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Charles Hartwell Shivers Jr, experienced Criminal Defense, Domestic Violence attorney in Salinas, CA with 146 reviews
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43,29
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4.9/5
Avvo
4.6
8 Reviews
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4.9
138 Reviews
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09 Jan, 2025 by Ismael félix
Gracias por su ayuda al abogado Dustin a Bianey su asistente y a Jesús se los recomiendo muy buenos abogados gracias a dios y a ellos x ayudarme Law offices V Pernik súper recomendados
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29 Dec, 2024 by Mildred ayala
I highly recommend Dustin Ercolano to anyone seeking top-tier legal representation. The Law Office of William V. Perniks teams expertise and genuine care made all the difference.
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23 Dec, 2024 by Zoya yarnykh
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Ronald Scott Granberg, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Salinas, CA with 6 reviews
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39,19
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
6 Reviews
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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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Juan Carlos Calzetta III, experienced Business, Family Law attorney in Salinas, CA with 2 reviews
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39,06
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
2 Reviews
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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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Clark Aston Miller, experienced Business, Family Law attorney in Salinas, CA with 1 reviews
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35,03
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
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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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Nina Patricia Murch, experienced Family Law attorney in Salinas, CA with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
35,03
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
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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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Paddy L. Grinstein, experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in Salinas, CA with 9 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
35,01
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5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
9 Reviews
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24 Jul, 2024 by Mike donaldson
Phillip is the best DUI attorney in Santa Cruz and Monterey. One of the best in the state. If you need someone to actually fight your case, then hire Phillip.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Jeffrey mcphee
There are few things scarier than DUI allegations. Your life can be turned inside out in the blink of an eye when the red and blue's turn on behind you. Phillip Crawford and his team worked tirelessly to ensure the best possible outcome for my case. I can't express enough how important an honest, hardworking attorney is when facing prosecution. Worth every penny and more.
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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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Russell Christian Scott, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Salinas, CA with 41 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
32,15
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4.1/5
Avvo
5.0
6 Reviews
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4.0
35 Reviews
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12 Sep, 2024 by Yesmin arevalo
Google Maps
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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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Sheri Lynn Perlman, experienced Family Law attorney in Salinas, CA with 121 reviews
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31,78
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4.6/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
Google Maps
4.7
120 Reviews
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15 Jan, 2025 by Senia
Please read! I had consulted her inregaurds to a child custody matter and I had already done all my paperwork and had reports proving my ex husband lied and falsely fabricated allegations and forced my children to lie including my ex husband's wife took part in it as well. I was seeking her service, before my ex husband and his wife retained her. Before I move forward All of this happened to me because my ex husband new wife did not want him to pay me child support............ allegations after allegations it was hell with that lady....... but here's my share of experience with Sheri's Office . Moving forward I received a letter notifying me of representation of Sheri Perlmans office . Indicating she was representing my ex husband's wife in the adoption process. Which included Sandra as well who was helping in the case...... I had previously mentioned to her ( Sheri ) my custody situation and she was willing to take my case. ( previously) before my ex husband and his wife retained her. Moving forward...... I received a 17 page child adoption report from the child adoption investigator 1 year later from Family Court Services. The report itself indicated it was denied to my ex husband's wife based on false allegations and based on the history dynamics of my case. It essentially was a high conflict case. Very disturbing facts and evidence in the report that I received from the child adoption investigator. Sheri's office never reached out or sent me a copy of the report. It was amusing to me that they requested my signatures for the adoption, when my ex husband's wife consulted with them and hire them. However Sheri's office failed to send me a copy of the denied adoption notice regarding the denial. As I stated my ex husband and his wife hired her to represent them for the adoption. ( the irony of it all ) If Sheri had done her homework correctly and listened to what I had told her and read through the copies of every document I provided to her this report would have never landed in my possession. ( If she was smart enough ) she would have rejected to take my ex husband's case and not represent them for the adoption, she would of known it would be denied immediately based on the evidence I provided to her office. But she didn't do her Job correctly which is her problem and not mine :) However I am thankful that it was done because I am now in the process of bringing my daughter's home and even if it is a lengthy process. I AM NOT GIVING UP. The denial adoption report would have never happened if my ex husband's wife would have NOT applied for an adoption and if Sheri didn't represented her . I have to ADMIT it turned out to work in my favor and a huge slap in all their faces. I had definitely mentioned more than several times and nobody listened to me until finally now an investigation took place and thank God it happened because everything ( I mean everything was brought to light in that report ) There is no denying the facts and evidence found as to why the adoption is denied to my ex husband new wife custody over my two minor children. As much as I was upset that Sheri picked up the case, it actually worked out in my favor and not theirs!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I won this one ( again ) #trustingtheprocess #BetterDaysAhead #trustingod
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03 Jan, 2025 by Araceli corona
Mr Cain did an awesome job with son’s case.. I give him a 10 star rating..
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21 Dec, 2024 by Angel velasquez
Chris got my cases of speed of contest and reckless driving erased from my record and put Behind me I would recommend contracting him.
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Daniel Paul Bozzo, experienced Family Law attorney in Salinas, CA with 0 reviews
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4,00
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0.0/5
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Vincent Alexander Nordstrom, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Salinas, CA with 0 reviews
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4,00
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0.0/5
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William Henry Stoffers, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Salinas, CA with 0 reviews
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Howard Joseph McDonald, experienced Family Law attorney in Salinas, CA with 0 reviews
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Sandra Lopez, experienced Family Law attorney in Salinas, CA with 0 reviews
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Karin Elisabeth Richards, experienced Family Law attorney in Salinas, CA with 0 reviews
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0,00
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Russell Douglas Scott, experienced Family Law attorney in Salinas, CA with 0 reviews
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0,00
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Brandi Marian Johnson, experienced Family Law attorney in Salinas, CA with 0 reviews
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Tara Sherine Edria, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Salinas, CA with 0 reviews
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Kimberly Ann Barnett, experienced Adoption, Criminal Defense attorney in Salinas, CA with 0 reviews
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Chenoa Summers, experienced Adoption, Criminal Defense attorney in Salinas, CA with 0 reviews
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Erin Lynn Wennerholm, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Salinas, CA with 0 reviews
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Robert James Pitman, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Salinas, CA with 0 reviews
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Daniel G. Kutter, experienced Family Law attorney in Salinas, CA with 0 reviews
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Cynthia Lee Hasson, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Salinas, CA with 0 reviews
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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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