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25 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
If you want solid, legal counsel, that will actually help you, look elsewhere.
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09 Oct, 2020 by Tom
I was terminated from my company after many years of service and I needed help! Faye and her team quickly reached out to my former employer and made sure that I received full retirement benefits including pension and health care, plus some severance pay. The legal process is long and tedious but Faye and Jim Cushing skillfully guided me through the process to a completely satisfactory result. Thanks Faye!!! You are awesome!
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29 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
Towards the end of a very difficult employment legal battle, I sought out another attorney to get a second opinion on my case and release documents. I am so lucky my search led me to Faye Riva Cohen! Recommended by the Philadelphia Bar Association & highly rated on Avvo, Faye was quickly able to make sense out of all of the nonsense. She was understanding and patient…but more importantly she listened! She wants what’s best for her clients…not what’s quickest, easiest or best for the firm. I highly recommend Faye Riva Cohen. I only wish I found her sooner! She will certainly be the first attorney I call should I find myself in another unfortunate situation & need legal advice or counsel. A breath of fresh air, in the legal world of doom & gloom. Thanks Faye!
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16 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
After retaining (and firing) several lawyers and interviewing many over four years, I am blessed to have been referred to Dan Kurland. He did not even bat an eye over the massive amounts of paperwork I brought him, and reviewed it thoroughly. I appreciated his experience and the fact the he did not have an attitude or try to hustle me- like most of the lawyers I talked to. He is genuine and put my mind at ease at once. Definitely Recommend!
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02 Nov, 2015 by Roberto
Dan, as I got to know him, held my hand through out the entire process with my DUI. He answered all of my questions in advance, and made sure he was at all of my appearances, even the simple ones. He was able to guide me through the process and put me at ease. I noticed other "represented" parties at the first hearing alone, but I was there with Dan who took care of everything for me. Simply put, he made me feel at ease, followed through, and helped me close out my ADR after I completed it. THANKS VERY MUCH!!
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26 Jul, 2013 by Anonymous
I would never recommend this lawyer to anyone! He will make you think that he cares about your case when he doesn't. He does a horrible job at representing you. I could have done a better job representing myself.
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28 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
The firm reels you in then gives you an attorney with 1 yr experience……fee was ridiculously high
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18 Oct, 2019 by Anonymous
I appreciate this attorneys answer and the fast response to the first question. She kept the answer short and to the point and was knowledgeable about the subject. However I had to leave off one star because my second question wasn't answered. This of course is not meant in any negative way. I am sure she is very busy. I would definitely recommend her because she knows the law.
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11 Oct, 2017 by Dorian
I took your advice I contacted a lawyer, and everything in the judges order is specific. The lawyer advised to wait another week to have a trail of the defendant not following the order. Then she advised me to file papers that the mother of our child is in contempt of the judges orders. I am to keep detailed records, keep cool, and list every violation she is doing and present it to the judge. The lawyer listened to my Concerns and after her reading the order my baby's mother is the one who will need a layer to help her get out of the trouble that she has wedged herself into. Thank you April
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24 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
Mr. Lloyd is a great lawyer cares about you and not the money and fight like hell for your freedom and your rights I hire Mr.Lloyd in 2014 and he’s still my lawyer until this very day great man
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09 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
I HIRED this attorney and had a very bad experience with this attorney right from the start. Was fortunate to fire him before we actually got to court. Do not hire. You been warned.
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28 Aug, 2018 by Joseph almodovar
This lawyer is the best there is in the city, hands down. He's what every lawyer should be, its not about your money, its about you and what he can do for you. I love this guy and I really mean that, he's the reason I was able to change my life around he gave me a second chance. Whatever he says he's gonna do he does it, Lloyd keep on doing what you're doing. I appreciate you and your professionalism, the best the best the best oh just in case I forgot to tell you. YOU'RE THE BEST THE CITY HAS
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12 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
Very rude and dismissive towards me, had a hearing for custody , did not give me an opportunity to speak at all and had a nasty demeanor toward me. Also, was lied to and was told I got sole physical custody of my daughter. Not a proposed order! I will be filing a complaint
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07 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
I didn't like her attitude at all! She was very nasty. Didn't care to listen to either side. And started screaming and name calling for no apparent reason. I wouldn't recommend this woman to a dog!
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19 Dec, 2022 by Anonymous
Arrogant, dismissive, extremely rude & did not even try to hear either side. You would think because she’s a family court judge she would understand her demographic & have an open mind to different circumstances, but that’s not the case here. Maybe she should have remained a lawyer. Judge Judy Wannabe.
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26 Apr, 2012 by Anonymous
Maura was responsive and helpful to me every step of the way during my divorce and I can't say enough about her. She listened to me whenever I wanted to talk and I felt comfortable saying things to her that I haven't or wouldn't tell to anyone else. Divorce sucks but she made it manageable and kept me informed throughout the process. I would recommend her to ANYONE getting divorced
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06 Jun, 2011 by Joe k
This lawyer did not show up in court, sent another attorney in her place who knew nothing about my case. Maura said this lawyer knew my entire case; he didn't know anything. At my initial consultation she told me we needed an expedited custody hearing and that would occur within 2 weeks. We got the court date within 2 weeks as she stated; but then informed me she was off that week for a wedding and she would have to ask for a continuance. The continuance was a week later and again she was unavailable so she sent an attorney who is headquartered in Missouri; I'm in Pennsylvania. The court documents said to bring witnesses, all relevant documents, and anything else that would be vital to my case. She said we wouldn't need any of that; we needed it all. After the hearing she stated, and put it in an email, that it was not the real custody hearing and all the information would be brought up at the next hearing, which was 5 months away. The lawyer who replaced her in court knew nothing about me or the case; and the judge knew it right away. After the hearing when I complained about the representation she stated she wasn't aware of some of the things that were brought up. I sent her the email copies where she was informed of everything. This firm billed me for every email, phone call, and even things pertaining to the continuance that was 100% their fault and was avoidable by simply disclosing her vacation schedule to me. I was billed $250 an hour by an attorney at another one of their offices for a strategy conference, while simultaneously paying Maura Cunningham $190 an hour for this call. This firm Maura Cunningham works for, Cordell & Cordell, does nothing more than bill you while trying to drag your case out for as long as possible. In the end you will lose everything including your case. Dozens of complaints on the internet about them; all telling the same story.
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10 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
I hired David for a family law case, he was very unresponsive. There were times I had to email him 2-3 times before getting a response. The day of the hearing after going to his office, ultimately my hearing was postponed. I'm fighting for something really important so I decided to go in another direction with a different attorney because honestly the guy just doesn't seem to care. I told him that I hired someone else and asked for a portion of my retainer back and the guy refused to refund me any of my money even though my hearing was postponed and he never represented me. Which is pretty shady and dishonest. I WOULD NOT recommend anyone hiring this guy for anything. Don't waste your money like I did. I learned the hard way to never again hire a jack of all trades lawyer. Its better to hire someone that just specializes in family law as opposed to someone that handles accidents, family law, bankruptcy and whatever else.
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10 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
David represented me for divorce, support and custody in Philadelphia. He is always prepared, caring and responsive to my calls and emails. Divorce cases can be very stressful and he is always calm, cool and collected. This is very important when your marriage and children are at issue. I would use him again
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17 Apr, 2017 by Liz
I hired David for a divorce and custody divorce was simple but custody was very hard for him. During one of my hearings, he actually said to me you are what's keeping me from being on the beach. after that he pushed me into an agreement that I was uncomfortable with but he assured me was my best option. he wrote the agreement and it was horrible, all over the map and poorly constituted. He waa very rude, not empathetic at all and
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04 Feb, 2020 by Calvin washington
This lawyer is the worst I hired this woman to handle my divorce 3 years ago. She told me I could be divorced in 6 months because neither party was contesting. It's been 3years. she doesn't return calls, she doesn't respond to emails and then deleted the email I was given. I had to act as a FBI agent to find a new email and she hasn't responded to that. My wife's lawyer tried contacting her because she ended up filing for the divorce and she hasn't responded to that. I'm trying to hire and new lawyer and I find out that she has to take herself off the case before any other lawyer can take over. Only thing I can think is that she took my money and it paid for something for her and her electorial Judge Sherman Toppins wedding. I would never recommend her and I'm sorry I would never vote for her husband. I could only guess birds of a feather flock together or fall in love with each other.
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06 Sep, 2014 by Anonymous
Sat on my case for two years and wanted ME to research it. After dodging my calls and not returning emails decided not to take the case because he didn't think he'd make enough on damages. Waste of time.
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07 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
On Saturday April 3, 2021 my husband and I met with Mr Nero to discuss immigration concerns. We paid him $2270. He told us that he would submit the paperwork and on Monday we should hear something from immigration. When we didn’t hear anything we reached out to him. His response was that he needed more information. The question was asked, when was someone going to reach out to us. He immediately stated that he no longer ants to represent my husband because already here is a problem, just by asking a simple question. Ok we asked for a full refund. Mr Nero took $100 from us for what he claimed was consultation fee of which he never discussed during our meeting. He is a rip off and a scam. Do not use this person. He will find a way of getting put of doing the job then take your money. I hope he gets caught one day. He has apparently done his to other people. Read the reviews on him
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30 Aug, 2019 by Anonymous
I hired Mr Avallone to handle a foreclosure. He handed the case off to another attorney in his office who retired right before the court case. As a result I ended up with Avallone who was not prepared to handle the case. It’s 5 years later and I’m still dealing with the fall out from Avallone’s incompetence and unpreparedness. Although Avallone cannot seems to find the time to prepare for your case he can always find the time to send you a bill.
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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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

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