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02 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
We hired him for modification, he took retainer, all documents and nothing was done in 3 years!!! We were very understanding when he told us he had covid, heart problems, other cases, etc... but enough is enough! Now he doesn't even reply to our requests to return our papers/money with no explanation. Avoid him at all cost!! If he scamed you the same way, file the complaint with bar association. He needs his licence to be suspended/revoked until he returns all the money he stole from unaware people.
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02 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
We hired him for modification, he took retainer, all documents and nothing was done in 3 years!!! We were very understanding when he told us he had covid, heart problems, other cases, etc... but enough is enough! Now he doesn't even reply to our requests to return our papers/money with no explanation. Avoid him at all cost!! If he scamed you the same way, file the complaint with bar association. He needs his licence to be suspended/revoked until he returns all the money he stole from unaware people.
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23 Jun, 2024 by Kevin
DO NOT HIRE THIS LAWYER. PLEASE save yourself the trouble. I gave this man crucial evidence during a domestic case, and he didn’t submit one piece of evidence. Not one. When the judge asked him why didn’t he submit any evidence his response was, “It’s just them two going back and forth”. But it wasn’t. That evidence was proof that she was not a victim in fear for her life, but a master manipulator and provoker. I gave him a list of cross examination questions to ask her. Questions that would back up the proof I gave him (that he didn’t submit as evidence) that she was in fact a liar and wasn’t in fear of her life. People who are in fear for their lives do not say and do the things she did. Period.
I asked him to find out why she lost custody of her first son, he said he would, but failed to do so. And didn’t give any updates. I literally had to beg this man for information. Just to tell me it wouldn’t be admissible in court. So I did some homework. Called two other attorneys, and was told that he can in fact can submit that as evidence. But he didn’t.
I should’ve been fired him, but already paid my retainer. I don’t have it like that to keep paying to play these legal games. He also doesn’t respond in a timely manner. Sometimes he won’t respond AT ALL.
The absolute epitome of a horrible lawyer.
The list doesn’t stop. And this is ALL FACTUAL. Shall I continue? Ok…
Every time there was a court date, he never followed up until the day of. When court was cancelled, he didn’t notify me until I called him the day of that cancelled court date. I was excited to possibly see my daughter again. It literally felt like Christmas waiting for court, only for him to tell me it was adjourned after I was already on the way.
Not to mention, he adjourned another one of my court dates because of a heart issue that he had. Granted, I understand things happen and people have lives. But because of that, ultimately it’s been 10 months since I’ve seen my 3 year old daughter. 10 months. What about the pain of my daughter and I? Who cares about us? Not to mention, a final restraining order for harassment is on my background for life because I sent her mother some pretty nasty text messages. Never put my hands on her. No history of violence. Just my reaction to emotional torture. Im a father who cares. But Who cares about the abuse on fathers? Because that’s exactly what this was. Abuse.
She took my child to another state before any threat was ever made with no good reason, and that isnt punishable? All I wanted was to see my child. I did everything I was supposed to do. Filed for an emergency hearing and was told that me having no contact with my child for over 5 months wasn’t legitimate enough for an emergency hearing. To be quite honest, I don’t even think he put in the petition for an emergency hearing, like I requested him to. Simply because he hasn’t done anything I’ve asked him to do. Not one thing. That’s how messed up this entire thing went. I don’t have the kind of money to hire another attorney, and I think he knew that. Reason why he took advantage. If the courts actually cared for the well being of the child all of this could’ve been prevented. There’s no excuse why 10 months has gone by without me physically seeing my child. But they add fuel to the flames by allowing the alienation of a parent months and months on end. They want you to react. But if the roles were reversed, none of this would have been tolerated from the start. It’s really friggin sad how the system works.
Especially when you pay someone your hard earned money to defend you, and they do the complete opposite.
He’s part of the problem.
STAY AWAY. HIRE SOMEONE WHO CARES. HE DOES NOT. Update: he adjourned another VIRTUAL court date hearing. 3rd time
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25 Oct, 2021 by Peter flower
Bill Waldman was the attorney that handled a closing for Lakeland bank whom held an SBA loan I had. After closing the deal in December 2020 and wanting to pay off the balance in the first 6 months I sent 3 requests starting in June of 2021 requesting a pay off balance after I had paid down a large amount of the loan. It was not until OCTOBER that he finally got back to me and Fedex me out a demand letter saying I owed almost twice the amount money and I needed to satisfy the loan in 10 days. In addition, he continued to add interest on the loan which I had planned to pay off in full back in June. After a bit of back and forth I had to do his job and correct him on his $70K error because he was asking ME to show him where he had dropped the ball. Makes you a little nervous that these banks have lawyers that represent them and they make such huge errors. I guess this is what you get from K&L Gates LLP.
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28 Jan, 2021 by Paola disla
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FAQs
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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.
