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James J. Sexton, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in New City, NY with 59 reviews
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32,00
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4.2/5
Avvo
5.0
20 Reviews
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3.8
39 Reviews
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10 Jan, 2025 by Wesleigh gilsenan
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04 Jan, 2025 by Yuridey andreina gonzalez primera
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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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John E. Finnegan, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in New City, NY with 9 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.
30,78
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4.6/5
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4.6
9 Reviews
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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
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Nancy B. Morris, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in New City, NY with 6 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.
28,40
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4.2/5
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4.2
6 Reviews
star star star star star
08 May, 2024 by Gina gina
Most unprofessional attorneys I've ever dealt with in my life very abrasive very unprofessional very rude they minimize who you are and what your problem is as a human being
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30 Jan, 2020 by Sophocles papasophocles
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28 Nov, 2019 by Robia altaf
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Colin J. Dunnigan, experienced Family Law attorney in New City, NY with 40 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.
26,75
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3.8/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
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3.8
39 Reviews
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10 Jan, 2025 by Wesleigh gilsenan
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04 Jan, 2025 by Yuridey andreina gonzalez primera
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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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Larry Gantt, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in New City, NY with 44 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.
26,22
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4.4/5
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4.4
44 Reviews
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28 Aug, 2024 by Marvin loria
Efficient, quick and knowledgeable services granted! A+ professionalism and courteous staff! Thank you for all your services and advice!
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16 Aug, 2024 by Craig v
The Hirshfeld and Hirshfeld law office practice was and has been incredible. Timely response, great knowledge of the law, fair and honest communication. Mr. Hirshfeld and his staff always made sure I knew what was happening throughout the entire process. They made great recommendations and always made sure I was protected. This was the first time I've ever had an attorney where I felt like I had someone in MY corner, rather than someone who was just "representing" me. If you need an attorney that really has your best interest in mind and will be guide you in the right direction, look no further than Hirshfeld and Hirshfeld.
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12 Aug, 2024 by Oscar mazariego
I hired William's law office to handle my child support order, paying in full upfront. Despite waiting four weeks, the petition was never prepared, and I received no updates. After two months of unreturned calls and emails, I canceled my case and requested a full refund. Initially, they agreed, but the refund check was never received. Eight months later, I'm still trying to resolve this issue, with no solution or communication from William's office. I strongly advise against using their services.
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K Jody Cucolo, experienced Appeals, Business attorney in New City, NY with 4 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.
25,14
star star star star star
4.2/5
Avvo
4.2
4 Reviews
star star star star star
04 Jun, 2015 by Sjd
There are few people I could write a glowing report about, but Jody is certainly worthy. Ms. Cucolo has demonstrated legal knowledge and dynamic litigation skills beyond words. My family has been through so much, yet Ms. Cucolo never rushed me off the phone, over billed me, or became unprofessional. She listened and cared. She knew who to work with in the system and if she didn't, she figured it out quickly. I am forever grateful for her time, experience and strategic defense. Thank you Jody!!
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26 Feb, 2014 by Fred
Jody handled my divorce many years ago. From my perspective, the most important aspect of the ordeal was to make sure I ended up with as much time with my daughter as possible. I wasn't going to settle for alternate weekends and end up barely knowing my daughter as most divorced dads end up. Jody got me that time. It's been over 12 years since my divorce and I am closer with my daughter than many full time married dads. Each case is different and offers different challenges as each ex-spouse and their associated attorney will put up a variety of defenses and arguments all to screw you and perpetuate the fight. Jody is a fighter when she has to be and a settler when it works in your best interest. She is a true advocate for the client - which is the whole point of what an attorney is supposed to be. I now have the luxury of a significant quantity of passed time to look back and objectively evaluate my outcome. I can honestly tell anyone who is searching for an attorney - if you are in that terrible moment in life - when you need to hire a divorce attorney because things just aren't right - Jody is THE right lawyer.
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24 Feb, 2014 by Angela
Jody Cucolo is the best!! She is so knowledgable, always ready and willing to help. I've had my fair share of legal problems and she's been there every step of the way. She definitely knows her stuff.
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Susan Gail Yellen, experienced Family Law attorney in New City, NY with 18 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.
24,72
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4.1/5
Avvo
3.5
8 Reviews
Google Maps
4.6
10 Reviews
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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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Meryl Robin Neuren, experienced Child Support, Family Law attorney in New City, NY with 18 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.
24,54
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4.1/5
Google Maps
4.1
18 Reviews
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25 Apr, 2023 by Brittany brescia
I can't image someone real writing a bad review. This law firm is professional, friendly, and efficient. More than you can ask for. Highly recommend. To all of the "low reviewers" you're a scam.
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24 Feb, 2023 by Kimberly mcintyre
10+ Stars! Ellen and her staff are/were amazing! Professional, courteous, and very understanding of my situation. They gave me great advice, and I'm so deeply thankful!
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19 Feb, 2023 by Sara donohue
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Christina Campolo, experienced Family Law attorney in New City, NY with 18 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.
21,54
star star star star star
4.1/5
Google Maps
4.1
18 Reviews
star star star star star
25 Apr, 2023 by Brittany brescia
I can't image someone real writing a bad review. This law firm is professional, friendly, and efficient. More than you can ask for. Highly recommend. To all of the "low reviewers" you're a scam.
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24 Feb, 2023 by Kimberly mcintyre
10+ Stars! Ellen and her staff are/were amazing! Professional, courteous, and very understanding of my situation. They gave me great advice, and I'm so deeply thankful!
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19 Feb, 2023 by Sara donohue
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Jordon Seth Davis, experienced Business, Family Law attorney in New City, NY with 7 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.
20,58
star star star star star
3.7/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
Google Maps
4.2
6 Reviews
star star star star star
08 May, 2024 by Gina gina
Most unprofessional attorneys I've ever dealt with in my life very abrasive very unprofessional very rude they minimize who you are and what your problem is as a human being
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30 Jan, 2020 by Sophocles papasophocles
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28 Nov, 2019 by Robia altaf
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William Frank, experienced Criminal Defense, Estate Planning attorney in New City, NY with 3 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.
19,44
star star star star star
3.7/5
Google Maps
3.7
3 Reviews
star star star star star
29 Sep, 2019 by Richard janelli
Google Maps
star star star star star
31 Mar, 2019 by Steve mavros
Stay away if you need a criminal defense lawyer. They are only after your money not your best interest
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04 Dec, 2017 by Aaron oberlander
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Rachel Tanguay-McGuane, experienced Family Law attorney in New City, NY with 26 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.
19,04
star star star star star
3.6/5
Avvo
4.0
12 Reviews
Google Maps
3.3
14 Reviews
star star star star star
15 Aug, 2024 by Fi1ma 4ct1v0
This people are straight trash , no sign of trying to be helpful to the public
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07 Aug, 2024 by Aly st.fleur
They don’t care for people and put my life in danger by dropping a stay away order to someone with a violent history.
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10 Mar, 2024 by Panagiotis4ever
I cannot say enough good things about Rachel Tanguay-McGuane. Her diligence and compassion helped me through a tough legal battle, which by the way we won. Years after my case, Rachel still follows up on how my family is doing. Thank goodness for someone like her!!!!
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Gary Elliot Eisenberg, experienced Family Law attorney in New City, NY with 5 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.
17,20
star star star star star
3.4/5
Avvo
1.0
2 Reviews
Google Maps
5.0
3 Reviews
star star star star star
15 Sep, 2021 by Anonymous
He didnt care about my case or the details !! I should of just went a different route and obtained a different lawyer. Throughout my case my lawyer never showed any concern for me or my case. He never asked any important questions a decent lawyer would ask to defend the person they are representing. I wouldn't recommend him to my worst enemy. If I could turn my one star into no stars I certainly would
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26 Jun, 2019 by Stephen cobb
I'm a colleague and friend of Mr. Murphy, and I can attest that he is an organized and competent attorney. He actually helped me pass the bar exam by suggesting a unique approach for studying for it. I've also had an opportunity to work with him over the last several years, and he is unfailingly helpful - readily available by phone, and diligent and reliable in going to court and making a good presentation. If you are looking for a criminal defense attorney in Rockland County, I can't think of a better person for the job.
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04 Mar, 2019 by Ely
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Eric Ole Thorsen, experienced Family Law attorney in New City, NY with 21 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.
15,66
star star star star star
3.0/5
Avvo
2.0
9 Reviews
Google Maps
3.8
12 Reviews
star star star star star
09 Jan, 2023 by Carlos vazquez
$350 for a consultation
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03 Feb, 2022 by Anonymous
This attorney in the beginning sounds great and he’s very knowledgeable. But he is only interested in billing you as much as you can as he can. He is unprepared at meetings and does nothing to resolve your case. I have a very simple case and it’s cost me over $20,000 so far. No assets no houses no custody nothing and it’s still going on. I would highly recommend not even walking in the door
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07 Jan, 2022 by Rivky cohen
I usually don't post reviews but my experience with Eric has inspired me to do so. His professionalism, compassion, and commitment to his clients are second to none. The kind of service, commitment and care you receive is invaluable. Take it from me, LOOK NO FURTHER.
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Cassandra Bilotta, experienced Family Law attorney in New City, NY with 2 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.
13,69
star star star star star
3.0/5
Avvo
3.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
24 Jun, 2013 by Anonymous
Ms Bilotta came highly recommended .... I am guessing that the person who recommended her to me did not use her as legal representation. During our initial meeting, Ms Bilotta promised the world to me - holding my ex-spouse accountable for their behavior during the course of our marriage, etc. fine and dandy....sign me up. When it came down to it, I felt that Ms Bilotta was working for ex - allowing them/ their representation to make irrational and unwarranted demands for discovery documents and testimonies that they themselves were unwilling to provide. Ms Bilotta encouraged me to provide such documentation even though irrelevant to the actual divorce. The only thing it provided was appeasement to my adversary and ring up a higher bill. Phone calls were left unreturned and emails left unanswered. I had been warning Ms Bilotta about my ex's irrational behavior, but it was not until our last court appearance that she actually paid attention to what I was saying and how to disarm the situation. To this day, I am still questioning whose best interest she was considering.
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03 Aug, 2011 by Elana
Cassandra Bilotta handled my family issues in court. I found her to be so compassionate and caring. She really cares about her clients. She is aggressive when needed. I highly recommend her.
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Valerie J. Crown, experienced Employment / Labor, Family Law attorney in New City, NY 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.
8,00
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0.0/5
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David Isaacson, experienced Adoption, Criminal Defense attorney in New City, NY with 1 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.
7,17
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
05 Dec, 2019 by Anonymous
He is too old to still practice law. He seemed very knowledgable and competent during his sales pitch. In court he would forget details we had discussed 10 min prior on several occasions. In the end when time came for the final settlement he was "ill" and couldn't appear. He sent a young inexperienced lawyer to sit in for him. I ended up going back and forth with my ex's lawyer while she sat quietly. Dave is a nice guy but it' might be time to call it quits when you're almost 90 years old. Don't end up in a position where you can't afford another retainer.
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Ellen D. Lazarus, experienced Consumer Protection, Family Law attorney in New City, NY 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.
6,00
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0.0/5
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Christopher T. Widholm, experienced Family Law attorney in New City, NY with 2 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.
4,59
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
10 Jan, 2024 by Magnus
This lawyer is a liar , he encouraged the mother to make false allegations and make the kids lie about non sense. This lawyer is destroying the children, bad influence on kids. Don't let this lawyer come close to your children. He is a Liar, liar liar, with no dignity, no moral, unprofessional.
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20 May, 2022 by Anonymous
I would sincerely urge any parent who truly cares about their child NOT to use this attorney. My daughter has had Chris as an AFC for years and for years she expressed that she loves both of her parents and that there weren't any issues. However, in recent years, my ex has manipulated her and attempted to pit her against me. He coached her to make outrageous allegations. Chris formed an alliance with my ex, both encouraging my daughter to keep up the lies. He seemed to believe her wholeheartedly despite ZERO proof. It is so blatantly obvious that my daughter is nowhere near an abused child (actually spoiled), but Chris chooses to keep his blindfolds on.
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Nicole DiGiacomo, experienced Divorce, Domestic Violence attorney in New City, NY 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.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Leslye Milberg Schlesinger, experienced Business, Family Law attorney in New City, NY 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.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Carolyn Laredo, experienced Divorce, Employment / Labor attorney in New City, NY 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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Patrick Fischer, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in New City, NY 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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M Teresa A. Faherty, experienced Estate Planning, Family Law attorney in New City, NY 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
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0.0/5
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Jessica Ansell Hauser, experienced Business, Family Law attorney in New City, NY 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
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0.0/5
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Amy Baldwin Littman, experienced Family Law, Real Estate attorney in New City, NY 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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Kimberly A. Holstine, experienced Family Law, Litigation attorney in New City, NY 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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Debra Sue Bereck, experienced Adoption, Child Custody attorney in New City, NY 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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Phyllis Eisgrau Simon, experienced Family Law, Litigation attorney in New City, NY 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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Sandra L. Weaver, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in New City, NY 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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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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