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08 Jul, 2024 by Wave street studios
Thank you Phillip for coming to my rescue and getting the case against me dismissed. I've never been accused of a crime and didn't know what to do to fight the charge. Your early research of the facts and expert navigation through the process were the keys to our success. Thanks again, Rhett
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08 Jul, 2024 by Michael k. scheid
Crawford Law firm is one of the top juvenile criminal attorneys in Salinas.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Rob garcia
I ran into an unusual case that I needed someone in the field to fight for me. And that's exactly what she did. I'm grateful for her because she believed in me and went beyond her means to help me. It was a victory case and my innocence is restored again. And that's priceless. RG
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22 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
Ron and Justin O'Connell served as my legal advisors during my divorce. I could not have been more pleased with how they represented my case. Over the several years it took to resolve all the issues, they located financial experts, advised me during a period of mediation, and outlined the legal issues in my cases in a timely and straightforward manner. During a highly stressful time, they were always sensitive to the emotions involved in the divorce. I could not recommend a professional more highly.
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07 Aug, 2014 by Anonymous
I have been an attorney for over 40 years but I do not handle family law cases. For my divorce, I went to Ron Granberg who has an excellent reputation in the local legal community. Ron is very knowledgeable in family law and has published articles in professional journals on family law topics. He provides clear directions for his clients to follow. Ron is prompt in taking care of business.
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19 May, 2014 by Richard
Ron is simply one of the premier family law attorneys in the state. He has assisted me, a Certified Family Law Specialist, in several matters leading to successful results. Ron lectures statewide on Family law topics and is much sought after by bar associations to educate their members. He has devoted his professional life to Family Law.
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11 May, 2018 by Anonymous
How do you, in words, describe someone who was simultaneously instrumental in changing and improving the quality of life for you and your child? There just aren't enough words! However, when I do try, I always seem to begin at hero. When I needed someone to listen to my exhaustion resulting from a custody battle that was ongoing for over twelve years, not only did Juan listen with a genuine concern but he instantly connected to understanding both parties. One adult wasn't pitted against the other adult. One parent wasn't the good parent or bad parent. His response was the best interest of the child. Juan took on years of pain, manipulation, chaos, slander and drama as if it were his own family. He sacrificed, worked tirelessly and stretched every minute and resource to achieve the best interest of our case. I am still in awe at the amount of sweat equity this one man put into his work. Our case was a true victory. As a result of the outcome, my child who has a special need, has come out of remission and is thriving mentally, physically, socially and educationally. Her life skills are no longer a distant hope but a present obtainable goal. She's even starting to contribute to our community. The hope of her taking care of herself and others around her has rapidly become a practice in our everyday lives. Juan is truly mastered at understanding people. To the point of elevating his profession. He is straight forward, bold in his claims and doesn't hold back the truth. There was no fear in him when making right the wrong. I could easily go on. There truly aren't enough words to reward such compassionately given professionalism. It has truly been a pleasure working with such a wonderful community, family and professionally oriented man.
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21 Apr, 2016 by Sheila
Juan Calzetta is a remarkable attorney and it is my pleasure to highly recommend him. Mr. Calzetta took my case when all other family law attorneys shied away from its complexity (involving an international component and another state). His compassion and sense of fairness motivated him to help me, even though the case required delving into new legal matters and taking some risks. Perhaps as important as knowledge of the law, Mr. Calzetta has outstanding people skills and insight into human nature. In addition to supporting his client through the ups and downs of the case, he made an excellent team with the attorney I hired in Florida to address the issues in that jurisdiction. Finally, his abilities in the art of persuasion and negotiations with opposing counsel were integral to our success.
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20 Nov, 2020 by Michael laroco
Clark has worked with several clients we referred to him. His understanding of Bankruptcy law and his ability to communicate with his clients and help them through the process makes him the perfect choice.
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16 Aug, 2024 by Maro
She is the best she got me sole custody of my son for only 1100$ we got 900$ back from the 2k retainer fee now that is so honest and dope you can definitely trust her to fight for you in court and be fair with the total cost I would not think twice about hiring her
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26 Oct, 2024 by Minister rose jesus
Thank you for responding to my call. You are AMAZING 🤩 I appreciate the referral at no cost!!! My name is Rose D Go check out his Firm He’s about THE PEOPLES NEEEDS That is Exactly what we Need.in this CORUPT world. WILLIAM PERNKIK And WIFE OLGA! Go check them out. I promise you You won’t be disappointed at all He wins All his Cases 😊 May GOD Continue to always bless you in abundance in everything in your life always 🙏
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24 Jul, 2024 by Navraj chakal
Where do i start. It was my first experience as dui charges that i had to face. I luckily came across Charles H. Shivers and i quickly went through so many reviews and i decided to Call Charles, answered and assured me that he would work in my best interest. I first contacted Charles in 2023 July. From my call till today Charles stood out be the straight shooter. He told what he can and what he cannot. But as time went passed. I just want to sum it up that Charles not only got all my charges dismissed but was available on every call i made and every email we exchange. Today i confidently say he was like family over this past year and stood by me at every turn. If you need help with your Dui. Please with hesitation reach out to him. He stand by you like family.
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15 Jul, 2024 by Paul taylor
When you feel a Public Defender is not the answer to your problems. I asked myself, "who do I turn to"? Well, while thumbing through an endless amount of options I stumbled on Law Office of William V. Pernik. I was quickly invited in for a consultation. Almost immediately I felt the passion for my concerns regarding my case. The District Attorney (D.A) was trying to brand me with a criminal charge that I knew did not fit. The D.A. would not budge or listen to people or facts of my case. I was just a case # to them, they treated me as if I was not human. The Law Office of William V. Pernik very much understood my feelings, emotions, anxieties, and my fears. I chose Pernik. Mr. Pernik assigned a lawyer by the name of Mr. Ercolano to my case. At first glance, I was taken off guard. Before me, I saw a sharp dressed baby faced attorney. I was a bit puzzled. However, I was taught never judge by its cover. So together we rolled up our sleeves and went to work. The D.A. would stay firm on the decision to charge me, it did not matter the evidence in my favor. It was heartbreaking. My family and I could not even begin to start the healing process. Mr. Ercolano stated to me "We will not fold or agree to a plea agreement". Through it trials and tribulations. Through the sometimes, lengthy court process. Yes, we got the outcome that we were looking for! So much weight lifted off my shoulders. My family and I can officially put efforts into healing.
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22 Sep, 2024 by Arly chavez
From the moment I reached out for help with my ticket, their team was incredibly knowledgeable and kind. They took the time to explain every step of the process, making me feel assured and confident throughout. Their communication was outstanding; I always felt informed and supported. I felt comfortable to ask any question, and they were quick to respond, which really put my mind at ease. I truly felt valued as a client, receiving top-notch service and attention. A special shoutout to Beatriz!! Thank you so much! Thanks to their professionalism and expertise, my ticket was dismissed! I’m so grateful for their hard work and dedication. If you need legal assistance, Chris Cain Law is THE traffic guy!!
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13 Sep, 2024 by Alexsa (gatita jayc)
Excelente servicio y calidad humana gracias por tu ayuda María Jones
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04 Sep, 2024 by Ollie dolan
Found Chris on Tik tok of all places and he saved me from a bad speeding ticket that would’ve been on my record for years and wouldve got me suspended. He got it completely dismissed and I didn’t have to do a thing! He didn’t even ask for this review I just owe it to him
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12 Sep, 2024 by Yesmin arevalo
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21 Aug, 2024 by M v
They are good, efficient lawyers, but when they see that you have money left, they do everything they can to take it all from you. You end up paying more in calls, messages, and emails than you pay to go to court. I do not recommend them.
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17 Aug, 2024 by Martha santana
Mr. Scott is the BEST attorney you can ever hire to help you with your case. He went out of his way helping us with a child support case. I will always be appreciative and thankful for all of the help he provided to us. He is very knowledgeable, helpful attorney. Thank you for helping us so much. I really recommend Mr. Scoot as an attorney.
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What a Family Law Lawyer Can Do for You

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

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

When Should I Hire a Family Law Lawyer?

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

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

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

What Does a Family Law Lawyer Do?

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

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

How Are Family Law Lawyers Paid?

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

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

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

How Much Does a Family Law Lawyer Cost?

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

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

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

Top Questions to Ask a Family Law Lawyer

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

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

How to Check the Credibility of a Family Law Lawyer

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

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

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

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

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

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

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