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16 Jan, 2019 by Lori
I found James to be very honest and fair during a custody case. HE got the job done and he's a real person that does not think he is better than everyone else. He is precise and accurate, and helped me very much to regain custody of my child.
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08 Feb, 2014 by Thomas
Jim was very helpful with my trademark issue and also made sure to check back with me to make sure my issue did not need any further help.
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16 Mar, 2018 by Bill
Kim has provided expert counsel and conscientious service throughout the three years she's represented my family in dealings with the New York City Department of Education. I highly recommend her.
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15 Mar, 2018 by Steven
We were more than fortunate to be put in touch w Kimberly - not only was she very professional - but she explained the various outcomes to our case - and was able to present our sons specifics that were fortuitous.
thank you
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07 Oct, 2020 by Bailey wayne
Mr. Gerber is an excellent attorney who handled my difficult custody case with professional expertise and obtained a favorable result after trial.
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29 May, 2015 by Anonymous
Mr. Gerber handled my case with expertise in the face of an irrational spouse who went through 3 attorneys in the case. He explained the law and answered all my questions thoughtfully and truthfully. He did not promise me the world as some lawyers do in order to obtain a fee. My case was handled as expeditiously as possible given the situation and I am grateful for Mr. Gerber's services.
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07 Jan, 2012 by Barbara
My Divorce was a real life test for me, over 4 years ago. Fred and his staff was an awesome team. They were professional, dependable and very trustworthy. Fred had a calm and stable personality. However he was no pushover in the courtroom.
He also was a great example for me as I went through a long painful divorce. Staying positive, focused and remaining calm is just a few examples that Fred set before me. There are too many to name.
Thank you Mr Klarer for everything, and most of all for being there for me!!
Always Barbara
m
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13 Aug, 2009 by Anonymous
Divorce is a very painful process, both emotioanlly and financially. Fred and his staff were always there for me in the years of proceeding, supporting me in all aspects, and afterward as well. It’s very difficult to walk a straight line in the grinder, but honestly, Fred’s ethical, rational and experienced advises, occasionally, over my bitterness and objections, kept me from losing sight of what’s at stake. Fred is personable, experienced, with a patience and humility that one could say like a teddy bear. But not be mistaken, he’s no pushover in the courtroom or negotiations. He knew what’s on the line. He fought hard and got me my kids and my house. Even if he didn’t, I would and should still be grateful. There is a precious gift in suffering if you open your eyes. Thank you, Fred.
Learning to forgive...
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28 Oct, 2014 by Anonymous
Robert Wallack was the second divorce lawyer I hired after spending a full year with another lawyer. He is one of the most passionate, knowledgeable and adept lawyers I have ever encountered (and I know many). And he's particularly good in the court room which is where my case ended up.
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29 Jul, 2011 by Anonymous
Robert Wallack is not only a shark in the courtroom, but he's a fierce negotiator and he handled my case with great care and compassion. My ex and I were involved in a long and draining litigation and Rob was with me every step of the way, acting as my advocate and champion. He really helped me through the most difficult time in my life.
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16 Mar, 2018 by Anonymous
We hired Fenisha Williams to work on a very difficult divoce case...not because of the case itself, but difficult because of the Defendant. She was able to view the case from all sides, utilized her previous experience to help get us the results we were seeking, and she also provided clarification to the Defendant on a number of conflicts, which allowed us to expedite the case! And, she's funny! I would recommend her to anyone who's going through a different divorce! She's fantastic! Thanks, Fenisha!
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15 Mar, 2018 by Johnny
Fenisha represented me on a divorce case. She was wonderful from start to finish. Excellent lawyer and as I said, great human being. She handled the case as if it were her own divorce. Very understanding and knowledgeable.
Definite would hire her again, hopefully I never have to.
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12 Apr, 2018 by Rivka
Mr. Lamm is one of the best lawyers out there. He really cares about his clients. He is honest and will let you know what to expect.
He helped me a lot though my complicated divorce he was compassionate, caring and made me feel I’m in good hands. He fought really hard for me and was very invested in my case. Unlike most lawyers he was always responsive and got back to me right away. even late at night. The most amazing thing was that long afterwards he was still there for me for any question or concern free of charge. Michael is a really special man. you can’t find a better attorney!
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24 Sep, 2013 by Michael
Michael represented me as my attorney for my divorce 7 years ago. I still recommend him to others as he was with out a doubt great. My divorce wasn't complicated but one of the two people who I referred him to had a messy divorce. She was more then happy with him as well.
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02 Nov, 2019 by Dayna
Mark was emotionally attentive and supportive from the start. His legal knowledge was reassuring and made me feel safe, but with particularly sensitive legal proceedings, support is necessary. Mark provides that. He is realistic and prioritizes the client’s comfort. Although it was a less complicated divorce proceeding, he was able to initiate it and bring it to a close within 6 months. I am forever grateful.
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23 Mar, 2017 by Jon
I Highly recommend working with Mark Lefkowicz. He has represented me for both personal and business purposes. His construction and review of my contracts has saved me time and I've received positive financial gains as a result. My family and I are much appreciative for all the yeoman work that he has done for us. I have and will continue to recommend Mark to friends, family, & business colleagues. Thank you Mark!!
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18 Mar, 2022 by William
Olga handled my very challenging divorce. Trust me challenging is only the tip of the iceberg. She took over my case after 4 previous years of difficulty. She was able to finally get my JOD approx. 1 month ago after 2 1/2 more years of litigation. Probably would have been completed sooner but COVID shutdowns got in the way. She is compassionate and honest, but can be as tough and assertive when needed. I highly recommend her and I wish that I had her counsel from the beginning. I was very lucky to have her as my attorney and I highly recommend her. Great attorney and person!!!!!!
She has offices in long Island and Queens County, NY
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30 Oct, 2015 by Sylwia
Mrs. Olga Rodriguez is an amazing attorney. I had a pleasure having her as my attorney with custody and divorce .She is extremely professional and compassionate. Mrs Rodriguez helped me throught my most difficult times in my life by answering all my guestions , always being available and guiding me through the court process step by step which could be very difficult, scary and confusing. She is very intelligent , straight forward and honest .
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22 Nov, 2016 by Anonymous
Working with Fersch Petitti- specifically having Danielle Petitti represent me during a custody trial was a total godsend. She is one of the brightest lawyers in her field- she is very well known in the court system, and completely respected. She cares about her job, her clients, and also getting a peaceful outcome for families. Her organized and thoughtful manner of presentation, along with her staggering ability to recount, organize and prepare details makes her invaluable. I cannot recommend the firm more highly- they know and understand the law down to the most minute of details, how comforting if you are going through the pain of divorce and custody arrangement!
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15 Jun, 2016 by Anonymous
Danielle Pettiti was my attorney during a very difficult and nasty divorce and custody battle that lasted 4 years. She was there for me when I didn't think I could keep going. She was the voice of reason when I often thought I was going to lose my mind and talked me off of MANY ledges (many times), and she is one of the smartest people I've ever met. Danielle was honest with me, even when the truth wasn't always easy to hear, when the outcome wasn't always fair. She stuck up for me and stayed with me every step of the way, a true advocate for me. Danielle took on every challenge and road block that was thrown our way like a true professional and expert in her field. I wouldn't be where I am today without her. I would not have my family today if it weren't for her. I truly owe her more than I could ever express in this review. Danielle, thank you for being in my corner and always fighting for me! You are an amazing person and attorney!
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06 Mar, 2011 by Pascale
Cindy took over my divorce case from my former lawyer and she quickly learned all the details of the case. My divorce was not amicable or simple. We owned several properties together and our finances were very complicated. Cindy's knowledge, professionalism and efficiency kept my ex and I focused on the negotiations. She skillfully mediated difficult, touchy topics and she kept the process moving. She is well-versed in handling divorces and clearly explained my options each step of the way. My ex didn't have a lawyer so Cindy had to deal with him directly, as he was pro se (representing himself). She's great with people and summed up my situation with him pretty quickly. She dealt with him perfectly. We were able to sign a fair agreement that I was happy with and we avoid a costly trial. I am incredibly grateful to Cindy for her advice, understanding and diligence, especially for being persistent with the judge's office in getting the divorce paperwork filed.
I am divorced. I am happy. I am thankful to Cindy for helping me through a difficult period in my life. I would highly recommend her to anyone who is looking for a competent, effective divorce lawyer. She gets the job done.
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29 Dec, 2010 by Hq, new york
Cindy Sanchez has been my lawyer since 2005. She was referred to me through a legal plan I had at my job. I hired Cindy to help me obtain a shared physical and legal custody of my children. My case was fairly complicated since my children's mother took them to another state with the intention of relocating to that state just before the beginning of the school year. My children were supposed to go back to school in September 2005 in New York City. However, their mother enrolled them in a school in another state, 700 miles away from New York City. Cindy was able to convince the judge to schedule a court hearing early in September 2005. This was extremely important because the longer my children stayed in the school out-of-state, the smaller the chance that the judge would order to bring my children back in their school in New York was. Cindy was extremely helpful to ensure that my children's mother could be served with the order to appear in court. My children's mother was very difficult to find. I first try the local police to serve her but it did not work. Cindy advised me to hire a local professional to do the serving. In a matter of minutes, she was able to identify this professional. It was critical to do the serving during the appropriate time window. Otherwise, the court date would have been postponed to October 2005. As I mentioned before, this would have tremendously reduced the chance of having my children back in their school in New York for the year 2005-2006. During the court hearing in September 2005, the judge ordered that my children had to return to their school in New York. I was relieved by this decision. I can say that without the expertise and responsiveness of Cindy, my children would not have returned to New York.
Cindy was resourceful, insightful, and supportive at every stage of the divorce process. She helped me obtain a shared physical and legal custody of my children. She has also successfully helped me with a few custody issues since the divorce. Cindy is a very intelligent and knowlegdeable lawyer who has the ability to listen to the client and fully understand his/her needs, concerns, and fears. I have also appreciated her very pleasant and balanced personality. I highly recommend Cindy.
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08 Nov, 2023 by Peter
When my ex wife hired a top Madison Ave lawyer to represent her interests in a very poorly drawn out divorce/property settlement with a lot of loose ends, (Mediator shall remain anonymous) - it threw me and my current wife into turmoil.
I felt fear.
We were so fortunate to have found Lauren to represent us.
Lauren grounded us and explained the situation and its various outcomes. Lauren worked tirelessly and expertly and responded to our questions.
Lauren argued our points elegantly and directly against a very aggressive and established opposition team. Lauren acted patiently with us when we asked the same questions more than once and answered messages that were time sensitive at one point at 2;30am so that we could respond on time.
We finished with a decent buyout with satisfaction and closure. At the very end the frustration of the opposition councils unexpected shortcoming was obvious. Kudos to you Lauren! And thank you for doing a thoroughly great job. I am sure that the future holds great success for you. Thank you, Peter L. Joan P.
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07 May, 2019 by Alisa roever
Very smart, strong, caring lawyer. Always quick answer and respond and quick problem solving advise. Very hard working and motivating. Helped a lot to settle and look out for me. Highly recommend this lawyer!
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15 Feb, 2017 by Arlene
Mr. Shelsky was incredibly easy to work with, why? Because he makes it easy. That's the telltale sign of an exceptional professional. We closed on our first home just a few days ago and our team, because of Mr. Shelsky, out-classed the other team by a huge margin. I cannot recommend Mr. Shelsky high enough. Look no further than this man.
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01 Feb, 2017 by Cristina
Mr. Shelsky was a breath of fresh air during our home buying process. His patience, knowledge and assistance helped make the process less stressful. We would recommend his services to anyone in a heartbeat!
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17 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
I had the privilege of working with Ankit Kapoor whose exceptional qualities deserve recognition. This attorney combines honesty, responsiveness, and an unwavering dedication to their clients.
Honesty: His transparent and forthright approach is a breath of fresh air in the legal world. He provided a clear and honest assessment of my case, making it easier to navigate complex family law issues.
Responsiveness: Timely communication is their forte. Whenever I had questions or concerns, he responded promptly, ensuring I felt supported and informed throughout the legal process.
Spending Time: Unlike lawyers who rush through cases, Ankit invested the necessary time to truly understand my situation, needs, and goals. I never felt hurried or overlooked, highlighting their genuine commitment to achieving the best possible results for me and our child.
In conclusion, if you seek a family lawyer who embodies honesty, responsiveness, and dedication, I wholeheartedly recommend this attorney. Their qualities make them a standout choice in the legal profession.
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21 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
Mr. Kapoor fought hard for me in court in a difficult divorce case. His hard work and determination and brilliant strategy paid off, and I have regained my freedom and peace of mind. I cannot recommend him highly enough!
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01 May, 2017 by Anonymous
Paul has been my family attorney for several year and has dealt with a variety of issues both simple and complex during that time. He is responsive, his follow up is exceptional and he is an expert at navigating the legal process in the civil courts. His fees are reasonable, his billing practices are fair and timely.
Additionally, while Paul is a generalist he has the ability to quickly get up to speed on areas of the law which he may not have a lot of previous experience with.
A could not recommend a general practitioner more highly.
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10 Jun, 2010 by Anonymous
Paul Stone was extremely helpful with our several family court proceedings. He made a difficult situation for us more bearable because he would reassure us through the entire experience. He was very competent and knowledgeable. Because of his background in finance, he was also very competent in support proceedings. We would highly recommend Paul Stone to anyone who needs an attorney.
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07 Apr, 2015 by Judy
I am pleased to recommend Bernard Post and his firm. They were available, and their advice and counsel helped me get to an excellent result for me...and for my children. I strongly recommend him as a matrimonial lawyer.
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25 Apr, 2013 by Judith
I found Bernard Post very professional, called me back promptly and answered all my concerns. I highly recommend him on divorce matters. He got me a very fair settlement.
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27 Dec, 2019 by Anonymous
I recently retained Mr. Marnell to assist with a prenuptial agreement. He was patient in making sure I understood every detail of the agreement. He was honest, communicative, and made the process painless. Highly recommend. Thank you!
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29 May, 2018 by Thomas
Mr. Marnell represented our family in a complex divorce for my elderly father. He was professional, honest, communicative and highly effective throughout the entire process. He was a fierce advocate that had our best interests at heart from beginning to end. Highly recommend
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14 May, 2012 by Anonymous
I have known Bruce and Robin Guttman for almost a year now, and I find them to be professional and knowledgeable. I would recommend them highly. Very caring and experienced attorneys.
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10 Aug, 2011 by Annette
Robin is wonderful. She has been here for me every step of the way. She has put me at ease and makes me feel as though i am a freind; acting so passionatly about my needs. I can honestly say there is no other attorney that i would want handling my case. I think without her advice, compassion and knowledge i would have gone crazy by now!
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10 Jul, 2019 by Anonymous
Ms Jorgensen made the whole divorce process bearable. She understood all of my issues and made sure that my decree was fair. Highly recommend.
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26 Jan, 2017 by Elaine
Thank you for all you did to make a bad situation a little bit better. You made me laugh and let me cry. For that I am so grateful.
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10 Feb, 2016 by Bill baird
As the defendant in the US Supreme Court victory Baird v. Eisenstaedt, I know what a great lawyer is. Lois Shapiro Canter fights hard for her clients and has a sharp legal mind.
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05 Feb, 2016 by Lee
A seasoned and experienced attorney. Answered all questions regarding my case and gave me all possible outcomes and options available to me. Expert advice on the law, and a brilliant strategist. Promptly returned all phone calls. Moderate fees.
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27 May, 2016 by Natalia
Chris artfully and successfully negotiated my civil rights case against a stubborn co-op board. He is logical, strategic and an excellent communicator with all parties involved while remaining calm, collected and pleasant. In addition to his high degree of effectiveness, Chris makes you feel that he isn't just doing his job, but that he takes a personal interest in you. Chris listens to you. He is a counselor in the both the legal sense and the psychological sense.
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02 Jun, 2011 by Anonymous
Christopher was aggressively proactive in my defense on all levels and at all times I felt buoyed up in the very difficult case that he worked to defend me.
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04 Oct, 2013 by Brian
This man returned my calls! That may seem like an insanely silly thing to write but I've had no less than 3 attorneys who I had to call AT LEAST 4 times just to get a call back. He really CARES. This may also seem irrelevant but he REALLY understood what was going on and did a great job of explaining what was going on and what to expect. I can't speak highly enough of Chris Mangold, I have recommended him to my family and friends. Other attorneys I've had I can also recommend, they did a fine job, but Chris is the FIRST one I recommend and he is the ONLY ONE I can recommend WITHOUT RESERVATION.
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05 May, 2012 by Anonymous
Explained my case and what the best possible choices I had. Very patient and understanding.
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22 Jul, 2014 by John
Theresa Girolamo is an excellent professional divorce/ family law attorney. She represented me in a very contentious and acrimonius divorce. Her skills as an advocate saved me tens of thousands of dollars in legal and court fees.
Theresa also represented me successfully in an action by my former wife to modify the child support agreement, The action had no merit and Theresa disposed of it very quickly.
I will recommend Theresa to any individual seeking legal representation in a divorce or family matter. She is able to handle very complex cases. Theresa is an excellent attorney. She deserves the highest ratings in all areas.
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19 May, 2013 by Anonymous
Terry Girolamo works as an associate with Sylvia Goldschmidt. They represented my sons and me in a contentious divorce ending a marriage that had lasted more than 20 years. There were a number of complicated, detailed financial issues that had to be addressed, and in addition to her excellent work on the legal issues, Terry did an excellent job of organizing, analyzing and summarizing the financial information which was critical in the settlement. She worked tirelessly and effectively in preparing the evidence for depositions and the trial. She also did an excellent, thorough job in conducting the final pre-trial deposition of my ex-husband. On a personal level, the divorce was a difficult, emotional process for my sons and me, and Terry always treated me with respect, patience and sensitivity.
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08 Jul, 2021 by Jen
Katherine is always on point, on target, and on top of everything. I've had the pleasure of working with Katherine over the past 5 years (divorce, custody, and than some...). I highly recommend Katherine for her personalized approach.
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25 Nov, 2020 by Carolyn winston
Shari is an extremely talented attorney who cares a great deal about her clients and her firm. Shari has a strong sense of organization which helped her to always gain the upper hand in court and win a large majority of her cases. Shari is very through and competent professional who always had my interest in mind. She never missed a scheduled meeting and always took my calls. She has an exceptionally strong eye for details. Shari has a very calm demeanor that was a blessing when I was in physical therapy for a total knee replacement. I owe a debt of gratitude for her service. She is a solid lawyer who practices nothing but the best customer service for her clients. She has taken pro bono cases each year to help people who would have otherwise not been able to afford legal counsel. Shari is always available for anyone who is need of legal assistance.
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18 Feb, 2022 by Susan johnson
Excellent attorney! Perfect closing on our home and excellent representation for setting up our wills. Extremely knowledgeable!
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22 Jun, 2020 by Alex rusate
28 Nov, 2016 by Anonymous
Excellent service rendered!!
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28 Apr, 2016 by Anonymous
I first contacted Mishael Pine, after I began having serious problems with noises in my condo. During my consultation, she provided the level of confidence I was expecting.
Excellent service from start to finish and very knowledgable and very kind.
Always keep you updated with progress of the case.
Highly recommend
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22 Oct, 2015 by Anonymous
My Husband and I hired Ms. Formosa to mediate our divorce and she did so with compassion and capability. I would highly recommend her to any couple looking to mediate.
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16 Oct, 2015 by Anonymous
My legal name change was handled in a concise, efficient manner. I appreciate the professional manner in which I was treated not only by Ms. Formosa, but the staff in her office as well. The entire process was explained to me clearly, I was billed accurately and appropriately. I would highly recommend her as an attorney and would not hesitate to hire her again.
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05 Jul, 2024 by Reverend emma
Lesson learned with my case. Ms Walsh pursued all angels of my case. At times, I grew weary, but Ms. Walsh assured me that my types of case take time.
The end result was favourable. She truly puts in the mileage for her clients.
Patience truly is a virtue.
I highly recommend Ms. Walsh.In addition to being a knowledgeable professional lawyer. Ms. Walsh is honest and trustworthy.
I wish her all the best .
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20 Mar, 2018 by John
Michelle Walsh represented me in a landlord tenant matter. Her knowledge and wisdom proved effective without feeding in to the contentious natures of litigation. Ms. Walsh sighted numerous issues includinf improper service, accounting discrepancies. A very youthful attorney with incredible wisdom, wonderful advocate for her clients.
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08 Aug, 2023 by Ron
Mr. Sweeney is just a great, amazing and honest lawyer. I had about 10 opens tickets, my license was suspended by the judge until trail because the amount of tickets. I reached out to about 20 lawyers, some said they can help me and others cannot. When I was blessed with Mr. Sweeney, he had a plan he told me what was the goal and a week later I went t from 10 pending tickets to 3 tickets. I was facing 9 points on my license and Mr. Sweeney brought it down to 2 points. Some of the tickets I received was major but he resolved everything!! He will even give you a speech to be more responsible lol. I recommend him a 100 percent. He’s very fair with prices as well and offering payment arrangements if needed.
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28 Sep, 2012 by Kevin
I hired Rich to do my divorce. He was thorough professional and honest. I have already recommended him to others
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22 Oct, 2015 by Amber
I am currently a client of Jane's. She is professional, understanding, and strait forward. Jane represented my sister and won her custody battle for her son. She referred me, Now she is helping me with my case, and I have referred her to another person. I would recommend her to anybody. She really goes all in. I am very happy with all she has done.
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10 Aug, 2015 by Rebecca
I am presently a client of Jane Schmieder. I have been for 4 years off and on. She has played an intricate part in me winning residential custody of my Granddaughter.
She is always compassionate about my needs and is available when I call. She is very knowledgeable in the legal field regarding the family court and is not afraid to tell you if you are wrong. She is very professional.
I would refer my friends and family to her.
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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:
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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.
