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28 Aug, 2024 by Jeremy
The entire team at Tenreiro Law are highly skilled, driven, caring, concerned, helpful, and well-seasoned professionals that are dedicated to educating and expertly guiding clients through the US Immigration System. Their knowledge, insight, and support, along with a comprehensive understanding and genuine acumen of US Immigration Law make Tenreiro Law your best choice and a winning team.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
I was referred to George Tenreiro by a friend that used his immigration service and was pleased with the experience and result. I contacted MrTenreiro about my immigration situation and right on that very first call he was able to advised me. This man is very knowledgeable in his field. He walked my spouse and I through the process and was there with us through every step of it. He made himself available whenever we had questions and within 6 months I had my green card without an interview. He’s the best. Thank you so much Mr Tenreiro for all you’ve done for us.
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16 Apr, 2024 by Cristina
George and his team are amazing. Professionalism 100% . Always so patient and kind .best attorney ever !
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11 Apr, 2019 by Jacopanini
My husband and I were very anxious having to refinance our home, but Michael LiPari and all working for him were wonderful. Everyone was friendly, professional and answered all questions, no matter how many we had. I would highly recommend Bond Street Mortgage and Michael LiPari and his team.
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18 Oct, 2018 by Jessica alegre
Mike and his team were wonderful to work with. Mike was recommended to us by our realtor and we were extremely pleased with the outcome. He made our home purchase a smooth and enjoyable process. He guided us with our purchase, giving us options that we didn't even realize were possible. Without Mike's help, we wouldn't be enjoying our new home. Mike went above and beyond, even coming to us for our first meeting, which was both informative and friendly. Mike's team was easy to work with and kept constant communication throughout the process. We would absolutely use Mike and his team in the future and have already recommended him to family. Thanks, Mike.
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21 Aug, 2018 by Ryan buttimore
Michael LiPari and his team are phenomenal. Michael came as a recommendation to us and we could not have been more grateful for it. He made our first home purchase a smooth and enjoyable process. He is extremely knowledgeable when it comes to all aspects of home buying. Additionally, he went the extra mile to accommodate our needs whether is was finance concerns or after hour questions we needed answered. Michael and his team genuinely wanted to make sure we found the right home with the right financing for us. I cannot say enough how much his sincerity and knowledge meant to us as first time home buyers! I would recommend Michael and his team without hesitation and will be using him again for the foreseeable future should we buy another home down the road! Thanks, Mike!
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02 Apr, 2019 by Jay
Chuck Vuotto is the fourth attorney that I engaged to help me with my very complicated Family Law issue. He was the most professional, caring and thorough person I have dealt with professionally in many years. In the beginning I thought he was being a little too detail orientated until I realized he was looking at every single facet of my case from inception over 22 years ago. He wanted to know every little thing which helped him determine the way he was going to approach a settlement. He was honest, direct and pushed me to remove myself from the emotional issues that I didn't realize I was carrying around.
Of the hundreds of professional men and women I have dealt with in my 45 years of business, he truly ranks among the top!
In my experience with him I found someone who wasn't afraid to tell me the I wasn't being objective or that I wasn't looking at the big picture. He also amazed me with his math skills and he uses his experience to help you understand the tax consequences and the value of your present and future earnings and savings.
This man is a wonderful and caring individual who will get you through your toughest times and will be more than just your attorney. I would recommend him to everyone.
Chuck is a true professional. He was successful in getting a great and fair resolution for myself and my family. Thanks, you are the best.
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13 May, 2016 by Anonymous
I was recommended to Charles by a leading
NJ Forensic CPA. My financial situation is very complex
and Charles was able to navigate through financial issues with various family trusts and partnerships . He has a keen
understanding of financial matters which most attorneys lack
and was a pleasure to work with.
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01 May, 2016 by Bonnie
Charles Vuotto and his staff provided excellent advice and professional service for a post divorce alimony matter that I was involved in. Mr. Vuotto was always available to me. His kindness and knowledge will never be forgotten. Through his brilliant representation, I was able to settle this matter in a most positive manner. I will be forever grateful to Mr. Vuotto and his staff. If you are looking for a top notch attorney, Mr. Vuotto is the one to retain.
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11 Apr, 2019 by Jacopanini
My husband and I were very anxious having to refinance our home, but Michael LiPari and all working for him were wonderful. Everyone was friendly, professional and answered all questions, no matter how many we had. I would highly recommend Bond Street Mortgage and Michael LiPari and his team.
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18 Oct, 2018 by Jessica alegre
Mike and his team were wonderful to work with. Mike was recommended to us by our realtor and we were extremely pleased with the outcome. He made our home purchase a smooth and enjoyable process. He guided us with our purchase, giving us options that we didn't even realize were possible. Without Mike's help, we wouldn't be enjoying our new home. Mike went above and beyond, even coming to us for our first meeting, which was both informative and friendly. Mike's team was easy to work with and kept constant communication throughout the process. We would absolutely use Mike and his team in the future and have already recommended him to family. Thanks, Mike.
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21 Aug, 2018 by Ryan buttimore
Michael LiPari and his team are phenomenal. Michael came as a recommendation to us and we could not have been more grateful for it. He made our first home purchase a smooth and enjoyable process. He is extremely knowledgeable when it comes to all aspects of home buying. Additionally, he went the extra mile to accommodate our needs whether is was finance concerns or after hour questions we needed answered. Michael and his team genuinely wanted to make sure we found the right home with the right financing for us. I cannot say enough how much his sincerity and knowledge meant to us as first time home buyers! I would recommend Michael and his team without hesitation and will be using him again for the foreseeable future should we buy another home down the road! Thanks, Mike!
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21 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
She was a amazing lawyer.
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13 Aug, 2014 by Randy
Ms. Presti is a straight shooter, Knowledgeable, Compassionate, but not a game player. Responsive to the system and aware of the reality of NEW JERSEY's Difficult Divorce laws. I went into a world foreign to me and came out with a fair outcome in a very short period of time and did not feel abused! If you need a solid respectable divorce attorney - Jennifer is your answer.
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22 Jan, 2014 by R
Jill assisted in representing me in a complicated and adversarial divorce case. She is an excellent attorney who provided sound advice and guidance throughout the long process. Jill is highly professional, level headed, and compassionate. I would definitely recommend her firm, Snyder & Sarno, and Jill in particular.
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17 Jun, 2024 by Leo
I really appreciate Kar’s help with my asylum case. He was professional and provided detail explanations of what is good to do or should avoid while preparing for my court. His tactic worked very well during my court.
Another quality I appreciate about him is his empathy. During the meetings with him, he showed me that he understands where I’m coming from, my story, and how it became my case. Just like his name, he does “Kar” about his client.
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20 May, 2011 by Jeff
I have used David for a number of business related issues. He has always been a first rate professional.
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25 Sep, 2024 by Maria guevara
23 Sep, 2024 by Nelson sevigne
They are the Best in New Jersey. I would recomment this firme to My friend and family.
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18 Sep, 2024 by Maicol diaz
I called David because i was in accident. I am very satisfied with his legal services and i jist received my settlement. It was much faster than i thought. I would highly recommend anyone to his office!
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25 Sep, 2024 by Maria guevara
23 Sep, 2024 by Nelson sevigne
They are the Best in New Jersey. I would recomment this firme to My friend and family.
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18 Sep, 2024 by Maicol diaz
I called David because i was in accident. I am very satisfied with his legal services and i jist received my settlement. It was much faster than i thought. I would highly recommend anyone to his office!
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5.0
5 Reviews
4.8
31 Reviews
10 Jul, 2024 by Michael lemon
July 1, 2024
To Whom is May Concern,
In February of 2023 I was hospitalized as a result of a serious accident that required months of
rehabilitation as well as surgery. While hospitalized, I contacted the Starr, Gern, Davidson &
Rubin law firm for legal representation. The firm had successfully represented my mother in a
legal matter several years earlier. David Wendel was assigned as my personal injury attorney.
David asked very pertinent questions involving the accident. He also made very helpful
recommendations concerning medical treatment and rehabilitation specialists that would assist
in my recovery. I followed his advice and the medical specialists that he recommended helped
me make a complete recovery. David also intervened with medical insurance companies
whenever coverage issues arose. He is very personable and easy to converse with. He also
kept me informed of any important developments in the legal proceedings.
I consider myself fortunate to have had David Wendel as my legal advocate. I highly
recommend David to anyone in need of a personal injury attorney. In addition, the financial
award that I received as a result of his efforts far exceeded my expectations.
Sincerely
M. Lemon
Cedar Grove, New Jersey
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24 Jun, 2024 by Mike shinkarovsky
Very good attorneys! We had a case of family law, and Ms. Alona Magidova was able to competently and efficiently help out.
The paralegal, Ms. Rodrigues, was equally competent and efficient.
Very pleased with this law firm.
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08 May, 2024 by Rachel
Alona Magidova is an excellent litigator. Professional, knowledgeable, compassionate and tough. So grateful to have had her in my corner. Her paralegal Elaine Rodrigues was organized, efficient, and a pleasure to work with. They make a great team.
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25 Sep, 2024 by Maria guevara
23 Sep, 2024 by Nelson sevigne
They are the Best in New Jersey. I would recomment this firme to My friend and family.
Read more
18 Sep, 2024 by Maicol diaz
I called David because i was in accident. I am very satisfied with his legal services and i jist received my settlement. It was much faster than i thought. I would highly recommend anyone to his office!
Read more
25 Sep, 2024 by Maria guevara
23 Sep, 2024 by Nelson sevigne
They are the Best in New Jersey. I would recomment this firme to My friend and family.
Read more
18 Sep, 2024 by Maicol diaz
I called David because i was in accident. I am very satisfied with his legal services and i jist received my settlement. It was much faster than i thought. I would highly recommend anyone to his office!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Thearmedvegan
I cannot say better things about Eric Melzer and the team at BLKGG. I was introduced to Eric when he called to renew a trademark for a nonprofit I became the new President for. I had no prior relationship or referral/connection with him so I was a little hesitant at first, and almost had another attorney that I have worked with handle the trademark renewal. I figured I would give Eric a shot since he was the original attorney to handle the trademark, and it was the best decision I ever made.
Seven years later, Eric now handles all my legal matters for my businesses, and any other personal matters, and I have never been happier. He is sharp, concise, efficient, and tactfully aggressive when needed against an adversary.
Eric has always done the right thing for me and when something falls out of his expertise, he introduces me to someone in his firm that specializes in exactly what I need.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Detra griffin-gilliam
I had a really great experience with an attorney at this law firm and would recommend a friend.
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08 Jul, 2024 by David feder
08 Jul, 2024 by Thearmedvegan
I cannot say better things about Eric Melzer and the team at BLKGG. I was introduced to Eric when he called to renew a trademark for a nonprofit I became the new President for. I had no prior relationship or referral/connection with him so I was a little hesitant at first, and almost had another attorney that I have worked with handle the trademark renewal. I figured I would give Eric a shot since he was the original attorney to handle the trademark, and it was the best decision I ever made.
Seven years later, Eric now handles all my legal matters for my businesses, and any other personal matters, and I have never been happier. He is sharp, concise, efficient, and tactfully aggressive when needed against an adversary.
Eric has always done the right thing for me and when something falls out of his expertise, he introduces me to someone in his firm that specializes in exactly what I need.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Detra griffin-gilliam
I had a really great experience with an attorney at this law firm and would recommend a friend.
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08 Jul, 2024 by David feder
08 Jul, 2024 by Thearmedvegan
I cannot say better things about Eric Melzer and the team at BLKGG. I was introduced to Eric when he called to renew a trademark for a nonprofit I became the new President for. I had no prior relationship or referral/connection with him so I was a little hesitant at first, and almost had another attorney that I have worked with handle the trademark renewal. I figured I would give Eric a shot since he was the original attorney to handle the trademark, and it was the best decision I ever made.
Seven years later, Eric now handles all my legal matters for my businesses, and any other personal matters, and I have never been happier. He is sharp, concise, efficient, and tactfully aggressive when needed against an adversary.
Eric has always done the right thing for me and when something falls out of his expertise, he introduces me to someone in his firm that specializes in exactly what I need.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Detra griffin-gilliam
I had a really great experience with an attorney at this law firm and would recommend a friend.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by David feder
08 Jul, 2024 by Thearmedvegan
I cannot say better things about Eric Melzer and the team at BLKGG. I was introduced to Eric when he called to renew a trademark for a nonprofit I became the new President for. I had no prior relationship or referral/connection with him so I was a little hesitant at first, and almost had another attorney that I have worked with handle the trademark renewal. I figured I would give Eric a shot since he was the original attorney to handle the trademark, and it was the best decision I ever made.
Seven years later, Eric now handles all my legal matters for my businesses, and any other personal matters, and I have never been happier. He is sharp, concise, efficient, and tactfully aggressive when needed against an adversary.
Eric has always done the right thing for me and when something falls out of his expertise, he introduces me to someone in his firm that specializes in exactly what I need.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Detra griffin-gilliam
I had a really great experience with an attorney at this law firm and would recommend a friend.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by David feder
08 Jul, 2024 by Thearmedvegan
I cannot say better things about Eric Melzer and the team at BLKGG. I was introduced to Eric when he called to renew a trademark for a nonprofit I became the new President for. I had no prior relationship or referral/connection with him so I was a little hesitant at first, and almost had another attorney that I have worked with handle the trademark renewal. I figured I would give Eric a shot since he was the original attorney to handle the trademark, and it was the best decision I ever made.
Seven years later, Eric now handles all my legal matters for my businesses, and any other personal matters, and I have never been happier. He is sharp, concise, efficient, and tactfully aggressive when needed against an adversary.
Eric has always done the right thing for me and when something falls out of his expertise, he introduces me to someone in his firm that specializes in exactly what I need.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Detra griffin-gilliam
I had a really great experience with an attorney at this law firm and would recommend a friend.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by David feder
10 Jul, 2024 by Michael lemon
July 1, 2024
To Whom is May Concern,
In February of 2023 I was hospitalized as a result of a serious accident that required months of
rehabilitation as well as surgery. While hospitalized, I contacted the Starr, Gern, Davidson &
Rubin law firm for legal representation. The firm had successfully represented my mother in a
legal matter several years earlier. David Wendel was assigned as my personal injury attorney.
David asked very pertinent questions involving the accident. He also made very helpful
recommendations concerning medical treatment and rehabilitation specialists that would assist
in my recovery. I followed his advice and the medical specialists that he recommended helped
me make a complete recovery. David also intervened with medical insurance companies
whenever coverage issues arose. He is very personable and easy to converse with. He also
kept me informed of any important developments in the legal proceedings.
I consider myself fortunate to have had David Wendel as my legal advocate. I highly
recommend David to anyone in need of a personal injury attorney. In addition, the financial
award that I received as a result of his efforts far exceeded my expectations.
Sincerely
M. Lemon
Cedar Grove, New Jersey
Read more
24 Jun, 2024 by Mike shinkarovsky
Very good attorneys! We had a case of family law, and Ms. Alona Magidova was able to competently and efficiently help out.
The paralegal, Ms. Rodrigues, was equally competent and efficient.
Very pleased with this law firm.
Read more
08 May, 2024 by Rachel
Alona Magidova is an excellent litigator. Professional, knowledgeable, compassionate and tough. So grateful to have had her in my corner. Her paralegal Elaine Rodrigues was organized, efficient, and a pleasure to work with. They make a great team.
Read more
24 May, 2024 by Lisa kapsokefalos
Joseph Nitti represented my husband in a divorce proceeding, despite being notified, in writing, that my husband has Alzheimer's and dementia. Nitti mainly handled the divorce proceedings with the help of my husband's sister, and my husband wasn't aware of most of the process. My husband stated 3 times, in a recorded conversation, that he did not want a divorce, yet Joseph Nitti did not listen to his wishes. Joseph Nitti only took instructions from my husband's sister. Joseph Nitti wanted to finalize the divorce, so towards the end of the proceedings, he advised my husband's family to block numbers on my husband's phone so that his children could not reach him. This is an unbelievably cruel thing to do to an elderly Alzheimer's patient. Joseph Nitti was asked, in writing, if he had a copy of a Power of Attorney, which would have allowed him to manage the divorce with my husband's sister. He stated that he had never seen any POA agreement. This attorney behaved in an unethical manner on multiple occasions. Please be warned.
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19 Nov, 2022 by Angus ejiofor
Very cozy office environment. Excellent mediator
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06 Sep, 2022 by Evelyn gibson
Had a great experience with Nitti and Nitti. Mr. Joseph Nitti was extremely helpful in a civil lawsuit I had as well a previous divorce. He was very prompt with his responses and also very patient with me. I thank him for all his help and also helping me understand it all. I Would definitely recommend Mr. Joseph Nitti and also use him in any other future matters I may have. THANK YOU.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Sharon pelosi
08 Jul, 2024 by Hans frederik brobjerg
08 Jul, 2024 by Gregory smith
Pleasant atmosphere.
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5.0
11 Reviews
3.5
37 Reviews
11 Oct, 2024 by Claudia
The operator Page is rude and condescending. When I asked her to take my number down she did it in a rude manner and did not even ask for my name.
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09 Aug, 2024 by Amanda benjamin
Horrible law firm with awful customer service I have never in my life spoke to a company that was so rude ! It’s honestly really really bad ! I hope no one ever has to experience them you will be disappointed from first conversation believe me everyone that works for this firm is rude I thought it was just who I initially spoke to but every single person so far is horrible and not helpful at all ! I’m surprised nobody has reported them to the bar ! Believe me I will be once this is all over !
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18 Jul, 2024 by J k
11 Oct, 2024 by Claudia
The operator Page is rude and condescending. When I asked her to take my number down she did it in a rude manner and did not even ask for my name.
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09 Aug, 2024 by Amanda benjamin
Horrible law firm with awful customer service I have never in my life spoke to a company that was so rude ! It’s honestly really really bad ! I hope no one ever has to experience them you will be disappointed from first conversation believe me everyone that works for this firm is rude I thought it was just who I initially spoke to but every single person so far is horrible and not helpful at all ! I’m surprised nobody has reported them to the bar ! Believe me I will be once this is all over !
Read more
18 Jul, 2024 by J k
11 Oct, 2024 by Claudia
The operator Page is rude and condescending. When I asked her to take my number down she did it in a rude manner and did not even ask for my name.
Read more
09 Aug, 2024 by Amanda benjamin
Horrible law firm with awful customer service I have never in my life spoke to a company that was so rude ! It’s honestly really really bad ! I hope no one ever has to experience them you will be disappointed from first conversation believe me everyone that works for this firm is rude I thought it was just who I initially spoke to but every single person so far is horrible and not helpful at all ! I’m surprised nobody has reported them to the bar ! Believe me I will be once this is all over !
Read more
18 Jul, 2024 by J k
11 Oct, 2024 by Claudia
The operator Page is rude and condescending. When I asked her to take my number down she did it in a rude manner and did not even ask for my name.
Read more
09 Aug, 2024 by Amanda benjamin
Horrible law firm with awful customer service I have never in my life spoke to a company that was so rude ! It’s honestly really really bad ! I hope no one ever has to experience them you will be disappointed from first conversation believe me everyone that works for this firm is rude I thought it was just who I initially spoke to but every single person so far is horrible and not helpful at all ! I’m surprised nobody has reported them to the bar ! Believe me I will be once this is all over !
Read more
18 Jul, 2024 by J k
11 Oct, 2024 by Claudia
The operator Page is rude and condescending. When I asked her to take my number down she did it in a rude manner and did not even ask for my name.
Read more
09 Aug, 2024 by Amanda benjamin
Horrible law firm with awful customer service I have never in my life spoke to a company that was so rude ! It’s honestly really really bad ! I hope no one ever has to experience them you will be disappointed from first conversation believe me everyone that works for this firm is rude I thought it was just who I initially spoke to but every single person so far is horrible and not helpful at all ! I’m surprised nobody has reported them to the bar ! Believe me I will be once this is all over !
Read more
18 Jul, 2024 by J k
11 Oct, 2024 by Claudia
The operator Page is rude and condescending. When I asked her to take my number down she did it in a rude manner and did not even ask for my name.
Read more
09 Aug, 2024 by Amanda benjamin
Horrible law firm with awful customer service I have never in my life spoke to a company that was so rude ! It’s honestly really really bad ! I hope no one ever has to experience them you will be disappointed from first conversation believe me everyone that works for this firm is rude I thought it was just who I initially spoke to but every single person so far is horrible and not helpful at all ! I’m surprised nobody has reported them to the bar ! Believe me I will be once this is all over !
Read more
18 Jul, 2024 by J k
11 Oct, 2024 by Claudia
The operator Page is rude and condescending. When I asked her to take my number down she did it in a rude manner and did not even ask for my name.
Read more
09 Aug, 2024 by Amanda benjamin
Horrible law firm with awful customer service I have never in my life spoke to a company that was so rude ! It’s honestly really really bad ! I hope no one ever has to experience them you will be disappointed from first conversation believe me everyone that works for this firm is rude I thought it was just who I initially spoke to but every single person so far is horrible and not helpful at all ! I’m surprised nobody has reported them to the bar ! Believe me I will be once this is all over !
Read more
18 Jul, 2024 by J k
11 Oct, 2024 by Claudia
The operator Page is rude and condescending. When I asked her to take my number down she did it in a rude manner and did not even ask for my name.
Read more
09 Aug, 2024 by Amanda benjamin
Horrible law firm with awful customer service I have never in my life spoke to a company that was so rude ! It’s honestly really really bad ! I hope no one ever has to experience them you will be disappointed from first conversation believe me everyone that works for this firm is rude I thought it was just who I initially spoke to but every single person so far is horrible and not helpful at all ! I’m surprised nobody has reported them to the bar ! Believe me I will be once this is all over !
Read more
18 Jul, 2024 by J k
11 Oct, 2024 by Claudia
The operator Page is rude and condescending. When I asked her to take my number down she did it in a rude manner and did not even ask for my name.
Read more
02 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
I was deeply disappointed with this divorce attorney's services. They were consistently unresponsive and failed to communicate important updates. Furthermore, the lack of empathy and strategic guidance made an already stressful situation even worse.
Read more
09 Aug, 2024 by Amanda benjamin
Horrible law firm with awful customer service I have never in my life spoke to a company that was so rude ! It’s honestly really really bad ! I hope no one ever has to experience them you will be disappointed from first conversation believe me everyone that works for this firm is rude I thought it was just who I initially spoke to but every single person so far is horrible and not helpful at all ! I’m surprised nobody has reported them to the bar ! Believe me I will be once this is all over !
Read more
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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.
