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25 Feb, 2024 by Eduardo rojas
03 Feb, 2023 by Nk udogwu
11 Feb, 2020 by Myron glucksman
05 Jul, 2018 by Anonymous
Mr. Kenny has always been known to be a great representative but he is also extremely trustworthy and responsible. I always know that he will take care of my concerns and I thank him every day for this ! He also has a wonderful assistant!!! Thanks Kenneth Gilbert Law !!!!!
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07 Jan, 2016 by Wanda
Kenny Gilbert represented me when my ex-spouse made false criminal charges against me. The case was dismissed because Kenny pointed out valid information not detailed within the police report. He was excellent in the courtroom and sensitive to my concerns of having to contend with an abject ex-spouse.
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23 Dec, 2015 by Anonymous
Kenny Gilbert understands injustice and took on the mission of changing liability on a credit card that had been fraudulently obtained and used by a former business partner. Although at least three times the bank insisted that I remain liable, Kenny persisted, writing letters, speaking to banking executives, and understanding the stress this kind this situation could put one through. Kenny’s patience, persistence, and thoughtful strategy resulted in justice being served, and after 7 months, convinced the bank to put liability on the party who used the credit card. I couldn’t be more thankful or in awe of the effort that was put into this case to get such a positive outcome.
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28 Feb, 2022 by Daniele malpeli
He was thorough and handled himself well in court .. very honest and open .. trusted servant . Helped me out a lot .. I was up for deportation, it was a long road and I’m still here and got my citizenship.the court was difficult but he saw it through . Thank goodness…
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08 Nov, 2021 by Eric
Called for a consultation, however was met with a very dismissive lawyer, stating that it's my fault that I didn't know about seeking for asylum when entering the country. Genuinely thought I'd be able to get help from them but they said I was helpless and that I'm on my own, in quite a harsh manner too.
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22 Dec, 2019 by Krishna
Mr. Linden was a beacon of hope to my family at a time when our options appeared limited and the likelihood of a satisfactory resolution seemed nigh on impossible. Not only was he able to provide us with a very satisfactory solution, his encouraging and empathetic demeanor offered emotional succor to myself and those I care about most. My family and I are eternally grateful for his service. Mr. Linden is an excellent attorney who takes his profession very seriously. I hereby recommend Mr. Linden without any hesitation.
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22 Aug, 2024 by Jojo peralta
The best decision I made was hiring Cannon Kearney to represent my fiance with his child support case. Every attorneys office I called prior to him wanted a consultation fee without even hearing the situation or our needs. Cannon was the first one to not mention a fee and listen to what we had going on first which completely won my business. All I needed was someone to listen and he did just that. Throughout the process he was very hands on and communicative. The case results were in our favor and beyond what we expected and wanted. And that was thanks to Mr. Kearney expertise and guidance. Thanks to him we have peace. Everyone know how stressful a child support case can be but everytime we got on the phone with Mr. Kearney he just listened from day one and that meant a lot. I can go on and on about this experience, needless to say that his efficiency saved us a lot of time and stress and for that I am grateful.
His deep knowledge was evident and played a crucial role in the positive outcome of this case.
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22 Jul, 2024 by War
08 Apr, 2024 by R r (sniperreyes)
15 Nov, 2024 by Arthur avagyan
Field Law Group is very professional and knowledgeable!!! They keep you updated and always available to answer any questions !!! Very recommended!!!
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15 Nov, 2024 by Maged gergis
I was very impressed from my conversation and how they explained and handled my case till the end. Very professional highly respected!!!
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11 Nov, 2024 by Joe jew
I was rear ended at a red light and Field Law Group helped me get the maximum possible amount.They are both professional and Considerate of their clients. I would recommend them to anyone in need of worry free services! Thank you Marlon Lawes.
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15 Nov, 2024 by Arthur avagyan
Field Law Group is very professional and knowledgeable!!! They keep you updated and always available to answer any questions !!! Very recommended!!!
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15 Nov, 2024 by Maged gergis
I was very impressed from my conversation and how they explained and handled my case till the end. Very professional highly respected!!!
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11 Nov, 2024 by Joe jew
I was rear ended at a red light and Field Law Group helped me get the maximum possible amount.They are both professional and Considerate of their clients. I would recommend them to anyone in need of worry free services! Thank you Marlon Lawes.
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15 Nov, 2024 by Arthur avagyan
Field Law Group is very professional and knowledgeable!!! They keep you updated and always available to answer any questions !!! Very recommended!!!
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15 Nov, 2024 by Maged gergis
I was very impressed from my conversation and how they explained and handled my case till the end. Very professional highly respected!!!
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11 Nov, 2024 by Joe jew
I was rear ended at a red light and Field Law Group helped me get the maximum possible amount.They are both professional and Considerate of their clients. I would recommend them to anyone in need of worry free services! Thank you Marlon Lawes.
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15 Nov, 2024 by Arthur avagyan
Field Law Group is very professional and knowledgeable!!! They keep you updated and always available to answer any questions !!! Very recommended!!!
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15 Nov, 2024 by Maged gergis
I was very impressed from my conversation and how they explained and handled my case till the end. Very professional highly respected!!!
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11 Nov, 2024 by Joe jew
I was rear ended at a red light and Field Law Group helped me get the maximum possible amount.They are both professional and Considerate of their clients. I would recommend them to anyone in need of worry free services! Thank you Marlon Lawes.
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19 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
I had a bad experience with Mr Shum, he was recommended by another attorney and I should have done more research.
He charged me twice for "prep for appearance" but I feel he was unprepared at court and did not represent me as well as other attorneys have in the past.
After the court appearance when I emailed him asking information he insisted I send him more money to a retainer and only then he would answer me, this was after me paying him over $3000 in attorney fees in a simple back payment for child support, and one time appearance,
I will not be using Mr Schum again.
again.
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26 Oct, 2022 by Anna
I cannot recommend Richard Shum enough. He is a rare breed of lawyer and quite frankly, of human being, who will fight like a bulldog on the issues you need him to, will keep an eye on time/money so as to not completely drain your resources, and he also has a moral compass and keeps what is best for the whole family, i.e. the children/or the big picture in mind in all his proceedings. He actually cares about what he does, how he handles himself, and what is best for his clients and I recommend him to everyone I know. Every single member of my family is lucky we had him in our corner when we needed to figure everything out. Again, cannot recommend this lawyer enough
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09 Jun, 2022 by Maria
Mr. Richard Shum, is very reliable, gets great results for
you, and makes it extremely convenient for you
to continue with your work life and personal life
while he works hard for you. Highly
recommended. I will continue to use his
services for anything I need and I will be sending everyone I know to Mr. Shum from now on!
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13 Jan, 2024 by Charlotte sterling
11 Oct, 2023 by Ian herrick
Barry graciously provided helpful information regarding a unique legal question. As a fellow attorney, I highly recommend him if you are seeking an attorney to incorporate your religious corporation.
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06 Oct, 2020 by Patricia dorsett
01 Jan, 2025 by Monir nirab
So bad
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20 Dec, 2024 by Audry
It was absolutely amazing working with Attorney Barna! She is very patient and professional. Because of her, our family was granted asylum and are now permanent residents. We’re so grateful to her and her team.
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19 Dec, 2024 by Akter hossain
People are nice , they provide good quality service. The lawyer has very attention to details on the case. She is also a very nice person.
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10 May, 2022 by Anna koleva
The worst experience with an attorney ever!! Gave us false advice - and then backed out on his words, even though 2 other people, including another attorney, were present on the conversation. We all heard the same thing. Because of his bad advise we lost a buyer, and took bunch of unnecessary actions. All in all, because of him we lost 70k.
Definitely do NOT recommend.
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21 Apr, 2020 by Alexander grasso
26 Oct, 2019 by Younes
I consider myself lucky to have had James be my attorney in what can labelled as one of the most complex divorce cases.
My divorce has been very shaky with two former lawyers that disappointed me, were incompetent to defend my case. I was losing almost all.
Once James took over my case, I could tell the difference in our very first meeting. He felt my pain, asked me what documents are needed, and advised me what the best moves are. James stood strong in the court room, challenged everyone to defend my rights. He was able to convince the judge of actions that are in my favor. Thanks to his great job, he made a huge advance in my case, after I almost gave up. The case is balanced again and I have advantage now. All because of James` efforts.
In addition, James is very honest. I have always received great counsel. James made me rest assured that I am in good hands.
Communication with James is very easy either via emails or phone. He is very approachable to ask sudden questions, suggestions and guides me accordingly for my best outcome.
I am so thankful of James` brave defense and continuous arguments against the other party to prove them wrong, playing the right cards at the right time, and very well said.
I did not have the chance nor the right to speak up my emotions and mind in front of the judge. James spoke them out on my behalf.
I have no qualms to recommend James Iniguez as an efficient, knowledgeable and great attorney.
Ultimately, James is a great person and lawyer that always makes me feel confident about my case. Whatever I say may not be enough for James as a recommendation, but this is the least I can do. I would feel guilty not to recognize him as a powerful and successful attorney.
Thanks
Younes
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28 Feb, 2024 by Artist farmer
Extremely negative experience after being used by David Boies several years to make himself hundreds of millions. He worked with the lawyer BRAD EDWARDS whose firm SA clients & me, their client. They did this knowing it would damage me psychologically/emotionally without a care. I walked away used and fiscally damaged. SIGRID MCCAWLEY IS AN ABLEIST LIKE NO OTHER, yet looks great in expensive clothes you will pay for folks.
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27 Apr, 2023 by Ken yoon
$250 for a takata airbag that never deployed? Thousands of checks and no reviews. Hope the plaintiffs got their $5k.
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19 Jul, 2022 by Wiscboy2003
They intimidated former employees of Theranos and have sent threatening letters to others
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28 Feb, 2024 by Artist farmer
Extremely negative experience after being used by David Boies several years to make himself hundreds of millions. He worked with the lawyer BRAD EDWARDS whose firm SA clients & me, their client. They did this knowing it would damage me psychologically/emotionally without a care. I walked away used and fiscally damaged. SIGRID MCCAWLEY IS AN ABLEIST LIKE NO OTHER, yet looks great in expensive clothes you will pay for folks.
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27 Apr, 2023 by Ken yoon
$250 for a takata airbag that never deployed? Thousands of checks and no reviews. Hope the plaintiffs got their $5k.
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19 Jul, 2022 by Wiscboy2003
They intimidated former employees of Theranos and have sent threatening letters to others
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28 Feb, 2024 by Artist farmer
Extremely negative experience after being used by David Boies several years to make himself hundreds of millions. He worked with the lawyer BRAD EDWARDS whose firm SA clients & me, their client. They did this knowing it would damage me psychologically/emotionally without a care. I walked away used and fiscally damaged. SIGRID MCCAWLEY IS AN ABLEIST LIKE NO OTHER, yet looks great in expensive clothes you will pay for folks.
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27 Apr, 2023 by Ken yoon
$250 for a takata airbag that never deployed? Thousands of checks and no reviews. Hope the plaintiffs got their $5k.
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19 Jul, 2022 by Wiscboy2003
They intimidated former employees of Theranos and have sent threatening letters to others
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13 Aug, 2023 by Gavin wilson
01 Jul, 2023 by Nelson chinatu isaac
03 May, 2023 by Jonathan applewhite
11 Apr, 2023 by Anonymous
Please ensure that you read all of the reviews across different sites. It is unfortunate that Lawyers like Janice make money off clients that are in dire need of legal assistance.
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26 Feb, 2023 by Kia s
I’ve been through every battle with her in family court and honestly would not have wanted any other attorney! Her knowledge and fight is the reason I can stand her and say Fight for what you want. Janice made the horrible process of dealing with family court much easier. If you want someone who is going to fight for what you want! Janice and her team will do it!
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11 Jan, 2023 by Anonymous
This woman has no problems lying even in court documents making me, her former client, look stupid.
She just likes to bill and lie about that too. Extremely sneaky. Beware especially if you care about your children. She likes to use them as puppets in her battles.
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27 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
Karen was assigned as the attorney for the child in my case, and it was a nightmare. She is supposed to tell the judge what the children want, but she does not do this. I think she lies to the judge regarding what the children tell her to suit her own agenda, which is usually in favor of the wealthier parent. She will say the children are confused or not sure what they want even when the children are begging to see the other parent more. I think she is not representing the child’s best interests. She becomes more powerful than the other side’s attorney against you, and then she bills and bills and bills to leave you with no money to defend yourself. If she is assigned to your case, do whatever you can to object or have her removed. She is the worst thing that happened to my divorce case.
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14 Feb, 2018 by Anonymous
Karen Rosenthal represented me in my divorce case, which today settled. She is undoubtedly a top-rate attorney in every sense of the word. My ex-husband sought relief to which he was not entitled, and Ms. Rosenthal made that clear to him from the outset, making resolution of this matter as quick and painless as possible. She walked me through this stressful experience with tremendous skill, intelligence, and strength. She kept me together and treated me at all times with patience and kindness. Highly recommended. Full five stars.
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05 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
Karen is hands down the most professional, compassionate, knowledgable , responsive and brilliant attorney I have worked with. During such a difficult time it is imperative to have an attorney whom you can trust with all aspects of your case - Karen is that attorney. . Karen is absolutely super and I couldn't imagine using anyone else.
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19 Dec, 2024 by Perry adams
Good professional lawyer who is honest helped me to get Green card and the citizenship-.Great staff.
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21 Nov, 2024 by Abdellahi nnsnsn
05 Nov, 2024 by Francisco vizon
Great attorney.he helped me to get my green card after being in country for so many years. Very skillful honest and professional.
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18 Oct, 2024 by Wendy rochez
01 Aug, 2024 by Alisher alimov
Unfortunately, it was a waste of money to have consultation with Vivien. She was full of negativity. I paid 300$ for half an hour consultation but didn’t get any useful information. I still regret it. Don’t recommend.
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03 Feb, 2024 by Brian stark
Excellent attorney. Super knowledgeable and helpful.
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12 Dec, 2024 by Sahid jun
Absolutely do not use andrew park pc services AT ALL! yes you see them on billboard advertisements, however I believe this firm is selfish for only the money and doesn’t care for minor car accident cases. Also Juliana Serrat, the negotiations rep is obnoxiously inconsiderate. Trust, lawyer up with a different firm you have a greater success with another firm thank you.
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02 Dec, 2024 by Wendy derevensky
Job well done. I needed a reliable law office I could trust and the outcome compensation was fair and just. 👍👍 for the law office of Jay Knispel. Thank you.
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22 Nov, 2024 by Theone
Reviews say that they have a lot of staff but I have experienced a lot of lack of communication. I call lots of times & get no answer, I leave voicemails & no one calls back. I email them & no one replies. How are you supposed to communicate anything about your case, questions or concerns if no contacts you back!
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07 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
Mr. Jewell handled my divorce with such a dedication and compassion. I was updated on a regular basis as to where my case stands both legally and financially. It was done efficiently and I was able to move on with my life faster than I expected.
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02 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
I'd highly recommend Ken for anyone going through a divorce. Ken and his associates gracefully handled my divorce, which included a long list of complex assets, with a gentle yet firm hand that helped avoid confrontation. The result two years latter, I have good relations with my ex-wife because we avoided litigation, which also would have been a tremendous waste of money. Would highly recommend Ken and his team.
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20 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
Knowledgeable, and considerate. Responded in a very timely manner and was very honest about my situation and case. Was very helpful and I would highly recommend this attorney.
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09 Oct, 2014 by Anonymous
Atty Arvin is superb! You can really feel that he is concern about your welfare unlike others who is just after your money:( He is just one phone call away if you have any concerns..and he keeps well informed on your case status..I would highly recommend him to everyone out there!
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02 Oct, 2014 by Jency
he was very supportive with my EB2 filing ,very precise answers to all my questions and keep me informed of everything on time
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30 Sep, 2014 by Ca rol
I seldom give reviews, but I’m doing this to compliment him on his excellent service, excellent knowledge and expertise . He gives general attention to details. He has helped me and my family acquire permanent residency in the United States. He and his staffs were so professional and efficient ,they helped the procedure go very smoothly. Due to his extensive experience, he can give you a thorough understanding of the entire immigration process. I’m so glad to have worked with him through phonecalls and emails cause I can express all my concerns knowing that we speak the same language but still very fluent in English.Thank you Attorney!!!
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26 Aug, 2015 by Sinem
The first time I met with Marta she made me feel very comfortable. I felt like she really was very concerned about my case. She explained the whole process on how becoming a permanent resident. She would always answer my calls return my emails and answer my questions. I'm very happy and grateful for you hard work. Now I have my green card. Thank you Marta.
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26 Aug, 2015 by Levent
Marta is a very talented very organized lawyer.
As if she is avalable 24-7 She always picks up the phone everytime we called her She was there, and She is a problem solver.
Highly recommended lawyer.
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21 Dec, 2014 by Alfred
My best friend hire this lawyer for his Immigration lawyer. But we realized that Marta has'nt an good experience for high level Immigration matter.
Also she does'nt advice him accordingly. Also she avoid to meet my friend in her office when he would like to meet her to talk about his case. At result my friend lose his case front Immigration court.
We had a very bad experience with this lawyer
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29 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
I hired Robyn to represent me in a highly contentious divorce. My children were being used as tools against me and their mother was attempting to alienate them from me. She made the welfare of the children as important as mine and I was able to walk away from the divorce with a strong financial and custody arrangement. If your divorce involves children I highly recommend you get in contact with her.
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09 Jul, 2018 by Philipp
I hired Robyn because my ex-wife puts up hurdles against me seeing our daughter and I went to court to enforce an agreement we made. The court case was initiated by me and Robyn was later hired by me to support my cause. She also initiated a case in Supreme Court for which she appeared unprepared. I then decided that her support was actually not helping my cases. I also have strong reservations about her knowledge of the law which is limited since she gave me wring advice in several instances, such as the deadline to perfect an appeal in Manhattan Appeals Court which she said was six months but in fact is nine months (not the only instance of obvious mistakes). Other issues were here representing me in court which went better for me without her.
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09 Apr, 2018 by Bahiyah
Robyn was very efficient and diligent in dealing with my case. She paid close attention to detail and always had my best interest in mind. She has also been very compassionate and patient when dealing with my financial hardship. I feel very fortunate to have worked with Robyn during this process and I would recommend her to anyone looking for a mediation/family attorney.
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20 Apr, 2024 by Priscilla povlosky
23 Feb, 2024 by River lorenzo polanco rodriguez
16 Feb, 2024 by Efren reyes
John and his team (Mara) are a dependable duo they are on it from day 1! Very straight forward and organic. Listen to them because they have your best interest at heart. They change my life and I felt like I knew them forever!
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19 May, 2021 by Nicole van der tuin
24 Oct, 2019 by Mby by
11 Oct, 2019 by Chang b “atto” kim
10 Sep, 2023 by Kirsten robertson
Dirtbag.
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12 Apr, 2023 by Chrissy khalil
He’s amazing !! I just love this man. He pours his heart out for his clients. You can trust this lawyer and I never have nothing good to say about lawyers. If you see this Fred, thank you for what you done for my family.
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19 Jun, 2020 by Pederson mitch
13 Sep, 2024 by Austin wurmb
Crazy group no good values
Willing to do what ever for money.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Jeremy henegan
29 Feb, 2024 by Brittney clarke
08 Dec, 2024 by Ryan c von sähn niarchos blavatnik romanov al saud
09 Nov, 2024 by Lexie
25 Sep, 2024 by Mohd yahiya
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
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.
