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19 Nov, 2022 by Gabrielle
Wow! I’d just like to take the time to appreciate Mr. Oropeza! He did a phenomenal job with my case and closed it with no problems! Highly recommend him to anyone who’s close to me !
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12 Apr, 2021 by Gameel
My case was in Washington county, Hector was right to the point, he earned the judge’s respect, after the case ended the judge complimented him and told me that I got myself one of the top lawyers, the judge told Hector that he wishes to see him more often in his courtroom. It was my first time to hear a judge compliment and recognizes a lawyer’s good work. Great job Hector.
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11 Dec, 2019 by Amy
I can’t say enough about Hector Oropeza!! I selected Hector while searching for a criminal lawyer for a DWI. I’m so thankful that my prayers guided me to this lawyer. I’d never been in legal trouble before and I was very anxious and overwhelmed with worry. Hector’s knowledge, sincere concern and professionalism brought me through this trial in my life and ultimately achieved the best outcome possible for my situation. I was always able to reach him anytime I had questions and/or simply needed reassurance. His knowledge of the law along with his calm demeanor and honest approach make him the right choice for anyone hoping to achieve a favorable outcome in court. Thanks Hector!! I’ll never forget the fantastic job you did for me.
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06 Dec, 2024 by Joely dudley
20 Nov, 2024 by Eyong
I highly recommend this law firm. Someone directed me to this law firm when my daughter’s mother sued me for child custody and child support with the intention of extorting money from me. With the help of attorney Michael who practice under this law firm, my case was dismissed with prejudice . Michael is very knowledgeable with Maryland family law as well as international law. This was my first time going to court , I was nervous lol. Attorney Michael gave me some good legal advice with respect to my case. I am glad the case was dismissed.
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09 Oct, 2024 by Ronald pozza
I had a good team. Responsive and the billing rates were fair.
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06 Dec, 2024 by Joely dudley
20 Nov, 2024 by Eyong
I highly recommend this law firm. Someone directed me to this law firm when my daughter’s mother sued me for child custody and child support with the intention of extorting money from me. With the help of attorney Michael who practice under this law firm, my case was dismissed with prejudice . Michael is very knowledgeable with Maryland family law as well as international law. This was my first time going to court , I was nervous lol. Attorney Michael gave me some good legal advice with respect to my case. I am glad the case was dismissed.
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09 Oct, 2024 by Ronald pozza
I had a good team. Responsive and the billing rates were fair.
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03 Dec, 2024 by Megha chhabra
This review is specifically for Rossiel Marquez! Rossiel is the front desk lady at the office and one of the most responsive, sincere and humblest person I have spoken. She is very considerate of client's situation and takes effort in helping them. I have never been disappointed in case I had reached out to Rossiel for help. Thank you very much!
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03 Dec, 2024 by Samantha green
Lindsay the best lawyer you can ever have. Very professional and knowledgeable in her work.
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04 Nov, 2024 by Scott trudell
Lindsay Parvis is an outstanding, meticulous, extremely effective family law attorney. I recommend her with my highest confidence.
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03 Dec, 2024 by Megha chhabra
This review is specifically for Rossiel Marquez! Rossiel is the front desk lady at the office and one of the most responsive, sincere and humblest person I have spoken. She is very considerate of client's situation and takes effort in helping them. I have never been disappointed in case I had reached out to Rossiel for help. Thank you very much!
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03 Dec, 2024 by Samantha green
Lindsay the best lawyer you can ever have. Very professional and knowledgeable in her work.
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04 Nov, 2024 by Scott trudell
Lindsay Parvis is an outstanding, meticulous, extremely effective family law attorney. I recommend her with my highest confidence.
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03 Dec, 2024 by Megha chhabra
This review is specifically for Rossiel Marquez! Rossiel is the front desk lady at the office and one of the most responsive, sincere and humblest person I have spoken. She is very considerate of client's situation and takes effort in helping them. I have never been disappointed in case I had reached out to Rossiel for help. Thank you very much!
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03 Dec, 2024 by Samantha green
Lindsay the best lawyer you can ever have. Very professional and knowledgeable in her work.
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04 Nov, 2024 by Scott trudell
Lindsay Parvis is an outstanding, meticulous, extremely effective family law attorney. I recommend her with my highest confidence.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Nikolas garrison
I am incredibly grateful for the exceptional service I received from Divorce With A Plan in their Rockville office. Their meticulous attention to detail and thorough understanding of family law ensured that my case was handled efficiently and effectively.
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11 Jul, 2024 by Suntine gifford
Dasha is an excellent family law attorney. Her professionalism and knowledge of Maryland law has been a great help to me as I work through my divorce case.
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29 Jun, 2024 by Omar dupree
If I could leave 20 stars I would. I’ve been working with Divorce with a Plan since February and man am I glad I have them in my corner. It’s been a rollercoaster this far but this law firm has helped me through, especially in times of need. They’ve worked with me financially as well as come through last minute and saved me from false allegations that wooded kept me from my daughter. I can’t write this without tears of happiness because I am 2 steps closer to regaining the relationship with my first born child. For any parents out there going through what I’ve experienced, you understand how important it is to have the right people in your corner. Man do I ever have the right people.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌟🌟⭐️🌟🌟⭐️🌟🌟🌟⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌟🌟⭐️
Sorry google you need more stars. Btw I just paid my bill and they still get this many stars.
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09 Jul, 2024 by Muzamil azeem
10 Jun, 2024 by Farzana easmin
02 May, 2024 by Malkeet singh
28 Dec, 2024 by Daniella taylor
19 Dec, 2024 by Erica noel
My recent experience with Z Family Law was superb. Maura and Michael prepared all of the basic estate planning documents for me. They helped talk me through some tough decisions in a knowledgeable and compassionate manner and my entire experience with this law practice was A-class.
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03 Nov, 2024 by Fekizz
Great customer services very accurate ,they describe very well the case
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28 Dec, 2024 by Daniella taylor
19 Dec, 2024 by Erica noel
My recent experience with Z Family Law was superb. Maura and Michael prepared all of the basic estate planning documents for me. They helped talk me through some tough decisions in a knowledgeable and compassionate manner and my entire experience with this law practice was A-class.
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03 Nov, 2024 by Fekizz
Great customer services very accurate ,they describe very well the case
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28 Dec, 2024 by Daniella taylor
19 Dec, 2024 by Erica noel
My recent experience with Z Family Law was superb. Maura and Michael prepared all of the basic estate planning documents for me. They helped talk me through some tough decisions in a knowledgeable and compassionate manner and my entire experience with this law practice was A-class.
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03 Nov, 2024 by Fekizz
Great customer services very accurate ,they describe very well the case
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12 Dec, 2024 by Virginia goodenow
Patrick is an excellent, seasoned attorney who helped our family during a very stressful time. We recommend him highly.
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02 Dec, 2024 by Teresa levitin
David Felsen was competent, responsive and professional. His substantial expertise was apparent from our first contact, and I would recommend him without reservation.
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13 Nov, 2024 by Ji-ho no
I am thankful for the help and service that he has given to me and my family. His knowledge, his persistency, and his hard work create comfort for me and my family. He explains things to me in the way that gave me understanding and clarity concerning any case. I appreciate everything that he did to bring the best outcome for myself. Communication is key so David brought that great communication environment for both in-person and through emails and phone calls. David is truly the best lawyer to have. I highly recommend him, and you will not regret having him as your lawyer when you need it.
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23 Nov, 2024 by Rachel sherman
Morgan Appel. and Nogah Helfant were wonderful! They helped me understand the prenup process and took time to make sure I was comfortable with the document before I signed. Thank you both so much!
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17 Sep, 2024 by John penn
This is my second divorce,also the second time using this law firm. Nogah and Morgan were so nice and supportive through the whole process ,thank you both.I would and have recommended them to anyone.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Pearce wroe
Morgan and Vincent have been great to work with. Their professional competency was clear, but moreover I appreciated their responsiveness and ability to understand and translate my personal concerns into something legally effective.
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23 Nov, 2024 by Rachel sherman
Morgan Appel. and Nogah Helfant were wonderful! They helped me understand the prenup process and took time to make sure I was comfortable with the document before I signed. Thank you both so much!
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17 Sep, 2024 by John penn
This is my second divorce,also the second time using this law firm. Nogah and Morgan were so nice and supportive through the whole process ,thank you both.I would and have recommended them to anyone.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Pearce wroe
Morgan and Vincent have been great to work with. Their professional competency was clear, but moreover I appreciated their responsiveness and ability to understand and translate my personal concerns into something legally effective.
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23 Nov, 2024 by Rachel sherman
Morgan Appel. and Nogah Helfant were wonderful! They helped me understand the prenup process and took time to make sure I was comfortable with the document before I signed. Thank you both so much!
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17 Sep, 2024 by John penn
This is my second divorce,also the second time using this law firm. Nogah and Morgan were so nice and supportive through the whole process ,thank you both.I would and have recommended them to anyone.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Pearce wroe
Morgan and Vincent have been great to work with. Their professional competency was clear, but moreover I appreciated their responsiveness and ability to understand and translate my personal concerns into something legally effective.
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24 Oct, 2024 by Allison duffie
I am an employment lawyer in Florida and had a client who needed representation in Maryland. I was fortunate to stumble on James and his practice. After agreeing to speak to the client who had a few hours to make an important decision, and listening to James's potential strategy, I knew he was the right fit for the client. The client called me later that night and confirmed my initial opinion. Do not hesitate to reach out to James if you need assistance.
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19 Oct, 2024 by Morgan edey
03 Sep, 2024 by Laxmi tarunkumar
It has been a great pleasure working with Chad. He was very patient in answering all my questions. I truly appreciate all his guidance and support, which made the closing process seamless. Thank you!
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24 Oct, 2024 by Allison duffie
I am an employment lawyer in Florida and had a client who needed representation in Maryland. I was fortunate to stumble on James and his practice. After agreeing to speak to the client who had a few hours to make an important decision, and listening to James's potential strategy, I knew he was the right fit for the client. The client called me later that night and confirmed my initial opinion. Do not hesitate to reach out to James if you need assistance.
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19 Oct, 2024 by Morgan edey
03 Sep, 2024 by Laxmi tarunkumar
It has been a great pleasure working with Chad. He was very patient in answering all my questions. I truly appreciate all his guidance and support, which made the closing process seamless. Thank you!
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24 Oct, 2024 by Allison duffie
I am an employment lawyer in Florida and had a client who needed representation in Maryland. I was fortunate to stumble on James and his practice. After agreeing to speak to the client who had a few hours to make an important decision, and listening to James's potential strategy, I knew he was the right fit for the client. The client called me later that night and confirmed my initial opinion. Do not hesitate to reach out to James if you need assistance.
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19 Oct, 2024 by Morgan edey
03 Sep, 2024 by Laxmi tarunkumar
It has been a great pleasure working with Chad. He was very patient in answering all my questions. I truly appreciate all his guidance and support, which made the closing process seamless. Thank you!
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28 Nov, 2024 by Jason
I feel so blessed and so lucky to have found such an amazing law firm online. Mr. Rosenblatt is everything you could ever ask for in an attorney (kind, patient, understanding, and extremely knowledgeable). His Paralegal Stephanie Gonzalez is absolutely amazing as well. She listens to your needs, comes up with excellent strategies to remedy your problems, and makes you feel so comfortable through every process. Everybody at this office is very professional and so knowledgeable about the legal system, having decades of experience. I've worked with other law firms in the past and let me tell you that this firm is such a breath of fresh air. This particular firm has helped me like family through some of the most challenging/difficult events of my life. They always answer when you call, they always reply to my emails immediately, and they have held my hand since the first day I found them online. They are also extremely fair, and will work with you through all your legal challenges to get you to the finish line. I recommend anyone I know or love to work with the Law Office of Richard B. Rosenblatt. I wanted to share my personal experience online for anyone going through stressful legal battles, I promise you that it gets better when you find the right law firm. Thank you so much Mr. Rosenblatt & Stephanie, I can't thank you both enough for everything you have done for me and my family. 🙏
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28 Nov, 2024 by Ann walcott
I needed help in sorting out my problems, contacted this law firm, spoke via phone then a face to face meeting and the result was great. Thank you Stephanie for your help! You’re the best!
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27 Nov, 2024 by Tony gonzalez
After nearly a year of trying to negotiate my mortgage loan, my wife convinced me to hire a firm to handle it. Stephanie drew up spreadsheets and profit and loss statements and helped me properly prove hardship which got my loan modification approved. Within 3 months, my loan was reworked and I could finally afford the monthly payments. Since I have caught up on the mortgage, I am filing a chapter 7 bankruptcy to rid myself of the credit card and medical debt. I am definitely happy with the service and I plan on continuing to use their services.
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28 Nov, 2024 by Jason
I feel so blessed and so lucky to have found such an amazing law firm online. Mr. Rosenblatt is everything you could ever ask for in an attorney (kind, patient, understanding, and extremely knowledgeable). His Paralegal Stephanie Gonzalez is absolutely amazing as well. She listens to your needs, comes up with excellent strategies to remedy your problems, and makes you feel so comfortable through every process. Everybody at this office is very professional and so knowledgeable about the legal system, having decades of experience. I've worked with other law firms in the past and let me tell you that this firm is such a breath of fresh air. This particular firm has helped me like family through some of the most challenging/difficult events of my life. They always answer when you call, they always reply to my emails immediately, and they have held my hand since the first day I found them online. They are also extremely fair, and will work with you through all your legal challenges to get you to the finish line. I recommend anyone I know or love to work with the Law Office of Richard B. Rosenblatt. I wanted to share my personal experience online for anyone going through stressful legal battles, I promise you that it gets better when you find the right law firm. Thank you so much Mr. Rosenblatt & Stephanie, I can't thank you both enough for everything you have done for me and my family. 🙏
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28 Nov, 2024 by Ann walcott
I needed help in sorting out my problems, contacted this law firm, spoke via phone then a face to face meeting and the result was great. Thank you Stephanie for your help! You’re the best!
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27 Nov, 2024 by Tony gonzalez
After nearly a year of trying to negotiate my mortgage loan, my wife convinced me to hire a firm to handle it. Stephanie drew up spreadsheets and profit and loss statements and helped me properly prove hardship which got my loan modification approved. Within 3 months, my loan was reworked and I could finally afford the monthly payments. Since I have caught up on the mortgage, I am filing a chapter 7 bankruptcy to rid myself of the credit card and medical debt. I am definitely happy with the service and I plan on continuing to use their services.
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1.0
1 Reviews
4.9
17 Reviews
09 Jul, 2024 by Muzamil azeem
10 Jun, 2024 by Farzana easmin
02 May, 2024 by Malkeet singh
13 Feb, 2025 by Dariia fair
02 Feb, 2025 by Rina siguenza
Muy profesionales Alicia and Eden las mejores abogadas se las recommendo 10/10 tengan en cuenta q cada Caso es diferente solo tetanus documentacion en orden y veran el resultado Alicia y Eden lucharon hasta el final las mejores solo Puedo decir mas q agradecidas con su Trabajos Erika la mejor recepcionistas q tienen las felicito🙏🙏🙏
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27 Jan, 2025 by José lopez
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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06 Dec, 2024 by Joely dudley
20 Nov, 2024 by Eyong
I highly recommend this law firm. Someone directed me to this law firm when my daughter’s mother sued me for child custody and child support with the intention of extorting money from me. With the help of attorney Michael who practice under this law firm, my case was dismissed with prejudice . Michael is very knowledgeable with Maryland family law as well as international law. This was my first time going to court , I was nervous lol. Attorney Michael gave me some good legal advice with respect to my case. I am glad the case was dismissed.
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09 Oct, 2024 by Ronald pozza
I had a good team. Responsive and the billing rates were fair.
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03 Dec, 2024 by Megha chhabra
This review is specifically for Rossiel Marquez! Rossiel is the front desk lady at the office and one of the most responsive, sincere and humblest person I have spoken. She is very considerate of client's situation and takes effort in helping them. I have never been disappointed in case I had reached out to Rossiel for help. Thank you very much!
Read more
03 Dec, 2024 by Samantha green
Lindsay the best lawyer you can ever have. Very professional and knowledgeable in her work.
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04 Nov, 2024 by Scott trudell
Lindsay Parvis is an outstanding, meticulous, extremely effective family law attorney. I recommend her with my highest confidence.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Nikolas garrison
I am incredibly grateful for the exceptional service I received from Divorce With A Plan in their Rockville office. Their meticulous attention to detail and thorough understanding of family law ensured that my case was handled efficiently and effectively.
Read more
11 Jul, 2024 by Suntine gifford
Dasha is an excellent family law attorney. Her professionalism and knowledge of Maryland law has been a great help to me as I work through my divorce case.
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29 Jun, 2024 by Omar dupree
If I could leave 20 stars I would. I’ve been working with Divorce with a Plan since February and man am I glad I have them in my corner. It’s been a rollercoaster this far but this law firm has helped me through, especially in times of need. They’ve worked with me financially as well as come through last minute and saved me from false allegations that wooded kept me from my daughter. I can’t write this without tears of happiness because I am 2 steps closer to regaining the relationship with my first born child. For any parents out there going through what I’ve experienced, you understand how important it is to have the right people in your corner. Man do I ever have the right people.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌟🌟⭐️🌟🌟⭐️🌟🌟🌟⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌟🌟⭐️
Sorry google you need more stars. Btw I just paid my bill and they still get this many stars.
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10 Mar, 2022 by Lorraine
This firm will be deceiving, they do not respect their own signed contract. They will file motion late and past the bills to you. They make sure to take all settlement money you have earned.
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31 Oct, 2018 by Modesta
Ted's expertise, experience and unrelenting efforts play a major role in the reason I have access to my minor children today, following an excruciating custody and divorce battle.
Highly recommended!
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07 Jun, 2017 by Jeff
Ted helped me win a great divorce settlement from a vindictive spouse. His sharp legal expertise resulted in the complete evisceration of opposing side's case. The results were so satisfying I've subsequently hired him twice to handle issues post-divorce -- always with great results.
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16 Aug, 2022 by Evans
This is a lawyer you if going through family issues. They don’t just fight for your case, they help you to step into the next level in your life
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08 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
Terrible person
No hablo bien inglés pero entiendo y entendí lo que estaba diciendo
desde que me senté a exponer mi caso empezó a juzgar ,no vas a buscar un abogado para eso.
sin embargo espere hasta el último momento y honestamente no me sirvió de nada .
Machista y poco profesional,no lo recomiendo .
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27 Sep, 2017 by Ryan
Mr. Mohammad had a tough battle due to my first lawyers mistakes. He responded to the challenge! His communication, organization and family law knowledge was priceless. I highly recommend him if you're looking for the best!
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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.
