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24 Oct, 2024 by Dana rizzo
From the experience I had with John Morris, I would not recommend to anyone. I was told at the beginning of my son’s divorce that should be know more than $3000. Only because he doesn’t have any assets at all nor did his ex wife. There are no children involved. Two years later after the ex finally decided to sign the paper work, we get an invoice of an additional $3500 dollars. They said he spent 16 hours on a divorce that had no assets, absolutely no property and no contest. It was just sitting on his desk waiting for the ex to sign. My son was charged $6500 for this. This is unethical.
Read more
03 Oct, 2024 by Benjamin vranish
Garrett Trettel turned a very unfortunate situation into as positive an experience as it could've been. He was polite, friendly, knowledgeable, easy to talk to, and he really helped me get back on my feet. I really appreciate all the hard work from everyone here, especially Garrett. Thank you.
Read more
27 Sep, 2024 by M.j. vee
We have seen Carol over the last few years several times. She is courteous, knowledgeable, and very helpful . We are confident in the service she provides.
Joyce and Vitelli.
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24 Oct, 2024 by Dana rizzo
From the experience I had with John Morris, I would not recommend to anyone. I was told at the beginning of my son’s divorce that should be know more than $3000. Only because he doesn’t have any assets at all nor did his ex wife. There are no children involved. Two years later after the ex finally decided to sign the paper work, we get an invoice of an additional $3500 dollars. They said he spent 16 hours on a divorce that had no assets, absolutely no property and no contest. It was just sitting on his desk waiting for the ex to sign. My son was charged $6500 for this. This is unethical.
Read more
03 Oct, 2024 by Benjamin vranish
Garrett Trettel turned a very unfortunate situation into as positive an experience as it could've been. He was polite, friendly, knowledgeable, easy to talk to, and he really helped me get back on my feet. I really appreciate all the hard work from everyone here, especially Garrett. Thank you.
Read more
27 Sep, 2024 by M.j. vee
We have seen Carol over the last few years several times. She is courteous, knowledgeable, and very helpful . We are confident in the service she provides.
Joyce and Vitelli.
Read more
24 Oct, 2024 by Dana rizzo
From the experience I had with John Morris, I would not recommend to anyone. I was told at the beginning of my son’s divorce that should be know more than $3000. Only because he doesn’t have any assets at all nor did his ex wife. There are no children involved. Two years later after the ex finally decided to sign the paper work, we get an invoice of an additional $3500 dollars. They said he spent 16 hours on a divorce that had no assets, absolutely no property and no contest. It was just sitting on his desk waiting for the ex to sign. My son was charged $6500 for this. This is unethical.
Read more
03 Oct, 2024 by Benjamin vranish
Garrett Trettel turned a very unfortunate situation into as positive an experience as it could've been. He was polite, friendly, knowledgeable, easy to talk to, and he really helped me get back on my feet. I really appreciate all the hard work from everyone here, especially Garrett. Thank you.
Read more
27 Sep, 2024 by M.j. vee
We have seen Carol over the last few years several times. She is courteous, knowledgeable, and very helpful . We are confident in the service she provides.
Joyce and Vitelli.
Read more
24 Oct, 2024 by Dana rizzo
From the experience I had with John Morris, I would not recommend to anyone. I was told at the beginning of my son’s divorce that should be know more than $3000. Only because he doesn’t have any assets at all nor did his ex wife. There are no children involved. Two years later after the ex finally decided to sign the paper work, we get an invoice of an additional $3500 dollars. They said he spent 16 hours on a divorce that had no assets, absolutely no property and no contest. It was just sitting on his desk waiting for the ex to sign. My son was charged $6500 for this. This is unethical.
Read more
03 Oct, 2024 by Benjamin vranish
Garrett Trettel turned a very unfortunate situation into as positive an experience as it could've been. He was polite, friendly, knowledgeable, easy to talk to, and he really helped me get back on my feet. I really appreciate all the hard work from everyone here, especially Garrett. Thank you.
Read more
27 Sep, 2024 by M.j. vee
We have seen Carol over the last few years several times. She is courteous, knowledgeable, and very helpful . We are confident in the service she provides.
Joyce and Vitelli.
Read more
24 Oct, 2024 by Dana rizzo
From the experience I had with John Morris, I would not recommend to anyone. I was told at the beginning of my son’s divorce that should be know more than $3000. Only because he doesn’t have any assets at all nor did his ex wife. There are no children involved. Two years later after the ex finally decided to sign the paper work, we get an invoice of an additional $3500 dollars. They said he spent 16 hours on a divorce that had no assets, absolutely no property and no contest. It was just sitting on his desk waiting for the ex to sign. My son was charged $6500 for this. This is unethical.
Read more
03 Oct, 2024 by Benjamin vranish
Garrett Trettel turned a very unfortunate situation into as positive an experience as it could've been. He was polite, friendly, knowledgeable, easy to talk to, and he really helped me get back on my feet. I really appreciate all the hard work from everyone here, especially Garrett. Thank you.
Read more
27 Sep, 2024 by M.j. vee
We have seen Carol over the last few years several times. She is courteous, knowledgeable, and very helpful . We are confident in the service she provides.
Joyce and Vitelli.
Read more
24 Oct, 2024 by Dana rizzo
From the experience I had with John Morris, I would not recommend to anyone. I was told at the beginning of my son’s divorce that should be know more than $3000. Only because he doesn’t have any assets at all nor did his ex wife. There are no children involved. Two years later after the ex finally decided to sign the paper work, we get an invoice of an additional $3500 dollars. They said he spent 16 hours on a divorce that had no assets, absolutely no property and no contest. It was just sitting on his desk waiting for the ex to sign. My son was charged $6500 for this. This is unethical.
Read more
03 Oct, 2024 by Benjamin vranish
Garrett Trettel turned a very unfortunate situation into as positive an experience as it could've been. He was polite, friendly, knowledgeable, easy to talk to, and he really helped me get back on my feet. I really appreciate all the hard work from everyone here, especially Garrett. Thank you.
Read more
27 Sep, 2024 by M.j. vee
We have seen Carol over the last few years several times. She is courteous, knowledgeable, and very helpful . We are confident in the service she provides.
Joyce and Vitelli.
Read more
24 Oct, 2024 by Dana rizzo
From the experience I had with John Morris, I would not recommend to anyone. I was told at the beginning of my son’s divorce that should be know more than $3000. Only because he doesn’t have any assets at all nor did his ex wife. There are no children involved. Two years later after the ex finally decided to sign the paper work, we get an invoice of an additional $3500 dollars. They said he spent 16 hours on a divorce that had no assets, absolutely no property and no contest. It was just sitting on his desk waiting for the ex to sign. My son was charged $6500 for this. This is unethical.
Read more
03 Oct, 2024 by Benjamin vranish
Garrett Trettel turned a very unfortunate situation into as positive an experience as it could've been. He was polite, friendly, knowledgeable, easy to talk to, and he really helped me get back on my feet. I really appreciate all the hard work from everyone here, especially Garrett. Thank you.
Read more
27 Sep, 2024 by M.j. vee
We have seen Carol over the last few years several times. She is courteous, knowledgeable, and very helpful . We are confident in the service she provides.
Joyce and Vitelli.
Read more
24 Oct, 2024 by Dana rizzo
From the experience I had with John Morris, I would not recommend to anyone. I was told at the beginning of my son’s divorce that should be know more than $3000. Only because he doesn’t have any assets at all nor did his ex wife. There are no children involved. Two years later after the ex finally decided to sign the paper work, we get an invoice of an additional $3500 dollars. They said he spent 16 hours on a divorce that had no assets, absolutely no property and no contest. It was just sitting on his desk waiting for the ex to sign. My son was charged $6500 for this. This is unethical.
Read more
03 Oct, 2024 by Benjamin vranish
Garrett Trettel turned a very unfortunate situation into as positive an experience as it could've been. He was polite, friendly, knowledgeable, easy to talk to, and he really helped me get back on my feet. I really appreciate all the hard work from everyone here, especially Garrett. Thank you.
Read more
27 Sep, 2024 by M.j. vee
We have seen Carol over the last few years several times. She is courteous, knowledgeable, and very helpful . We are confident in the service she provides.
Joyce and Vitelli.
Read more
24 Oct, 2024 by Dana rizzo
From the experience I had with John Morris, I would not recommend to anyone. I was told at the beginning of my son’s divorce that should be know more than $3000. Only because he doesn’t have any assets at all nor did his ex wife. There are no children involved. Two years later after the ex finally decided to sign the paper work, we get an invoice of an additional $3500 dollars. They said he spent 16 hours on a divorce that had no assets, absolutely no property and no contest. It was just sitting on his desk waiting for the ex to sign. My son was charged $6500 for this. This is unethical.
Read more
03 Oct, 2024 by Benjamin vranish
Garrett Trettel turned a very unfortunate situation into as positive an experience as it could've been. He was polite, friendly, knowledgeable, easy to talk to, and he really helped me get back on my feet. I really appreciate all the hard work from everyone here, especially Garrett. Thank you.
Read more
27 Sep, 2024 by M.j. vee
We have seen Carol over the last few years several times. She is courteous, knowledgeable, and very helpful . We are confident in the service she provides.
Joyce and Vitelli.
Read more
13 Sep, 2024 by Luis m
Great group of attorneys! They treat you like family and will fight for your rights.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Darla kay jobkar
Steve Townsend is the best!!! Trustworthy, Experienced, Super Efficient and Responsive. I highly recommend!
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23 Jul, 2024 by Ricky reyes
Absolutely thee best legal representation in all Pittsburgh, Pa. Forget the rest. Mr. Townsend is the best. Trust me, I know and this comes from someone out of Philly, Pa. Mr. Townsend gives his all and his word is as solid as gold and it's weight. If ever someone needs legal representation on any level, do yourself a favor call Mr. Townsend, trust me. It's worth a phone call to get the best representation.
Read more
13 Sep, 2024 by Luis m
Great group of attorneys! They treat you like family and will fight for your rights.
Read more
05 Sep, 2024 by Darla kay jobkar
Steve Townsend is the best!!! Trustworthy, Experienced, Super Efficient and Responsive. I highly recommend!
Read more
23 Jul, 2024 by Ricky reyes
Absolutely thee best legal representation in all Pittsburgh, Pa. Forget the rest. Mr. Townsend is the best. Trust me, I know and this comes from someone out of Philly, Pa. Mr. Townsend gives his all and his word is as solid as gold and it's weight. If ever someone needs legal representation on any level, do yourself a favor call Mr. Townsend, trust me. It's worth a phone call to get the best representation.
Read more
26 Sep, 2024 by Brittany tkac
From the very first time we talked with crystal and sometimes Bethany they took care of every need, concern, and obstacles! They explained everything to us in our terms so we clearly understood every step. Always got back in reasonable timely manner. They drafted a divorce didn’t matter the other party refused to sign. Every single motion got returned in the mail (anything to make this more difficult) so we also had the pleasure of dealing with CSI serving papers for us at least 5 times and again very fast and easy to work with! We have friends that started a divorce before us and ours is final and they are still in the process! Also at the end we were crunched on time trying to sell a house (couldn’t until we had the paper) and again crystal said I don’t care if I have to walk it over to the judge we will get this done! They did not disappoint any obstacle they quickly had the next step in motion!
THANK YOU CRYSTAL
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22 Sep, 2024 by Marc duchin
17 Sep, 2024 by Charles mupamombe
26 Sep, 2024 by Brittany tkac
From the very first time we talked with crystal and sometimes Bethany they took care of every need, concern, and obstacles! They explained everything to us in our terms so we clearly understood every step. Always got back in reasonable timely manner. They drafted a divorce didn’t matter the other party refused to sign. Every single motion got returned in the mail (anything to make this more difficult) so we also had the pleasure of dealing with CSI serving papers for us at least 5 times and again very fast and easy to work with! We have friends that started a divorce before us and ours is final and they are still in the process! Also at the end we were crunched on time trying to sell a house (couldn’t until we had the paper) and again crystal said I don’t care if I have to walk it over to the judge we will get this done! They did not disappoint any obstacle they quickly had the next step in motion!
THANK YOU CRYSTAL
Read more
22 Sep, 2024 by Marc duchin
17 Sep, 2024 by Charles mupamombe
26 Sep, 2024 by Brittany tkac
From the very first time we talked with crystal and sometimes Bethany they took care of every need, concern, and obstacles! They explained everything to us in our terms so we clearly understood every step. Always got back in reasonable timely manner. They drafted a divorce didn’t matter the other party refused to sign. Every single motion got returned in the mail (anything to make this more difficult) so we also had the pleasure of dealing with CSI serving papers for us at least 5 times and again very fast and easy to work with! We have friends that started a divorce before us and ours is final and they are still in the process! Also at the end we were crunched on time trying to sell a house (couldn’t until we had the paper) and again crystal said I don’t care if I have to walk it over to the judge we will get this done! They did not disappoint any obstacle they quickly had the next step in motion!
THANK YOU CRYSTAL
Read more
22 Sep, 2024 by Marc duchin
17 Sep, 2024 by Charles mupamombe
29 Apr, 2020 by Selene
I Hired Mr. Tabano to handle my divorce. I feel that was money very well spent. I am amazed at how quickly he got results and how easy everything was in my case. Very friendly to deal with. And his fee is very fair. He explained what the different routes we could take if things didnt go as easy as they did, and the costs if it came to going that route, but he was also looking for every way to keep costs as low as possible. But like I said, he got results much sooner than I expected. I really didnt think anything would really happen until June when we started the process in the beginning of Feburary. Then covid. So I expected it to take longer. I would highly recommend him to anyone.
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03 Apr, 2019 by William lewis
Steve represented me in two different child custody cases. The outcome was what was fair and expected. Even having questions when he was unavailable, Steve would call and discuss my cases on his drive home. My respect went so far as to refer some in-laws and their family members , who were also happy with the final results. I even called him earlier this evening to discuss a close friends awkward situation. I am sure I will hear from him tomorrow concerning this situation.
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19 Oct, 2016 by Bonnie
I chose Attorney Tabano to handle my divorce case and I couldn't be happier with his services. He handled every aspect of the case with prompt efficiency, but maintained a caring and calming nature throughout. He was there for any question I had, even during non-regular work hours. He even followed up after the case was closed to make sure everything had gone well. I would highly recommend him!
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10 Oct, 2024 by Karen consentino
I have been in an extremely difficult divorce case that has spanned close to three years. After over two years of no progression I found DeRiso Law Group and was blessed to have JP Senich represent me. He moved the case forward and with a very good outcome. Not only is JP a great attorney he is a wonderful person. I highly recommend JP Senich and DeRiso Law Group.
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10 Oct, 2024 by Stephen fleishauer
Very pleased with every aspect of the firm. Everyone has been very professional and courteous. Got good results for my situation. Highly recommended.
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09 Oct, 2024 by Alena esposito
You're doing it wrong if you don't go with DeRiso Law Group! Mike, and the group in it's entireity, was absolutely amazing in helping me go through the entire process. They made the whole things so much easier and took care of everything in the most professional manner.
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10 Oct, 2024 by Karen consentino
I have been in an extremely difficult divorce case that has spanned close to three years. After over two years of no progression I found DeRiso Law Group and was blessed to have JP Senich represent me. He moved the case forward and with a very good outcome. Not only is JP a great attorney he is a wonderful person. I highly recommend JP Senich and DeRiso Law Group.
Read more
10 Oct, 2024 by Stephen fleishauer
Very pleased with every aspect of the firm. Everyone has been very professional and courteous. Got good results for my situation. Highly recommended.
Read more
09 Oct, 2024 by Alena esposito
You're doing it wrong if you don't go with DeRiso Law Group! Mike, and the group in it's entireity, was absolutely amazing in helping me go through the entire process. They made the whole things so much easier and took care of everything in the most professional manner.
Read more
10 Oct, 2024 by Karen consentino
I have been in an extremely difficult divorce case that has spanned close to three years. After over two years of no progression I found DeRiso Law Group and was blessed to have JP Senich represent me. He moved the case forward and with a very good outcome. Not only is JP a great attorney he is a wonderful person. I highly recommend JP Senich and DeRiso Law Group.
Read more
10 Oct, 2024 by Stephen fleishauer
Very pleased with every aspect of the firm. Everyone has been very professional and courteous. Got good results for my situation. Highly recommended.
Read more
09 Oct, 2024 by Alena esposito
You're doing it wrong if you don't go with DeRiso Law Group! Mike, and the group in it's entireity, was absolutely amazing in helping me go through the entire process. They made the whole things so much easier and took care of everything in the most professional manner.
Read more
12 Sep, 2024 by Eddie jay
They really work and you get real results
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31 Aug, 2024 by Matt dee
Mr. Paletta was excellent and professional when it came to assisting me with a matter regarding my nursing license. He showed great expertise and was able to help me get the issue resolved quickly and without incident. Would absolutely recommend.
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18 Jun, 2024 by Terry meadows
12 Sep, 2024 by Eddie jay
They really work and you get real results
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18 Jun, 2024 by Terry meadows
12 Jun, 2024 by Luis rodriguez
12 Sep, 2024 by Eddie jay
They really work and you get real results
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18 Jun, 2024 by Terry meadows
12 Jun, 2024 by Luis rodriguez
1.0
3 Reviews
4.7
554 Reviews
12 Sep, 2024 by Eddie jay
They really work and you get real results
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18 Jun, 2024 by Terry meadows
12 Jun, 2024 by Luis rodriguez
12 Sep, 2024 by Eddie jay
They really work and you get real results
Read more
18 Jun, 2024 by Terry meadows
12 Jun, 2024 by Luis rodriguez
24 Oct, 2024 by Dana rizzo
From the experience I had with John Morris, I would not recommend to anyone. I was told at the beginning of my son’s divorce that should be know more than $3000. Only because he doesn’t have any assets at all nor did his ex wife. There are no children involved. Two years later after the ex finally decided to sign the paper work, we get an invoice of an additional $3500 dollars. They said he spent 16 hours on a divorce that had no assets, absolutely no property and no contest. It was just sitting on his desk waiting for the ex to sign. My son was charged $6500 for this. This is unethical.
Read more
03 Oct, 2024 by Benjamin vranish
Garrett Trettel turned a very unfortunate situation into as positive an experience as it could've been. He was polite, friendly, knowledgeable, easy to talk to, and he really helped me get back on my feet. I really appreciate all the hard work from everyone here, especially Garrett. Thank you.
Read more
27 Sep, 2024 by Xinyan “shannon” ye
Attorney Phil DiLucente was absolutely amazing to work with. He was not only knowledgeable and professional, but also genuinely caring and compassionate. Phil went above and beyond to help our family during a difficult time, and we are so grateful for his guidance and support.
Read more
24 Oct, 2024 by Dana rizzo
From the experience I had with John Morris, I would not recommend to anyone. I was told at the beginning of my son’s divorce that should be know more than $3000. Only because he doesn’t have any assets at all nor did his ex wife. There are no children involved. Two years later after the ex finally decided to sign the paper work, we get an invoice of an additional $3500 dollars. They said he spent 16 hours on a divorce that had no assets, absolutely no property and no contest. It was just sitting on his desk waiting for the ex to sign. My son was charged $6500 for this. This is unethical.
Read more
03 Oct, 2024 by Benjamin vranish
Garrett Trettel turned a very unfortunate situation into as positive an experience as it could've been. He was polite, friendly, knowledgeable, easy to talk to, and he really helped me get back on my feet. I really appreciate all the hard work from everyone here, especially Garrett. Thank you.
Read more
27 Sep, 2024 by M.j. vee
We have seen Carol over the last few years several times. She is courteous, knowledgeable, and very helpful . We are confident in the service she provides.
Joyce and Vitelli.
Read more
24 Oct, 2024 by Dana rizzo
From the experience I had with John Morris, I would not recommend to anyone. I was told at the beginning of my son’s divorce that should be know more than $3000. Only because he doesn’t have any assets at all nor did his ex wife. There are no children involved. Two years later after the ex finally decided to sign the paper work, we get an invoice of an additional $3500 dollars. They said he spent 16 hours on a divorce that had no assets, absolutely no property and no contest. It was just sitting on his desk waiting for the ex to sign. My son was charged $6500 for this. This is unethical.
Read more
03 Oct, 2024 by Benjamin vranish
Garrett Trettel turned a very unfortunate situation into as positive an experience as it could've been. He was polite, friendly, knowledgeable, easy to talk to, and he really helped me get back on my feet. I really appreciate all the hard work from everyone here, especially Garrett. Thank you.
Read more
27 Sep, 2024 by M.j. vee
We have seen Carol over the last few years several times. She is courteous, knowledgeable, and very helpful . We are confident in the service she provides.
Joyce and Vitelli.
Read more
24 Oct, 2024 by Dana rizzo
From the experience I had with John Morris, I would not recommend to anyone. I was told at the beginning of my son’s divorce that should be know more than $3000. Only because he doesn’t have any assets at all nor did his ex wife. There are no children involved. Two years later after the ex finally decided to sign the paper work, we get an invoice of an additional $3500 dollars. They said he spent 16 hours on a divorce that had no assets, absolutely no property and no contest. It was just sitting on his desk waiting for the ex to sign. My son was charged $6500 for this. This is unethical.
Read more
03 Oct, 2024 by Benjamin vranish
Garrett Trettel turned a very unfortunate situation into as positive an experience as it could've been. He was polite, friendly, knowledgeable, easy to talk to, and he really helped me get back on my feet. I really appreciate all the hard work from everyone here, especially Garrett. Thank you.
Read more
27 Sep, 2024 by M.j. vee
We have seen Carol over the last few years several times. She is courteous, knowledgeable, and very helpful . We are confident in the service she provides.
Joyce and Vitelli.
Read more
27 Sep, 2024 by Xinyan “shannon” ye
Attorney Phil DiLucente was absolutely amazing to work with. He was not only knowledgeable and professional, but also genuinely caring and compassionate. Phil went above and beyond to help our family during a difficult time, and we are so grateful for his guidance and support.
Read more
20 Aug, 2024 by Elizabeth caskey
Phil Dilucente & overall Legal Firm (staff) have such a unique compassion for supporting clientele They had the upmost confidence with how to handle my personal circumstance so it was a calm hearted experience since always sensed was in good hands. It's refreshing to deal with genuine hearted humans when going thru an unexpected setback in Life.
I appreciated the positive outcome due to staff being Golden Stars in my Heart...never will forget the Graciousness and such Selfless Humans that supported me through an unexpected Life circumstance!
Thanks for ALL of genuine kindness..
Read more
29 Jul, 2024 by Hassan sharif
Very pleased with Mateus Law, walked me through every step of the way and was compassionate about my case !
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27 Sep, 2024 by Xinyan “shannon” ye
Attorney Phil DiLucente was absolutely amazing to work with. He was not only knowledgeable and professional, but also genuinely caring and compassionate. Phil went above and beyond to help our family during a difficult time, and we are so grateful for his guidance and support.
Read more
20 Aug, 2024 by Elizabeth caskey
Phil Dilucente & overall Legal Firm (staff) have such a unique compassion for supporting clientele They had the upmost confidence with how to handle my personal circumstance so it was a calm hearted experience since always sensed was in good hands. It's refreshing to deal with genuine hearted humans when going thru an unexpected setback in Life.
I appreciated the positive outcome due to staff being Golden Stars in my Heart...never will forget the Graciousness and such Selfless Humans that supported me through an unexpected Life circumstance!
Thanks for ALL of genuine kindness..
Read more
29 Jul, 2024 by Hassan sharif
Very pleased with Mateus Law, walked me through every step of the way and was compassionate about my case !
Read more
13 Sep, 2024 by Luis m
Great group of attorneys! They treat you like family and will fight for your rights.
Read more
05 Sep, 2024 by Darla kay jobkar
Steve Townsend is the best!!! Trustworthy, Experienced, Super Efficient and Responsive. I highly recommend!
Read more
23 Jul, 2024 by Ricky reyes
Absolutely thee best legal representation in all Pittsburgh, Pa. Forget the rest. Mr. Townsend is the best. Trust me, I know and this comes from someone out of Philly, Pa. Mr. Townsend gives his all and his word is as solid as gold and it's weight. If ever someone needs legal representation on any level, do yourself a favor call Mr. Townsend, trust me. It's worth a phone call to get the best representation.
Read more
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Family Law Lawyer Can Do for You
A family law lawyer provides legal services related to family relationships, including marriage, divorce, child custody, and adoption. Family lawyers help clients navigate emotionally charged legal issues, providing guidance and representation in disputes that affect spouses, children, and parents. Whether you're going through a divorce, seeking custody of your children, or drafting a prenuptial agreement, a family law lawyer ensures your rights are protected and your interests are represented.
Family law attorneys often handle sensitive matters and offer objective legal advice, helping clients reach fair outcomes either through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.
When Should I Hire a Family Law Lawyer?
Hiring a family law lawyer is beneficial in several situations, especially when legal matters involve close personal relationships. Common reasons to hire a family law lawyer include:
- Divorce or separation: When ending a marriage, a lawyer can help you navigate issues such as division of assets, spousal support, and child custody arrangements.
- Child custody and visitation disputes: If you and your co-parent can't agree on custody or visitation, a lawyer can represent your interests and work toward a solution that benefits your children.
- Child support: Whether you’re seeking child support or defending against a claim, a lawyer can help ensure the appropriate amount is calculated and enforced.
- Prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: A lawyer can help draft or review agreements that protect your assets in case of divorce.
- Adoption: Family law lawyers guide you through the legal process of adoption, ensuring that all requirements are met.
- Domestic violence or restraining orders: If you're a victim of domestic violence or being falsely accused, a lawyer can help you obtain or challenge protective orders.
- Paternity cases: If there are questions about the paternity of a child, a lawyer can help establish or dispute legal fatherhood.
Hiring a lawyer early can prevent issues from escalating, and they can offer you the best chance of achieving a favorable outcome in emotionally charged situations.
What Does a Family Law Lawyer Do?
A family law lawyer provides a wide range of services depending on your specific legal needs. Their responsibilities may include:
- Advising on legal rights and options: Helping you understand your legal rights regarding divorce, child custody, support, and other family law issues.
- Filing legal documents: Drafting and filing petitions, motions, and agreements with the court, such as divorce papers, custody agreements, or support orders.
- Representing clients in court: Arguing your case in front of a judge if a settlement can’t be reached through negotiation or mediation.
- Mediation and negotiation: Assisting with alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, to reach agreements on issues like custody, property division, and support without going to trial.
- Enforcing court orders: Helping you enforce court orders related to child support, alimony, or custody if the other party fails to comply.
- Drafting prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: Creating agreements that protect your assets in the event of a divorce.
- Handling adoption proceedings: Ensuring that the legal process of adoption is followed, from filing paperwork to finalizing the adoption in court.
How Are Family Law Lawyers Paid?
Family law lawyers typically charge clients in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Common payment arrangements include:
- Hourly rates: Most family lawyers charge by the hour, with rates varying based on experience and location. Clients are billed for the time spent working on their case, including consultations, court appearances, and document preparation.
- Flat fees: For more straightforward legal services, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, some lawyers offer flat-fee arrangements.
- Retainer fees: In cases that are expected to require significant time and attention, such as contentious custody battles, a lawyer may charge a retainer, which is an upfront payment that covers the initial costs of legal services. The lawyer then bills against the retainer as they work on your case.
The exact cost will depend on the complexity of your case and the lawyer’s fee structure, which should be discussed upfront.
How Much Does a Family Law Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a family law lawyer varies based on factors such as the lawyer's experience, the location, and the complexity of your case. Here are some general cost guidelines:
- Hourly rates: Family law lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour, depending on their experience and the complexity of the case.
- Flat fees: For simpler cases, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, fees may range from $1,000 to $5,000.
- Retainers: For more complex matters, such as contested divorces or custody battles, lawyers may charge a retainer ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 or more. The lawyer will bill against the retainer for the work they do on your case.
- Additional costs: You may also be responsible for additional costs, such as filing fees, mediation fees, or expert witness fees.
Always ask for a clear breakdown of the lawyer’s fees and any additional expenses during your consultation.
Top Questions to Ask a Family Law Lawyer
Before hiring a family law lawyer, it's important to ask questions to ensure they're the right fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:
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What experience do you have with family law cases like mine?
Make sure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it's a contested divorce, child custody dispute, or adoption. -
How will you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, a flat fee, or requires a retainer. Ask for an estimate of the total costs involved. -
What are the possible outcomes of my case?
An experienced lawyer should be able to give you a general idea of what to expect based on the facts of your case. -
What is your approach to resolving disputes?
Ask whether the lawyer tends to favor negotiation and mediation or whether they prefer to take cases to court. This can help you determine if their style matches your goals. -
How long do you expect my case to take?
While it’s difficult to predict, the lawyer should give you an estimate based on similar cases. -
Who will be handling my case?
In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may do much of the work, so make sure you understand who will be your main point of contact.
How to Check the Credibility of a Family Law Lawyer
To ensure you're hiring a reputable family law lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and reputation:
- Check state bar association records: Verify that the lawyer is licensed to practice in your state and is in good standing with no disciplinary actions.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on websites like Avvo, Google, or Martindale-Hubbell. Previous clients can give you insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and success in family law cases.
- Request references: Ask the lawyer for references from past clients who can speak to their experience with the lawyer.
- Review their website or professional profile: Look at the lawyer’s background, case history, and areas of focus to ensure they have substantial experience in family law.
- Look for professional memberships: Membership in reputable organizations, such as the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), can indicate a lawyer's expertise and dedication to family law.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a family law lawyer, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what you should bring:
- Relevant documents: Bring any documents related to your case, such as marriage certificates, prenuptial agreements, financial records, custody agreements, or court orders.
- List of assets and debts: For divorce cases, prepare a detailed list of all assets (e.g., homes, bank accounts, retirement funds) and debts (e.g., mortgages, loans, credit card balances).
- Details of the family issue: Provide a written summary of the situation, including key dates and facts related to your divorce, custody dispute, or support issue.
- Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions you have about the legal process, costs, and potential outcomes.
- Your goals: Be prepared to discuss your objectives, such as custody arrangements, property division, or spousal support, so the lawyer understands your priorities.
Being organized and clear about your situation will help the lawyer evaluate your case more effectively and offer the best advice for moving forward.
