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23 Jan, 2015 by Jim f.
I was involved in a very lengthy divorce and custody battle. I had spent a fortune and had gotten nowhere. A friend referred me to Mr. Fenerty. I was amazed from our first telephone conversation. He completely understood my perspective and he also was able to explain my former spouse's take on things as well. He explained the legal stuff to me in a way I understood it and recommended that we try to calm things down. I was doubtful but I really trusted him. He took my case. He immediately called my spouse's attorney - who he knew (oh, it seems like this man knows everybody) and things changed immediately. We went to court a few times on the custody and the divorce and succeeded every time. I now am sharing custody of my kids and I feel like I did great in the divorce. Things have gotten better with my ex and I have never been happier. I ended up paying him much less than my prior attorney who accomplished so little. He is a really down to earth guy and he really seemed to care about my case.
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04 Nov, 2012 by Anonymous
Has helped me through both my divorce and child custody/support. Keeps me informed of the process, answers all my questions with extensive knowledge, returns my phone calls promptly and has overall made both issues relatively easy to live through.
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07 Sep, 2012 by Anonymous
Mr. Fenerty did an excellent job in my case. Also, he explained the legal process and issues we were facing to me very well. He worked very hard and was very responsive. Hiring him was one of the best decisions I ever made.
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05 Sep, 2016 by Anonymous
Scott is the best family lawyer. I interviewed several lawyers before reaching Scott. His knowledge, intelligence, professionalism and experience is extremely impressive. He comprehends the situation both in law and personal matters; and provides the best guidance and support in emotionally difficult times. I consider myself lucky to have found him. I would recommend Scott to anyone without any reservation.
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24 Jun, 2015 by Diane
I could not have asked for a better lawyer for my case. Scott helped make a less than pleasant situation easier. I was always informed of the process and had every term and clause explained to me. He is very responsive and really helped move things along quickly. I have already referred him to a family member and he is currently helping them out as well. They too have nothing but rave reviews about Scott and are extremely grateful for my referral. I interviewed several lawyers before reaching Scott. I consider myself lucky to have found him.
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12 May, 2015 by Anonymous
Scott was great to work with. His knowledge and experience with divorce law was extremely impressive. I would recommend Scott to anyone who needs a lawyer in this area or any type of family law.
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20 Jun, 2024 by Summer
Ms. Buonocore was first introduced to me almost 20 years ago and her aptitude is beyond measure. Analytical and sharp as a razor, she has a surgical understanding of the law and decades of experience in its application.
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14 May, 2012 by Jose
One of the elite attorney by far She is great and very intelligent, as well as honest. This attorney will not disappoint you. Thanks Regina for all your help.
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05 Dec, 2022 by Robert "buddy" stewart
I dont believe the one bad review for Joe on here, Joe is an amazing lawyer who actually cares, Mr. Capone definitely had my back and provided comfort and got me the results I needed to continue my everyday life. You'd be foolish not to hire Joe Capone!
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04 Apr, 2015 by D.bell
The man is beyond great.I have had enough good and bad to know over the years He and only two others in his league in 30 years.He is professional,suave,ethical and down to earth.He can make a phone call and poof!Magical touch.Amazing! He representedy son on false charges against him,and needless to say:Withdrawn.God Bless you,Mr. Capone.
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25 Jun, 2024 by Jada
Marissa did a great job with handling my case! Dealing with the courts is stressful as it is, but Marissa was clear in her communication and she kept me informed throughout the process. She advocated for my cause and I’m happy with the results! Please see Marissa for legal counsel she’s approachable, will answer all your questions and get you in the right direction!
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21 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
Marissa did an excellent job handling my case. She clearly communicated the paperwork I needed to gather and complete, kept me updated on the case, and explained some of the intricacies of navigating the court systems that made me feel a lot better about the entire process. I highly recommend working with her!
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30 Jul, 2021 by Drew cannon
Joel was not only extremely helpful in finding the right attorney my legal matter.
He was straightforward, responsive and very helpful.
I would highly recommend you call this firm first! I know I should have.
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28 Apr, 2017 by Philip
After meeting with two attorneys to represent me, it was clear almost immediately Phil was the right representation. The retention process was easy, his schedule and staff was very flexible and I really felt like Phil truly cared for me as his client. He was very thorough in his analysis and provided me with winning counsel and also just generally explaining state laws which can be very confusing. Marital agreements are not the easiest of conversations to have, and Phil provided me with guidance and ethics in that area as well. I would absolutely recommend Phil for any family law needs.
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19 Aug, 2020 by Karen
Justin is an exceptional lawyer. He is thorough, super responsive, and a great listener. He offers facts clearly and is always willing to work through tough situations. Justin is creative and leaves no stone unturned. I highly recommend him to anyone going through divorce and custody.
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19 May, 2019 by Michelle
Justin provided the upmost professional service while showing empathy during the process. He worked tirelessly and diligently to get me the best outcome possible. He left no pages left unturned. He sacrificed his personal time until he was satisfied with the days work.
Justin is gifted with skills beyond compare and yet very unassuming as a top professional lawyer in his field
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23 Aug, 2012 by Andrew
Michael has worked with me on many cases in the child protective services and appellate areas. He has never been less than extremely prepared, versed in the law and effective in his presentation. His role as a City Solicitor means that he has represented me in cases in Family Court of the First Judicial District of Pennsylvania for over five years. I have never been less than completely satisfied with his representation of me and my child protective services department.
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07 Mar, 2017 by Raphael
Patricia made me feel comfortable in the midst of chaos. When she was not available, she always took the time to return my calls and patiently and meticulously explained the details impacting our situation. I enthusiastically recommend her to represent anyone needing a family law attorney.
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10 Jul, 2020 by Bee
I had no idea my case was almost getting me deported. Thanks to her I got my case reverted and happy to say now I get to be with my kids and husband. Thank you for going above and beyond. The late night calls and the tears shed in your office which you allowed was all because you were there to help and not to benefit from your client. Thank you!
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12 Nov, 2015 by Christine
When faced with child custody and support actions, I was looking to find a lawyer that would keep my children's best interests in mind. Ms. Scrivner has been the perfect choice. She has been able to guide me throughout this process and has been extremely effective at achieving the best possible outcome for our family. Ms. Scrivner remains focused on the issues at hand despite the often manipulative nature of the other co-parent. Not only has she been able to navigate favorable legal outcomes, she has also been able to calm my fears throughout this difficult process. Ms. Scrivner strikes exactly the right balance between being patient and being stern. Her extensive experience in the family and child court systems, in both Philadelphia and Bucks County, enables her to read and adjust to each situation in order to best advocate for her clients and families. I have already recommended Ms. Scrivner to close friends and would recommend her to anyone looking for a strong, focused lawyer who keeps the children as her main priority.
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31 May, 2011 by Bob
The process of a "Workers' Compensation" case is extremely detailed and complex for an uninformed and naive person. The professionals at The Brian E. Quinn Law Firm, especially Darlene Marquette and her staff, never lost sight of the ultimate goal, that is, to protect my rights and interests. Darlene and her staff were knowledgeable, courteous and prompt in dealing with an extremely complex case. Thanks again for bringing my case to a successful conclusion.
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01 Apr, 2013 by Anonymous
Mr. Toll got me money for my case and we never even had to go to court. He understood my pain and suffering and made every step of the process easy.
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22 Sep, 2013 by Lisa
I used her services for my divorce in 2001. She was with me every step of the way. Pricing was fair and she was willing to work with me as far as deadlines for payments. Her help and understanding were invaluable.. I still recommend her when my friends and family need legal assistance.I
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18 Jan, 2015 by James
Ms. Santiago is MY attorney life! I am a retired US Marine, and in the Corps we thrive in achieving the MISSION by using a cluster of leadership skill sets unique to the US Marine Corps. I believe with all of my heart, Ms. Santiago is a true leader in providing the best legal services for her clients.
She is a great listener....."have a seat an d relax" she told me when I first entered her office stressed out about my 20 year old situation. Once she listened to my story and reviewed my documentation; I could see on her face she had an idea of how to approach my case. She explained to me her what her initial plan would be. When I left her office (PA case); and drove 900 miles back to my home in Alabama; I felt in my heart I was in good hands. After a full year (6/13 to 6/14) of probing into what I think is a "psychotic child support system in PA"; she was able to resolve my case; get my passport reinstated, block attempts by others to freeze my assets while my case was before a judge and reduce my payments. In 12/14, someone in that "psychotic child support system" entered another asset freeze on my account while I am out of country in the Philippines(10,000 miles away). I emailed Ms. Santiago of this; and she diligently and professionally" resolved the situation for me. In closing, I want to thank Ms. Santiago for the hard work and time she put into helping this old Leatherneck. You are a true champion of your craft....the tip of the legal defense spear. I salute you for " A JOB WELL DONE!" Semper Fi
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04 Dec, 2018 by John
Carl has been my attorney for well over a decade. He has facilitated all of our business agreements, wills, estate planning, etc. I wouldn’t go to anyone else for this type of legal advice then Carl. He’s trustworthy And gets the job done right!
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13 Aug, 2012 by Jill
I can't put into words how amazing Mr. Shingles has been in a very emotional and trying custody case. He has been supportive and available to me at any given time, he returned a call at 8 on a Friday night.
He has always tells me the truth and what to expect each and everytime we have been in front of a judge. I feel that Evan fights very hard for me and does his utmost best to get the outcome that is right.
I have given his name and number to a few friends that have been just as happy with Evan as I have, I will continue to pass along his name to anyone who needs a strong, caring, and hard working attorney
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12 Mar, 2023 by Kate hipple
great people
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30 Aug, 2019 by Todd siitonen
09 Aug, 2024 by Dave
Thinking I might lose my house, I cold called Reinherz Law Offices. Dave listened to my story, answered all of my questions, reviewed my paperwork, and spoke to me in plain terms all the while being very honest and straightforward. We spoke multiple times on a Friday afternoon and he put my mind at ease. Never once did he sell me on services I didn’t need. Dave was awesome and I would recommend him to anyone!
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06 Oct, 2023 by Zan r (mishegoss)
23 Sep, 2024 by Moruf a lawal
I highly recommend Attorney Ricky Paladino!
Ricky's communication skills are outstanding; If you're seeking top-notch immigration representation, look no further! Ricky Paladino is your go-to attorney. His expertise, passion, and commitment to clients are unparalleled.
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11 Sep, 2024 by David zager
My wife and I recently worked with Natalia Ruggiero to respond to a request for evidence from USCIS, and we couldn’t be more pleased with the experience! From the very beginning, Natalia was incredibly professional, patient, thorough, and easy to talk to. She made everything clear and manageable, guiding us every step of the way.
Natalia ensured all of our paperwork was in order, answered all of our questions promptly, and gave us the confidence we needed throughout the entire process. Her knowledge and expertise gave us peace of mind during what could have been a stressful time.
We highly recommend Natalia to anyone in need of immigration assistance!
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11 Sep, 2024 by Reem hassan
We had an excellent experience working with Ricky Palladino. He is highly professional, efficient, and has a great team supporting him. My husband was able to get his immigration papers within just a few months, thanks to their hard work and dedication. Throughout the process, they kept us informed and were always available to answer any questions. We felt confident and well taken care of the entire time. I highly recommend him to anyone in need of immigration assistance! Thank you Ricky and team!
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19 Sep, 2024 by La’kriah spence-mcallister
Steven L Chung & his staff provided me with excellent service. I would highly recommend this company to family and friends in the future.
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15 Sep, 2024 by Sara shannon
Sarah was the best choice I made during the process of closing on a business. Her advice was invaluable, and she was head and shoulders above opposing counsel in understanding M&A and PA business law. I 1000% trust her advice, and will 1000% keep working with her.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Arianna niicole
The absolute best around! Steven & Paul have been nothing but the ABSOLUTE BEST! Made the process so easy!!
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19 Sep, 2024 by La’kriah spence-mcallister
Steven L Chung & his staff provided me with excellent service. I would highly recommend this company to family and friends in the future.
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15 Sep, 2024 by Sara shannon
Sarah was the best choice I made during the process of closing on a business. Her advice was invaluable, and she was head and shoulders above opposing counsel in understanding M&A and PA business law. I 1000% trust her advice, and will 1000% keep working with her.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Arianna niicole
The absolute best around! Steven & Paul have been nothing but the ABSOLUTE BEST! Made the process so easy!!
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26 Aug, 2024 by Nicole
Soleiman (Sal) was great to work with - we helped a mutual client settle a divorce and pay out her ex-spouse through a mortgage refinance. Sal is pleasant to communicate with, understanding and extremely knowledgeable ! I would strongly recommend working with Sal for any of your divorce/separation, child custody needs.
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31 Jul, 2024 by Sandra
I was looking for an out-of-state attorney for my inheritance estate process as co-executor and had a handful of consults, Soleiman Raie stood out among them all. Being in Florida and the estate in Philadelphia, where he practices he made this very difficult time, and long process of paperwork seem seamlessly. He is one hard-working, knowledgeable, empathetic, and works for your best interest. I would recommend him to anyone and he also has a personality that you’ll come to appreciate. I believe he had corresponded with me on a daily basis, and sometimes twice in a day. He really made this most difficult time, with having a co-executor, put my mind at ease and truly seems to care about his clients. Best interest and their feelings. Please don’t hesitate to hire him…… if I needed an attorney again, I would not hesitate to hire him and you will not be disappointed!
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28 Mar, 2024 by Ying lin
25 Jul, 2024 by Michael lewis
Mr. Kunnel is a beast! Just won my case! He turned the impossible to possible! Throughout the wholes process Mr. Kunnel was very informative, always returned my calls if he couldn't answer right away, kind, patient, professional, & knowledgeable! | recommend him he's an excellent lawyer!
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29 Mar, 2024 by Kodwo sackey
Was recommended to them by a friend and have been a client ever since, for the last 4 years. For all of my legal needs and inquiries I definitely contact them and receive timely advice and counsel. Glad to have them in my corner. Thank God for them. Fair and just. And make things happen.
Also Ms. tracy is very efficient and keeps everything tight. I appreciate the expansion into the county as well for less travel into the city.
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28 Mar, 2024 by Nihil kalaparambath
Great team. Always available and ready to get the job done.
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23 Sep, 2024 by Moruf a lawal
I highly recommend Attorney Ricky Paladino!
Ricky's communication skills are outstanding; If you're seeking top-notch immigration representation, look no further! Ricky Paladino is your go-to attorney. His expertise, passion, and commitment to clients are unparalleled.
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11 Sep, 2024 by David zager
My wife and I recently worked with Natalia Ruggiero to respond to a request for evidence from USCIS, and we couldn’t be more pleased with the experience! From the very beginning, Natalia was incredibly professional, patient, thorough, and easy to talk to. She made everything clear and manageable, guiding us every step of the way.
Natalia ensured all of our paperwork was in order, answered all of our questions promptly, and gave us the confidence we needed throughout the entire process. Her knowledge and expertise gave us peace of mind during what could have been a stressful time.
We highly recommend Natalia to anyone in need of immigration assistance!
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11 Sep, 2024 by Reem hassan
We had an excellent experience working with Ricky Palladino. He is highly professional, efficient, and has a great team supporting him. My husband was able to get his immigration papers within just a few months, thanks to their hard work and dedication. Throughout the process, they kept us informed and were always available to answer any questions. We felt confident and well taken care of the entire time. I highly recommend him to anyone in need of immigration assistance! Thank you Ricky and team!
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18 Jul, 2024 by Brijankumar patel
Words cannot describehow happyI am. You got me green card in less than 6 months. I am so fortunate to havefound the best immigration lawyer. You and your staff are the best. So courteous and polite. Also your conversations with me in hindi really helped me. Thank you
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03 Jun, 2024 by Sandip koriya koriya
26 Apr, 2024 by Aj bhandari
Thank you for getting us green card so quickly. Work permit with social security card I received in 30 days. So happy that I hired Rizwan law office.
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21 Jun, 2024 by Kenneth vega-manboadh
If you are in need of legal representation, I highly recommend reaching out to Mr. Goldstein. Throughout my experience working with him, Mr. Goldstein displayed an exceptional level of professionalism that put me at ease during a stressful time. He took the time to thoroughly explain each step of the legal process, ensuring that I was informed and prepared at every stage.
When faced with severe allegations, Mr. Goldstein's expertise and dedication truly shone. Not only did he diligently fight on my behalf in court, but he also strategized effectively to have the case ultimately dismissed. His commitment to my case and his unwavering support were instrumental in achieving this favorable outcome.
I found Mr. Goldstein to be not only a skilled lawyer but also a compassionate advocate who genuinely cares about his clients' well-being. His ability to navigate complex legal matters with ease and his attention to detail were truly impressive. I felt confident and reassured knowing that he was in my corner, relentlessly working to achieve the best possible result for me.
In conclusion, if you are facing a legal challenge, I highly recommend entrusting your case to Mr. Goldstein. His professionalism, knowledge, and effectiveness in the courtroom make him an invaluable ally in navigating the legal system and securing a positive resolution for his clients.
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21 Jun, 2024 by Ahmed tawansy
I had a tough situation I was going through and I contacted Mr Thomas Clemens seeking advice.Thank God I was cleared and i didnt face any charges..Mr clemens was very knowledgeable and assuring and gave me free great advice over the phone as of what to do in case the situation escalated and I need his assistance.i immediately felt i got the right guy behind my back..and i was really able to calm down a lot and focus more on what need to be done according to his advice. luckily nothing bad happened and hopefully nothing bad will ever happen But I will always be grateful to Mr Thomas and the phone call I had with him..God Bless you all for amazing great work at this lawfirm
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26 Apr, 2024 by Sabrina fair
Zak has been amazing and thorough from day one. His communication is immaculate. He is very knowledgeable and puts his time into your case and goes above and beyond. He truly cares about getting the best possible outcome and doesn’t stop fighting until he gets it. He has truly been the best lawyer my fiancé and I could ask for. I would recommend him to anyone!
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21 Jun, 2024 by Kenneth vega-manboadh
If you are in need of legal representation, I highly recommend reaching out to Mr. Goldstein. Throughout my experience working with him, Mr. Goldstein displayed an exceptional level of professionalism that put me at ease during a stressful time. He took the time to thoroughly explain each step of the legal process, ensuring that I was informed and prepared at every stage.
When faced with severe allegations, Mr. Goldstein's expertise and dedication truly shone. Not only did he diligently fight on my behalf in court, but he also strategized effectively to have the case ultimately dismissed. His commitment to my case and his unwavering support were instrumental in achieving this favorable outcome.
I found Mr. Goldstein to be not only a skilled lawyer but also a compassionate advocate who genuinely cares about his clients' well-being. His ability to navigate complex legal matters with ease and his attention to detail were truly impressive. I felt confident and reassured knowing that he was in my corner, relentlessly working to achieve the best possible result for me.
In conclusion, if you are facing a legal challenge, I highly recommend entrusting your case to Mr. Goldstein. His professionalism, knowledge, and effectiveness in the courtroom make him an invaluable ally in navigating the legal system and securing a positive resolution for his clients.
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21 Jun, 2024 by Ahmed tawansy
I had a tough situation I was going through and I contacted Mr Thomas Clemens seeking advice.Thank God I was cleared and i didnt face any charges..Mr clemens was very knowledgeable and assuring and gave me free great advice over the phone as of what to do in case the situation escalated and I need his assistance.i immediately felt i got the right guy behind my back..and i was really able to calm down a lot and focus more on what need to be done according to his advice. luckily nothing bad happened and hopefully nothing bad will ever happen But I will always be grateful to Mr Thomas and the phone call I had with him..God Bless you all for amazing great work at this lawfirm
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26 Apr, 2024 by Sabrina fair
Zak has been amazing and thorough from day one. His communication is immaculate. He is very knowledgeable and puts his time into your case and goes above and beyond. He truly cares about getting the best possible outcome and doesn’t stop fighting until he gets it. He has truly been the best lawyer my fiancé and I could ask for. I would recommend him to anyone!
Read more
21 Jun, 2024 by Kenneth vega-manboadh
If you are in need of legal representation, I highly recommend reaching out to Mr. Goldstein. Throughout my experience working with him, Mr. Goldstein displayed an exceptional level of professionalism that put me at ease during a stressful time. He took the time to thoroughly explain each step of the legal process, ensuring that I was informed and prepared at every stage.
When faced with severe allegations, Mr. Goldstein's expertise and dedication truly shone. Not only did he diligently fight on my behalf in court, but he also strategized effectively to have the case ultimately dismissed. His commitment to my case and his unwavering support were instrumental in achieving this favorable outcome.
I found Mr. Goldstein to be not only a skilled lawyer but also a compassionate advocate who genuinely cares about his clients' well-being. His ability to navigate complex legal matters with ease and his attention to detail were truly impressive. I felt confident and reassured knowing that he was in my corner, relentlessly working to achieve the best possible result for me.
In conclusion, if you are facing a legal challenge, I highly recommend entrusting your case to Mr. Goldstein. His professionalism, knowledge, and effectiveness in the courtroom make him an invaluable ally in navigating the legal system and securing a positive resolution for his clients.
Read more
21 Jun, 2024 by Ahmed tawansy
I had a tough situation I was going through and I contacted Mr Thomas Clemens seeking advice.Thank God I was cleared and i didnt face any charges..Mr clemens was very knowledgeable and assuring and gave me free great advice over the phone as of what to do in case the situation escalated and I need his assistance.i immediately felt i got the right guy behind my back..and i was really able to calm down a lot and focus more on what need to be done according to his advice. luckily nothing bad happened and hopefully nothing bad will ever happen But I will always be grateful to Mr Thomas and the phone call I had with him..God Bless you all for amazing great work at this lawfirm
Read more
26 Apr, 2024 by Sabrina fair
Zak has been amazing and thorough from day one. His communication is immaculate. He is very knowledgeable and puts his time into your case and goes above and beyond. He truly cares about getting the best possible outcome and doesn’t stop fighting until he gets it. He has truly been the best lawyer my fiancé and I could ask for. I would recommend him to anyone!
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Family Law Lawyer Can Do for You
A family law lawyer provides legal services related to family relationships, including marriage, divorce, child custody, and adoption. Family lawyers help clients navigate emotionally charged legal issues, providing guidance and representation in disputes that affect spouses, children, and parents. Whether you're going through a divorce, seeking custody of your children, or drafting a prenuptial agreement, a family law lawyer ensures your rights are protected and your interests are represented.
Family law attorneys often handle sensitive matters and offer objective legal advice, helping clients reach fair outcomes either through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.
When Should I Hire a Family Law Lawyer?
Hiring a family law lawyer is beneficial in several situations, especially when legal matters involve close personal relationships. Common reasons to hire a family law lawyer include:
- Divorce or separation: When ending a marriage, a lawyer can help you navigate issues such as division of assets, spousal support, and child custody arrangements.
- Child custody and visitation disputes: If you and your co-parent can't agree on custody or visitation, a lawyer can represent your interests and work toward a solution that benefits your children.
- Child support: Whether you’re seeking child support or defending against a claim, a lawyer can help ensure the appropriate amount is calculated and enforced.
- Prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: A lawyer can help draft or review agreements that protect your assets in case of divorce.
- Adoption: Family law lawyers guide you through the legal process of adoption, ensuring that all requirements are met.
- Domestic violence or restraining orders: If you're a victim of domestic violence or being falsely accused, a lawyer can help you obtain or challenge protective orders.
- Paternity cases: If there are questions about the paternity of a child, a lawyer can help establish or dispute legal fatherhood.
Hiring a lawyer early can prevent issues from escalating, and they can offer you the best chance of achieving a favorable outcome in emotionally charged situations.
What Does a Family Law Lawyer Do?
A family law lawyer provides a wide range of services depending on your specific legal needs. Their responsibilities may include:
- Advising on legal rights and options: Helping you understand your legal rights regarding divorce, child custody, support, and other family law issues.
- Filing legal documents: Drafting and filing petitions, motions, and agreements with the court, such as divorce papers, custody agreements, or support orders.
- Representing clients in court: Arguing your case in front of a judge if a settlement can’t be reached through negotiation or mediation.
- Mediation and negotiation: Assisting with alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, to reach agreements on issues like custody, property division, and support without going to trial.
- Enforcing court orders: Helping you enforce court orders related to child support, alimony, or custody if the other party fails to comply.
- Drafting prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: Creating agreements that protect your assets in the event of a divorce.
- Handling adoption proceedings: Ensuring that the legal process of adoption is followed, from filing paperwork to finalizing the adoption in court.
How Are Family Law Lawyers Paid?
Family law lawyers typically charge clients in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Common payment arrangements include:
- Hourly rates: Most family lawyers charge by the hour, with rates varying based on experience and location. Clients are billed for the time spent working on their case, including consultations, court appearances, and document preparation.
- Flat fees: For more straightforward legal services, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, some lawyers offer flat-fee arrangements.
- Retainer fees: In cases that are expected to require significant time and attention, such as contentious custody battles, a lawyer may charge a retainer, which is an upfront payment that covers the initial costs of legal services. The lawyer then bills against the retainer as they work on your case.
The exact cost will depend on the complexity of your case and the lawyer’s fee structure, which should be discussed upfront.
How Much Does a Family Law Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a family law lawyer varies based on factors such as the lawyer's experience, the location, and the complexity of your case. Here are some general cost guidelines:
- Hourly rates: Family law lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour, depending on their experience and the complexity of the case.
- Flat fees: For simpler cases, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, fees may range from $1,000 to $5,000.
- Retainers: For more complex matters, such as contested divorces or custody battles, lawyers may charge a retainer ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 or more. The lawyer will bill against the retainer for the work they do on your case.
- Additional costs: You may also be responsible for additional costs, such as filing fees, mediation fees, or expert witness fees.
Always ask for a clear breakdown of the lawyer’s fees and any additional expenses during your consultation.
Top Questions to Ask a Family Law Lawyer
Before hiring a family law lawyer, it's important to ask questions to ensure they're the right fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:
-
What experience do you have with family law cases like mine?
Make sure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it's a contested divorce, child custody dispute, or adoption. -
How will you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, a flat fee, or requires a retainer. Ask for an estimate of the total costs involved. -
What are the possible outcomes of my case?
An experienced lawyer should be able to give you a general idea of what to expect based on the facts of your case. -
What is your approach to resolving disputes?
Ask whether the lawyer tends to favor negotiation and mediation or whether they prefer to take cases to court. This can help you determine if their style matches your goals. -
How long do you expect my case to take?
While it’s difficult to predict, the lawyer should give you an estimate based on similar cases. -
Who will be handling my case?
In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may do much of the work, so make sure you understand who will be your main point of contact.
How to Check the Credibility of a Family Law Lawyer
To ensure you're hiring a reputable family law lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and reputation:
- Check state bar association records: Verify that the lawyer is licensed to practice in your state and is in good standing with no disciplinary actions.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on websites like Avvo, Google, or Martindale-Hubbell. Previous clients can give you insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and success in family law cases.
- Request references: Ask the lawyer for references from past clients who can speak to their experience with the lawyer.
- Review their website or professional profile: Look at the lawyer’s background, case history, and areas of focus to ensure they have substantial experience in family law.
- Look for professional memberships: Membership in reputable organizations, such as the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), can indicate a lawyer's expertise and dedication to family law.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a family law lawyer, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what you should bring:
- Relevant documents: Bring any documents related to your case, such as marriage certificates, prenuptial agreements, financial records, custody agreements, or court orders.
- List of assets and debts: For divorce cases, prepare a detailed list of all assets (e.g., homes, bank accounts, retirement funds) and debts (e.g., mortgages, loans, credit card balances).
- Details of the family issue: Provide a written summary of the situation, including key dates and facts related to your divorce, custody dispute, or support issue.
- Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions you have about the legal process, costs, and potential outcomes.
- Your goals: Be prepared to discuss your objectives, such as custody arrangements, property division, or spousal support, so the lawyer understands your priorities.
Being organized and clear about your situation will help the lawyer evaluate your case more effectively and offer the best advice for moving forward.
