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24 Feb, 2025 by Victor
22 Feb, 2025 by Myia brown
I am incredibly grateful for the exceptional legal support I received from Raquel Smith! From our first meeting, I felt heard and understood even without having any prior knowledge of how the legal system worked. She took the time to explain the legal process, answered all my questions, and kept me informed every step of the way. Thanks to her diligence and thorough preparation, we were able to achieve a favorable outcome. I highly recommend her to anyone seeking a dedicated and skilled attorney who truly cares about their clients!!
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19 Feb, 2025 by Von j
Horrible attorney!!! Spent years during covid trying to make me take a plea deal that would put me in jail plus for something I didn’t do. Fired this crook and it worked out way better.
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09 Feb, 2025 by Steven iridology
The team here is great and knows what they are doing. They are very knowledgable and were able to navigate any issues that came up. Highly recommend.
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30 Jan, 2025 by Oscar arias
Estaban the magician always has something up his sleeve when it comes to defend you highly recommended👍
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07 Jan, 2025 by Rosa arevalo
09 Feb, 2025 by Steven iridology
The team here is great and knows what they are doing. They are very knowledgable and were able to navigate any issues that came up. Highly recommend.
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30 Jan, 2025 by Oscar arias
Estaban the magician always has something up his sleeve when it comes to defend you highly recommended👍
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07 Jan, 2025 by Rosa arevalo
09 Feb, 2025 by Steven iridology
The team here is great and knows what they are doing. They are very knowledgable and were able to navigate any issues that came up. Highly recommend.
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30 Jan, 2025 by Oscar arias
Estaban the magician always has something up his sleeve when it comes to defend you highly recommended👍
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07 Jan, 2025 by Rosa arevalo
09 Feb, 2025 by Steven iridology
The team here is great and knows what they are doing. They are very knowledgable and were able to navigate any issues that came up. Highly recommend.
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30 Jan, 2025 by Oscar arias
Estaban the magician always has something up his sleeve when it comes to defend you highly recommended👍
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07 Jan, 2025 by Rosa arevalo
1.0
1 Reviews
5.0
41 Reviews
03 Dec, 2024 by Sarah armentrout
In a world of slimy lawyers, Lindsay is a gift. Hire him immediately for all of your legal needs and never look back. I was referred to him by a friend and would not hesitate to refer him to other friends. 10/10 a very kind, honest, trustworthy, competent man.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Eun jung
This is the best law firm I have experienced with Lindsay and his staff made sure that my mom got her unpaid overtime wage from 2021 and 2022 her case was not easy so she had hard time to find an attorney that was willing to help her but thank god that Lindsay and his team truly cares 😀
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23 Jun, 2024 by Joani gammill
Mr. Freedman did a wonderful job for during a very insecure time in my life. I recommend him highly.
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26 Jan, 2025 by Angela knox
Dave was awesome. Very professional and kept me informed through the process. Customer service is exceptional.
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14 Jan, 2025 by David gaddie
After an auto accident I got Mr Berman's number from my brother. Their legal team immediately went to work. They got my car fully repaired, placed me in a rental while the work was being done, made sure that I got all the medical treatment I needed, and got me a check. They handled everything every step of the way, and always made sure to keep me informed of what was going on. If you need an injury lawyer, this is the team you want. I can't thank them enough (especially Josh), for the tremendous work.
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10 Jan, 2025 by Dom boles
Josh Berman was the best for my injury claim. From start to finish he was very professional, updated me regularly, and even got more than the original settlement offer. I am shocked at how quick he was able to settle. Would highly recommend.
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26 Jan, 2025 by Angela knox
Dave was awesome. Very professional and kept me informed through the process. Customer service is exceptional.
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14 Jan, 2025 by David gaddie
After an auto accident I got Mr Berman's number from my brother. Their legal team immediately went to work. They got my car fully repaired, placed me in a rental while the work was being done, made sure that I got all the medical treatment I needed, and got me a check. They handled everything every step of the way, and always made sure to keep me informed of what was going on. If you need an injury lawyer, this is the team you want. I can't thank them enough (especially Josh), for the tremendous work.
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10 Jan, 2025 by Dom boles
Josh Berman was the best for my injury claim. From start to finish he was very professional, updated me regularly, and even got more than the original settlement offer. I am shocked at how quick he was able to settle. Would highly recommend.
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13 Feb, 2025 by Dariia fair
19 Dec, 2024 by Kemeish blidgen
16 Sep, 2024 by Chris nwagbara
Michael Garagozlo is a true maestro in the art of lawyering. He did everything he said he would at the beginning of our process, and went out of his way in ensuring that my fate was not left in somebody else's hands. I'm truly thankful and grateful to have had such dedicated representation for my case.
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10 May, 2021 by Fathema
She did my divorce cases.and do at excellent job.and I tell for she thank you so much patricia Friedman
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30 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
Patricia helped me with my custody case and everything turned out well. Patricia was efficient and helpful. Took the time to listen as well. Highly recommended!
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30 Mar, 2021 by Astrid
Mrs. Freedman has helped my over a few months in time of need for representation. Fortunately, our situation has been resolved.
Mrs. Freedman is very professional, thorough and competent.
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4.7
82 Reviews
21 Oct, 2024 by Ari miller
Donna and the team at RLG came highly recommended to me from someone that I highly respect. In the end, I chose this team and it proved to be the right decision for me without question. I am very thankful to have had this team working to ensure that I got the absolute best outcome possible. While the divorce process was awful, I cannot imagine going through it without this team. They are highly experienced, strategic, compassionate and really good people.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Yimdo estelle
Attorney Chester has been referred to me by the online Montgomery Bar Association Referral Service. NO THE PHONE REFERRAL SERVICE, I have to underline that because they are incredible and do they best to assist. Back to Mr.Chester! I contacted him for a Condo Association dispute. first thing on the phone, He asked me what is the management company, I told him and he answered: " the company is owned by a good friend of his". Without being an attorney I spotted a conflict of interest right at the beginning of the conversation and the end of the conversation attests it and the lack of objectivity of this attorney. He found normal for a management company to hold a storage key of an owner for 2 years, He found normal a management company don't have and hold accurate and update paperwork. That management provide a 1989 ( 35 YEARS OLD) contract to be applied on a newly owned property of 2020. and so on.
I definitely DO NOT recommend this attorney.
He doesn't go to court to represent you or the law he studied!!
This attorney response to the review show you should not even think going there. YOU ALL READING THIS REVIEW ARE NOT FIRM CLIENT & LOOKING FOR THE RIGHT FIRM
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18 Jul, 2024 by Deirdre angelastro
I recently had a menacing dispute w a former contractor and Mary Lombardo brought it to settlement quickly and expeditiously! And they were extremely reasonable w their fees!
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21 Oct, 2024 by Ari miller
Donna and the team at RLG came highly recommended to me from someone that I highly respect. In the end, I chose this team and it proved to be the right decision for me without question. I am very thankful to have had this team working to ensure that I got the absolute best outcome possible. While the divorce process was awful, I cannot imagine going through it without this team. They are highly experienced, strategic, compassionate and really good people.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Yimdo estelle
Attorney Chester has been referred to me by the online Montgomery Bar Association Referral Service. NO THE PHONE REFERRAL SERVICE, I have to underline that because they are incredible and do they best to assist. Back to Mr.Chester! I contacted him for a Condo Association dispute. first thing on the phone, He asked me what is the management company, I told him and he answered: " the company is owned by a good friend of his". Without being an attorney I spotted a conflict of interest right at the beginning of the conversation and the end of the conversation attests it and the lack of objectivity of this attorney. He found normal for a management company to hold a storage key of an owner for 2 years, He found normal a management company don't have and hold accurate and update paperwork. That management provide a 1989 ( 35 YEARS OLD) contract to be applied on a newly owned property of 2020. and so on.
I definitely DO NOT recommend this attorney.
He doesn't go to court to represent you or the law he studied!!
This attorney response to the review show you should not even think going there. YOU ALL READING THIS REVIEW ARE NOT FIRM CLIENT & LOOKING FOR THE RIGHT FIRM
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18 Jul, 2024 by Deirdre angelastro
I recently had a menacing dispute w a former contractor and Mary Lombardo brought it to settlement quickly and expeditiously! And they were extremely reasonable w their fees!
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04 Oct, 2024 by Chelsey brown
Ohhhh you definitely want to meet RAYMOND he is a excellent lawyer yes he will tell you the possibility of the outcome you can get but when he get in there he will fight for you an state facts I had a outcome before I even stepped in the court I definitely recommend him an this not a color thing but in Baltimore we are considered minority and he went an there an did his BIG ONE out of every lawyer. I ever had I recommend him 10000% he even stay connected with you love him Good job Raymond anthracite
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26 Apr, 2024 by I b
I definitely recommend Raymond! He goes above and beyond with his clients. Raymond was extremely patient with me. He thoroughly communicated everything he was doing, and was attentive when I had questions. Regardless of when I had questions, Raymond was always available to answer my questions to the best of his ability. I will be recommending Raymond to family and friends if and when we require his services! Thank you once again, Raymond, you've been amazing!
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21 Mar, 2024 by Kimberly hanson
Mr. Raymond is punctual!
He responds in a efficient manner, he will follow up or ask for consent prior to making executive decisions. He provides in depth services. He goes the extra extent to provide a reasonable or WIN outcome. I would highly recommend his law office to a friend.
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4.7
24 Reviews
04 Oct, 2024 by Chelsey brown
Ohhhh you definitely want to meet RAYMOND he is a excellent lawyer yes he will tell you the possibility of the outcome you can get but when he get in there he will fight for you an state facts I had a outcome before I even stepped in the court I definitely recommend him an this not a color thing but in Baltimore we are considered minority and he went an there an did his BIG ONE out of every lawyer. I ever had I recommend him 10000% he even stay connected with you love him Good job Raymond anthracite
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26 Apr, 2024 by I b
I definitely recommend Raymond! He goes above and beyond with his clients. Raymond was extremely patient with me. He thoroughly communicated everything he was doing, and was attentive when I had questions. Regardless of when I had questions, Raymond was always available to answer my questions to the best of his ability. I will be recommending Raymond to family and friends if and when we require his services! Thank you once again, Raymond, you've been amazing!
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21 Mar, 2024 by Kimberly hanson
Mr. Raymond is punctual!
He responds in a efficient manner, he will follow up or ask for consent prior to making executive decisions. He provides in depth services. He goes the extra extent to provide a reasonable or WIN outcome. I would highly recommend his law office to a friend.
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04 Oct, 2024 by Chelsey brown
Ohhhh you definitely want to meet RAYMOND he is a excellent lawyer yes he will tell you the possibility of the outcome you can get but when he get in there he will fight for you an state facts I had a outcome before I even stepped in the court I definitely recommend him an this not a color thing but in Baltimore we are considered minority and he went an there an did his BIG ONE out of every lawyer. I ever had I recommend him 10000% he even stay connected with you love him Good job Raymond anthracite
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26 Apr, 2024 by I b
I definitely recommend Raymond! He goes above and beyond with his clients. Raymond was extremely patient with me. He thoroughly communicated everything he was doing, and was attentive when I had questions. Regardless of when I had questions, Raymond was always available to answer my questions to the best of his ability. I will be recommending Raymond to family and friends if and when we require his services! Thank you once again, Raymond, you've been amazing!
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21 Mar, 2024 by Kimberly hanson
Mr. Raymond is punctual!
He responds in a efficient manner, he will follow up or ask for consent prior to making executive decisions. He provides in depth services. He goes the extra extent to provide a reasonable or WIN outcome. I would highly recommend his law office to a friend.
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04 Oct, 2024 by Chelsey brown
Ohhhh you definitely want to meet RAYMOND he is a excellent lawyer yes he will tell you the possibility of the outcome you can get but when he get in there he will fight for you an state facts I had a outcome before I even stepped in the court I definitely recommend him an this not a color thing but in Baltimore we are considered minority and he went an there an did his BIG ONE out of every lawyer. I ever had I recommend him 10000% he even stay connected with you love him Good job Raymond anthracite
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26 Apr, 2024 by I b
I definitely recommend Raymond! He goes above and beyond with his clients. Raymond was extremely patient with me. He thoroughly communicated everything he was doing, and was attentive when I had questions. Regardless of when I had questions, Raymond was always available to answer my questions to the best of his ability. I will be recommending Raymond to family and friends if and when we require his services! Thank you once again, Raymond, you've been amazing!
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21 Mar, 2024 by Kimberly hanson
Mr. Raymond is punctual!
He responds in a efficient manner, he will follow up or ask for consent prior to making executive decisions. He provides in depth services. He goes the extra extent to provide a reasonable or WIN outcome. I would highly recommend his law office to a friend.
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07 Sep, 2024 by Carlos rosado
23 May, 2024 by Home run builder “hrb design build” arlington va
Audrey was great, supportive and reliable. each time i called she was responsive and i am thankful for her effort, she came to court about 10 time for my case and did not ask for any extra time cost which i think she did it because i had to pay a big amount of return to my client and she knew that was putting me in a tight financial situation and was the only way to get out of the mess, That to me is valuable in a person.
Something we should know that i learned is lawyers work based on the document you have not your story, I was almost getting charges and being guilty because i pleaded guilty but i realized I have to dig into my document and send them to her which took my hours and days and when I sent them she started to organize them and send me things for correction and presented a great defense and finally from pleading guilty the case dropped and all charges to Null.
Thanks again Audrey
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31 Aug, 2023 by Jeannette velazquez
Ms Creighton accepted my son very difficult case in which she knew was going to be a challenge.after a year of diligence and persistence my son was found innocent of all charges. Ms Creighton was always there to answer any questions the family had. Her honesty, support and professionalism throughout the process was incredible. I would highly recommend her services to anyone in need of an amazing lawyer. We thank so much Ms Creighton much love and God bless you always. Ms Jeannette Lanzas
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24 Oct, 2024 by Nan ides
I have consulted with the Bienstock Law LLC firm several times. Steve Bienstock has always been extremely thorough and responsive, explaining everything clearly to make sure I understood every step of the process. All staff members are professional and pleasant and generous with their time. I would highly recommend this practice to others.
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30 Sep, 2024 by Eric hanks
Bienstock Law, LLC helped me and my family through a difficult situation in the most professional and thorough manner. It's hard to imagine facing that challenge without them. I give them the highest possible recommendation say if you have a legal problem Bienstock Law, LLC is an excellent choice.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Chrsitina story
Honestly the best lawyer I have ever had! Hoping you never need one, but if you do then call him today! This was my second DUI charge and 1. He never made me feel bad 2. Gave me facts only and told me realistically what could happen. 3. Followed up periodically and let me know everything what was happening and basically held my hand the whole way.
He was able to get it dropped to reckless driving which is amazing. Super nice guy with lots of knowledge and connections in the DMV. Highly recommend!
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05 Apr, 2015 by William
If anyone out there, is in need of a good lawyer I mean someone you can count on, Mr. Joseph. J Trepel is the person you would want to talk with. He's trustworthy, responsive, extremely knowledgeable and will keep you informed of everything, via e-mail and phone, not to mention his fairs are awesome. Had a case wanted to pay him before the case he stated not until the case is done. Often time, with most lawyers you would be required to put some money down in order for them to even show up in court, with Mr. Joseph Trepel is the contrary job done money after.
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17 Jan, 2015 by Anonymous
I have used Joe on more than one occasion. Joe handled everything very professionally and Joe is also extremely responsive. He kept me informed via emails and copied me on all filed paperwork and motions. My first time using Joe, after the criminal defense hearing in PG County, the cops came out after me and jokingly asked, "Where did you find this guy?" Joe is the smartest guy in the room period.
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15 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
Barry has been an unfailing help to our family as we seek to provide for our severely mentally ill child. He is personable and caring. I highly recommend him.
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23 Sep, 2008 by Anonymous
Separation and divorce is difficult, no matter how amicable. Mr. Glass, who took over my case from his partner to work with me on additional child support and custody-related issues after my divorce had already been finalized, was wonderful to work with. He and his firm value children first, helping parents do what is in the best interest of their kids. He was realistic when communicating with me about my options, his experience in the courts, and possible outcomes--all of which saved me time, money and aggravation. Despite my many and varied emotions throughout the process, Mr. Glass always maintained composure, objectivity, and offered wise counsel. He helped to keep me focused and sane through the entire process.
Though I highly praise his reasoned and realistic approach to my case, he was also extremely responsive to my needs and the needs of my children, not at all afraid to be aggressive when appropriate, and truly be my advocate in the face of potential injustice.
He also recommended an outstanding mediator to us who, again, helped us do what was best for our children, and save us considerable money on attorney and court fees, actually avoiding court altogether.
I cannot recommend Eric Glass enough, or his firm, Clark and Glass.
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29 Nov, 2017 by Anonymous
Beth was instrumental in us getting accommodations in a 504 plan for our child. She is very knowledgeable about how best to work within the school system to get the accommodations that were needed, but was willing to be firm and fight for our child's rights, if needed. We were definitely in good hands with Beth and I would highly recommend her to anyone who needs advice or an advocate for a 504 or IEP plan.
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16 Sep, 2022 by Tim
Rebeka was available to represent me in court Sept. 15 2022 for a family law case. She arrived early, was courteous and respectful to both me and opposition, and ensured a fair outcome at this hearing. I was much more comfortable and confident with her on my side.
Thank you Rebeka!
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13 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
When my spouse died, Ms. Schifter provided invaluable help in the myriad of details that needed to be attended to that I did not want to handle on my own - from handling probate to contacting agencies,, banks, social security, etc. She made a difficult time effortless for me. I highly recommend using her.
We had used her services to do our wills and powers of attorney and liked her clear explanations and advice so it was natural to turn to her when my spouse died.
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04 Feb, 2018 by Sofia
Paul is an attorney for my divorce case since August -2017 until now. First, my english is not good enough to write more review detail about my case. Me and my ex have one daughter 2years old. when my husband filed a divorce complaint to court, i did not have any money to hire an attorney, so i went to see many services of legal help, but all of them denied to help me because they said my case is too complicate and take long time to finish . So, i have to borrow money from my friend and my family to pay for attorney fees. If i dont have attorney, my husband will have a big change to have sole custody (That's what legal aid service said) And i found Paul via my friend recommend. I will never forget what he has done to make sure I was given a fair trial. He was able to proof the case beyond any reasonable doubt and i was more than pleased with the outcome. I feel so indebted to him for his hard work. I want to shout out loud to the world that he is such a excellent attorney i have ever dealt with. And of course, i will write the same review on another website. Thanks Paul.
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22 Nov, 2017 by Eduardo
Clark is extremely knowledgeable and professional. In my opinion, I think he is one of the best attorneys. He is thorough and is willing to fight for you. I am thankful everyday for what he has done for me.
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12 Jul, 2021 by Clara nyang
This review is long over due. Mr. Fellner is the best of the best.He was there for both myself and my son when I did not know where to turn. His indisputable knowledge of the law and the flow of the court system gave me the confidence that my son and I would make it through this turbulent time.Mr. Fellner is what law should be about, fairness across the board. Thank you so much for all you did
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08 Jun, 2020 by Lacie jacqueline
13 Mar, 2020 by E b
Jon Fellner is a great lawyer who has been in the game for a while. He doesn’t beat around the bush and gives your straight answers. He was about to go on vacation and still agreed to meet with me in the morning for a quick evaluation on my case. He really took the time and effort to help me out. If you have questions, I suggest emailing him. My sentence was almost no damage at all thanks to him. Highly recommended to anyone who’s looking for a stand up dude.
-Eileen B
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20 Jan, 2025 by Nathaly
I was referred to Eva Xu by close family members, and I couldn't be more grateful for their recommendation. When it was time for me to apply for my adjustment of status, Eva provided nothing but excellent advice and unwavering support. She is by far the most detail-oriented and professional lawyer I’ve ever worked with. Eva guided both me and my husband through every step of the process, always available to answer our questions and address any concerns promptly—there was never any waiting for a response. We truly appreciated her thorough advice and clear instructions on what needed to be done, which made the entire process feel seamless. Her professionalism and pleasant demeanor made working with her an absolute pleasure. If you're looking for a lawyer who will support you throughout every step of your journey, Eva Xu is the one to trust. Thank you, Eva, for helping me obtain my permanent residency!
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26 Jul, 2023 by Diane zink
2nd best damn boss I ever had, after the attorney who shot him self in the head. Recommend as an L/T attorney and of course for representing a very large band for bankruptcy collections.
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05 Dec, 2018 by Stephen rochkind
As an appraiser I always enjoy dealing with Henry Nash. He is professional and always on time.
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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.
