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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
31 May, 2024 by Lauren
I had such an excellent experience using Rosen Family Law Group. Rebecca went above and beyond and made the whole process very easy.
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20 Feb, 2024 by Pieve dicento
Avram Rosen is an excellent listener and helped to take the edge off a very stressful situation. He is efficient and helped to resolve my case sooner than expected. He let me have control of my decisions, but I followed his advice to be patient in one instance when I normally would have rushed. This resulted in a better outcome for me, for which I am grateful--PG
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19 Jan, 2024 by Terrie gample
Rebecca was very helpful through my divorce process. And I should mention Stacey as well since she helped me with several questions along the way. Avram and Curtis also played parts. It was a good enough experience for an unpleasant situation.
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05 Feb, 2024 by Connor gagel
I hired Amanda for a non contested divorce. I originally hired a scam artist that said he was a lawyer, that also charged double what Cook charges, and got fed up after months of hearing excuse after excuse as well as silenced phone calls. I ended up talking to my father who referred me to Amanda. Amanda immediately picked up my case and got the mess from the previous lawyer all cleaned up and filed correctly. Not only was she super professional she handled my case with a sense of urgency. Amanda returned my phone calls and emails the same day often times calling me right back. All in all my divorce was completed within a couple of months and I am very happy with Cook law. I would recommend this firm to anyone seeking legal help. She even gave me a tip on how to resolve and get my retainer amount back from the previous lawyer.
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21 Dec, 2023 by Brian gierczynski
I have known Amanda for a number of years and when my own personal situation arose I knew there was no one else I would call. From the first consultation Amanda was responsive and helpful. That continued through the entire process. She is a consummate professional and is an expert in her field. I don't wish divorce on anyone, but if you find yourself in that position, you will find no greater ally than Amanda. I am extremely grateful for all of her time and attention and I'll happily recommend her to anyone in need.
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16 Dec, 2023 by Robert scholl
Amanda Cook is a true professional. Extremely capable, expedient, and knowledgeable!
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12 Oct, 2022 by Kathy
I can not say enough about how wonderful Ashley is. I went through a very rough divorce. If it wasn’t for Ashley there were times I would have lost my mind. Ashley was always available for me whenever I needed to talk or had questions. I highly recommend her and would not hesitate to use her again. I will never be able to thank her enough!
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01 Oct, 2022 by Tony c
I was referred to Ashley after my first attorney had strung me along for 2 1/2yrs. Ashley took over my divorce and got it done in less than a year. Ashley was always available and made things convenient for me and my schedule. I would not hesitate to use Ashley to handle any legal matter I have.
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23 Aug, 2022 by Jordan
This woman has done more to help me than I can even express. Ashley goes above and beyond. She's knowledgeable, responsive, kind and absolutely the best attorney that I've ever hired. Thank you again.
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26 Jul, 2024 by Ssg
This law firm’s website is coming up as “Insecure” on Google. As for our review:
We were included in a mediation, fact finding conference in which Atty Christie Wells, from Lesko Law firm, represented, what turned out to be the opposing side. It was not supposed to be an adversarial telephone conference but Christie Wells started it that way and never stopped. Atty Wells overtalked everyone, did not allow any questions to be asked or full comments to be made. The real client, behind disagreeing parents, was a young child’s welfare. We were not the parents, but neutrals who had largely raised the young child interested only in the best future of this child. BE AWARE: Atty Wells was not interested in mediation, the truth, fact-finding or best interests of the child. She purposely used inflammatory statements and words to debase and misconstrue innocent situations and us personally. If she saw that a comment hurt or struck a negative cord she dug in deeper and deeper until any hope of mediation was lost. In fact, the end result was this: Atty Wells succeeded only in derailing any progress both parties had made previously. Her only goal became very apparent: destroy all chance of mediation. Score a win for her client. Truth did not matter. The young child’s interests were not even discussed. The mediation conference was stopped with no one having talked for 30 minutes except Atty Wells. This law firm uses the word zealous many, many times when describing their representation of their clients. Over-Zealous Decimation of any positive progress made between both parties is more accurate. More money was made (lucre) by attorneys on both sides due to Atty Wells’ tactics during this mediation conference. In any PA attorney’s oath are the words “ fidelity…. will use no falsehood, nor delay the cause of any person for lucre or malice.”
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06 Mar, 2024 by Kelly muthler
Debbie and her team were kind, professional, respectful, and accommodating while working with us through our pre-nup agreement. She answered our many questions and provided thorough counsel, helping us understand the agreement's language. Debbie will be our first call for family law or mediation needs in the future.
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26 Feb, 2024 by Angelica d
Deborah was professional, responsive and diligent throughout my experience working with her. She provided honest, strong and direct guidance when I needed it most. She was understanding of my emotions during the stress of legal proceedings and I am positive she cared about me as a client. I felt I had representation that was not intimidated or allowed me to be bullied.
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28 Feb, 2017 by Margaret
I would recommend Cindy Trellis Bernstein without hesitation. Cindy handled my divorce case (no children) more than 20 years ago. There was a complicated settlement, which Cindy handled with utmost skill. Many years later I had occasion to hire Cindy again to handle a dispute regarding the divorce settlement. She was even more impressive, if that's possible. Her knowledge of the law, professionalism, attention to detail, response time, and ethics are beyond expectations. I was impressed by her treatment of the opposing attorney as well as the understanding of the case. I would not want to be on the other side of the table from Cindy Bernstein. Recommend highly.
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20 Sep, 2016 by Anonymous
I hired Cindy, after being unhappy with more than one previous attorney. What I really liked and appreciated was the fact that Cindy was always on my side, through some very difficult divorce, custody and support proceedings. She was very compassionate to my circumstances and reassuring through her impressive knowledge of not only the law, but of the local legal surroundings as well. She continues to assist to this day and remains extremely professional and responsive to ongoing issues and needs. I would highly recommend Cindy to anyone going through similar and difficult family issues.
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26 Apr, 2016 by Sb
I had the fortune of working with Cindy Bernstein several years ago for divorce and custody issues. To say that my case was a difficult one, is a true understatement. Through it all, Cindy approached every situation with the utmost professionalism and ethical fortitude. She was a true beacon of hope for me and my daughter. She always focused on my daughter's best interest, her safety, and her overall well being. Today my daughter is a vibrant, happy, well-adjusted young lady, all of which would have been possible without the hard-work, dedication, and compassion of Cindy. It is without hesitation, that I recommend Cindy Bernstein!
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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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31 May, 2024 by Eric buzard
11 Apr, 2024 by Stacy henderson
Mr. Paletta has gone above and beyond for me from day one. While working as a nurse, I gave a patient a narcotic, but forgot to sign in the computer that I had administered it, eventhough I had signed it out of the book, I was fired and charged with theft. I was referred to a criminal attorney, he wasn't familiar with the nursing board and long story short, unintentionally, made the situation worse, at that point, the state board suspended my license. That attorney then referred me to Mr. Paletta. Frankly, at that time, I had no faith in attorneys and wasn't really interested in hiring another one. But, I made the phone call. From the moment he answered the phone, Mr. Paletta put me at ease, he is extremely knowledgeable, especially when it pertains to medical and nursing licenses and the boards, he's compassionate, kind-hearted, and a truly good, and noble person. He worked with me on a payment plan I was able to do, he went to work immediately on my case, and frankly, my license was returned to me far quicker than I thought would be possible. He's very responsive, he explains things thoroughly but doesn't talk down to his clients. He made me feel "heard" at a time when I had just about given up hope. I would recommend him to anyone, he truly is the best there is. I have a matter in family court and Mr. Paletta not only recommended a family attorney but he made adjustments in my payment plan to facilitate my being able to retain her, i dont know of any other professional who would do that, his kindness has restored my faith in people. I can't recommend Mr. Paletta enough, if I could give him more stars I would.
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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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10 Oct, 2024 by Marion yothers
09 Oct, 2024 by Elizabeth sullender
Guided me through the process and stayed on top of everything. I was very pleased with their service.
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07 Oct, 2024 by Kingzora27
Very helpful and patient with me when it took me longer than it should have to be able to get to where I needed, answered every question. had very quick on response and overall a fantastic experience. I would recommend them to anyone going through the same situation I was doing. Keep up the great work and thank you very much
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10 Oct, 2024 by Marion yothers
09 Oct, 2024 by Elizabeth sullender
Guided me through the process and stayed on top of everything. I was very pleased with their service.
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07 Oct, 2024 by Kingzora27
Very helpful and patient with me when it took me longer than it should have to be able to get to where I needed, answered every question. had very quick on response and overall a fantastic experience. I would recommend them to anyone going through the same situation I was doing. Keep up the great work and thank you very much
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22 Dec, 2022 by Christine seymour (chris)
15 Dec, 2021 by Jon cable
They didn’t do the work asked. Took my money and ran. Won’t even make it correct! Even when told I would pay more to get them to finish the job they never finished! They used a intern to try and file my papa. Who did zero work! I provided all paperwork they did zero other than take my money!
Very poor quality work!
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09 Jan, 2021 by Craig alderman
I haven't known the firm a long time but a friend recommended Vince and I would use him and the firm for all our needs for the present and in the many years to come.
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31 May, 2024 by Lauren
I had such an excellent experience using Rosen Family Law Group. Rebecca went above and beyond and made the whole process very easy.
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20 Feb, 2024 by Pieve dicento
Avram Rosen is an excellent listener and helped to take the edge off a very stressful situation. He is efficient and helped to resolve my case sooner than expected. He let me have control of my decisions, but I followed his advice to be patient in one instance when I normally would have rushed. This resulted in a better outcome for me, for which I am grateful--PG
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19 Jan, 2024 by Terrie gample
Rebecca was very helpful through my divorce process. And I should mention Stacey as well since she helped me with several questions along the way. Avram and Curtis also played parts. It was a good enough experience for an unpleasant situation.
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30 Sep, 2024 by Jim ogden
5 Stars for having such a beautiful building. It looks like the office of Sherlock Holmes
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08 Aug, 2024 by Susan cocco
Elizabeth and Julie are amazing. I felt so confident with them . They don’t mess around they know what they’re doing . I would recommend them 100% Their great people
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17 Jul, 2024 by Kendrick greene
Julie was amazing and aggressive and if you have ever dealt with family division Allegheny county it's not friendly or fair without representation.
She 100% levelled the playing field. And she will represent me until my son is 18 highly recommended.
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08 Oct, 2024 by Mikhail istomin
Attorney Tara Hutchinson and the entire team at the Pittsburgh Family Law Services are knowledgeable, welcoming, and caring. Highly recommended for any and all family law services from adoptions and custody to divorce, prenuptial agreements and estate planning. If you are looking for experienced and very effective legal representation in Pittsburgh, this family law firm is your answer.
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13 Jul, 2024 by Anita l
Tara is a true professional that cares about her clients. Highly recommend working with her.
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02 Apr, 2024 by Kamil boryszewski
I recently worked with Attorney Tara L. Hutchinson to address my marriage agreement. Tara reviewed my case and was detail-oriented from the very first consultation. She took the time to understand my specific situation and needs, and made sure the agreement addressed everything thoroughly. She even went above and beyond to contact my lawyer in another country! I couldn't be happier with the experience.
Her guidance and knowledge gave me great peace of mind throughout the process. Thanks to Tara's professionalism and expertise, I feel confident that the agreement is fair and comprehensive. Thank you for being patient with me throughout the process!
If you're looking for a lawyer to handle your case, I highly recommend Tara and PGH Family Law Services, P.C.
~Dorota B.
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26 Jan, 2024 by Me lee
My daughter searched for an attorney to represent her in a child custody case. We are so glad to have found John. He's an excellent attorney. He's very knowledgeable and personable. He took the time to explain the process to her and gave her advice that will benefit her currently and in the future. In addition to being an excellent attorney, he's reasonable. John is a Godsend.
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23 Nov, 2023 by Alberta stockdill
John Foster is absolutely amazing. He is very knowledgeable and works with you through the whole process he fights tooth and nail for his clients. He is very reasonably priced as well.
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19 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
I gave him an average rating only because he did get the job done after months and months of back n forth emails and a lot of ignoring my emails, if he didn't know what I meant in my emails he would just ignore them instead of asking me, seems like he procrastinated a lot... But at the end he did get my case handled except at the end I had to beg for my remaining retainer back, I seen a disciplinary board online about him which I still took my chances with him being he was one of the cheapest attorneys around... But take this review as you will and make your own choice on hiring mr. john foster...!
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10 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
Started off promising the case he was hired for was simple and straight forward. Communication was non existent no response to emails or phone messages. 90% of the time there was no answer from anyone at his office. In the end had to hire another lawyer.
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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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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
03 Sep, 2024 by G mascioli
Leeches are segmented worms that are closely related to earthworms. They are considered parasitic and have soft bodies…. This describes this law firm perfectly.
Stay FAR away.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Bryant
07 Aug, 2024 by Yvette deluise
Christina was wonderful to speak with and very professional. She always answered all of my questions quickly and always made me feel that I had made the right decision. She is willing to fight for your rights and succeeds in doing so. I was very happy with the outcome of my case and would 100% work with her again (although I hope I never have to because I’ve learned my lesson on cars and shoddy dealerships).
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4.4
92 Reviews
03 Sep, 2024 by G mascioli
Leeches are segmented worms that are closely related to earthworms. They are considered parasitic and have soft bodies…. This describes this law firm perfectly.
Stay FAR away.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Bryant
07 Aug, 2024 by Yvette deluise
Christina was wonderful to speak with and very professional. She always answered all of my questions quickly and always made me feel that I had made the right decision. She is willing to fight for your rights and succeeds in doing so. I was very happy with the outcome of my case and would 100% work with her again (although I hope I never have to because I’ve learned my lesson on cars and shoddy dealerships).
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03 Sep, 2024 by G mascioli
Leeches are segmented worms that are closely related to earthworms. They are considered parasitic and have soft bodies…. This describes this law firm perfectly.
Stay FAR away.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Bryant
07 Aug, 2024 by Yvette deluise
Christina was wonderful to speak with and very professional. She always answered all of my questions quickly and always made me feel that I had made the right decision. She is willing to fight for your rights and succeeds in doing so. I was very happy with the outcome of my case and would 100% work with her again (although I hope I never have to because I’ve learned my lesson on cars and shoddy dealerships).
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03 Sep, 2024 by G mascioli
Leeches are segmented worms that are closely related to earthworms. They are considered parasitic and have soft bodies…. This describes this law firm perfectly.
Stay FAR away.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Bryant
07 Aug, 2024 by Yvette deluise
Christina was wonderful to speak with and very professional. She always answered all of my questions quickly and always made me feel that I had made the right decision. She is willing to fight for your rights and succeeds in doing so. I was very happy with the outcome of my case and would 100% work with her again (although I hope I never have to because I’ve learned my lesson on cars and shoddy dealerships).
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01 Mar, 2024 by Swagg nation
20 Sep, 2023 by Tanisha long
04 Jul, 2023 by Ashley askew
My dad has a family court case Mr. Al Reese took up himself. He consulted with me for over an hour. His team communicated with my dad and myself consistently. My dad's case has not commenced as of yet, however, either way it goes I highly recommend Mr. Reese and his legal team for all your family court need. Just the consideration to our case and willingness to accept payment plan options outside of his normal business hours. Mr. Reese even came to my dad's home to consult with him after hours. I am so grateful for the care along the way. Nothing like other lawyer firms such as Darbouze Law group which basically robbed my dad blind and is very blatantly taking advantage of those who are weakened because of their lack of legal knowledge. Thank you AGR Law for cleaning up Darbouze mess and regaining our faith in the representation available for our community. Family court cases, choose AGR Law today!
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5.0
18 Reviews
2.2
5 Reviews
29 Nov, 2022 by Moms justice
Dan Glasser isn't a good lawyer. I do NOT recommend him. He wasn't prepared for the trial. He yells at his own clients during the trial in front of everyone. He is very arrogant and thus isn't very effective lawyer. When you first talk to him, he presents himself as a very good lawyer but very soon you'll realize that it's just a show and in reality he isn't good.
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17 Mar, 2020 by Connie casne
We got an appointment with Mr. Glasser one week after I called. He was very thorough and told us what to expect as well as how we were going proceed. He took down all the information about the case and told us the cost of his retainer. Once he received the retainer, he got right on the case and everything was filed at courts within a week. He take such good care of their clients.
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24 Feb, 2020 by Jenna
Meghan not only helped represent me in an ugly custody battle once but twice. She learned as much as possible about our case and did hours of work to prepare for our extremely long and stressful trial dates. She did an exceptional job of sticking to the facts and calling issues to the judges attention that most would miss. For me she wasn’t just an attorney, she helped me keep custody of my beautiful children!
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23 Mar, 2024 by Michael klawansky
14 Nov, 2023 by Marshall woodley
They are incredible, highly motivated attorneys relentless for their clients.
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14 Sep, 2023 by Chris c
Overpriced. Not transparent with pricing until case is closed.
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01 Jul, 2023 by Jeanne maier
Good reputation and very knowledgeable
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06 Nov, 2022 by Harry mulder
Great Law firm and staff.
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09 Aug, 2022 by Jessica lewis
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
27 Jun, 2024 by Denise ormeño
I been trying to talk to them since February every time I call the assistant writes my info and tell me okey “I put urgent and that they will call you back”now is to late to sue my work 😡😡 Worst lawyer
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13 May, 2024 by Bre nace
Helped me get a nice cash settlement rather quick! Would definitely use this company again in the future if I dealt with another lemon. They were super helpful throughout the entire process and kept us informed every step of the way.
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10 Apr, 2024 by Valerie wallace collier
11 Oct, 2024 by Cindy wolff
02 Oct, 2024 by Max saybel
04 Sep, 2024 by Debbie franco
I love that they respond the same day to you. I am very satisfied with legal shield.
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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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31 May, 2024 by Eric buzard
11 Apr, 2024 by Stacy henderson
Mr. Paletta has gone above and beyond for me from day one. While working as a nurse, I gave a patient a narcotic, but forgot to sign in the computer that I had administered it, eventhough I had signed it out of the book, I was fired and charged with theft. I was referred to a criminal attorney, he wasn't familiar with the nursing board and long story short, unintentionally, made the situation worse, at that point, the state board suspended my license. That attorney then referred me to Mr. Paletta. Frankly, at that time, I had no faith in attorneys and wasn't really interested in hiring another one. But, I made the phone call. From the moment he answered the phone, Mr. Paletta put me at ease, he is extremely knowledgeable, especially when it pertains to medical and nursing licenses and the boards, he's compassionate, kind-hearted, and a truly good, and noble person. He worked with me on a payment plan I was able to do, he went to work immediately on my case, and frankly, my license was returned to me far quicker than I thought would be possible. He's very responsive, he explains things thoroughly but doesn't talk down to his clients. He made me feel "heard" at a time when I had just about given up hope. I would recommend him to anyone, he truly is the best there is. I have a matter in family court and Mr. Paletta not only recommended a family attorney but he made adjustments in my payment plan to facilitate my being able to retain her, i dont know of any other professional who would do that, his kindness has restored my faith in people. I can't recommend Mr. Paletta enough, if I could give him more stars I would.
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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.
