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22 Aug, 2024 by Business is my new life
This is horrible do not use them I call them because my job did pay me everything I worked for so I this law office and the lawyer never returned my call they just told me they could not take my cause I had to call back do not use them
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21 Jun, 2024 by Laverne aniszewski
Aaron Sontz was a pleasure to work with. He handled our case very professionally and kept us informed and updated all along the way. Highly recommend his services
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17 Jun, 2024 by Erica m
I had the pleasure of working with Stephanie Solomon on my case, and the experience was nothing short of exceptional. Her responsiveness, meticulous attention to detail, and genuine commitment ensured a seamless process. Stephanie’s profound understanding of the law, through preparation, and strategic approach, were crucial in achieving a positive outcome. I highly recommend Stephanie to anyone in need of legal assistance. 10/10.
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22 Aug, 2024 by Business is my new life
This is horrible do not use them I call them because my job did pay me everything I worked for so I this law office and the lawyer never returned my call they just told me they could not take my cause I had to call back do not use them
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21 Jun, 2024 by Laverne aniszewski
Aaron Sontz was a pleasure to work with. He handled our case very professionally and kept us informed and updated all along the way. Highly recommend his services
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17 Jun, 2024 by Erica m
I had the pleasure of working with Stephanie Solomon on my case, and the experience was nothing short of exceptional. Her responsiveness, meticulous attention to detail, and genuine commitment ensured a seamless process. Stephanie’s profound understanding of the law, through preparation, and strategic approach, were crucial in achieving a positive outcome. I highly recommend Stephanie to anyone in need of legal assistance. 10/10.
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24 Aug, 2024 by Kira schrimpf
Over changed and some of the worst legal advice ever. Actually made my situation more difficult to navigate.
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19 Aug, 2024 by Carol hurley
Had a great experience with this law firm. Thank-you for helping me get custody of my grandchildren. They are safe and adjusting well. Thank you again for everything.
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07 Jul, 2024 by Elizabeth rollert
I would never recommend them to anyone. The charges are ridiculous and they did absolutely nothing and I spent $1200. I had to explain my case three times to 3 different lawyers. One of the partners showed up to my case unprepared. It was a phone conference hearing that lasted a total of 5 minutes. I should post my charges. My case was a support case. Really disappointed. Please do your research before hiring.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Sarah forney
An amazing guy to work with, you won't be disappointed! Very helpful & timely with responses. He is absolutely my first recommendation if you need these services!!!
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12 Aug, 2024 by Paige bowser
Mr. Michael J. Bruzzese In Allegheny county. If any one would ever need the best lawyer, this man is who I suggest to every one. He helped me through my whole entire process. Michael J Bruzzese is a very patient lawyer and also cares about his clients. He did not have to take me on as his client, but he believed in me. I highly recommend Mr. Michael J. Bruzzese.
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19 Jul, 2024 by Lisa blurton
Michael was very responsive with emails , and always answered phone calls . He made me feel at ease and it helped me to focus on other things while he took care of my case. I recommend Michael J Bruzzese, Attorney At Law. For his attention to details and quick responses to any questions I had and for his patience and understanding .
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10 May, 2024 by Adam petrun
There is so much chaos going on in Allegheny County with its property taxes, it's hard to make sense of it. I was unbelievably frustrated when the school district filed a base year appeal against my house, only for the appeal to be dragged out for two years, amidst several court cases going on about the legality of these types of appeals in the first place. Kevin helped save my sanity by making sense of this convoluted process and guiding me through it. I was impressed at how proactive he was at keeping track of developments and keeping me up to date. And his services were covered by a low flat fee. I am thankful he helped me through this process in the way he did.
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09 May, 2024 by Kobie crosley
I had an initial consultation with Kevin regarding an assessment appeal hearing that went very poorly. After I told Kevin I had submitted evidence prior to my assessment hearing he was inflexible and condescending. Rather than politely explaining why he was no longer able to help me because his firm takes an absolute position on their approach to these cases, he proceeded to lecture me about the ramifications of submitting evidence before a hearing. He acknowledged that other law firms will send evidence prior to these hearings which suggests that my reasonable action in following the instructions provided by the BPAAR in sending evidence before my hearing did not kill my case. Despite this, he rudely explained that there was nothing he could do.
I hadn't disclosed this prior to my call with Kevin, but I'm also a lawyer in the area and I was surprised by Kevin's unprofessional tone towards a potential client who was merely taking initiative in following the instructions provided by the BPAAR. I don't doubt Kevin's experience and ability to handle these matters. However, his condescending approach to client services were unprofessional and unnecessary.
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19 Jan, 2024 by Geoffrey allerton
Kevin helped us navigate an assessment appeal. He's extremely knowledgeable about the process, and did a great job explaining the process and went out of his way to keep us updated at every step. We're completely satisfied with the service he provided, and would wholeheartedly recommend him to assist with anyone's assessment appeal.
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08 May, 2024 by Brittany freeman
04 May, 2024 by R g
Highly professional and knowledgeable attorneys
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04 May, 2024 by Brandon maseth
These lawyers charge over $100,000 and lose at the Superior Court of Pennsylvania. Refer to case FD 17-001973. This law firm is less than 6 months old, and is what happens when 3 one-star attorneys attempt to make a partnership. If you want cheap legal services don't pay them more than $50 per hour. If you want to win, definitely find a better lawyer.
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21 May, 2024 by Shuichi fujimoto
Wonderful law firm
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31 Jul, 2023 by Some one
31 Jul, 2023 by A.k. bosco
04 Jan, 2023 by Jane doe
Amazing service! Everyone is very helpful and extremely attentive. 10/10 Highly Recommend!
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27 Jan, 2022 by Bryan j. paynther sr.
I was advised to contact this office, and I did. I was told that a lawyer from that office would be calling me back…it’s been exactly 30 calendar days and I have not received any calls from this office. I have left a few messages and decided to stop leaving them to see if they would call me back…still no calls. When I called today, the woman that I spoke with, when I asked if this happens regularly, advised that I must’ve “fallen off the lawyers radar”. Think I need to take my business elsewhere…
UPDATED: today is 2/8/22, after being contacted by this office on 12/27, the lawyer finally calls me after I’ve been served custody paper. He commences to speak to me in a very rude manner and raises his voice. This office has been less than professional in EVERY way. I wouldn’t recommend this office to my enemy!
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02 Nov, 2021 by Live your best life
Great experience Joseph was quick to get up to speed on my case with a court hearing in a couple of weeks time. Very satisfied with the outcome. Susan is very helpful too. Don’t hesitate to call them !
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08 May, 2024 by Brittany freeman
04 May, 2024 by R g
Highly professional and knowledgeable attorneys
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04 May, 2024 by Brandon maseth
These lawyers charge over $100,000 and lose at the Superior Court of Pennsylvania. Refer to case FD 17-001973. This law firm is less than 6 months old, and is what happens when 3 one-star attorneys attempt to make a partnership. If you want cheap legal services don't pay them more than $50 per hour. If you want to win, definitely find a better lawyer.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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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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
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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..
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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.
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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 !
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12 Jun, 2024 by Chris lucas
Salah Blaik was my attorney and did an excellent job with my case. He was always available to answer questions and handled hisself in the most professional of ways in winning my case. He is very knowledgeable and an effective attorney. Thanks for your help in my case. Gusty Sunseri & Associates is in my opinion the place to go for help.
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30 May, 2024 by Nic reich
16 May, 2024 by Amanda burkhart
I was fighting a losing battle against my mother for custody back of my son she had them for quite a few years and I had not the best background and it seemed like I was getting nowhere and there was no light at the end of the tunnel but then I found Salah Blaik and he helped me to finally reach the end of that tunnel and see the light. It took a little time and yes he is expensive but he is very much so worth every penny he takes the time out to get to know his clients their situation their family everything and is very honest with you and keeps you informed about everything covers all bases and puts the care and effort in to helping you. He got me custody back of my son and I couldn't be more ecstatic and grateful! I would recommend him to anybody who wants to make their family whole again.Thank you Salah Blaik for finally bringing my family back together again!
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15 Aug, 2024 by Sarah forney
An amazing guy to work with, you won't be disappointed! Very helpful & timely with responses. He is absolutely my first recommendation if you need these services!!!
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12 Aug, 2024 by Paige bowser
Mr. Michael J. Bruzzese In Allegheny county. If any one would ever need the best lawyer, this man is who I suggest to every one. He helped me through my whole entire process. Michael J Bruzzese is a very patient lawyer and also cares about his clients. He did not have to take me on as his client, but he believed in me. I highly recommend Mr. Michael J. Bruzzese.
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19 Jul, 2024 by Lisa blurton
Michael was very responsive with emails , and always answered phone calls . He made me feel at ease and it helped me to focus on other things while he took care of my case. I recommend Michael J Bruzzese, Attorney At Law. For his attention to details and quick responses to any questions I had and for his patience and understanding .
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15 Aug, 2024 by Sarah forney
An amazing guy to work with, you won't be disappointed! Very helpful & timely with responses. He is absolutely my first recommendation if you need these services!!!
Read more
12 Aug, 2024 by Paige bowser
Mr. Michael J. Bruzzese In Allegheny county. If any one would ever need the best lawyer, this man is who I suggest to every one. He helped me through my whole entire process. Michael J Bruzzese is a very patient lawyer and also cares about his clients. He did not have to take me on as his client, but he believed in me. I highly recommend Mr. Michael J. Bruzzese.
Read more
19 Jul, 2024 by Lisa blurton
Michael was very responsive with emails , and always answered phone calls . He made me feel at ease and it helped me to focus on other things while he took care of my case. I recommend Michael J Bruzzese, Attorney At Law. For his attention to details and quick responses to any questions I had and for his patience and understanding .
Read more
15 Aug, 2024 by Sarah forney
An amazing guy to work with, you won't be disappointed! Very helpful & timely with responses. He is absolutely my first recommendation if you need these services!!!
Read more
12 Aug, 2024 by Paige bowser
Mr. Michael J. Bruzzese In Allegheny county. If any one would ever need the best lawyer, this man is who I suggest to every one. He helped me through my whole entire process. Michael J Bruzzese is a very patient lawyer and also cares about his clients. He did not have to take me on as his client, but he believed in me. I highly recommend Mr. Michael J. Bruzzese.
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19 Jul, 2024 by Lisa blurton
Michael was very responsive with emails , and always answered phone calls . He made me feel at ease and it helped me to focus on other things while he took care of my case. I recommend Michael J Bruzzese, Attorney At Law. For his attention to details and quick responses to any questions I had and for his patience and understanding .
Read more
15 Aug, 2024 by Sarah forney
An amazing guy to work with, you won't be disappointed! Very helpful & timely with responses. He is absolutely my first recommendation if you need these services!!!
Read more
12 Aug, 2024 by Paige bowser
Mr. Michael J. Bruzzese In Allegheny county. If any one would ever need the best lawyer, this man is who I suggest to every one. He helped me through my whole entire process. Michael J Bruzzese is a very patient lawyer and also cares about his clients. He did not have to take me on as his client, but he believed in me. I highly recommend Mr. Michael J. Bruzzese.
Read more
19 Jul, 2024 by Lisa blurton
Michael was very responsive with emails , and always answered phone calls . He made me feel at ease and it helped me to focus on other things while he took care of my case. I recommend Michael J Bruzzese, Attorney At Law. For his attention to details and quick responses to any questions I had and for his patience and understanding .
Read more
25 Nov, 2023 by Fernando campos
Amazing experience. When I worked with lawyers in the past there were always really long meaningless conversations that didn't get us anywhere. On the other hand my interaction with Joyce & Bittner's firm was clear, concise & straight to the point.
Again, Thank you.
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02 Nov, 2023 by Dilmurod maxkamov
Best, lawyer, Anthony
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25 Jun, 2023 by Tavahn goods
Horrible couldn’t even help seem like he didn’t even want to talk
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12 Jun, 2024 by Chris lucas
Salah Blaik was my attorney and did an excellent job with my case. He was always available to answer questions and handled hisself in the most professional of ways in winning my case. He is very knowledgeable and an effective attorney. Thanks for your help in my case. Gusty Sunseri & Associates is in my opinion the place to go for help.
Read more
30 May, 2024 by Nic reich
16 May, 2024 by Amanda burkhart
I was fighting a losing battle against my mother for custody back of my son she had them for quite a few years and I had not the best background and it seemed like I was getting nowhere and there was no light at the end of the tunnel but then I found Salah Blaik and he helped me to finally reach the end of that tunnel and see the light. It took a little time and yes he is expensive but he is very much so worth every penny he takes the time out to get to know his clients their situation their family everything and is very honest with you and keeps you informed about everything covers all bases and puts the care and effort in to helping you. He got me custody back of my son and I couldn't be more ecstatic and grateful! I would recommend him to anybody who wants to make their family whole again.Thank you Salah Blaik for finally bringing my family back together again!
Read more
09 May, 2024 by Dedrian banks
Brent is awesome.
I needed him years and years ago, and ever since then I only know Brent.
Great guy.
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18 Apr, 2024 by Mark shankle
Finn helped me with 2 different cases. On both cases I was pleased with the outcome. Definitely a great lawyer.
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15 Feb, 2024 by Andrew m
Finn's expertise, effectiveness, and reliability are just some of the reasons why he is an excellent choice to have represent you as an attorney. He is experienced and understands how to ensure his clients get the best possible outcomes regardless of their situations. I am fortunate to have had him on my side in the past.
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21 Oct, 2024 by Darren “checkmate” maciunski
Melissa was the best, answered all my questions and put up with a pain in the but always asking and texting questions, I have dementia after 28 pro fights and so grateful I will get my money in a few days they told me, Darren
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18 Oct, 2024 by Tina r drenske
Attorney Monica Moore did the impossible for my brother when it came to him getting SSI after attempting to file and countless denials, Attorney Moore was able to get him SSI after his latest denial
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15 Oct, 2024 by Jamie sheesley
21 Oct, 2024 by Darren “checkmate” maciunski
Melissa was the best, answered all my questions and put up with a pain in the but always asking and texting questions, I have dementia after 28 pro fights and so grateful I will get my money in a few days they told me, Darren
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18 Oct, 2024 by Tina r drenske
Attorney Monica Moore did the impossible for my brother when it came to him getting SSI after attempting to file and countless denials, Attorney Moore was able to get him SSI after his latest denial
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15 Oct, 2024 by Jamie sheesley
24 Mar, 2024 by Theresa michalski
I know this attorney from personal experience/co workers!
She is pure awful! greedy!
And unconditional!
As a family law attorney!
Who pushed so much against the children and the dad involved that the kid was left more then traumatized, and now backwards as an adult!!
It’s not even funny how much she is against all sides when her pockets are involved!
She is not someone I would recommend to babysit my hamsters rights!
This individual is just awful as a human being!!
She doesn’t think of the incident children are either party!!
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05 Jan, 2024 by Ed verrilla
24 Jan, 2023 by Kristin hermann
Warm, inviting And knowledgeable definitely recommend her
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Family Law Lawyer Can Do for You
A family law lawyer provides legal services related to family relationships, including marriage, divorce, child custody, and adoption. Family lawyers help clients navigate emotionally charged legal issues, providing guidance and representation in disputes that affect spouses, children, and parents. Whether you're going through a divorce, seeking custody of your children, or drafting a prenuptial agreement, a family law lawyer ensures your rights are protected and your interests are represented.
Family law attorneys often handle sensitive matters and offer objective legal advice, helping clients reach fair outcomes either through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.
When Should I Hire a Family Law Lawyer?
Hiring a family law lawyer is beneficial in several situations, especially when legal matters involve close personal relationships. Common reasons to hire a family law lawyer include:
- Divorce or separation: When ending a marriage, a lawyer can help you navigate issues such as division of assets, spousal support, and child custody arrangements.
- Child custody and visitation disputes: If you and your co-parent can't agree on custody or visitation, a lawyer can represent your interests and work toward a solution that benefits your children.
- Child support: Whether you’re seeking child support or defending against a claim, a lawyer can help ensure the appropriate amount is calculated and enforced.
- Prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: A lawyer can help draft or review agreements that protect your assets in case of divorce.
- Adoption: Family law lawyers guide you through the legal process of adoption, ensuring that all requirements are met.
- Domestic violence or restraining orders: If you're a victim of domestic violence or being falsely accused, a lawyer can help you obtain or challenge protective orders.
- Paternity cases: If there are questions about the paternity of a child, a lawyer can help establish or dispute legal fatherhood.
Hiring a lawyer early can prevent issues from escalating, and they can offer you the best chance of achieving a favorable outcome in emotionally charged situations.
What Does a Family Law Lawyer Do?
A family law lawyer provides a wide range of services depending on your specific legal needs. Their responsibilities may include:
- Advising on legal rights and options: Helping you understand your legal rights regarding divorce, child custody, support, and other family law issues.
- Filing legal documents: Drafting and filing petitions, motions, and agreements with the court, such as divorce papers, custody agreements, or support orders.
- Representing clients in court: Arguing your case in front of a judge if a settlement can’t be reached through negotiation or mediation.
- Mediation and negotiation: Assisting with alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, to reach agreements on issues like custody, property division, and support without going to trial.
- Enforcing court orders: Helping you enforce court orders related to child support, alimony, or custody if the other party fails to comply.
- Drafting prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: Creating agreements that protect your assets in the event of a divorce.
- Handling adoption proceedings: Ensuring that the legal process of adoption is followed, from filing paperwork to finalizing the adoption in court.
How Are Family Law Lawyers Paid?
Family law lawyers typically charge clients in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Common payment arrangements include:
- Hourly rates: Most family lawyers charge by the hour, with rates varying based on experience and location. Clients are billed for the time spent working on their case, including consultations, court appearances, and document preparation.
- Flat fees: For more straightforward legal services, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, some lawyers offer flat-fee arrangements.
- Retainer fees: In cases that are expected to require significant time and attention, such as contentious custody battles, a lawyer may charge a retainer, which is an upfront payment that covers the initial costs of legal services. The lawyer then bills against the retainer as they work on your case.
The exact cost will depend on the complexity of your case and the lawyer’s fee structure, which should be discussed upfront.
How Much Does a Family Law Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a family law lawyer varies based on factors such as the lawyer's experience, the location, and the complexity of your case. Here are some general cost guidelines:
- Hourly rates: Family law lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour, depending on their experience and the complexity of the case.
- Flat fees: For simpler cases, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, fees may range from $1,000 to $5,000.
- Retainers: For more complex matters, such as contested divorces or custody battles, lawyers may charge a retainer ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 or more. The lawyer will bill against the retainer for the work they do on your case.
- Additional costs: You may also be responsible for additional costs, such as filing fees, mediation fees, or expert witness fees.
Always ask for a clear breakdown of the lawyer’s fees and any additional expenses during your consultation.
Top Questions to Ask a Family Law Lawyer
Before hiring a family law lawyer, it's important to ask questions to ensure they're the right fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:
-
What experience do you have with family law cases like mine?
Make sure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it's a contested divorce, child custody dispute, or adoption. -
How will you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, a flat fee, or requires a retainer. Ask for an estimate of the total costs involved. -
What are the possible outcomes of my case?
An experienced lawyer should be able to give you a general idea of what to expect based on the facts of your case. -
What is your approach to resolving disputes?
Ask whether the lawyer tends to favor negotiation and mediation or whether they prefer to take cases to court. This can help you determine if their style matches your goals. -
How long do you expect my case to take?
While it’s difficult to predict, the lawyer should give you an estimate based on similar cases. -
Who will be handling my case?
In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may do much of the work, so make sure you understand who will be your main point of contact.
How to Check the Credibility of a Family Law Lawyer
To ensure you're hiring a reputable family law lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and reputation:
- Check state bar association records: Verify that the lawyer is licensed to practice in your state and is in good standing with no disciplinary actions.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on websites like Avvo, Google, or Martindale-Hubbell. Previous clients can give you insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and success in family law cases.
- Request references: Ask the lawyer for references from past clients who can speak to their experience with the lawyer.
- Review their website or professional profile: Look at the lawyer’s background, case history, and areas of focus to ensure they have substantial experience in family law.
- Look for professional memberships: Membership in reputable organizations, such as the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), can indicate a lawyer's expertise and dedication to family law.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a family law lawyer, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what you should bring:
- Relevant documents: Bring any documents related to your case, such as marriage certificates, prenuptial agreements, financial records, custody agreements, or court orders.
- List of assets and debts: For divorce cases, prepare a detailed list of all assets (e.g., homes, bank accounts, retirement funds) and debts (e.g., mortgages, loans, credit card balances).
- Details of the family issue: Provide a written summary of the situation, including key dates and facts related to your divorce, custody dispute, or support issue.
- Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions you have about the legal process, costs, and potential outcomes.
- Your goals: Be prepared to discuss your objectives, such as custody arrangements, property division, or spousal support, so the lawyer understands your priorities.
Being organized and clear about your situation will help the lawyer evaluate your case more effectively and offer the best advice for moving forward.
