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16 Aug, 2024 by Natasha ingram
He saved my career.
5 stars is not enough to describe John or what he does. He went out on a limb under less-than-ideal circumstances to help me navigate and settle my case extraordinarily quickly. He took the time to understand me and my case, then got straight to work communicating directly with the DA's office. He advocated for me in every breath and ensured they understood how important timing was in this case. What I thought was impossible, John made into reality. If you ever find yourself in need of a defense attorney, call John. There is no one better to help you navigate the legal system and understand what is happening at every step.
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18 Jun, 2024 by Kiesha reid
John Della Rocca is all of that! He helped me get my license back after a long long time, when no one else did.🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉
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29 May, 2024 by Yasmin williams
If there was the potential to rate John Dell Rocca 10 stars, I would! He walked my sister and her loved one through their entire process, always being sure to keep the client's best interests in mind. From my sister's first meeting with Mr. Dell Rocca she knew that they were in GREAT hands! For anyone who needs a criminal lawyer who is KNOWLEDGEABLE, RESPONSIVE, and most importantly, one who will GET THE JOB DONE, look no further than The Law Offices of John Dell Rocca!!
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26 May, 2022 by Anonymous
I requested Jennifer's services to help me respond to a divorce proceeding and determine jurisdiction for a case. You expect a basic level of client service form any attorney, but this was severely missing from Ms. Dumin. I never received a briefing anytime before our court date. She was not readily available over email, as I had to send multiple follow ups. She came to court wholly unprepared and very flustered. She could not even answer basic questions on my behalf leaving me stranded and embarrassed. I understand that you are the legal expert but your clients are not idiots and it is your duty to keep them informed and step up as a professional. This was a disgusting experience through and through. I am surprised she is not immediately disbarred. The firm also had the nerve to try and charge me full price for the judge appearance knowing that I did not receive a proper deposition. I had to advocate for decreased charges. Ms Dumin, please don't practice law ever again, or work on your client service especially with "diverse" clients. We're not all stupid and you are not this god that is above approach. Humble yourself.
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28 Apr, 2015 by Ron
I cannot begin to tell you how incredible Jennifer Dumin is, she gives lawyers a good name. She is both knowledgeable and has a heart of gold! She explained the legal terms so that I could grasp not only an understanding of what was going on in the court room, but she explained what my options would be. I can never thank her enough for all she has done for my daughter and I. Even when the other side was unprofessional and attacked, she stuck to the facts and presented them professionally, honestly and fairly. I don't know what I would have done without her.
She is n
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09 Jan, 2015 by Brianna
It was a pleasure having Jennifer represent me for a child support case I was involved in. She was extremely knowledgable and made me feel confident and comfortable about my circumstances and the overall outcome. I am very pleased with her work and the end result and would highly recommend her for someone involved in a child support/custody case.
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22 Apr, 2024 by Gioia valle
23 Mar, 2024 by Connie pickhaver-drumm
I was so impressed with Linda. She is a true professional. We need more attorney’s like her who truly care about her clients. Knowledgeable, efficient, professional, result oriented, caring, dependable, are a few words I would use to describe Linda.
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22 Mar, 2024 by Steve pickhaver
I have to say after a very very long drawn out divorce. With appeal after appeal. Linda was the constant professional dealing with an extremely difficult opposing counsel. She knew the law and exactly how to apply it to my circumstances. I couldn't have been happier with the results. I have recommended and will continue to recommend this constant professional. I will never get married again but if for some reason that shall happen I will definitely have Linda draw up a prenuptial for me (lol). She is the top of the line when it comes to attorneys. Thank you Linda for the outstanding work and outcome.
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05 Aug, 2024 by Benyamin niknam
This guy is the best!
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30 Mar, 2024 by Michael freeman
The Henry Law Firm is a blessing!!!!!! I have no complaints
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01 Mar, 2024 by Shurell brown
05 Aug, 2024 by Benyamin niknam
This guy is the best!
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30 Mar, 2024 by Michael freeman
The Henry Law Firm is a blessing!!!!!! I have no complaints
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01 Mar, 2024 by Shurell brown
05 Aug, 2024 by Benyamin niknam
This guy is the best!
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30 Mar, 2024 by Michael freeman
The Henry Law Firm is a blessing!!!!!! I have no complaints
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01 Mar, 2024 by Shurell brown
05 Aug, 2024 by Benyamin niknam
This guy is the best!
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30 Mar, 2024 by Michael freeman
The Henry Law Firm is a blessing!!!!!! I have no complaints
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01 Mar, 2024 by Shurell brown
21 Jul, 2023 by Siobhan
01 Mar, 2023 by Charles thomas
Do not use this firm. They held money in escrow (in the $100s of thousands) for a domestic relations suit. However, they will now not releases the money according to the settlement Award and will not cooperate in distributing the funds. Now, I have to take further legal action against them to get my own money back. So unethical, unprofessional, and perhaps illegal....
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01 Feb, 2023 by Florence harris
Taking care of Business
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21 Jul, 2023 by Siobhan
01 Mar, 2023 by Charles thomas
Do not use this firm. They held money in escrow (in the $100s of thousands) for a domestic relations suit. However, they will now not releases the money according to the settlement Award and will not cooperate in distributing the funds. Now, I have to take further legal action against them to get my own money back. So unethical, unprofessional, and perhaps illegal....
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01 Feb, 2023 by Florence harris
Taking care of Business
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15 Oct, 2024 by Nicole schilder
14 Oct, 2024 by Charles richburg
Great guy not just hungry for your money , cares about genuily
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14 Oct, 2024 by Berri stone
Good law team with sharp lawyers that get at it and know their stuff and listen when you say something in court . And use it
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15 Oct, 2024 by Nicole schilder
14 Oct, 2024 by Charles richburg
Great guy not just hungry for your money , cares about genuily
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14 Oct, 2024 by Berri stone
Good law team with sharp lawyers that get at it and know their stuff and listen when you say something in court . And use it
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22 Apr, 2024 by Gioia valle
23 Mar, 2024 by Connie pickhaver-drumm
I was so impressed with Linda. She is a true professional. We need more attorney’s like her who truly care about her clients. Knowledgeable, efficient, professional, result oriented, caring, dependable, are a few words I would use to describe Linda.
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22 Mar, 2024 by Steve pickhaver
I have to say after a very very long drawn out divorce. With appeal after appeal. Linda was the constant professional dealing with an extremely difficult opposing counsel. She knew the law and exactly how to apply it to my circumstances. I couldn't have been happier with the results. I have recommended and will continue to recommend this constant professional. I will never get married again but if for some reason that shall happen I will definitely have Linda draw up a prenuptial for me (lol). She is the top of the line when it comes to attorneys. Thank you Linda for the outstanding work and outcome.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Nicole schilder
14 Oct, 2024 by Charles richburg
Great guy not just hungry for your money , cares about genuily
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14 Oct, 2024 by Berri stone
Good law team with sharp lawyers that get at it and know their stuff and listen when you say something in court . And use it
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30 Aug, 2024 by Shawn pratt
I received legal counsel from Simon and Simon. I feel as though they did a great job and I could not ask for much more. Their legal staff is excellent with communicating with their clients and handle my case with the upmost professionalism. My attorney, Mary McCarthy, and attorney Andrew Baron along with the paralegal, Jessica Cox did everything in their power and went above and beyond every time throughout the entire process. In the future, I plan on using Simon and Simon for any legal representation needs because I could not ask for better legal representation than what I received from attorney Mary McCarthy, attorney Andrew Barron, and the paralegal Jessica Cox. I will be recommending any family and friends to Simon and Simon because they treated me with the upmost respect while included in every step of the way and they are some of the best legal representation in the Philadelphia tri-state area.
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21 Aug, 2024 by Alicia eleby
I just wanna say thank you so much to Chad and the team at Simon and Simon … these guys really helped me through every step and always made me feel apart of it. Everything and everyone was very professional and I appreciate you guys so much thank you for taking on my case . You guys are awesome ‼️
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08 Aug, 2024 by Miranda swinehart
Thank you Andrew and Jess for your ongoing help in my case for the past few years! I went in with zero expectations because I have never been through the legal process before but they explained to me what was going on every step of the way. So happy with how everything went and finally all of the hard work they did for me has paid off. Thanks again S&S!
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19 Sep, 2020 by Jennifer
Terrible. Hired for a DUI case in Doylestown, took the money and ran. Did absolutely nothing and never returned phone calls. I had to hire another lawyer that would actually get things done and return calls. Will never recommend to anyone.
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12 Sep, 2017 by Chaim
Being a professional myself, I did not take being advised so directly by Ms. Zilbering very well at first. But I can say for all her directness, all her advice was spot on. She is an attorney, and a good one, before during and after trial she was correct on all accounts and the judge said "not guilty" and that is all that counts so leave your ego at the door it wont help.
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19 May, 2017 by Mark
I had asked Noa about a legal issue my friends son was going through. She immediately looked up the case and thoroughly explained to me the issues regarding this situation. I was very impressed with her determination and her insight into the case.
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31 Dec, 2019 by Anonymous
At the consultation she seems to Really care about you. We hired her payed her and she did nothing for us at all. She kept telling us that she was going to be able to lower the sentence She didn’t. I believe she’s more for the district Attorney. Than on your side. So be careful
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17 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
She was given a five star review because she was very compassionate, open and honest during our conversation. She explained to us what she could and could not do which is appreciated and refreshing today.
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13 Oct, 2017 by Scott
I hired emily in 2009 in a drug case in berks county, she was excellent I was looking at a state sentence, but through her motions and arguments at sentencing I ended up with a county sentence. Very aggressive lawyer.
I recently found myself arrested again federally on another drug charge, I hired emily again and with her suppression motions and talking with the prosecutor and skills at sentencing I was sentenced below the guidelines, very please with her work, always there when I had questions. CAN'T GO WRONG HIRING EMILY.
THANKS
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21 Apr, 2021 by Joseph
James Cushing was the first lawyer that I saw for my divorce and after discussing my situation I was told that I was in a strong position and to sue for custody, support and divorce at the same time. After paying my retainer of $1,800.00 on Sept 18th. This office did not submit my paperwork to the courts until 2 months later Nov. Everytime I called to check on the status, I was billed. It took two months for them to check on the status! He reviewed none of the paperwork prior to the custody hearing for support and was completely unprepared in that he had to be told by the opposing lawyer what form to file! Do not hire this lawyer or this firm. Their only goal is to charge fees for calls and court appearances, not for professional advice, expert negotiation or proper paper work submission. You would be better served looking up the paperwork and old case law and doing it yourself.
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21 Nov, 2017 by Anonymous
This attorney was wonderful. Straight forward. Cost efficient and kept me informed. I had a landlord tenant matter that required aggressive action on my part. Mr. Cushing knew exactly what to do. I also referred my son to him for his divorce. He is an excellent Family Law lawyer as well.
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16 Nov, 2016 by Keit h
I was referred to James by my company's legal insurance plan (ARAG) for a case regarding the division of property, which in my case was a family pet. It was quite emotional for me, and the first legal issue I really had to deal with. I was quite worried about the process at first, but James explained the steps of the legal proceeded, responded to legal requirements quickly and was detail oriented. He provided ample time for me to gather documents needed so discovery was not rushed and stressful. James remained dedicated to maintaining my position, and in the end the opposing party decided to settle because of his determination and preparation.
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13 Aug, 2024 by Divakar sharma
Shout out to the team. They went above and beyond to solve my immigration problem and got the work done.
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08 Aug, 2024 by Emma hart
Jackie DiColo guided me through my divorce expertly and efficiently. I always felt like she was in my corner and gave fair advice. During court appearances she was excellent. I would recommend her to anyone enduring divorce as a trustworthy lawyer who will guide you through the complexities of divorce law.
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13 Jul, 2024 by Manoj das
I had an excellent experience with my H1b and Green card filling with Klasko. They are very receptive and response time to any query’s is phenomenal.
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5.0
1 Reviews
3.4
13 Reviews
26 Apr, 2024 by Jonathan salas
Russell and Adam you guys were amazing! I was completely out of my element but you guys made me feel comfortable and also like i was part of the team. The work put in on the weekend really helped a lot, preparation was on point! Thanks again I appreciate you guys and it’s definitely something I’ll never forget.
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11 Mar, 2024 by Samuel loux
This lawyer is a class act his compassion for resolving issues of litigation concerning the well being of his clients loved ones is highly demonstrated in his approach and his ability as a human being, He's an awesome,talented professional with a heart.
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06 Mar, 2024 by Darius roper
Whatever you do! Don’t not hire this law firm! My fiancé used him for a custody hearing and he didn’t present her evidence nor did he do any prep work for her case. It was 900 for retainer and it was a complete scam!
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13 Aug, 2024 by Divakar sharma
Shout out to the team. They went above and beyond to solve my immigration problem and got the work done.
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08 Aug, 2024 by Emma hart
Jackie DiColo guided me through my divorce expertly and efficiently. I always felt like she was in my corner and gave fair advice. During court appearances she was excellent. I would recommend her to anyone enduring divorce as a trustworthy lawyer who will guide you through the complexities of divorce law.
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13 Jul, 2024 by Manoj das
I had an excellent experience with my H1b and Green card filling with Klasko. They are very receptive and response time to any query’s is phenomenal.
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26 Nov, 2022 by Mark
I hired Rich Vanderslice in Nov. 21 to do an "easy" subdivision of my property in S Philadelphia for a possible pending sale. Rich told me that it would be about 4 to 5 months and gave me an estimated cost of around $3500 to $4500. After about 4 months I reached out to Rich for an update and exactly nothing was even started at that point and he was very hard to get a return call back from. Finally In April 22' he got the ball rolling hired the surveyor company and finished the survey and then unexpectedly told me that I have to hire an expeditor to move it ahead $3500 on top of the $3500 I had already given him, always like pulling teeth trying to get a callback from him. The expeditor submitted the file and zoning approved a permit in Sept 21 and off to the OPA it went. After finally talking to Mr Vanderslice he kept telling me that the subdivision is done as soon as OPA gets finished...A few months went by and nothing and he was beating around the bush saying that the expeditor (he hired at my expense) wasn't returning his calls. I then lost the pending sale...I couldn't get any solid answers or information from this guy and finally came to the conclusion that he had no idea what he was doing and promptly fired him...
The only thing I can say in Rick's defense, is after hiring a new attorney he did try and connect the attorney and the expeditor, but the expeditor, Baker and Co. refused to do it...So after 2 years of aggravation, Im out about $9100 and still haven't gotten my subdivision as of yet...
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03 Jul, 2013 by Christina
Mr. Vanderslice is the absolute top-flight best. He is immediately engaged and genuinely concerned, open, and reassuring. He is also incredibly knowledgeable, on point, intelligent, current, and ready to take action. I felt nothing but confidence and trust in his presence. I couldn't be in better legal hands.
Highly recommended.
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29 Apr, 2011 by Anonymous
Richard is very knowledgeable in a variety of areas. This was very helpful in a particularly stressful landlord/tenant situation I faced. Richard was very patient, understanding, and will fight for you. He also has a strong knowledge of the court system and a very sharp mind. He is very fair. I highly recommend Richard as a lawyer.
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10 Jan, 2022 by Joel
Julie is a fantastic attorney. Smart, thorough and compassionate, I would recommend her to anyone in need of family law counsel.
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17 Dec, 2021 by Anonymous
Other lawyers I told about her were appalled. I lost out because she made mistakes. Her actions were baffling and a waste of time, i.e., waste of money.
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10 Dec, 2013 by Jean
Julie was compassionate, knowledgeable and thorough in handling my divorce. She advocated for me and because of her expertise and firm approach, I avoided a prolonged settlement. I have recommended Julie to several friends.
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13 Jun, 2024 by Behvylanna trumananas'san
29 Dec, 2023 by Blair baggs
Bad timing
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15 Oct, 2023 by Drsw
Duane Morris Plaza café IS AMAZINGLY DELICIOUS! THE THE CAFE IS CLEAN AND MAINTAINED & THE WORKERS ARE VERY HELPFUL AND PROFESSIONAL.
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12 Apr, 2023 by Breanna
This lawyer Is unreliable and that's just one of the things he is . John capaldi blocked me because I got him assigned by the court and been trying to contact him for months now to meet up . John does not even text me back or pick up the phone . Last time he picked up the phone was the day of court meanwhile I was contacting him endlessly for him to hear me out . I didn't know what to bring to court so that's why I was trying to contact him for him to say on the day of court he don't believe me that the hospital put the drugs in me ( I now got the proper documentation that proves they did ) and he still will not meet up to see what he's representing and he likes to call you a liar about the things that happened to you but he also doesn't want to help you in anyways or give advice on how to obtain anything or what to do in regards to your case . He wants to blame me for him not answering me for months but anyone that has a losey lawyer that doesn't do anything or even text back would be very upset to . I told him about unsupervised and how I heard if I get this home assessment that I could have unsupervised he told me to get the home assessment call him back when it passed and he would petioned for unsupervised as soon as I did that the next week and got a hold of him he changed everything he said and said there was nothing we could do til next court my court date was suppose to be in March but it got changed with no notice to April . This lawyer still hasn't had the courtesy to tell me it has been changed yet . He argues about the things your doing correctly and doesn't want to give you credit for it instead he will ruin your case because he walks in knowing nothing . He's horrible . Hell use the excuse he's super busy but I've sent texts weekly multiple times over a month and he doesn't want to reply with anything rather he's getting mad at me and blocks me because I'm coming to him for some advice and the proof the hospital did that . He's not good at what he does and that's the honest truth cause he's been doing it over twenty years and still in the public defender association . I'm going to fire him next time in court because he won't dismiss his self from this case and I even told him if your to busy and can't handle my case withdrawal but he won't but he also won't work with me at all . I've tried . This is the worst situation ever I tried to tell him about the corrupt case worker he doubted me called me a liar then in February she got fired . I'm beginning to think he's like a body double he's just there to make it look good but he's actually not good at all and let the caseworker that got fired play me like something I was not . I been trying to work with him but he makes it hard and he makes it harder to obtain my child back with his representation it would probably work better if I didn't have him and just myself . I need another lawyer this one's a joke .
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28 Nov, 2020 by T.m.
Mr. Johb Capaldi was successful in defending by business in a potentially costly and time consuming litagation with a large national corporation. Mr. Capaldi was able to streamline the process and achieve the outcome I desired.
I would highly recommend Mr. Capaldi
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04 Nov, 2020 by Aaron
I am a teenage parent seeking to retain custody of my son. My son was taken from his mother and placed in foster care. I have family members who have been approved to care for my son, if only Mr. Capaldi would file a motion. He does not reply to emails and he does not return telephone calls.
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14 Sep, 2022 by Phil cochetti
Mr. Grady was great, informative, and honest in his discussions as to whether representation and pursuing a legal filing is the best way forward at this time. He explained clearly and patiently why a court case even if successful may not realistically achieve my goals and he was open to discussing other avenues for remedy.
I plan on bringing another matter to him for his evaluation and trust his integrity given how open he was to discussing the reasons some cases simply are logistically losing propositions, not just saying to drop it or ghosting after getting a basic outline. It was refreshing when he engaged my questions and provided comprehensible and honest answers. Really glad to have gotten in touch via the Philadelphia Bar Association's referral service.
Thank you!
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27 Sep, 2021 by Sis ummie
17 Jul, 2019 by Kyle
Had this guy in a federal case for odometers. I should have gotten probation was promised by the lawyer before him probation end up getting 60 months yes. Who is this guy working for is my question he wasn't working for me! Spare yourself the agony and the freedom
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26 Jun, 2023 by B. xavier
There is a high turnover of attorneys at this firm. They went through three family law attorneys in a short time. You may blink and your attorney is no longer there. David Steerman is still there, he is an awesome attorney. If you go here for family law, I recommend him.
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28 Sep, 2020 by Jennifer shackleton
21 Mar, 2020 by John d.
Jordan Rand is the Man!
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13 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
I wrote a review prematurely. About a case Mr.Caserio is handling based on the information provided to me which was not totally transparent. Mr. Caserio called me personally and brought me up to speed on the facts . I wanna apologize because he is working with a firm and is doing all he can to help my nephew in a complicated case .
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12 Apr, 2024 by Ryan
You will never be able to discuss your case with him because after initial payment he charge $200 for every 2 minutes phone call. This guy is completely incompetent. Don't waste your time of freedom.
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29 Oct, 2020 by Dennis
Sadly the law office of Jeff Henninger gave me Chris Caserio for help.the guy was clueless, rude,uncaring and had no clue about the matter at hand.Dealing with him was worse than the matter at hand.Im sure if I hire someone competent it could of been handled better.I would of been better off with a first year law student. Most arrogant individual I ever had the displeasure of dealing with
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18 Jun, 2024 by Miki miki
17 May, 2024 by Terry cullison
28 Mar, 2023 by Sally kennings
Awful experience with this Law Firm. I would not recommend them to anyone they charge a lot of money and they don't provide quality service I would look elsewhere for Legal Services.
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13 Dec, 2018 by Maria
So, I went to Elaine in a mess of a situation and needed a divorce like 20 years before I hit her office. she was understanding, compassionate, and knew her stuff. I liked her because she was totally concerned about my wellbeing. Well 3 years later and I'M DIVORCED and was able to gain the house and all my finances. Elaine and her staff are AMAZINNNNGGGG! Though the road was long, they were patient with me and I thank you all for all of your hard work. JOANN AND SARA, YOU GIRLS ROCK!!!!!! ELAINE THANKS YOU'RE AMAZINNNNGGGG!
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05 Dec, 2018 by Anonymous
Misplaced case info. did not move in a direction to help my child who was harmed, abused. She questioned me and kept saying claims made by my child did not make since. She kept inflating charges billing. She threatened to tell the judge, she had to drop me as a client for non payment. I gave her all I had. This woman as my lawyer, was no help, to a domestic violence survivor. She acted unethically. I chose this woman because she is Chair on the Philly Bar Association. Wrong choice. Not a good burromitor of her work. The case file was empty when I sought to retrieve my docs to give to my new atty and retain for my record. Why would she Elaine dissolve key info on an active case. I handed stacks of docs to her. Don't use Elaine. One truthful customer complaint with painful consequence is enough. Child best interest, with violence not focused too much risk. It appears there is another complaint. Similar actions. Over billing. Bully behavior, minimal result. Oppositional, not compassionate. I paid Elaine a huge retainer. She kept seeking more money.
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15 Nov, 2012 by Boris
Elaine handled my case since 2007 through 2009.
She did excellent job.
I just came back to consult her on a different issue.
My case was very complicated, and
she did the best possible in my case.
You can trust her.
She has outstanding knowledge and experience in all the areas: divorce, custody, support, alimony.
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27 Jan, 2016 by Mh
Brett helped me with a terrible situation with my husband back in July. Unfortunately in September we tried a reconciliation that did not last due to my husband's infidelity. A new Separation Agreement was prepared. Due to my fragility, he not only counseled me, but he tried to protect me in any way that he could. He answered every email and/or voicemail that I left him. He is an excellent lawyer and I give him an A++++
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21 Jan, 2016 by Bendu sheriff
My ex husband and I have been in family court for a while. Brett Zeitlin made sure my ex husband and I could come to a conclusion on the support of our daughter. I'm truly happy to have Brett Zeitlin as an attorney.
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22 May, 2015 by Father of child.
Brett J. Zeitlin panders to mothers in domestic court. If you find yourself in the unfortune position of his guy representing you against your child's mother, consider yourself without a lawyer, he will help your child's mother and leave you high and dry. I got Zeitlin thru my employment, after I initially saw how he was misrepresenting me, I asked to get another lawyer from the firm he's at. The firm refused to give me another lawyer, I spoke with his supervisor, got no satisfaction. Attempted to change to another lawyer, four times. He was horrible with my divorce. I wish I would have never met him or heard of William, Willig and Davidson.
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What a Family Law Lawyer Can Do for You
A family law lawyer provides legal services related to family relationships, including marriage, divorce, child custody, and adoption. Family lawyers help clients navigate emotionally charged legal issues, providing guidance and representation in disputes that affect spouses, children, and parents. Whether you're going through a divorce, seeking custody of your children, or drafting a prenuptial agreement, a family law lawyer ensures your rights are protected and your interests are represented.
Family law attorneys often handle sensitive matters and offer objective legal advice, helping clients reach fair outcomes either through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.
When Should I Hire a Family Law Lawyer?
Hiring a family law lawyer is beneficial in several situations, especially when legal matters involve close personal relationships. Common reasons to hire a family law lawyer include:
- Divorce or separation: When ending a marriage, a lawyer can help you navigate issues such as division of assets, spousal support, and child custody arrangements.
- Child custody and visitation disputes: If you and your co-parent can't agree on custody or visitation, a lawyer can represent your interests and work toward a solution that benefits your children.
- Child support: Whether you’re seeking child support or defending against a claim, a lawyer can help ensure the appropriate amount is calculated and enforced.
- Prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: A lawyer can help draft or review agreements that protect your assets in case of divorce.
- Adoption: Family law lawyers guide you through the legal process of adoption, ensuring that all requirements are met.
- Domestic violence or restraining orders: If you're a victim of domestic violence or being falsely accused, a lawyer can help you obtain or challenge protective orders.
- Paternity cases: If there are questions about the paternity of a child, a lawyer can help establish or dispute legal fatherhood.
Hiring a lawyer early can prevent issues from escalating, and they can offer you the best chance of achieving a favorable outcome in emotionally charged situations.
What Does a Family Law Lawyer Do?
A family law lawyer provides a wide range of services depending on your specific legal needs. Their responsibilities may include:
- Advising on legal rights and options: Helping you understand your legal rights regarding divorce, child custody, support, and other family law issues.
- Filing legal documents: Drafting and filing petitions, motions, and agreements with the court, such as divorce papers, custody agreements, or support orders.
- Representing clients in court: Arguing your case in front of a judge if a settlement can’t be reached through negotiation or mediation.
- Mediation and negotiation: Assisting with alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, to reach agreements on issues like custody, property division, and support without going to trial.
- Enforcing court orders: Helping you enforce court orders related to child support, alimony, or custody if the other party fails to comply.
- Drafting prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: Creating agreements that protect your assets in the event of a divorce.
- Handling adoption proceedings: Ensuring that the legal process of adoption is followed, from filing paperwork to finalizing the adoption in court.
How Are Family Law Lawyers Paid?
Family law lawyers typically charge clients in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Common payment arrangements include:
- Hourly rates: Most family lawyers charge by the hour, with rates varying based on experience and location. Clients are billed for the time spent working on their case, including consultations, court appearances, and document preparation.
- Flat fees: For more straightforward legal services, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, some lawyers offer flat-fee arrangements.
- Retainer fees: In cases that are expected to require significant time and attention, such as contentious custody battles, a lawyer may charge a retainer, which is an upfront payment that covers the initial costs of legal services. The lawyer then bills against the retainer as they work on your case.
The exact cost will depend on the complexity of your case and the lawyer’s fee structure, which should be discussed upfront.
How Much Does a Family Law Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a family law lawyer varies based on factors such as the lawyer's experience, the location, and the complexity of your case. Here are some general cost guidelines:
- Hourly rates: Family law lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour, depending on their experience and the complexity of the case.
- Flat fees: For simpler cases, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, fees may range from $1,000 to $5,000.
- Retainers: For more complex matters, such as contested divorces or custody battles, lawyers may charge a retainer ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 or more. The lawyer will bill against the retainer for the work they do on your case.
- Additional costs: You may also be responsible for additional costs, such as filing fees, mediation fees, or expert witness fees.
Always ask for a clear breakdown of the lawyer’s fees and any additional expenses during your consultation.
Top Questions to Ask a Family Law Lawyer
Before hiring a family law lawyer, it's important to ask questions to ensure they're the right fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:
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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.
