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Danielle Fenichel, experienced Family Law, Real Estate attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 6 reviews
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28,55
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4.2/5
Avvo
4.2
6 Reviews
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17 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
I tried to contact her but good luck she don’t call you unless you go in and make a complaint. So she not helping don’t expect it from her either I had to hit the consulted but we did. She just said we will meet at court
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10 Jan, 2018 by Shirley
It was an absolute pleasure having Danielle represent me during my divorce matter. Meeting her the first time for consultation was quite comfortable, she was easy to talk to and she patiently listened to all my concerns. I immediately decided to hire her and don't regret it. She was knowledgeable, super constructive and accommodating throughout the entire process; every step of my case was reviewed, discussed and all my emails/questions were immediately answered. If you are in need of a lawyer, look no further. I highly recommend Danielle Fenichel for the job. You will not be disappointed. P.S. Super affordable!!
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03 Dec, 2015 by Jennifer
Danielle was amazing! She was extremely understanding and handled my case extremely well for my son and I. She always kept the best interest of my child in mind and frequently has shown that in the court room. I would highly recommend her to anyone and everyone!
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Jonna M. Spilbor, experienced Car Accident, Criminal Defense attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 95 reviews
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28,47
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4.2/5
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4.2
95 Reviews
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29 Mar, 2024 by Amy santiago
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29 Mar, 2024 by Abbie rippey
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29 Mar, 2024 by Joseph aiello
Absolutely the best attorney!!!
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Osaruwense Igunbor, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 38 reviews
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26,81
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4.5/5
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4.5
38 Reviews
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29 Oct, 2024 by Rita mora
Excelente cervicio y muy honesto,OSA te dice si puede haber un caso o que se puede hacer es muy honesto y realmente te habla con la verdad lo recomiendo a quien busque un buen abogado de emigración o abogado criminal es muy bueno,a mi me ayudó mucho y me dio opciones de pagos LO RECOMIENDO
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19 Aug, 2024 by Desmond o enaboifo
I was trying to complete the Naturalization process for my three kids and the USCIS were giving me the run around. First I filed the N400 which was the right process since they were minor when I became a US citizen. They rejected the application for reasons best know to them. I waited for them to be adults and they filed the N600 and USCIS said the kids were not supposed to file N600 and they should go and file the N400. This got me really frustrated, we know they don't refund and we know how expensive these applications are for three kids and a struggling immigrant. It was eating deep into my lean purse. I decided to go online and look for an immigration lawyer that covers my county. I called a few and they wanted me to register before they could do a virtual meeting for to discuss my problems. I wanted to talk to someone and the I found the office of Igunbor with office in Poughkeepsie and Newburgh. I called and he gave me an appointment the following day without a few. I went to see him and told me there was nothing wrong with what I done, but he he would do one or two things differently and my kids case will a forgotten issue. Five months later all my kids are now naturalized citizens via the N600. I kept to his words and he did what he said he was going to do. The fun part of it is that, I am even the one chasing him so I can pay up the balance 😀😀😀. I will recommend him to anyone within the NYS that help with immigration lawyer.
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29 Jan, 2024 by Patrick burke
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Kelley M Enderley, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 4 reviews
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24,09
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4.0/5
Avvo
4.0
4 Reviews
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19 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
Kelley Enderley is very intelligent, caring and awesome! She gave my daughter and I our "peace of mind" back. Kelley was very thorough and worked diligently on my case from the very beginning until the very end. My case, in particular, was a very long and difficult case. Kelley kept me well informed for the duration of my case and responded to any questions and concerns I had in a timely fashion. I strongly believe that Kelley's legal expertise coupled with her passion for the law and her clients' best interests is what makes her stand out above all the rest and shine brightly. My daughter and I will forever be grateful to Kelley for giving us our lives back. We appreciate Kelley Enderley and she truly is passionate and fearless!
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28 Mar, 2014 by Anonymous
After having a nice conversation with Kelley on the phone, I agreed to hire her for a moving violation matter. She seem competent and pleasant. She emailed the retainer documents right away. I had a question about something pertaining to the documents, and emailed her back. No response. Tried again. No response. I called. No response. Finally gave up on this mystifying flake and went with another attorney who worked out great.
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24 Nov, 2013 by Anonymous
Kelley Enderley has been my attorney for about 2 years in an ongoing custody battle. Friendly, worked w/me financially by giving me discounts & letting me make payments. I am so grateful for all she has done for me & my family!!! Also, her assistant Stephanie is friendly & helpful.
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Heather Lynn Kitchen, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 4 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
24,09
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4.0/5
Avvo
4.0
4 Reviews
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03 Mar, 2019 by Elizabeth
We've used Heather Kitchen for years. She did my son's divorce, my guardianship in family court and recently did our wills. She is knowledgeable about all aspects our cases, so helpful and compassionate. She held our hand through every step of the process and made us feel extremely comfortable. We were extremely happy with the results in all our cases. I constantly recommend her and will continue to do so!!!! If you hire her you will be extremely happy you did so!
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23 Feb, 2019 by Juliet
I Highly recommend Heather Kitchen. Thankfully I was refer to Heather Kitchen by a family member after I was taking advantage of and screw over by Steven Klein & Associates. The staff at Heather Kitchen law firm was able to correct and coordinate all the damage that was initially done by Steven Klein. I was able to work with Heather Kitchen and her team to put together an actual plan on how to positively pursue the completion of my pending divorce. I was met with empathy and kindness. Heather Kitchen and her staff were professional, hands-on, reactive, supportive, direct and clear. When my case needed added attention and clarity, there were no delay, when I was in need of a stern voice of advocacy they were there for me. I never felt like I was being taken advantage of or as if billing was the priority. Heather Kitchen immediately response to my email and is attentive to my concerns. More importantly she kept me focused and my eyes towards the end goal. In the end I realize this is the most important trait in a divorce attorney. The paralegal Debbie Stinson always got my messages to her and got back to me in a timely manner, produced concise documents and made sure I was given copies and was in general extremely competent before and leading up to the trial. In the end Heather Kitchen secured a settlement that I was extremely pleased with. I highly recommend the law office of Heather Kitchen for all of your matrimonial and family law needs. You won’t be disappointed.
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19 Feb, 2019 by Anonymous
Heather was great with my case. She was detail oriented, professional and courteous. She got the right results.
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Kyle William Barnett, experienced Family Law, Government attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 12 reviews
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24,01
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4.0/5
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4.0
12 Reviews
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16 Jun, 2021 by Amy bombardieri
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18 May, 2021 by Andrea bader
I highly recommend working with them.
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18 Oct, 2020 by Gina spagnoli
We used this form for our house closing and both Marty and Becky went above and beyond. They were extremely attentive and very quick to respond. They walked us through the entire process from beginning to end ! I would recommend them in a heart beat!
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James Edward Nelson, experienced Family Law, Real Estate attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 12 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
24,01
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4.0/5
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4.0
12 Reviews
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16 Jun, 2021 by Amy bombardieri
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18 May, 2021 by Andrea bader
I highly recommend working with them.
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18 Oct, 2020 by Gina spagnoli
We used this form for our house closing and both Marty and Becky went above and beyond. They were extremely attentive and very quick to respond. They walked us through the entire process from beginning to end ! I would recommend them in a heart beat!
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John Karl Gifford, experienced Estate Planning, Family Law attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 12 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
24,01
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4.0/5
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4.0
12 Reviews
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16 Jun, 2021 by Amy bombardieri
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18 May, 2021 by Andrea bader
I highly recommend working with them.
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18 Oct, 2020 by Gina spagnoli
We used this form for our house closing and both Marty and Becky went above and beyond. They were extremely attentive and very quick to respond. They walked us through the entire process from beginning to end ! I would recommend them in a heart beat!
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Gerard John Comatos, experienced Family Law, Real Estate attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 12 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
24,01
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4.0/5
Google Maps
4.0
12 Reviews
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16 Jun, 2021 by Amy bombardieri
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18 May, 2021 by Andrea bader
I highly recommend working with them.
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18 Oct, 2020 by Gina spagnoli
We used this form for our house closing and both Marty and Becky went above and beyond. They were extremely attentive and very quick to respond. They walked us through the entire process from beginning to end ! I would recommend them in a heart beat!
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Jeffrey S. Battistoni, experienced Elder Law, Family Law attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 12 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
24,01
star star star star star
4.0/5
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4.0
12 Reviews
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16 Jun, 2021 by Amy bombardieri
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18 May, 2021 by Andrea bader
I highly recommend working with them.
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18 Oct, 2020 by Gina spagnoli
We used this form for our house closing and both Marty and Becky went above and beyond. They were extremely attentive and very quick to respond. They walked us through the entire process from beginning to end ! I would recommend them in a heart beat!
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Cynthia Silverio Rosenzweig, experienced Family Law, Real Estate attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 12 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
24,01
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4.0/5
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4.0
12 Reviews
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16 Jun, 2021 by Amy bombardieri
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18 May, 2021 by Andrea bader
I highly recommend working with them.
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18 Oct, 2020 by Gina spagnoli
We used this form for our house closing and both Marty and Becky went above and beyond. They were extremely attentive and very quick to respond. They walked us through the entire process from beginning to end ! I would recommend them in a heart beat!
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Jacqueline T. Martin, experienced Family Law attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 5 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
13,75
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3.0/5
Avvo
3.0
5 Reviews
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19 Jun, 2024 by Derek
She is a bad attorney and a worse person! Charged a 10k retainer then used it up on review of the case only to quit, because I was not OK with giving everything I worked for to my ex. If I wanted to do that, I would not have hired a attorney. She is condescending and rude . As you see in her other reviews i was not the only one who she quit on. Stay Away. .
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12 Aug, 2019 by Claire
I have us Jacqueline for closing and. For my divorce. She is brilliant. I have used her for years and I would only recommend highly as she is alway well prepared to do what’s best for her client.
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22 Jun, 2017 by Amy
Jackie is a great divorce attorney ..... knowledgeable and professional. She is a great communicator - with a zero BS factor. She tells you exactly how it is. From my first meeting with Jackie she told me what to expect and how she was going to proceed with my case. Jackie and her staff have kept me in the loop throughout the entire process. I am very proud to have had her as my attorney.
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David B. Sall, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
7,17
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1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
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28 Feb, 2013 by Anonymous
As soon as my case was done he never answered another phone call, email, and a certified letter was even refused. All I wanted was clarification on the final disposition of my case.
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Michael John O'Connor, experienced Business, Family Law attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,57
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1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
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28 Aug, 2017 by David
Should not be practicing any kind of real estate law. Brought him my case and totally botched every. Never contacted anyone. Did no research and if he had he would have found a major conflict of interest in the opposing side.
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Jonna Spilbor, experienced Criminal Defense, DUI / DWI attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 0 reviews
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4,00
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Danielle Fenichel, experienced Criminal Defense, Divorce attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 0 reviews
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4,00
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0.0/5
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Jill Clement, experienced Family Law attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 0 reviews
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4,00
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Jessica Lynn Vinall, experienced Family Law, Real Estate attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 0 reviews
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4,00
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David D. Hagstrom, experienced Family Law, Tax attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 0 reviews
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4,00
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Dana Marie Loiacono, experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 0 reviews
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4,00
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Carla Scotti Tesoro, experienced Criminal Defense, Estate Planning attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 0 reviews
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4,00
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William Hume Tinch, experienced Family Law attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 0 reviews
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0,00
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Paul Ira Weinberger, experienced Appeals, Estate Planning attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 0 reviews
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Nicole D. Gadbois, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 0 reviews
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0,00
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Jode Susan Millman, experienced Business, Copyright Application attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 0 reviews
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0,00
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Jana Marie Schopfer, experienced Family Law attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 0 reviews
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0,00
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Diane Marie O'Leary, experienced Family Law attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 0 reviews
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Debra Madenski Frangk, experienced Family Law attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 0 reviews
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Lisa E. Rubenstein, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 0 reviews
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Peter Louis Maroulis, experienced Appeals, Criminal Defense attorney in Poughkeepsie, NY with 0 reviews
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What a Family Law Lawyer Can Do for You

A family law lawyer provides legal services related to family relationships, including marriage, divorce, child custody, and adoption. Family lawyers help clients navigate emotionally charged legal issues, providing guidance and representation in disputes that affect spouses, children, and parents. Whether you're going through a divorce, seeking custody of your children, or drafting a prenuptial agreement, a family law lawyer ensures your rights are protected and your interests are represented.

Family law attorneys often handle sensitive matters and offer objective legal advice, helping clients reach fair outcomes either through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.

When Should I Hire a Family Law Lawyer?

Hiring a family law lawyer is beneficial in several situations, especially when legal matters involve close personal relationships. Common reasons to hire a family law lawyer include:

  • Divorce or separation: When ending a marriage, a lawyer can help you navigate issues such as division of assets, spousal support, and child custody arrangements.
  • Child custody and visitation disputes: If you and your co-parent can't agree on custody or visitation, a lawyer can represent your interests and work toward a solution that benefits your children.
  • Child support: Whether you’re seeking child support or defending against a claim, a lawyer can help ensure the appropriate amount is calculated and enforced.
  • Prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: A lawyer can help draft or review agreements that protect your assets in case of divorce.
  • Adoption: Family law lawyers guide you through the legal process of adoption, ensuring that all requirements are met.
  • Domestic violence or restraining orders: If you're a victim of domestic violence or being falsely accused, a lawyer can help you obtain or challenge protective orders.
  • Paternity cases: If there are questions about the paternity of a child, a lawyer can help establish or dispute legal fatherhood.

Hiring a lawyer early can prevent issues from escalating, and they can offer you the best chance of achieving a favorable outcome in emotionally charged situations.

What Does a Family Law Lawyer Do?

A family law lawyer provides a wide range of services depending on your specific legal needs. Their responsibilities may include:

  • Advising on legal rights and options: Helping you understand your legal rights regarding divorce, child custody, support, and other family law issues.
  • Filing legal documents: Drafting and filing petitions, motions, and agreements with the court, such as divorce papers, custody agreements, or support orders.
  • Representing clients in court: Arguing your case in front of a judge if a settlement can’t be reached through negotiation or mediation.
  • Mediation and negotiation: Assisting with alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, to reach agreements on issues like custody, property division, and support without going to trial.
  • Enforcing court orders: Helping you enforce court orders related to child support, alimony, or custody if the other party fails to comply.
  • Drafting prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: Creating agreements that protect your assets in the event of a divorce.
  • Handling adoption proceedings: Ensuring that the legal process of adoption is followed, from filing paperwork to finalizing the adoption in court.

How Are Family Law Lawyers Paid?

Family law lawyers typically charge clients in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Common payment arrangements include:

  • Hourly rates: Most family lawyers charge by the hour, with rates varying based on experience and location. Clients are billed for the time spent working on their case, including consultations, court appearances, and document preparation.
  • Flat fees: For more straightforward legal services, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, some lawyers offer flat-fee arrangements.
  • Retainer fees: In cases that are expected to require significant time and attention, such as contentious custody battles, a lawyer may charge a retainer, which is an upfront payment that covers the initial costs of legal services. The lawyer then bills against the retainer as they work on your case.

The exact cost will depend on the complexity of your case and the lawyer’s fee structure, which should be discussed upfront.

How Much Does a Family Law Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a family law lawyer varies based on factors such as the lawyer's experience, the location, and the complexity of your case. Here are some general cost guidelines:

  • Hourly rates: Family law lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour, depending on their experience and the complexity of the case.
  • Flat fees: For simpler cases, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, fees may range from $1,000 to $5,000.
  • Retainers: For more complex matters, such as contested divorces or custody battles, lawyers may charge a retainer ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 or more. The lawyer will bill against the retainer for the work they do on your case.
  • Additional costs: You may also be responsible for additional costs, such as filing fees, mediation fees, or expert witness fees.

Always ask for a clear breakdown of the lawyer’s fees and any additional expenses during your consultation.

Top Questions to Ask a Family Law Lawyer

Before hiring a family law lawyer, it's important to ask questions to ensure they're the right fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:

  1. What experience do you have with family law cases like mine?
    Make sure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it's a contested divorce, child custody dispute, or adoption.
  2. How will you charge for your services?
    Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, a flat fee, or requires a retainer. Ask for an estimate of the total costs involved.
  3. What are the possible outcomes of my case?
    An experienced lawyer should be able to give you a general idea of what to expect based on the facts of your case.
  4. What is your approach to resolving disputes?
    Ask whether the lawyer tends to favor negotiation and mediation or whether they prefer to take cases to court. This can help you determine if their style matches your goals.
  5. How long do you expect my case to take?
    While it’s difficult to predict, the lawyer should give you an estimate based on similar cases.
  6. Who will be handling my case?
    In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may do much of the work, so make sure you understand who will be your main point of contact.

How to Check the Credibility of a Family Law Lawyer

To ensure you're hiring a reputable family law lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and reputation:

  • Check state bar association records: Verify that the lawyer is licensed to practice in your state and is in good standing with no disciplinary actions.
  • Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on websites like Avvo, Google, or Martindale-Hubbell. Previous clients can give you insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and success in family law cases.
  • Request references: Ask the lawyer for references from past clients who can speak to their experience with the lawyer.
  • Review their website or professional profile: Look at the lawyer’s background, case history, and areas of focus to ensure they have substantial experience in family law.
  • Look for professional memberships: Membership in reputable organizations, such as the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), can indicate a lawyer's expertise and dedication to family law.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To get the most out of your first consultation with a family law lawyer, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what you should bring:

  • Relevant documents: Bring any documents related to your case, such as marriage certificates, prenuptial agreements, financial records, custody agreements, or court orders.
  • List of assets and debts: For divorce cases, prepare a detailed list of all assets (e.g., homes, bank accounts, retirement funds) and debts (e.g., mortgages, loans, credit card balances).
  • Details of the family issue: Provide a written summary of the situation, including key dates and facts related to your divorce, custody dispute, or support issue.
  • Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions you have about the legal process, costs, and potential outcomes.
  • Your goals: Be prepared to discuss your objectives, such as custody arrangements, property division, or spousal support, so the lawyer understands your priorities.

Being organized and clear about your situation will help the lawyer evaluate your case more effectively and offer the best advice for moving forward.

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