provide a written summary of the situation, including key dates and facts related to your divorce, custody dispute, or support issue.
- Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions you have about the legal process, costs, and potential outcomes.
- Your goals: Be prepared to discuss your objectives, such as custody arrangements, property division, or spousal support, so the lawyer understands your priorities.
Being organized and clear about your situation will help the lawyer evaluate your case more effectively and offer the best advice for moving forward.
