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14 Jul, 2024 by John poulson
Elan is the consummate professional whose knowledge & experience shines through in his easy manner.
He was very helpful with our contract negotiations & closing & later our estate planning, offering sound advice & guidance & educating us along the way.
We will not hesitate to call upon his broad range of legal expertise if needed in future.
John & Lillian Poulson
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01 Jul, 2024 by Elissa erly
Easiest real estate transaction ever. Elan is so organized and pleasant to work with. He made the process clear with no last minute surprises. No stress!
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13 Jun, 2024 by Jill mihnovich
Elan made the difficult task of planning & understanding estate planning a smooth and comforting experience. No one likes to think of their demise but it's a necessary step in securing the future for our families. From the in home consultation, all the email exchanges with my questions, to the final document signing, the staff has always been extremely helpful and pleasant. I would not hesitate for one minute recommending their services to all our family and friends.
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18 Feb, 2022 by Maria
My husband and I hired Mr. Wurtzel for the closing of our house. It was a stressful time but the fact that he was responsive to our calls and emails and open to hearing our thoughts (the previous lawyer we used was not), made the process easier. He also has a calming temperment, which is VERY RARE from our experience, and he works efficiently. His years of experience were evident in his clear thinking and in his succint writing. We felt like we were in good hands so we also hired him for a separate deed transfer. His fees were very reasonable, especially for the amount of work he put in (the buyers were difficult and Mr. Wurtzel handled the additional negotations). I recommend this level-headed, hardworking, and kind lawyer.
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28 Sep, 2015 by June
Mr. Wurtzel handled an accident claim for me. His office was professional and made me feel like I was the only client. I am 100% satisfied with his law services.
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05 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous
100% satisfied. Mr Wurtzel negotiated a quick and easy settlement after my husband tripped and fell on an uprooted sidewalk, and cracked a rib. He took no money upfront, and was always personally available to take our calls.
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14 Jun, 2018 by Marsha
you need an attorney who will really listen to you. Adam represented me and in our first meeting I said that I wanted to take the path of least resistance. He was willing to do that with me but advised me, along the way, of best and worst case scenarios. His background in social work allowed him an unusual understanding of the human element involved. This was essential when my (now) ex-husband began to press for more and more by way of settlement. There were any number of times when I had to balance various emotions and practical decisions. Adam was there with me fully. He also worked effectively with my husband's attorney, when he finally chose to get one. The result: I am divorced and I have retained my sanity!
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25 Jul, 2012 by Michele
Rich Rodriguez has been my attorney for the past 3 years and I am extremely satisfied with his services. Rich has guided me throughout the daunting process of the launching of my two businesses. He has proven time and again to be the most knowledgeable and thorough attorney with whom I have ever worked. Any question I have, he has the correct answer. Any concern I have, he has the immediate solution. I have recommended his services to friends and family, and I will continue to do so. His care and concern for his clients is unparalleled. I am so happy that I have someone like Rich Rodriguez in my corner throughout the very important ventures in my life.
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18 Jan, 2021 by Yosef
Rima was really great and I recommend her for anyone needing help with an eviction. Rima was available all the time through the process and helped negotiate a deal with the tenant to avoid court at a time when the courts were closed during the pandemic. Her fees are very reasonable and honest.
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10 Dec, 2020 by Yosef
Rima was really great and I recommend her for anyone needing help with an eviction. Rima was available all the time through the process and helped negotiate a deal with the tenant to avoid court at a time when the courts were closed during the pandemic.
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17 Jun, 2018 by Natallia
Rima Nayberg was very easy to work with. She was available to answer all my questions and concerns at all times through out the whole case. The were no hidden fees or any unexpected surprises. Rima was upfront about all costs and what to expect. I am very pleased with the results. She handled my case highly professionally. If you need a lawyer you can trust, Rima is the one! Thank you!
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FAQs
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What a Family Law Lawyer Can Do for You
A family law lawyer provides legal services related to family relationships, including marriage, divorce, child custody, and adoption. Family lawyers help clients navigate emotionally charged legal issues, providing guidance and representation in disputes that affect spouses, children, and parents. Whether you're going through a divorce, seeking custody of your children, or drafting a prenuptial agreement, a family law lawyer ensures your rights are protected and your interests are represented.
Family law attorneys often handle sensitive matters and offer objective legal advice, helping clients reach fair outcomes either through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.
When Should I Hire a Family Law Lawyer?
Hiring a family law lawyer is beneficial in several situations, especially when legal matters involve close personal relationships. Common reasons to hire a family law lawyer include:
- Divorce or separation: When ending a marriage, a lawyer can help you navigate issues such as division of assets, spousal support, and child custody arrangements.
- Child custody and visitation disputes: If you and your co-parent can't agree on custody or visitation, a lawyer can represent your interests and work toward a solution that benefits your children.
- Child support: Whether you’re seeking child support or defending against a claim, a lawyer can help ensure the appropriate amount is calculated and enforced.
- Prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: A lawyer can help draft or review agreements that protect your assets in case of divorce.
- Adoption: Family law lawyers guide you through the legal process of adoption, ensuring that all requirements are met.
- Domestic violence or restraining orders: If you're a victim of domestic violence or being falsely accused, a lawyer can help you obtain or challenge protective orders.
- Paternity cases: If there are questions about the paternity of a child, a lawyer can help establish or dispute legal fatherhood.
Hiring a lawyer early can prevent issues from escalating, and they can offer you the best chance of achieving a favorable outcome in emotionally charged situations.
What Does a Family Law Lawyer Do?
A family law lawyer provides a wide range of services depending on your specific legal needs. Their responsibilities may include:
- Advising on legal rights and options: Helping you understand your legal rights regarding divorce, child custody, support, and other family law issues.
- Filing legal documents: Drafting and filing petitions, motions, and agreements with the court, such as divorce papers, custody agreements, or support orders.
- Representing clients in court: Arguing your case in front of a judge if a settlement can’t be reached through negotiation or mediation.
- Mediation and negotiation: Assisting with alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, to reach agreements on issues like custody, property division, and support without going to trial.
- Enforcing court orders: Helping you enforce court orders related to child support, alimony, or custody if the other party fails to comply.
- Drafting prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: Creating agreements that protect your assets in the event of a divorce.
- Handling adoption proceedings: Ensuring that the legal process of adoption is followed, from filing paperwork to finalizing the adoption in court.
How Are Family Law Lawyers Paid?
Family law lawyers typically charge clients in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Common payment arrangements include:
- Hourly rates: Most family lawyers charge by the hour, with rates varying based on experience and location. Clients are billed for the time spent working on their case, including consultations, court appearances, and document preparation.
- Flat fees: For more straightforward legal services, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, some lawyers offer flat-fee arrangements.
- Retainer fees: In cases that are expected to require significant time and attention, such as contentious custody battles, a lawyer may charge a retainer, which is an upfront payment that covers the initial costs of legal services. The lawyer then bills against the retainer as they work on your case.
The exact cost will depend on the complexity of your case and the lawyer’s fee structure, which should be discussed upfront.
How Much Does a Family Law Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a family law lawyer varies based on factors such as the lawyer's experience, the location, and the complexity of your case. Here are some general cost guidelines:
- Hourly rates: Family law lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour, depending on their experience and the complexity of the case.
- Flat fees: For simpler cases, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, fees may range from $1,000 to $5,000.
- Retainers: For more complex matters, such as contested divorces or custody battles, lawyers may charge a retainer ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 or more. The lawyer will bill against the retainer for the work they do on your case.
- Additional costs: You may also be responsible for additional costs, such as filing fees, mediation fees, or expert witness fees.
Always ask for a clear breakdown of the lawyer’s fees and any additional expenses during your consultation.
Top Questions to Ask a Family Law Lawyer
Before hiring a family law lawyer, it's important to ask questions to ensure they're the right fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:
-
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.
