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16 Aug, 2024 by Torii eley
Clair from this law firm was very rude and I don’t understand how she is working in law firm her communicating with her. Client is very disrespectful. I could barely get a word out because all she wanted to do was hear her voice. I was trying to get a breakdown and understanding of my payments and she wasn’t trying to hear anything that I had to say which I find is very rude and discriminating of my work situation and what I’m able to afford and payments at this time I do not recommend this law firm at all
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14 Aug, 2024 by Deborah cayetano
Professional, clear about the details, and respectful as an Elder Lawyer
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07 Aug, 2024 by Shelley rees
We were not given any costs upfront and assumed we were just doing a meet and greet. We decided to go with a much cheaper option. We received a bill for $600 for the one meeting that was less than an hour.
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08 Jul, 2024 by David mack
While working for Mr. Witmer in an investigative capacity as a N.Y. State license private investigator.... In the last 5 years, In criminal matters, I've worked on more acquittals with Mr. Witmer than any other lawyer who I currently work with.
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08 Jul, 2024 by C
Great lawyer great mind. He fought hard and got everything straightened out when I was held illegally. I Would highly recommend.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Scott f
Michael is not only the most ferocious talented defense attorney I've ever seen. He also genuinely cares about his clients and will stop at nothing to keep their best interest his top priority. He's the last guy any DA wants to see walk into their courtroom!
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16 Jan, 2024 by Bob ziegler
Don’t waste your money !! He will talk like he is going to help but will drag your divorce on and suck every penny out of you because the longer he makes it last the more money he sucks out of you !!! STAY AWAY !!!!!!!
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13 Jan, 2024 by Louise spinelli
11 Jan, 2024 by Trish norton
08 Jul, 2024 by David mack
While working for Mr. Witmer in an investigative capacity as a N.Y. State license private investigator.... In the last 5 years, In criminal matters, I've worked on more acquittals with Mr. Witmer than any other lawyer who I currently work with.
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08 Jul, 2024 by C
Great lawyer great mind. He fought hard and got everything straightened out when I was held illegally. I Would highly recommend.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Scott f
Michael is not only the most ferocious talented defense attorney I've ever seen. He also genuinely cares about his clients and will stop at nothing to keep their best interest his top priority. He's the last guy any DA wants to see walk into their courtroom!
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16 Aug, 2024 by Torii eley
Clair from this law firm was very rude and I don’t understand how she is working in law firm her communicating with her. Client is very disrespectful. I could barely get a word out because all she wanted to do was hear her voice. I was trying to get a breakdown and understanding of my payments and she wasn’t trying to hear anything that I had to say which I find is very rude and discriminating of my work situation and what I’m able to afford and payments at this time I do not recommend this law firm at all
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14 Aug, 2024 by Deborah cayetano
Professional, clear about the details, and respectful as an Elder Lawyer
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07 Aug, 2024 by Shelley rees
We were not given any costs upfront and assumed we were just doing a meet and greet. We decided to go with a much cheaper option. We received a bill for $600 for the one meeting that was less than an hour.
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16 Aug, 2024 by Torii eley
Clair from this law firm was very rude and I don’t understand how she is working in law firm her communicating with her. Client is very disrespectful. I could barely get a word out because all she wanted to do was hear her voice. I was trying to get a breakdown and understanding of my payments and she wasn’t trying to hear anything that I had to say which I find is very rude and discriminating of my work situation and what I’m able to afford and payments at this time I do not recommend this law firm at all
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14 Aug, 2024 by Deborah cayetano
Professional, clear about the details, and respectful as an Elder Lawyer
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07 Aug, 2024 by Shelley rees
We were not given any costs upfront and assumed we were just doing a meet and greet. We decided to go with a much cheaper option. We received a bill for $600 for the one meeting that was less than an hour.
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13 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
I hired for a divorce that was ordered 17 years ago my x decided to pay a lesser amount in 7 months I got billed for email in 7 months nothing was done I had to ask for him to send me a invoice of what he did in 7 months basically nothing
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23 Aug, 2024 by Angel
It’s been a year since I was served court papers. Should’ve read the one star reviews. Attorney set me back thousands and gave the impression that there was NEVER any intention to win my case. Lack of communication, charging me for fruitless research. None of that is important now. I’ve since tried to self-delete several times since and my life has never been worse since. This is what greed and dishonesty does to people. This law firm took my money so I have the right o share my experience
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20 Aug, 2024 by Macavery shafer
So grateful to the team here for their hard work! They helped me get a ticket reduced and were extremely friendly, transparent, and made sure I understood every step of the process! As someone living in the backcountry with limited service, I appreciated the fact that Destinee and Brian were able to handle everything virtually and were extremely patient with my delayed communication.
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09 Sep, 2024 by Ryan deangelis
Not a very good law firm you speak to a very knowledgeable very intelligent person at first and then you get stuck with another attorney that does not fully handle the situation properly. Then adds fees can't show up on time and does not do exactly what you asked from the first point of contact before the retainer was even placed. They ask for more money much like trying to hire a contractor you hire I'm thinking they're going to do the work and then when they get to start the work they claim they need more money. Even though it was claimed in the beginning exactly what was needed.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Ash cat
I recently had the pleasure of working with Matthew Winchell who was incredibly helpful and kind! Thank you so much again for everything!
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21 Aug, 2024 by Toni stein
The staff is very professional and listens to your needs. The response time for your questions and concerns are in an appropriate time manner. I would recommend this firm to anyone.
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16 Jan, 2024 by Bob ziegler
Don’t waste your money !! He will talk like he is going to help but will drag your divorce on and suck every penny out of you because the longer he makes it last the more money he sucks out of you !!! STAY AWAY !!!!!!!
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13 Jan, 2024 by Louise spinelli
11 Jan, 2024 by Trish norton
16 Jan, 2024 by Bob ziegler
Don’t waste your money !! He will talk like he is going to help but will drag your divorce on and suck every penny out of you because the longer he makes it last the more money he sucks out of you !!! STAY AWAY !!!!!!!
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13 Jan, 2024 by Louise spinelli
11 Jan, 2024 by Trish norton
08 Jul, 2024 by C
Great lawyer great mind. He fought hard and got everything straightened out when I was held illegally. I Would highly recommend.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Scott f
Michael is not only the most ferocious talented defense attorney I've ever seen. He also genuinely cares about his clients and will stop at nothing to keep their best interest his top priority. He's the last guy any DA wants to see walk into their courtroom!
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08 Jul, 2024 by James furey
Michael has been very good to me and my family and has always taken care of us. He will work hard to help you with whatever you have going on, and do everything he can to make the process easy for you. I highly recommend Michael to anyone who needs his help.
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19 Jun, 2024 by Damien evans
I’m blessed to have worked with my attorney. This case was over my head. I’ve never been to court before and never wanted to, but here I was. They helped me get out of criminal charges that were unfairly put on me and got my ticket reduced to something I could reasonably deal with. Thanks to everyone who put their neck out for me. Everyone was so smart and informed. It was great to work with these guys. They know what they’re doing for sure.
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07 Jun, 2024 by Traci dawn
20 May, 2024 by Lacey morris
Good experience overall!
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04 Sep, 2024 by Kitty
While contacting local offices for an adult adoption I was immediately impressed with Greg's passionate commitment to being a service for families rather than simply a business. Truly, it was clear that their experience and love for their work has made a tedious and taxing process seem nearly effortless. Each step of our process was mapped out in clear terms with reminders and support along the way. I couldn't have asked for a better team and would HIGHLY recommend this office to anyone, except people I don't like. THANK YOU!
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16 Jan, 2024 by Bob ziegler
Don’t waste your money !! He will talk like he is going to help but will drag your divorce on and suck every penny out of you because the longer he makes it last the more money he sucks out of you !!! STAY AWAY !!!!!!!
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13 Jan, 2024 by Louise spinelli
29 Jun, 2024 by Amy
Marilyn and Cassidy helped me navigate through an extremely difficult situation! They are extremely knowledgeable and compassionate! They actually truly care for your wellbeing through a difficult time!!! I will and have recommended them because they are an Amazing firm!!! They totally deserve a 5 star rating!!! Well done team!
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27 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
I consulted Marilyn Palumbo about questions on how to set up a will, a trust for grandchildren, and POA. I am still working with her on these situations. She was very knowledgeable about everything and very patient with me. She answered all my questions and concerns. I will be hiring her on these situations. I highly recommend her.
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23 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
We feel very lucky to have retained Ms. Palumbo for our estate planning. After two previous botched attempts with different attorneys, we finally were able to find someone who LISTENED and understood exactly what we wanted. Ms. Palumbo is honest (she actually lowered our fee because we didn't need paperwork done that we were told by others that we did), empathetic, and the best part is she repeats back to you what she hears as your wishes to ensure she has everything correct. Detail oriented, very pleasant to work with, explains everything completely, and very fair price-wise. We would highly recommend Ms. Palumbo!
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21 Jun, 2024 by Michelle r
16 Apr, 2024 by Deborah larue
Kindness
Patience
Professional
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13 Mar, 2024 by Christine sexton
So far very helpful and professional. Debra Hild the paralegal excellent.
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14 Dec, 2023 by Ken frank
Todd Wisner did an amazing job helping a member of my family get through a DWI charge as well as some other traffic violations. He went above and beyond, delivering a zealous defense that almost miraculously softened or eliminated a number of potential blows. He was worth every penny.
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14 Feb, 2023 by Jag
Maria Cubillos Reed is a very very bad lawyer. She colludes with the county and doesnt represent the clients properly. She has harmed my case. She participated in fraud and I am bringing a malpractise claim against her. Dont hire her.
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29 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
I just wanted you to know how much I appreciate you taking my case without hesitation . I had reached out to other law firms and was told some one will call you to ask you information etc . When I had called you , I had gotten a message and felt so sad as I needed help . Within 5 minutes ,you had called me back and the process to what I needed began immediately to set up an appointment . I even had your para legal tell me text me your paper work immediately . The compassion and healing you all gave me helped me continue with my case that eased my anxiety . Even though my case isn’t done yet , Maria and her para legal stayed right with me and made sure they gave me the strength that I needed to get me through my court dates . I am a woman who has been through a lot . Maria is so professional and always will be there to support you. She doesn’t miss a beat and all I can say is thank God I found you . Thank you !
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22 Aug, 2024 by On the spot cleaners info
We have build a professional working relationship with Anthony and his daughter Gina.
They’re responsive, knowledgeable and supportive of our business legal needs.
From Forming a LLC, helping us write Operating agreements, closing on our warehouse during Real Estate transactions and much more.
Highly recommend Gallo & Iacovangelo for your legal counsel.
Thank you,
Randy Spurling
Owner
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03 Feb, 2024 by John farrar
Knowledgeable and friendly staff
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19 Jan, 2024 by David polvino
They never call back
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22 Aug, 2024 by On the spot cleaners info
We have build a professional working relationship with Anthony and his daughter Gina.
They’re responsive, knowledgeable and supportive of our business legal needs.
From Forming a LLC, helping us write Operating agreements, closing on our warehouse during Real Estate transactions and much more.
Highly recommend Gallo & Iacovangelo for your legal counsel.
Thank you,
Randy Spurling
Owner
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03 Feb, 2024 by John farrar
Knowledgeable and friendly staff
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19 Jan, 2024 by David polvino
They never call back
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30 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
It was very comforting knowing that Meg was doing her best for me.
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22 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
Meg worked with me on an uphill divorce that to me felt overwhelming. During the years I worked with her she has been professional, knowledgeable, a source of excellent advice, and a steady determined force which I was very grateful for. She never showed signs of hitting a wall and always found ways to move things forward. On the personal side, she was caring, considerate and a source of relief in knowing what was going on and able to share with me where the case may go and what options may unfold. I would highly recommend Meg to anyone seeking representation.
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12 May, 2023 by Valerie
Meg Reston was recommend to me, by another family law attorney, to handle our step child adoption. I'm so glad we went with her because there is a lot of paperwork to navigate. She is very knowledgeable and made the process smooth. She is very personable and always got back to us quickly if we had a question. If you're looking for an adoption attorney I would highly recommend her and her team.
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12 Sep, 2024 by Andrew keiffer
They represent the town I live in and I feel they care more about the money than what is right or in the interest of justice. Our tax dollars could be much better spent.
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27 Aug, 2024 by Rhonda hutchinson
I hired this firm on a matter and almost immediately I was advised by the attorney that she would be leaving on maternity leave. She started the matter very strong with a great demand letter. The attorney who took over took an extremely weak position, dropped the ball entirely and then he and his manager declined to pursue my case that the previous attorney had already indicated she would pursue. I was left charged with a lot of hefty legal fees for absolutely no help and it honestly put me in a horrible position. Horrible. I don't recommend these crooks at their high prices.
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24 Jul, 2024 by Dara petralia
Great team of commercial real estate lawyers!
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08 Jun, 2024 by Carol gizzi
Met with Cressida Dixon to update and sign our wills. She is beyond professional, organized and personable. So glad we did our update with her....
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26 Sep, 2023 by Darryl dewolff
Don't trust them. They lied to me & are trying to play me
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04 Sep, 2023 by Marilyn miran
15 Sep, 2024 by Samantha miller
28 Jan, 2024 by The mic
Does not have your best interest at heart and only wants your money. No matter what they say, I was certainly a client and have the paperwork to prove it; denying that I was a client clearly shows they're not trustworthy. Imagine, instead of making things right, they deny the issues. Extremely unprofessional all around, I just want to make people aware so they can find better legal assistance.
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18 Jan, 2022 by Tom and pri gamer
Mr. Martin Philippine is knowledgeable, patient and I trust him, his advice and work. He also has a human side that I appreciate very much. I recommend his law firm to anyone looking for a good, trustworthy lawyer.
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27 Jan, 2023 by Brian
She was very empathetic to my situation. Very reasonable on fees as well as easy on the eyes. Would hire again without questions.
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24 Jan, 2023 by Anonymous
I reached out to Attorney Barnaby for some assistance with my Immigration process and she was more than helpful through every step of the way. I would definitely recommend her and her services to anyone. Thank you so much Barnaby Law!!!
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13 Jan, 2023 by Anonymous
i hired a immigration attorneyand paid hey money, but she didnt do her job and didnt give me my money back. A day later found another attorney and she did everything even for the lower price.
I would not recomend this attorney to anyone
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02 Dec, 2023 by Tequila
Attorney James Hinman is a very caring and knowledgeable attorney. When there is a problem he is THE problem fixer. You don’t have to sell your first born in order to pay for his services. He is a fair man. I recommend him All the time and everyone who hires him is pleased.
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01 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous
Please be careful about giving a retainer upfront. Attorneys should not be able to ask for a retainer upfront and then take months to return any unused amount. To me a professional and ethical attorney who demands a retainer upfront should return any unused amount promptly instead of taking months. It de-values the client's time and worth.
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12 Aug, 2015 by Matthew
Jim handled several "life changing" events for us including a house closing. Very professional and I'm glad we found him in Rochester. His office is right downtown and an easy walk to the court house. Thanks Jim!
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05 Feb, 2013 by David
Denine is a smart energetic lawyer with a broad talent and skill set to bring to any case. When she argues, she truly does have your best interest at heart. She can easily visualize your case. She puts together the pieces well. She readily anticipates what the opposition is going to do next. When she says she's going to deliver something, she does. Denine has a very pleasant court-room demeanor and that demeanor plays well with Judges who like agreeing with her. She is keen on finer logic paths within the law. You will see her paint a very clear: if this is true, this is true and this is true, then you must know that this is true – like a good lawyer should.
What Denine lacks is the ability to argue past the law and into leverage. This is her fatal flaw. Allow me to explain. If you have a straight forward case where the path to victory rests in the strict application of the law, she’s your lawyer. However she is blind to what is in your ultimate best interest. Some lawyers are good at seeing the strategic nature of a case and helping their client’s put together the facts and push for your present position and future desired state. If you tell Denine, “I want a divorce.” She will give you one. If you tell her, I want to pay $3000 to settle, she will get you there. But what she lacks is the ability to see how you will be hurt by her client’s flawed concept of the child support arrangement. She lacks the ability to improvise, adjust and improve on your case, when her client’s idea is that $3000 will cover the claim, but in fact, it is out of ignorance that you asked for $3000. You needed $30,000.00 and even though she might know you need $30,000.00, she has this ethos that will only let her argue for $3000. (This was a painful lesson to learn.)
If Denine were to combine her gifts with empathy, I think she could be a very good attorney in family court. She might even make champion status. What is that? A lawyer who is a champion, is a lawyer who believes an attorney not only argues a case, but leaves their client in a better state than even the client expects.
Addendum: Understand the economics of your case before you judge your lawyer too harshly. If your lawyer sees that the best outcome would cost $20k of their billable time, and you only have $10k. Make sure they at least advise you of what you get for what you pay. Lawyers don’t trust that clients will write them a check if they tell them the truth. Denine is a rare gem in this regard. She answers your questions, delivers the goods, and is patient with your learning curve. She is incapable of deception. So do your homework and set your expectations high. She will rise to the occasion or tell you that you need more money.
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10 Sep, 2024 by Cuemadeit
Called in June explained my situation was told they were going to go over it and call me back, here it is Sept 9 I’ve called and left multiple messages and nobody still hasn’t reached back out to me
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15 Aug, 2024 by Your name
Has never returned any of my calls for 10 years
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05 Aug, 2024 by Ian white
10 Sep, 2024 by Cuemadeit
Called in June explained my situation was told they were going to go over it and call me back, here it is Sept 9 I’ve called and left multiple messages and nobody still hasn’t reached back out to me
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15 Aug, 2024 by Your name
Has never returned any of my calls for 10 years
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05 Aug, 2024 by Ian white
10 Sep, 2024 by Cuemadeit
Called in June explained my situation was told they were going to go over it and call me back, here it is Sept 9 I’ve called and left multiple messages and nobody still hasn’t reached back out to me
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15 Aug, 2024 by Your name
Has never returned any of my calls for 10 years
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23 Jul, 2024 by L turner
For the 10th time I called LEGAL AID seeking legal assistance as a senior citizen since 2014. Never do they service, whatever, my issue is. This time I was referred to JUST CAUSE, who talked over me, and abruptly hung up in my hear when I said I'd just been on hold 40 minutes to ask and receive the same answer from Legal Aid; "DO you provide assistance applying for Social Security Disability?". No. They help you appeal. If you apply correctly 1st time, it would reduce the need for appeal. Legal Aid and Just Cause are REDUNDANT in their services, wasting my tax dollar. The issues I have at 60, 70, 80 are different than at 20, 30, 40. Where is the courtesy, respect and assistance we seniors deserve. Rude, rude and rude!
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3.7
19 Reviews
17 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
Most careless lawyer I've ever used. Takes weeks to respond to emails then makes a 1 minute phone call to you and makes up excuses why he hasn't answered. Then makes you feel like you're bothering him for asking for responses. You want a lawyer with no backbone then pick this guy. Id rather have my dog represent me.
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22 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
I hired Jonathan Trotto because he gave me false confidence. My case should’ve been an easy win considering all the evidence and everything we had against my ex. At first, he acted like this would be a slam dunk win and I would get everything and more that I was seeking. After the first hearing, I lost all hope in him. He practically laid down and let my exes attorney run the court. He never was aggressive or assertive about anything in the courtroom. He was pushing for me to settle every meeting afterwards. It felt as though, by the end of it all, he was brokering deals behind my back. I ended up exactly where I started. I wouldn’t recommend this firm to anyone in a million years.
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24 Feb, 2019 by Anonymous
Reached a reasonable agreement twice with my ex, which he delayed so we would go to court, I got backed into a corner because of this and was forced to agree to things I did not want, I would have been better off letting my ex's lawyer do everything. Cost me THOUSANDS!
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08 Aug, 2013 by Anonymous
I worked with Michael for my house closing. Not only was Michael professional throughout this process but he kept me informed every step of the way. The closing went smoothly and was completed in an organized and timely fashion. I would not only recommend him as my attorney of choice I would also recommend Lacy Katzen as my preferred law firm for any legal matter.
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07 Aug, 2013 by Anonymous
This attorney represented me in Family Court. It was a very emotional experience, but he made it much easier for me. He did a great job and was extremely compassionate and was always available at a very difficult time in my life.
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09 Aug, 2012 by Anonymous
this guy did nothing for my family court case and now im left with an agreement i dont like and paying way too much in support...thanks for nothing
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Discover the ideal lawyer
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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.
