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10 Dec, 2016 by John
We hired Helen to mediate an uncontested divorce in New York. She seemed nice, good credentials, well informed, and good to work with at first. After several months, however, communications have been convoluted, my requests for information have been either disregarded or unrecognized, requests for interpretation or advice have not resulted in clear, actionable response, and her attention to details has been poor. I have been referred to the court guidelines multiple times, however in discussing settlement, I do not see evidence of how or if they are being used and in specifically asking, the responses have been been inconsistent. At this point, filing an uncontested divorce pro se makes more sense and appears to likely be less costly.
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27 Oct, 2018 by Anonymous
Rob communicates well but doesn’t know as much as he says. Also, be very careful of his billing.
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16 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
I hired Michael Beyda (divorce ) because I knew my husband was worth a lot of money and at the end of the day I wasn’t protected
A stay at home mom married 37 years I had to go to trial and my ex didn’t want to give me anything
Michael Beyda was weak in court and I was on trail
My husband had told me the company was worth 8-10 mil
Michael couldn’t prove it
Actually Michael didn’t care enough to really investigate
It cost me the proceeds of the marital home, and which Michael Beyda sent a courier to pick up his fee because my ex paid a very small portion of my legal fees and FYI I’m still paying legal fees because my ex still isn’t honoring the stipulation but in regards to the company he owned I received $200,000 (final) but knew he would sell for millions and Michael Beta ““ said to me if you your going to get the gains in the future you’re also responsible for the losses that advice was horrible and my emotions were all over the place
He was hired to protect me and didn’t
Once the judge signed the papers and the divorce was final, my ex-husband sold the company for $42 million and you know who is struggling financially me and Michael Beyda
Ran off with hundreds of thousands and never looked back
He actually had the nerve to say to me maybe you’ll come into an inheritance one day really, karma
He has ruined my life
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27 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
While I have not had much interaction with lawyers, I am a successful, high profile executive with more than 20 years of experience. Mr. Beyda is the weakest and most selfish person I have ever met. My particular case was all about common sense and should have been a lay-up for anyone with a head on their shoulders. Instead, I found myself in a constant defending position with a judge that paid zero attention to Mr. Beyda or whatever he said. Not only was he not aggressive, he was fixated on money. From day one, his questions were around how much I made, how much I had on my accounts and where was "other" money. After getting pounded at each and every appearance, rather than answer questions about strategy or what just happened, he would refer to outstanding bills as the reason why we were where we were. I was constantly answering questions to relatives and friends and even other lawyers about "what exactly is your lawyer doing?" He never had a strategy, he was extremely lazy and wanted me to do all the work, and his obsession with getting paid clouded his judgement. I would not recommend this guy to anyone ever. In a matter of 4 months I paid him $50K and had zero results, other than him asking for another $30K. And when the judgement started getting away from us, rather than regroup, he insisted on signing a release form so that he could get out from under this losing scenario he put us in. Stay away from this guy and his firm.
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10 Apr, 2015 by Melissa
I worked with Josh for the preparation of my prenup and then subsequently for the preparation of a postnup. I severed the relationship the 2nd time around due to my dissatisfaction with his representation. At our first meeting to discuss my postnup he stated, “I haven't reviewed your prenup” and then tried to advise me on the issues from memory (it had been 5 years since he drafted my prenup). It struck me as extremely odd that before the meeting my lawyer wouldn't have come 100% prepared by reviewing the material provisions of my contract. Needless to say, when advising based on memory, he advised me incorrectly. When my own lawyer is too busy to review my contract, I know I've hired the wrong lawyer. Future clients be forewarned.
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28 Jan, 2014 by Anonymous
This lawyer is not aware of procedure changes in the court system. Cancels court dates on you. Rude and can not handle himself in the court room. Charges $20,000.00 for a 20 page document. Do NOT hire this Lawyer or Firm. Unless you have Major Money to Burn. Meaning a net worth of over $500, 000.00 MM. A 1 page document will cost you over $5,000.00 . And, He is very rude and uncaring. Stay Away !!!
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06 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
After everything in life.. not to mention all the money paid to your firm to execute a simple task- the distruction that was caused is inexcusable. The smallest amount of consciousness and professionalism was all I required and yet was absolutely nowhere to be found. My experience proves you don't always get what you pay for.
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12 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
This lawyer caused so much harm and damage that I was later advised by several firms to sue sidley austin. Unfortunately she had so outrageously mishandled every step of my father's Estate that our the estate was drained of every single penny and we could not AFFORD to sue for damages. This woman is truly vile, not to mention incompetent. She took 10 years off my life while essentially squandering my family's entire inheritance. Well done Susan.
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18 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
At a court appearance Elliot Wiener agreed to give the other side access to my personal computer without obtaining permission from me first.
That was a complete disaster: It destroyed my case.
For that fiasco he charged $350,000 the first year.
I never felt he was on my side. My ex and his lawyers had a field day.
It was like a duel where only one side had a weapon, as Elliot never asked my lying and cheating husband to deliver his computers.
The other reviewer had a bad time with him too.
I understand he is very good at defending fathers in shaken baby cases.
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13 Jun, 2019 by Anonymous
I retained Mr. Wiener to represent me in my custody matter. He drafted stipulations and failed to get the Judge to sign off on them which made them useless. I have now suffered pecuniary damages because what should have been settled is still on going 3 years later in Court.. He failed to show up to obtain the judges signature on one of the stipulations which caused me to lose my child support. This firm does not care about their clients only their billing. I had to pay not only for the stipulations but his attempted corrections of the stipulations. Their billings are way out of line of the quality of work.
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03 Jun, 2018 by Michelle
I hired Ms. D’Elia for my two courts.. one criminal and one family.. she promised me the world and did not do much.. I was in the same boat until my money ran out and the courts gave me a legal
Aid attorney which was the best thing that ever happened to me.. Not only did as she smart, she was kind and compassionate unlike Anne who always yelled and screamed at me.. Funny how I got everything from the DA when my legal aid attorney asked for them.. Anne never reviewed a thing.. I was ripped off..
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03 Jan, 2017 by Anonymous
I had AnneD'elia as my Divorce Attorney. After my divorce was done i was off worth then what i had been offered from my Ex Husband before hiring her and out thousands off Dollars in Bills.
I have never regretted hiring a lawyer more then in my case.
Very likeable Person but expensive and in my opinion little results.
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23 Dec, 2016 by Anonymous
I hired Charlotte to negotiate a prenup after my wife's attorney failed to get to an agreement with my original attorney. She barely read the prenup even though she charged me 5 hours for revising it. It was less than 10 pages long. I often brought up points in the document that she wasn't aware of. Throughout the whole experience i felt that her goal was to get me to accept what my wife's attorney was requesting. When we met with the other parties, she didn't lead the discussions or even participate much. In the end she charged me for 50% more time than we originally agreed on. She also never mentioned that she was going over the initially agreed upon time limit. Unfortunately I wouldn't recommend her services to anyone. She was one of the first attorneys i ever hired and i clearly made a mistake, but i learned a lot of lessons from it about how to hire a solid attorney.
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16 Sep, 2015 by Anonymous
I was not happy with Ms Lee.
It was unfair. I got her name by Bar associate hot line. Consultation is $35 for 30min through the hotline. So I had consultation with her. She kept talking over 30min without asking me to continue. And then she charged me a lot of money for extra time.
She was on vacation quite often. I had problem when she was on vacation. I emailed her that I need your help. She emailed me back just " I'm on vacation. " she was on cruising trip in Europe for 8 weeks. I paid a lot of money for the retainer fee. But she wasn't there for me all the time. she didn't help me at all. So I got new attorney.
My new attorney waited for her to come back to NY and tried to take over the informations from her, which we needed for court. But She said I still owed her money$400. And then She didn't give us informations to my new attorney even we have court next day. and then We couldn't have done anything on the court.
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10 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
Luna had an office in Queens where she consulted for my brother and family. She not only overcharged my poor brother, she knowingly had my brother do the necessary filing and organization of the the files, and all she had to do was “comment, ask for payment, and send the file to USCIS”. My brother’s application ended up with a request for information. And then Luna was gone. Not only she was unprofessional, she won’t help if it’s not convenient for her.
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10 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
Horrible-expensive and completely ineffectual. She left so many loose ends open, I had to hire another attorney to deal with those issues. I would have been better off with Legal Zoom as my sep agreement was no more than boiler-plate. Use someone else!!!
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07 May, 2024 by Vera
I had a consultation with that so called lawyer. I needed a representation in my asylum case which was pending . I had explained to him that I won. Greencard and was looking for someone who can do an adjustment of status . That attorney told me that it is not possible on my case and I have to do a consular proceeding. However it turned out to be not true. When I consulted another lawyer, I was advised that in my case I could do an adjustment inside the country without ever leaving. So, I paid $ 450 for 30 min consult. Which is outrageous. I do not recommend this lawyer.
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22 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
Hiring Mr. Wolff to represent me (based on a couple of recommendations from people I trusted) was the worst mistake of my divorce process and probably one of the worst decisions I have ever made. He repeatedly offered advice on financial and tax matters that were delivered with confidence but turned out to be wrong. If he really negotiated on my behalf, he must be the worst negotiator I have ever met. I often felt my ex's attorney was easier to deal with than he was. He was disrespectful towards me, often clicking away on his phone during our meetings. The worst part, he tried steamroll me into a poorly negotiated settlement which I thought was wrong and could not afford. When I tried to object, he turned against me, berated me, and then abandoned me only a few days before a court date. Words cannot fully describe how awful it feels when your own lawyer turns against you in what is already a very tough process. I would not recommend.
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24 May, 2023 by Anonymous
Sue Bender fired me for not wanting to go to court (nothing was being contested but my ex-husband’s claim to money given to our daughter by my father), and let the judge settled the matter instantly in chambers- the money was never his.
She didn’t show up on more than one occasion and her assistant was hopeless because she was dealing w her own divorce.
I hired Steve Silpe who was actually brilliant and settled my case in fifteen minutes. When I appeared w Steve Silpe, the judge Joan Lobis comment was “finally you have representation.”
Maybe she has improved, but approximately 20 years ago she was irresponsible and self serving.
I am writing this today because somebody brought her name up and so I went to her reviews.
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25 Jun, 2024 by Robert
We were very disappointed in Marcy and her team. We had engaged her for what we thought was a simple post nup agreement. After spending more than $30,000, we were no where near having one finished. Any interaction we had required not just her, but another partner simultaneously, bringing the fees to more than$1300 an hour. While she might be fine for super high worth individuals, she spent way too much effort and too many hours on issues that were not important to us. We had to terminate our relationship prior to completion.
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05 Sep, 2022 by Slav
review
I am flabbergasted by the unprofessional behavior. Our first session (that been full of useless fluff), Ms Helitzer shared with us an excel spreadsheet to help us calculate expenses (which, of course, she shares with all the clients). We had a few follow up questions and she promised to get back to us within a week.
After two months and multiple unanswered emails, I was finally able to get her on the phone. Ms. Helitzer stated that she has been sick and will definitely get back to us next week. This being pandemic (and 18th century with no ability to create an automated away message), we were understanding and wished her to get well. After three weeks and a few more answered emails, I was able to talk to Ms. Helitzer again. She promised that everything will be complete tomorrow. Of course, it wasn’t. After few more an answered phone calls, i decided to visit the co-working space that Ms. Helitzer calls her “office”. No one opened the door. However, within 5 mins, I got an email from Ms. Helitzer’s “assistant”, stating that Ms.Helitzer has been sick (yet she has been active on social media based on cursory google search) and we are the first item her agenda tomorrow.
At that point, i requested refund check to be mailed. I was advised that check is in the mail and I will receive it “on Tuesday based on USPS tracking data”. When there was no check on Tuesday, I called the office again and demanded a tracking number. Turns out the label was generated, but the package was never dropped off. I pointed that out in another voice mail. I have finally received a fedex envelope and the check surprisingly cleared
In summary, $1200 and 6 months later nothing was done. I did receive a refund. Of course, we’ve had 8% inflation.
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07 Oct, 2024 by Aaron tamaddon
*Writes two sentence email*
*Bills for 20 minutes*
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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.
