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11 Sep, 2024 by Heather martin
07 Sep, 2024 by Steven sousa
Great company website
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28 Aug, 2024 by Charlie moore
11 Sep, 2024 by Heather martin
07 Sep, 2024 by Steven sousa
Great company website
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28 Aug, 2024 by Charlie moore
23 May, 2024 by Michaela hicks
The Halks Firm is the absolute best team of attorneys you could hire! They are extremely driven and compassionate about helping you achieve the best results in court! I can’t thank them enough for all the hard work and dedication Nick and his team have shown throughout my cases in court, whether it was dealing with probate and family court or navigating DCF’s impossible system, I was extremely fortunate to have this team of smart and compassionate individuals on my side! Thank you!!
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06 Mar, 2024 by Madison duggan
Nick did an amazing job handling my case . Nick is the kindest , coolest and most professional lawyer i’ve ever encountered. I couldn’t be happier with the outcome of my case . To nick and his team - Thank You!!!
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08 Jan, 2024 by Sarah fernandez
Rachel & Shannon were amazing on the sale of my home this past month. They both worked hard on the ever changing details and kept me up to date. Could not recommend them enough!
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23 May, 2024 by Michaela hicks
The Halks Firm is the absolute best team of attorneys you could hire! They are extremely driven and compassionate about helping you achieve the best results in court! I can’t thank them enough for all the hard work and dedication Nick and his team have shown throughout my cases in court, whether it was dealing with probate and family court or navigating DCF’s impossible system, I was extremely fortunate to have this team of smart and compassionate individuals on my side! Thank you!!
Read more
06 Mar, 2024 by Madison duggan
Nick did an amazing job handling my case . Nick is the kindest , coolest and most professional lawyer i’ve ever encountered. I couldn’t be happier with the outcome of my case . To nick and his team - Thank You!!!
Read more
08 Jan, 2024 by Sarah fernandez
Rachel & Shannon were amazing on the sale of my home this past month. They both worked hard on the ever changing details and kept me up to date. Could not recommend them enough!
Read more
15 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
Peter Hahn was highly recommended to us for a case related to our daughter. From our first conversation with Attorney Hahn, he was very caring and attentive to our situation. We knew from that first call that Peter was the attorney for us. Peter is extremely knowledgeable, honest, thorough and attentive to details. We highly recommend Peter Hahn, he is outstanding and you will be very happy to have Peter as your attorney!!
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11 Nov, 2023 by Koray
My wife and I hired Mr. Hahn when we were very desperate trying to find an attorney to represent our case. He was very calm while listening to our story and the challenges we were having with the school. Mr. Hahn took our case, worked persistently, and maintained consistent communication with us. He was persistent, attentive, and very organized. His demeanor and determination helped us to get what we wanted. We are grateful to have hired him and we believe he is one of the best attorneys out there.
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31 Dec, 2022 by Anonymous
Peter worked with us over the course of several years as we sought desperately needed out of district placement for our two sons. Peter is extremely knowledgeable and deeply experienced. He has a wonderful sense of justice for kids and knows how to get the results children deserve. Peter is a wonderfully effective minimalist. He never clocked in unnecessary hours and always considered his own fees as part of the decision making process at each step. He was open to our contributions as time and cost saving measures. He was able to guide us through complex education law with clear explanations. Because he was always the clear thinking in the room, he was also able to point out where and when the school system was trying to pressure, manipulate, and gaslight us and our children. Not only did he help us place our kids at the schools that ensured their successful transition to college, he also gifted them a sense of justice. School systems can really beat down a kid's sense of confidence. By "winning," Peter helped restore our kids' knowledge that they deserve an appropriate education (like everyone else) and, when they get it, they can thrive. We are forever grateful for Peter's wisdom, legal talents, and his righteous drive to make schools do right by children.
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24 Feb, 2024 by Lorraine
I usually don't write reviews buy I felt compelled to share my experience with Steve. Now here's the thing I called at 5:30 pm on a Saturday and he answered! It was on a whim and im so happy that I found him and reached out. I explained my what I feel might be a "messy" situation trying to get divorced. He listened with no judgement and told me that I already seem to know what to do but let me help you if i can. He offered for me to fill out all my paperwork (because the court house lost my divorce paperwork SMH) and when I have it all in order to email him and he said he will not charge me for him to look it over. I have called a couple lawyers and no one ever offered me anything like this. I feel he really heard me and I am just so grateful that he answered my call. Going forward if I need to retain he is who I will be retaining. This man is very kind, humble and just a good guy. Thank you Steve you gave me my hope back that I lost for some time. I wish I could give more then 5 stars!
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10 Jun, 2014 by Anonymous
I rarely write online reviews, but i think it is critical in this instance, firstly, because I used Avvo in assisting with my legal selection and consumers need this data. So, I will be as honest as I can.
Attorney Zlochiver is principled. I found his service to be based upon fairness and seeking the best outcome within the limits of the law, and done with an un-excitable, stable spirit. This sometimes was a sticking point for us. My opponent was aggressive and angry, and I wanted more energy; wisely, Attorney Zlochiver did not return all of the flaming brands I requested of him. In the end, for better or worse, he tempered my anger and frustration with my case.
Attorney Zlochiver is responsive. He was always reachable by email and phone. Reasonable response times were always met.
In summary, if you are seeking retribution and revenge, I don't think you'll find satisfaction here. I occasionally felt as though we could have been more aggressive--going on the offensive vs. a defensive posture, but Steve knew it would have been a futile, mis-use of my fee and he was careful about fee utilization.
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21 Jan, 2014 by Edmond
In searching for a family lawyer, I had three criteria:
1) A competent lawyer who is familiar with the presiding judge. It is important that the lawyer knows what the judge looks for in a case both in the court room and the filed documentation. He was able to advise of the proper strategy to get the best case scenario without having the situation spiral into a more contentious case.
2) An objective lawyer who has enough court-room experience to be realistic in assessing possible outcomes. Rather than simply being hopeful, he suggested contingencies for the most plausible decisions that the judge may make during the hearing.
3) An understanding lawyer who would work with my limited budget & time. Mr. Zlochiver took on my case knowing of my financial situation and worked into the late evening on new documentation in order to bolster my case the following morning.
Steven Zlochiver certainly does not comes to mind when you think of the typical ambulance-chasing lawyer. Not a shark. Not a clock watcher. Rather, someone you definitely want in your corner who is willing to relate to your circumstances.
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15 Feb, 2013 by Brad
I've dealth with many,many lawyers in my business the past 29 years. Hindell is one of the best lawyers I have ever worked with. She recently resolved a serious credit problem for me that could have cost me thousands. Not only a talented lawyer, Hindell has a kind and compassionate heart.
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14 Feb, 2013 by Anne-marie
Attorney Grossman has successfully represented my husband on several occasions against his ex-wife’s litigious and aggressive attorney in what have been incredibly acrimonious and long-standing legal battles. She has provided superlative legal guidance as well as strong emotional support, for which we are grateful. She is articulate, offers compelling legal arguments, and demonstrates exceptional mediation skills in her attempts at out-of-Court conciliation to minimize our expenses and seek resolution. She has in-depth knowledge of the law and offers very compassionate guidance. We are proud to have her represent us and she has saved us significant further court actions and fees. I recommend her without reservation as a high-quality, high-value and highly valued, attorney.
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13 Feb, 2013 by Frank
I have had several divorce lawyers throughout the years and by far Attorney Grossman has been the most competent and trustworthy of the group. Given our past history with bad attorneys, my wife and I started out slowly to get comfortable with Attorney Grossman and over a short period of time it was clear that she was very good at what she does, provides excellent advice, listens to her client's desires, and works constructively in a resolution. We handed over the whole case to her. She isn't a hot-head as many attorneys can be but she deals with these hot-heads in a very decisive fashion but in a calming way. The one word that describes Attorney Grossman the best is Professional. That is what you can count on.
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22 Jul, 2014 by Anonymous
I've known Victoria Spetter for over 20 years. During that time I never had a need for an attorney. But, earlier this year I was dealing with a domestic issue that I needed help with. I contacted Victoria and she helped provide me with the tools and support I needed to prepare for my case. I was grateful to have her on my side and it helped me a lot when I appeared in court. I find her to be honest, knowledgeable and thorough.
In addition, she has an approachable quality that made the very stressful situation I was dealing with much easier to handle. My case was resolved and I've been able to resume my life with this situation behind me. I would highly recommend Victoria to anyone who's looking for a kind, compassionate, hard working, knowledgeable and intelligent attorney.
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24 Jun, 2014 by Anonymous
I already had a divorce lawyer, but wanted a second opinion regarding the intricacies of some points that needed clarification.
Victoria is extremely sharp, and gave clear, succinct answers to all the questions I had. I just wish I had met Victoria earlier, so that she could have handled my case to begin with.
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21 May, 2013 by Mark
Victoria did a great job. She explained my rights, and the law, in plain language I could understand. She kept me up-to-date on my case via e-mail. She helped me get a great settlement and avoid the expense of a trial. I would recommend her to my friends and family.
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22 Mar, 2013 by Anonymous
Page de Camara is an excellent attorney, very dedicated to her clients and to her work. She is very detail oriented and focused. I found her skills and knowledge to be more than adequate for my legal needs and I would recommend her completely.
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15 Mar, 2013 by Molly
Page was not only knowledgeable but extremely responsive and professional during what is a trying process. Most importantly she was sensitive and responsive to my thoughts and feedback. She is an excellent addition to Paula Noe's practice.
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23 Jul, 2024 by Sepehr salimi
I hope you never need an employment lawyer to protect yourself against unethical employers, but if you find yourself needing one like I did, I highly recommend attorney James Kobe. He is a kind, honest, and an amazing human being who will help you stand up to those who violate your employment rights. When I needed his help, he took the time to listen and guided me to do what was best for me, even though that meant he was going to charge a smaller fee. That’s when I knew he was going to do what’s best for his client and not what’s going to earn him the most in fees. That’s a rare quality to find in a lawyer.
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05 Apr, 2023 by Dmitriy peregudov
Excellent and honest lawyer to have by your side. Jim understands both employer and employee sides well and can add a lot of perspective and experience.
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21 Feb, 2023 by Laura o'neil
I highly recommend James Kobe to anyone who needs legal advice on employment related matters.
Mr. Kobe was always personable, respectful, caring and professional. I was particularly impressed with his knowledge of the process and his straightforward advice.
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5.0
20 Reviews
4.9
58 Reviews
03 Jun, 2024 by Sam lovins
Attorney Cummings was wonderful. I went to her for a prenuptial agreement and this was my first experience with a lawyer. She was personable, responsive, and explained complex terminology in layman's terms. She helped us create a fair agreement within the necessary timeframe. My inability to give 5 stars (I would say 4.5) results from some lack of communication from the firm, and I will preface that I am an anxious person by nature. Attorney Cummings was out of the office for an unexpected amount of time due to a significant personal emergency. While I would not have expected communication from her or continued work on my case during that time, I do wish someone from the firm could have been more communicative about what to expect. With more communication, I would have spent less time worrying about finalizing before our deadline. It made the experience a bit more stressful than it should have been. I provided this feedback to Attorney Turco and do believe it was well received. Overall, I would fully recommend Attorney Cummings. She went above and beyond for my prenuptial agreement. Additionally, Attorney Cummings and the firm were communicative about the closing out process and when I would receive my retainer.
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23 May, 2024 by Michaela hicks
The Halks Firm is the absolute best team of attorneys you could hire! They are extremely driven and compassionate about helping you achieve the best results in court! I can’t thank them enough for all the hard work and dedication Nick and his team have shown throughout my cases in court, whether it was dealing with probate and family court or navigating DCF’s impossible system, I was extremely fortunate to have this team of smart and compassionate individuals on my side! Thank you!!
Read more
23 May, 2024 by Michaela
Nick and his team are always a pleasure to work with! They are professional, understanding, compassionate, and have always been able to accomplish a positive outcome in court! I have no fears when I have this team backing me up in court, no matter the stakes involved. Nick puts up one hell of a fight. They will navigate you through the entire court process and are always reliable. I recommend Nick and his team to anyone dealing with the family court system!
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19 Jun, 2024 by Maria arvi
We are very grateful to have requested Chris services. We were dealing with a mediocre attorney and awful real state agent and Chris helped us to figure it out the whole issue. If we had met him before we would have hired him, now we know he will represent us in the future.
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25 May, 2024 by Diethard unterweger
Just completed our estate plan and were extremely impressed with Ashley and staff for their knowledge, professionalism and thoroughness. Overall a great experience for a complicated job.
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18 Apr, 2024 by Jim cote
19 Jun, 2024 by Maria arvi
We are very grateful to have requested Chris services. We were dealing with a mediocre attorney and awful real state agent and Chris helped us to figure it out the whole issue. If we had met him before we would have hired him, now we know he will represent us in the future.
Read more
25 May, 2024 by Diethard unterweger
Just completed our estate plan and were extremely impressed with Ashley and staff for their knowledge, professionalism and thoroughness. Overall a great experience for a complicated job.
Read more
18 Apr, 2024 by Jim cote
19 Jun, 2024 by Maria arvi
We are very grateful to have requested Chris services. We were dealing with a mediocre attorney and awful real state agent and Chris helped us to figure it out the whole issue. If we had met him before we would have hired him, now we know he will represent us in the future.
Read more
25 May, 2024 by Diethard unterweger
Just completed our estate plan and were extremely impressed with Ashley and staff for their knowledge, professionalism and thoroughness. Overall a great experience for a complicated job.
Read more
18 Apr, 2024 by Jim cote
19 Jun, 2024 by Maria arvi
We are very grateful to have requested Chris services. We were dealing with a mediocre attorney and awful real state agent and Chris helped us to figure it out the whole issue. If we had met him before we would have hired him, now we know he will represent us in the future.
Read more
25 May, 2024 by Diethard unterweger
Just completed our estate plan and were extremely impressed with Ashley and staff for their knowledge, professionalism and thoroughness. Overall a great experience for a complicated job.
Read more
18 Apr, 2024 by Jim cote
19 Jun, 2024 by Maria arvi
We are very grateful to have requested Chris services. We were dealing with a mediocre attorney and awful real state agent and Chris helped us to figure it out the whole issue. If we had met him before we would have hired him, now we know he will represent us in the future.
Read more
25 May, 2024 by Diethard unterweger
Just completed our estate plan and were extremely impressed with Ashley and staff for their knowledge, professionalism and thoroughness. Overall a great experience for a complicated job.
Read more
18 Apr, 2024 by Jim cote
19 Jun, 2024 by Maria arvi
We are very grateful to have requested Chris services. We were dealing with a mediocre attorney and awful real state agent and Chris helped us to figure it out the whole issue. If we had met him before we would have hired him, now we know he will represent us in the future.
Read more
25 May, 2024 by Diethard unterweger
Just completed our estate plan and were extremely impressed with Ashley and staff for their knowledge, professionalism and thoroughness. Overall a great experience for a complicated job.
Read more
18 Apr, 2024 by Jim cote
23 May, 2024 by Michaela hicks
The Halks Firm is the absolute best team of attorneys you could hire! They are extremely driven and compassionate about helping you achieve the best results in court! I can’t thank them enough for all the hard work and dedication Nick and his team have shown throughout my cases in court, whether it was dealing with probate and family court or navigating DCF’s impossible system, I was extremely fortunate to have this team of smart and compassionate individuals on my side! Thank you!!
Read more
06 Mar, 2024 by Madison duggan
Nick did an amazing job handling my case . Nick is the kindest , coolest and most professional lawyer i’ve ever encountered. I couldn’t be happier with the outcome of my case . To nick and his team - Thank You!!!
Read more
08 Jan, 2024 by Sarah fernandez
Rachel & Shannon were amazing on the sale of my home this past month. They both worked hard on the ever changing details and kept me up to date. Could not recommend them enough!
Read more
11 Sep, 2024 by Heather martin
07 Sep, 2024 by Steven sousa
Great company website
Read more
28 Aug, 2024 by Charlie moore
03 Jun, 2024 by Sam lovins
Attorney Cummings was wonderful. I went to her for a prenuptial agreement and this was my first experience with a lawyer. She was personable, responsive, and explained complex terminology in layman's terms. She helped us create a fair agreement within the necessary timeframe. My inability to give 5 stars (I would say 4.5) results from some lack of communication from the firm, and I will preface that I am an anxious person by nature. Attorney Cummings was out of the office for an unexpected amount of time due to a significant personal emergency. While I would not have expected communication from her or continued work on my case during that time, I do wish someone from the firm could have been more communicative about what to expect. With more communication, I would have spent less time worrying about finalizing before our deadline. It made the experience a bit more stressful than it should have been. I provided this feedback to Attorney Turco and do believe it was well received. Overall, I would fully recommend Attorney Cummings. She went above and beyond for my prenuptial agreement. Additionally, Attorney Cummings and the firm were communicative about the closing out process and when I would receive my retainer.
Read more
23 May, 2024 by Michaela hicks
The Halks Firm is the absolute best team of attorneys you could hire! They are extremely driven and compassionate about helping you achieve the best results in court! I can’t thank them enough for all the hard work and dedication Nick and his team have shown throughout my cases in court, whether it was dealing with probate and family court or navigating DCF’s impossible system, I was extremely fortunate to have this team of smart and compassionate individuals on my side! Thank you!!
Read more
06 Mar, 2024 by Madison duggan
Nick did an amazing job handling my case . Nick is the kindest , coolest and most professional lawyer i’ve ever encountered. I couldn’t be happier with the outcome of my case . To nick and his team - Thank You!!!
Read more
19 Jun, 2024 by Maria arvi
We are very grateful to have requested Chris services. We were dealing with a mediocre attorney and awful real state agent and Chris helped us to figure it out the whole issue. If we had met him before we would have hired him, now we know he will represent us in the future.
Read more
25 May, 2024 by Diethard unterweger
Just completed our estate plan and were extremely impressed with Ashley and staff for their knowledge, professionalism and thoroughness. Overall a great experience for a complicated job.
Read more
18 Apr, 2024 by Jim cote
19 Jun, 2024 by Maria arvi
We are very grateful to have requested Chris services. We were dealing with a mediocre attorney and awful real state agent and Chris helped us to figure it out the whole issue. If we had met him before we would have hired him, now we know he will represent us in the future.
Read more
25 May, 2024 by Diethard unterweger
Just completed our estate plan and were extremely impressed with Ashley and staff for their knowledge, professionalism and thoroughness. Overall a great experience for a complicated job.
Read more
18 Apr, 2024 by Jim cote
23 Jul, 2024 by Brian straughter
I would like to first say, I have never made a post before. But when asked if I would consider, it was an immediate YES!
I first had the opportunity to work with Kristina Yee Vitullo when she represented a buyer in a commercial property I was selling. I found Kristina to be professional, responsive and communicated efficiently about the transaction. I was so impressed with her work that I reached out and she has now represented me in my last two transactions. Kristina is a great attorney to work with and I highly recommend her firm!
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23 Jul, 2024 by Annette jacobs
I recently had the pleasure to work with Kristina Yee Vitullo. Unfortunately, I got myself into a situation where I had made, what was for me, a large deposit, much of which was not refundable. As time went on, I realized I did not want to go forward for a variety of reasons. The situation was complex. Kristina is extremely bright and personable and was quick to understand the situation. She wrote a brilliant letter to the organization I had contracted with, and within a few weeks, was able to obtain an 85% refund of my deposit for me. I was incredibly delighted and relieved.
Kristina is responsive, easy to work with, and as shown above, gets results quickly, without making a big deal of things, for an extremely fair cost.
You'd be smart to hire her for whatever your needs are.
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17 May, 2024 by Brandon eash
Kristina helped my business with some tricky employment issues. She knew exactly which questions to ask to help me ensure an equitable, favorable outcome for everyone. She was up front with her fees - but more importantly, I knew she and her team had my back. Thank you Kristina!
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25 Sep, 2023 by Kelly jenkins
Deb was fantastic to work with: prompt with her reply, genuine in her concern for my situation, very clear and helpful in explaining the law and options I needed to know about. I highly recommend her to anyone looking for a kind, professional, knowledgable attorney to help with your real estate legal needs.
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13 Sep, 2023 by Joshua herzig-marx
We're so lucky to have found Debbie Danger and Danger Law. She did a great job for us and we've recommended her to friends and family.
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29 Jun, 2023 by Izzy maxwell
Came highly recommend but my experience was not good.
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18 Feb, 2022 by E t
I do not recommend this firm. They do not have your best interest in mind.
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21 Apr, 2020 by Russ vanderpool
Given perhaps one the most disruptive events in life - divorce - the office's of Wilson, Marino & Bonnevie were extremely professional, empathetic, and zero'ed in on finding a resolution. So many times legal services can string things out and nickel & dime you. I found this not to be the case, and was extremely grateful a resolution was found. Thank you.
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17 Nov, 2017 by Sunday taylor
23 Jul, 2024 by Sepehr salimi
I hope you never need an employment lawyer to protect yourself against unethical employers, but if you find yourself needing one like I did, I highly recommend attorney James Kobe. He is a kind, honest, and an amazing human being who will help you stand up to those who violate your employment rights. When I needed his help, he took the time to listen and guided me to do what was best for me, even though that meant he was going to charge a smaller fee. That’s when I knew he was going to do what’s best for his client and not what’s going to earn him the most in fees. That’s a rare quality to find in a lawyer.
Read more
05 Apr, 2023 by Dmitriy peregudov
Excellent and honest lawyer to have by your side. Jim understands both employer and employee sides well and can add a lot of perspective and experience.
Read more
21 Feb, 2023 by Laura o'neil
I highly recommend James Kobe to anyone who needs legal advice on employment related matters.
Mr. Kobe was always personable, respectful, caring and professional. I was particularly impressed with his knowledge of the process and his straightforward advice.
Read more
01 Sep, 2024 by Jess
Beth made the grueling experience of court easy. She was prepared and knew how to handle the case with keeping me informed and up to date with things. I appreciated her guidance and was extremely satisfied with the outcome of my case.
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01 Sep, 2024 by H. best
BETH HERR IS THE BEST FAMILY LAWYER!!!SHE ANSWERED ALL MY QUESTIONS .I NOW KNOW WHAT I NEED HEADING INTO MY UP COMING COURT DATE
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31 Aug, 2024 by Francis
I’ve had rough experiences with family court. To be honest with you; I despise the system. Gradually, I stopped trusting the smiles that lawyers would give me. After having a sit down with Beth, my view of the system has change dramatically.
Beth Herr was patient with me. She understood where I wanted things to go and how she planned on having them come into fruition. It’s as if she’s an eagle seeing the entire playing field…. BLESS HER HEART!
If I could give more stars I would ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
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07 Jan, 2016 by John ouellet
Lisa basically saved me from getting brought through the ringer in a support and custody issue in regards to paternity. Lisa's knowledge of the law and her negotiation skills were on point when needed. She really dd have my back and the end result was just about what I had hoped for at the start. Highly recommend her to anyone in this situa
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01 Oct, 2015 by Anonymous
This review is written by two professional social workers in the adoption field. Lisa Marino is our agency's legal counsel, and we have always found her to be exceedingly professional, ethical, and compassionate. We have worked together on many very sensitive and difficult matters, and we have always found her to be conciliatory rather than adversarial in her approach. We greatly value her experience and advice, and we would strongly recommend her to anyone seeking legal counsel around family issues, especially those related to children. We have recommended her on many occasions and will continue to do so.
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08 May, 2015 by Anonymous
1) Unprofessional. Ms. Marino would not continue a session since our retainer had run out unless we provided cash on the spot. We had no history of unpaid bills. She scribbled out a receipt by hand on scratch paper. Her recommendations were provided 3 weeks later than promised. She does not provide invoices.
2) Ms. Marino's recommendations were, in my opinion, rash and reflected minimal caring or interest, particularly on behalf of the child involved. She does not seem strong enough to stand up to difficult personalities and takes the path of least resistance, regardless of the child's best interest.
3) She makes abrupt decisions without taking facts or data into consideration.
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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.
