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06 Oct, 2023 by Zan r (mishegoss)
24 Jan, 2025 by Mark
Pat is a highly knowledgeable and compassionate family law attorney. Handles cases with professionalism and care, ensuring the best outcomes for his clients. Highly recommend!
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24 Jan, 2025 by Richard m
Pat Cooper has the experience, expertise and communication skills that deliver favorable results. Pat's familiarity with Philadelphia's courts and judges proved invaluable.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Kimberly hampton
24 Jan, 2025 by Mark
Pat is a highly knowledgeable and compassionate family law attorney. Handles cases with professionalism and care, ensuring the best outcomes for his clients. Highly recommend!
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24 Jan, 2025 by Richard m
Pat Cooper has the experience, expertise and communication skills that deliver favorable results. Pat's familiarity with Philadelphia's courts and judges proved invaluable.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Kimberly hampton
10 Jan, 2025 by Valerie bowen
Dave was very responsive to my questions he did everything quick and made this process easy for me ! All around great guy everything from start to end was smooth process
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25 Nov, 2024 by S m
I will forever be grateful to the Lento Law Firm for their help. I experienced what could have been a career derailment when a retaliatory ex manager decided to go after me with unsubstantiated accusations. With the support, advice and representation of Mr Adams from this firm, the case was dismissed. Do not risk your livelihood by taking on any board, panel or committee without representation. I hope to never need this firm again but absolutely would make them my first call should I ever find the need!!
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23 Oct, 2024 by Nick delpopolo
He worked hard for me he was that da best!!
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24 Jan, 2025 by Mark
Pat is a highly knowledgeable and compassionate family law attorney. Handles cases with professionalism and care, ensuring the best outcomes for his clients. Highly recommend!
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24 Jan, 2025 by Richard m
Pat Cooper has the experience, expertise and communication skills that deliver favorable results. Pat's familiarity with Philadelphia's courts and judges proved invaluable.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Kimberly hampton
13 Sep, 2022 by Joe bush
03 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
I am so lucky to have worked with Kaitlyn through my recent divorce. She was professional, always quick to respond, and was very effective in my case. I highly recommend her to anyone looking for a family lawyer!
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08 Jun, 2022 by Sasha williams
Kaitlyn Mazur of Metka Law is an awesome attorney! She obtained a very favorable outcome for us in our custody case. She over delivered and gave an outstanding closing argument. We could not ask for better representation!
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13 Nov, 2018 by Anonymous
Represented me in a court case with great vigor and determination. He really put me at ease leading up to court and was a forceful client advocate that won the appropriate verdict in court. I’d recommend if in trouble, he’s a fighter.
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23 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
Mr. Gibbs is very professional. He is also very thorough when reviewing contracts. He definitely makes sure your needs and wants are expressed in the contract. He has your best interest in mind.
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25 Jan, 2017 by Tia
Charles came highly recommended . He is very knowledge and professional. He knows the law and enjoys what he does.Charles exceed my expectations and won my cases for me without breaking a sweat. I couldn't ask for a better attorney.
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13 Sep, 2022 by Joe bush
08 Jun, 2022 by Sasha williams
Kaitlyn Mazur of Metka Law is an awesome attorney! She obtained a very favorable outcome for us in our custody case. She over delivered and gave an outstanding closing argument. We could not ask for better representation!
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07 Mar, 2022 by Barbara dupree
Best attorney I ever met deals with clients with a charming way and very sweet very natural looking very attractive love this attorney she’s the best and best friend you could ever have. Very trustworthy
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18 Dec, 2024 by Waheed adedapo
This is a moment of enjoy for me and my family. This is not the first time or second time you have been helping people that where recommended to you from me and now you amazed me again getting the all kids green card at a time, you have shown high dexterity and panacea in all you doings. I keep telling friends and everyone i refered to you that your team is an exemplanary team. Your team have shown impeccable characters and manners in addressing issues. if their is anything other than five star then i will issue you a 7 star. We love and appreciate you all the Palladino, Isbell and Casazza team. Thank you and God bless you.
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13 Dec, 2024 by Chanelle price
Where do I begin! From initial contact with Chris, he's operated with the the utmost professionalism. His communication is so timely, and I can tell he truly just wants to HELP. He walked us through the process of my husband getting his green card and has made a very stressful time much more manageable. I really appreciate Chris and would recommend him to everyone.
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11 Dec, 2024 by Besiki tsikarishvili
19 Jan, 2025 by Carrion keiko
After being involved in a car accident. I reached out to Mr. J. Penney to represent me, in which he did an incredible job doing so. He kept me updated with the case every step of the way. Answered and explained all of my questions and concerns. Mr. Penney’s was very professional and friendly. I was very pleased with my settlement and “HIGHLY” recommend him. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
-A. Carrion
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18 Jan, 2025 by Kareem kabia
I am incredibly grateful for the outstanding service provided by Jeffrey H pennies. His professionalism and dedication were evident throughout my interactions with Jeffrey.H. Pennies.moreover following a car accident Mr Jeffrey was very instrumental in handling my case. He was very prompt through and always had my best interest at heart professional and reliable, a law firm that understands what it means to work as team ensure that you can find as much peace you transition
into whatever position you find yourself in. Jeffrey.H.Pennies knows what it takes to get the job done and ensure your needs are met. I highly recommend Jeffrey.H.Pennies to anyone in need of legal assistance his exceptional services and commitment to his clients truly set them apart. That’s been said, if you ever in any type of accident want positive and lucrative results Do yourself a favor and retain Jeffrey.H.Pennies plzzzzz !!!! Thank you you Jeff you the best out the rest
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18 Jan, 2025 by Grace chen
MR. PENNEYS IS THE GREATEST LAWYER I EVER MET, HE IS VERY KNOWLEDGEABLE , PATIENT , PROMPT REPLY AND FIGHT VERY HARD FOR YOUR HIGHEST OUTCOME. EVEN THE CASE IS OVER, HE IS STILL WILLING TO HELP IF HE CAN. IN THE FUTURE, IF I STILL NEED A LAWYER , NO DOUBT I WILL ASK FOR HIM TO REPRESENT MY CASE AGAIN.
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27 Feb, 2025 by Sam bradstreet
incredibly knowledgeable attorney, who provided excellent consultation and evaluation, as part of his understanding of the case. Provided the consultation free of charge
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09 Dec, 2024 by Lindsay
Finding yourself in a situation where your livelihood and future career are at stake is beyond terrifying. I was facing serious legal accusations, and my ability to maintain enrollment as a graduate student, continue my job as a professional, and uphold my academic and career goals was hanging in the balance. On top of that, I was under an aggressive 30-day timeline for resolution, which only intensified the overwhelming nature of my situation.
Zak’s office responded to my initial inquiry within hours, demonstrating the urgency and professionalism the situation demanded—even ensuring representation at 1:00 AM for a critical hearing. Despite the challenges, Zak’s expertise and unwavering commitment ensured that my rights and future were protected, ultimately achieving an extraordinary outcome.
Beyond his legal representation, Zak went above and beyond by connecting me with other counsel to address additional circumstances, ensuring I had comprehensive support. He also took the time to address all my questions and concerns promptly, making sure I always felt informed and heard throughout the process. This level of care and dedication is truly rare, and I will always be grateful for the extraordinary effort he put into my case.
Zak’s professionalism, responsiveness, and compassion truly set him apart. Thanks to his dedication, I felt supported every step of the way and can now focus on moving forward. If you are facing legal challenges that could affect your career, livelihood, or peace of mind, Zak and his team are exactly who you need in your corner.
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06 Dec, 2024 by Hameshia johnson
Zak is amazing! He gave me excellent representation and he is very transparent! Hire zak the goat 🐐
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27 Feb, 2025 by Sam bradstreet
incredibly knowledgeable attorney, who provided excellent consultation and evaluation, as part of his understanding of the case. Provided the consultation free of charge
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09 Dec, 2024 by Lindsay
Finding yourself in a situation where your livelihood and future career are at stake is beyond terrifying. I was facing serious legal accusations, and my ability to maintain enrollment as a graduate student, continue my job as a professional, and uphold my academic and career goals was hanging in the balance. On top of that, I was under an aggressive 30-day timeline for resolution, which only intensified the overwhelming nature of my situation.
Zak’s office responded to my initial inquiry within hours, demonstrating the urgency and professionalism the situation demanded—even ensuring representation at 1:00 AM for a critical hearing. Despite the challenges, Zak’s expertise and unwavering commitment ensured that my rights and future were protected, ultimately achieving an extraordinary outcome.
Beyond his legal representation, Zak went above and beyond by connecting me with other counsel to address additional circumstances, ensuring I had comprehensive support. He also took the time to address all my questions and concerns promptly, making sure I always felt informed and heard throughout the process. This level of care and dedication is truly rare, and I will always be grateful for the extraordinary effort he put into my case.
Zak’s professionalism, responsiveness, and compassion truly set him apart. Thanks to his dedication, I felt supported every step of the way and can now focus on moving forward. If you are facing legal challenges that could affect your career, livelihood, or peace of mind, Zak and his team are exactly who you need in your corner.
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06 Dec, 2024 by Hameshia johnson
Zak is amazing! He gave me excellent representation and he is very transparent! Hire zak the goat 🐐
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29 Oct, 2024 by Saheim clybourn
24 Oct, 2024 by Mel “ms.morticia” terrell
I Love this Law Firm The Dion Family, The Solomon Family and the complete staff.
If I could give this Law Firm a 200 that is what they Deserve.
They are The Best Law Firm that I have Ever dealt with.
I Truly Appreciate you guy's On Purpose
Respectfully Ms. Terrell
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14 Oct, 2024 by Tiffany burton
I had the great Lawyers at Dion Solomon & Shapiro L.L.C kevin proud was the best her fight to get you wat u deserve Also Gray was the best I First getting into an accident and they fought there Hatdesy from me
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01 Aug, 2024 by Barbra bordones
Los mejores abogados la doctora Katherin,gracias a ella y al grupo de abogados con los que trabajan aprobaron mi caso excelente,también el agradecimiento a mi paralegal.
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12 Jan, 2024 by Ruth escobar
Exelente abogado muy buena experiencia gracias a Dios nos encontramos con muy buenos abogados recomiendo 💯/💯
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19 Dec, 2023 by Angélica patiño
16 Feb, 2025 by Maritza kendal
After my car accident left me with overwhelming medical bills and uncertainty about my future, The Rothenberg Law Firm stepped in and turned everything around. From the very first consultation, their team treated me like family. They explained every step of the process in clear, compassionate terms and fought tirelessly to secure a settlement that not only covered my expenses but also gave me peace of mind during recovery. I felt supported and informed every step of the way—truly a 5-star experience!
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09 Feb, 2025 by Elliana augustus
The attorneys at The Rothenberg Law Firm LLP are true professionals. They took the time to understand my situation and provided me with clear guidance. I'm very satisfied with their service!
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06 Feb, 2025 by Natasha pedro
From start to finish, The Rothenberg Law Firm LLP was fantastic. They treated me with respect and worked diligently to resolve my case. I couldn't have asked for better legal representation.
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03 Jan, 2025 by Michael u
Pearson Koutcher Law truly stands out as the best available. Mrs. Laura Brooke played a crucial role in assisting me and demonstrated impressive determination in resolving my lawsuit. From the onset, I noticed significant progress, in stark contrast to my prior legal representation.
Whenever I reached out with inquiries regarding my case, Mrs. Brooke was quick to respond — often the same day or by the next morning. Her attentiveness, compassion, and patience throughout this process were exceptional.
I am incredibly thankful for the support provided by both Mrs. Laura Brooke and the team at Pearson Koutcher Law.
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02 Jan, 2025 by Ludis garcia
No atienden rápido y no tienen una oficina exacta para que las personas puedan llegar
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25 Nov, 2024 by Nate vaughn
I had a real hard time with a worker comp injury and when I reached out to pearsons law firm from the start to the finish Eric and Donna were amazing. Kept in contact with me consistently and I never had any questions unanswered. I’m very pleased with my experience with this law firm. If your having any questions or concerns don’t hesitate to contact them and ask for Eric he’s awesome!
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03 Jan, 2025 by Michael u
Pearson Koutcher Law truly stands out as the best available. Mrs. Laura Brooke played a crucial role in assisting me and demonstrated impressive determination in resolving my lawsuit. From the onset, I noticed significant progress, in stark contrast to my prior legal representation.
Whenever I reached out with inquiries regarding my case, Mrs. Brooke was quick to respond — often the same day or by the next morning. Her attentiveness, compassion, and patience throughout this process were exceptional.
I am incredibly thankful for the support provided by both Mrs. Laura Brooke and the team at Pearson Koutcher Law.
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02 Jan, 2025 by Ludis garcia
No atienden rápido y no tienen una oficina exacta para que las personas puedan llegar
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25 Nov, 2024 by Nate vaughn
I had a real hard time with a worker comp injury and when I reached out to pearsons law firm from the start to the finish Eric and Donna were amazing. Kept in contact with me consistently and I never had any questions unanswered. I’m very pleased with my experience with this law firm. If your having any questions or concerns don’t hesitate to contact them and ask for Eric he’s awesome!
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27 Jan, 2025 by Will b.
When I called, the process was a little difficult explaining to the person on the phone was listening well. However once she inputted my case into the system, I was contacted By a Morgan representative who was on point and help me get my case started. I felt relieved by their quick and detailed response.
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27 Jan, 2025 by Ben creed
27 Jan, 2025 by Carmen young
I hired them to take on a case and decided to go another route. They lack communication skills, they don’t return calls, so since they read the reviews I no longer need your services so you don’t have to put in the no work that you have been doing
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24 Feb, 2025 by Michael lemar
I feel my child has great representation for his matter ..... thank you Ellis
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22 Feb, 2025 by Chris pippen
I had the pleasure working with Ellis Palividas, from the start he has been a great advocate. Ellis represented me in my criminal case. He is attentive, knowledgeable, and ensuring every detail of my case was considered. I didn’t second guess his judgement because his assesrtivness assured me with him defending me. He was able to infiltrate lies in witnesses testimonies. He was by my side throughout this journey of proving my innocence. After his well fought battle in the courtroom, I got an outcome in my favor which were All charges were Dismissed.
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03 Feb, 2025 by Zayy
Great lawyer
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13 Sep, 2021 by Sharon smith
05 Jun, 2021 by Tf sch
Mike is a outstanding lawyer. He fought for my boyfriend and our son and reunited them after a year and a half battle with the system. We were able to beat this due to Mikes excellent skills in research and knowledge of the laws. He was straight forward and took the time to explain everything every step of the way. Mike cares about the cases he fights for and I could never thank him enough. I would definitely recommend him!
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04 Jun, 2021 by M. p.
Mr. Houghton is a first class lawyer, he is responsive, organized and respectful! He helped our family with a favorable outcome and he did so professionally.
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10 Apr, 2015 by Skip
Stephanie helped us draft a new employee handbook and add a new class of members in our LLC Operating Agreement. She brought great ideas to the table and was focused, responsive and patient with our team in drafting the handbook and making the changes. I highly recommend her for other small businesses or non-profits as an in-house counsel!
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24 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
Stephanie helped me with the mediation process for divorce. She was very capable of respecting both sides of the issues. She was knowledgeable of options we had not thought of which could save time and money. She did not pressure or rush the process. She was at times difficult to reach and not quick to respond to correspondence in a timely manner outside of the mediation room. That would be the only improvement I would suggest.
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18 Mar, 2015 by John
I have had wonderful dealings with Stephanie and use her as my business attorney for my LLC and have used her in reviewing covenants of non-compete for potential hires. Where I have liked dealing with her over other business and corporate attorneys is she has shown a genuine interest in my business and because of that she seems more adept at anticipating what I am looking for and my needs from a legal perspective. Where other attorneys may give me exactly what I ask for, and there is certainly nothing wrong with that approach, she has learned my language enough where she seems to be much closer to the target on the first shot. It saves a lot on the back and forth and that to me is the most frustrating aspect of working with contracts. I am as astute as most small business people in legal matters, but if you have experienced any frustration with communication, and, certainly in my case it was due to some of my own lack of knowledge and imprecision, Stephanie is an excellent choice and worth reaching out to.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Mohamed m
Attorney Giberg is outstanding! Highly responsive. Excellent firm. Paralegal Morgan is exceptionally thorough. This is what you're looking for in a law firm.
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22 Jan, 2025 by Keith munson
20 Jan, 2025 by Suni dae
This firm is not just a firm, this is my family. They have taken care of me & my family to make sure I received everything I deserve. They check on me regularly, keep me updated & even when I was sick. I can call them at anytime & I recommend to anyone this amazing organization. Liss & Marion
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23 Jan, 2025 by Mohamed m
Attorney Giberg is outstanding! Highly responsive. Excellent firm. Paralegal Morgan is exceptionally thorough. This is what you're looking for in a law firm.
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22 Jan, 2025 by Keith munson
20 Jan, 2025 by Suni dae
This firm is not just a firm, this is my family. They have taken care of me & my family to make sure I received everything I deserve. They check on me regularly, keep me updated & even when I was sick. I can call them at anytime & I recommend to anyone this amazing organization. Liss & Marion
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23 Jan, 2025 by Mohamed m
Attorney Giberg is outstanding! Highly responsive. Excellent firm. Paralegal Morgan is exceptionally thorough. This is what you're looking for in a law firm.
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22 Jan, 2025 by Keith munson
20 Jan, 2025 by Suni dae
This firm is not just a firm, this is my family. They have taken care of me & my family to make sure I received everything I deserve. They check on me regularly, keep me updated & even when I was sick. I can call them at anytime & I recommend to anyone this amazing organization. Liss & Marion
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23 Jan, 2025 by Mohamed m
Attorney Giberg is outstanding! Highly responsive. Excellent firm. Paralegal Morgan is exceptionally thorough. This is what you're looking for in a law firm.
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22 Jan, 2025 by Keith munson
20 Jan, 2025 by Suni dae
This firm is not just a firm, this is my family. They have taken care of me & my family to make sure I received everything I deserve. They check on me regularly, keep me updated & even when I was sick. I can call them at anytime & I recommend to anyone this amazing organization. Liss & Marion
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24 Feb, 2025 by Michael lemar
I feel my child has great representation for his matter ..... thank you Ellis
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22 Feb, 2025 by Chris pippen
I had the pleasure working with Ellis Palividas, from the start he has been a great advocate. Ellis represented me in my criminal case. He is attentive, knowledgeable, and ensuring every detail of my case was considered. I didn’t second guess his judgement because his assesrtivness assured me with him defending me. He was able to infiltrate lies in witnesses testimonies. He was by my side throughout this journey of proving my innocence. After his well fought battle in the courtroom, I got an outcome in my favor which were All charges were Dismissed.
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03 Feb, 2025 by Zayy
Great lawyer
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22 Jan, 2025 by Shad engelke
18 Dec, 2024 by Aj thomas
Best nursing home abuse attorneys in Philly. Helped my family after another firm turned us down. These specialist understand what we went through. Thank you Senior Justice - you all live up to the name!
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18 Dec, 2024 by Olugbenga oyinsan
Great set of lawyers. Very professional, looking out for your best interest. Will recommend them any day 👍🏽
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02 Mar, 2025 by C.j.
Anthony made the whole process very easy , also his team kept me up to date on the progress of my case . they did everything with e-mails and doc u sign which made things move fast and smooth ! Jennifer was my main contact person and did a great job ! Thanks again !
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28 Feb, 2025 by Mike
Very professional from beginning to end. Anthony and his staff are great at answering any and all questions/concerns as well as returning calls/emails in a timely manner. Will recommend his services to all family and friends if they are ever in need. Overall A+ experience start to finish.
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28 Feb, 2025 by Seinna santiago
Anthony is a compassionate and empathic individual. At the end every conversation, I felt heard and understood. He has represented me twice now and I couldn't be more happy with the results. He insured I received the best care in my area and that I was compensated fairly. I would recommend his services to any of my friends and love ones.
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02 Mar, 2025 by C.j.
Anthony made the whole process very easy , also his team kept me up to date on the progress of my case . they did everything with e-mails and doc u sign which made things move fast and smooth ! Jennifer was my main contact person and did a great job ! Thanks again !
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28 Feb, 2025 by Mike
Very professional from beginning to end. Anthony and his staff are great at answering any and all questions/concerns as well as returning calls/emails in a timely manner. Will recommend his services to all family and friends if they are ever in need. Overall A+ experience start to finish.
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28 Feb, 2025 by Seinna santiago
Anthony is a compassionate and empathic individual. At the end every conversation, I felt heard and understood. He has represented me twice now and I couldn't be more happy with the results. He insured I received the best care in my area and that I was compensated fairly. I would recommend his services to any of my friends and love ones.
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25 Feb, 2025 by Alisha hubert
Jessica Mann was my lawyer and she exceeded her expectations, money well spent and will spend every penny again if need be. Very professional, amazing communication and amazing at her job. Appreciate her !!
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13 Feb, 2025 by Danielle darrisaw
I would just like to acknowledge Attorney Johnson with the Law Offices of Shaka Johnson, LLC for the outstanding job he did in representing my son at his recent trial.
I was so very impressed with his knowledge, professionalism and thorough preparation. It was evident throughout the entire process that he and his team had worked hard to ensure my son had the best possible representation.
From the beginning to the end, he set the tone for a strong defense with a well-structured opening statement and intense closing arguments. He approached every aspect of the case with a level of detail and diligence that gave hope in a long and difficult trial.
It was evident to all that he had studied the case meticulously and clearly overcame the anticipated challenges. His compelling arguments during the closing statements truly showcased his expertise as an attorney at law. He clearly understands the legal system and ensured justice was served.
I was completely overwhelmed, anxious, excited and astonished to hear the "not guilty" verdict. It was music to my ears. It is apparent that Attorney Johnson and his professional team worked hard to make that happen and are dedicated to fighting for their clients. The passion, dedication and outstanding legal advocacy will continue to make an incredible impact on the lives of their clients.
It was truly a pleasure to work with Attorney Johnson and his team. I say with all confidence that you will not be disappointed with the services and professional expertise they offer. Ten out of ten. I highly recommend!
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11 Feb, 2025 by Pedro rojas
Jessica Mann Did a very good job and was the best lawyer i ever had and I was found not guilty and super excited to continue with my regular life now and she’s the best appreciate her so much
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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.
