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233 Reviews
15 Dec, 2024 by Dan gilboa
I cannot express enough how wonderful and friendly the team specially Kevin hakimi and David for generous an understanding to my situation I am an 85-year-old man and they were very gentle and understanding they got me the best settlement I could have asked for I would highly recommend talking to them and going with their team I will definitely pass on and recommend them to everyone I know I appreciated them and everything they have done for me!
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20 Nov, 2024 by Mike fomin
Very Knowledgeable and Professional. Thank you for your help. Definitely 5 star Lawyer.
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16 Oct, 2024 by Matt nieves
MR LIOR, very patient understanding and will further explain to your full expectation. Very secure answers and takes the weight of stress off the mind. Making an over all experience of this law office the best .
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15 Nov, 2024 by Isabella soto
Great communication, was always on top of things, and easy to reach. Great service! 100% recommend!
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15 Nov, 2024 by Jesus soto chavez
This law firm was very helpful and dedicated to helping our family with our case. They were very efficient and explained in detail our choices and was an excellent voice for us throughout our hard time.
I would highly recommend them.
Thank you.
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08 Oct, 2024 by Kaveh karandish md
Amazing experience with Mr. Fakhimi… He was able to help me in the best way possible, and we ended with the best outcome… I totally recommend his team and expertise and professionalism! Five stars all the way!
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26 Nov, 2024 by Tracy knox
I filed for divorce from my ex spouse without an attorney , my husband hired an attorney and eventually, I was forced to get assistance, but my finances were limited. I retained the paralegal Elite Legal who also offered attorney services. Ayinde Jones was the attorney who represented me. The first initial over the phone conversation was polite, I gave him some insight about my divorce. He scheduled a virtual met and confer with my then husbands attorney. I immediately felt under represented by Mr. Jones. While my husband was making demands about documents I needed to provide about my finances, pension, etc. Mr. Jones didn't counter. In fact after the met and confer he never followed up with me. I eventually spoke to him after calling several times and he told me if I didn't like his services that I could go else where. I felt ashamed, embarrassed, vulnerable, and horrified that someone would speak to me in that unprofessional manner. I hadn't done enough research and was ignorant about everything that had to do with protocol and attorney. I also didn't have the resources obtain anyone else. I contacted Elite Legal to complain about my experience with Mr. Jones and my complaint fell upon deaf ears. I also didn't realize that every court appearance from Mr. Jone's would be $400. I was lead to believe that lawyer representation was included in the entire amount I paid. Mr. Jones was horrible, he only should up virtually in court which really made it hard for me because if I had questions I was unable to ask or if I didn't understand something I didn't have him actually present. The reason I decided to get representation is because I didn't understand court proceedings. He never called the night before court to counsel me. He never followed up with me after court dates, when I would call I went straight to voicemail. We had a settlement agreement date set by the judge for a Santa Monica location which Mr. Jones declined which pushed our date back and changed the venue to a location further away which made me have to travel further. He never called me the day before to discuss anything regarding strategy or explain what I should be prepared for, so I didn't know what to expect. He also should up 45 mins late. I felt very much alone during the negotiations, it was as if I was alone and Mr. Jones and the Judge were just trying to get me to agree to anything so that they could end the day. In between negotiation Mr. Jones would go out in the lobby and talk to other clients, or precede virtually in court for his other clients, and I found myself having to go out into the lobby to retrieve him when the judge would ask for me to return to her office. The entire time he and the judge had conversations in front of me regarding how expensive it would be for me if I decided to go to trail. It was insulting, and the used manipulative tactics to scare me into not going to trail. He made me feel alone in the entire process. He was unprofessional and he did not do his job, he didn't even take out the time to go over the settlement agreement. It was emotional and overwhelming, the process was rushed and Mr. Jone's not advocate for me that day. He should have taken time to see if I had concerns, or questions, about the agreement and he didn't, nor did he follow up, so a lot of concerns, and questions never got answered, because after that count date he never contacted me until he needed me to sign off and I then listed the concerns, but Mr. Jone's had already received his $1,500.00 for one day , and would assist me any further. Don't use him as an attorney at least not if you are poor, and ignorant about the law . I plain on reporting his misconduct to the board, I don't know if that will encourage him to treat all his clients with dignity and respect no matter how much money they have.
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22 Sep, 2024 by Ana hamrahi
12 Jun, 2024 by Juan oliva
I recently received a cancer diagnosis and, on my way home after surgery, I was involved in a car accident. I am immensely grateful for Bill, Karen, Jasmin, and the entire team at the law firm. Thanks to their prompt action, I received the necessary treatment to aid my recovery. This law firm truly acts as guardian angels, prioritizing the best interests of their clients. With the exceptional legal knowledge of Bill and the support of the team, my case was settled fairly quickly. I extend my heartfelt thanks to Bill, Karen, Jasmin, and all the staff for their hard work and excellent communication. Throughout the process, I never felt uninformed about the developments in my case. I cannot adequately express my gratitude for the invaluable support and care provided by you and your team. Thank you sincerely for all that you do for your clients.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Max m. lourizadeh
I had the pleasure of working with Mr Sasan Okhovat and his team for my recent accident case, and I couldn't be happier with the outcome. From our first meeting, they were incredibly professional and compassionate, making me feel at ease during a very stressful time.
Mr. Sasan communicated clearly throughout the entire process, explaining each step and ensuring I understood my options. He fought diligently on my behalf and was always available to answer any questions I had. I received the best settlement I could have hoped for. I highly recommend Priority Law Group specifically Mr Sasan to anyone in need of a reliable and effective accident.
Thank you again!
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23 Aug, 2024 by Saul munoz
This is the place you wanna call, they are very helpful very professional they walk you out with all the questions you have and they help you thought out the whole process
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24 Jul, 2024 by Jennifer silva
In December of 2019 I had a slip and fall and was not sure how to proceed. I was doing my research looking for a great experienced attorney that would be able to handle my case. Since the first day Sasan Okhovat did his best in making sure I received all medical assistance needed. Without him & his team I don't know where I would be. After almost 5 years Sasan and his team settled my case with a great value. The whole team at Priority Law Group did their best in understanding my point of view in every aspect & helping me in any assistance I needed. SASAN IS THE ONE TO GO TO WHEN LOOKING FOR A PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEY! I will definitely be recommending him to family and friends!
PS// If you're viewing this I suggest to reach out for a free consultation.
(Sasan over any attorney)
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24 Aug, 2023 by Natan mallinger
Excellent advice and care for my situation. Highly recommend.
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22 May, 2023 by Jason montoya
01 Sep, 2022 by Nunya beezwax
Extremely competent attorney, in every way.
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23 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
Robert had a unique way of calming me and helping me take charge of my circumstances at a time when my nerves got the best of me. He listened to my concerns and addressed each and every one of them discussing possible outcomes and the law. I would recommend Robert to anyone looking for a trustworthy, knowledgable, and down to earth attorney who listens to your concerns and also seems to genuinely care about conserving your funds by addressing concerns quickly and clearly.
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07 Mar, 2013 by Brian
Mid 2011, I engaged Robert to resolve an intense family law matter that occurred subsequent to my divorce. Robert was able to not only efficiently solve the issues at hand, but he skillfully laid the groundwork for future boundaries and behaviors.
Robert's negotiation skills are exceptional, as well as his integrity. Not sure what I would have done without his professional guidance and problem solving abilities. I only wish I knew Robert before my divorce - he would have likely prevented the issues that occurred.
My (and my family's) quality of life is unquestionably better as a direct result of Robert's expertise.
I consider Robert a life-long trusted adviser and would highly recommend his services to anyone in need of a true professional for family law issues.
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28 Aug, 2012 by Sean a.
Robert is a highly skilled attorney who, not only knows the law inside and out, but has a spectacular understanding of the human and psychological nature of his work. His council is superb and his performance in court is nothing less than stellar.
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10 Nov, 2022 by Anonymous
I can only say amazing things about my experience with the Sperling Law Firm. Lauren, Aree, Caroline, and team handled my case with grace and compassion while providing me with excellent guidance. Unlike with other attornies, I felt heard and empowered by the team at Sperling. Going through any kind of Family Law matter can be a very painful, treacherous, and vulnerable experience and I am so grateful that I was referred to Sperling Law to handle a very ugly, very devastating custody and DVRO suit. Lauren and the team were very attentive throughout the process and helped me overcome the pressures of the legal system with grace and compassion. They were immensely generous and always provided the advice and guidance that made the most financial sense in my case. I greatly appreciated that they always considered and respected my limited financial resources. I would recommend Lauren, Aree, Caroline and team to anyone looking for a Family Law firm THAT CARES!!! I hope that I never need their services again, but I am grateful to know that if needed I have a team of lawyers who are by my side!!
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28 Apr, 2021 by Jack
I hired Lauren through a recommendation and I’m so glad that I did! After using another attorney for my divorce and spending way more than I expected, I begrudgingly hired Lauren to represent me against a vindictive ex and her hostile attorney. Lauren listened and was sympathetic in my fight to stay in my daughters’ lives while being alienated by their mother. I feel that her adherence to the law and her professionalism is exceptional among attorneys. She genuinely seeks the truth and maintains hope that the truth will, in fact, prevail in court. She is calm and precise in the courtroom as well as in her filings. Her words are impactful, and she gets results. I highly recommend her!
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13 Dec, 2018 by Spencer
I hired Lauren McAllister of Sperling Law Firm to represent me in my divorce. She has been exceptional. I never felt I was nickel and dimed. I felt as though I was her only client (though I knew she had others.) Most importantly to me she was very compassionate to my situation. She's very kind but also tough when she needs to be. She's supported by the rest of the legal team at Sperling Law who were always up to speed with my case. I could not recommend Lauren McAllister enough.
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29 Apr, 2015 by Harout
I would recommend George to anyone in need of his services. He helped me out on my DUI case in 2013. My dui charge was dropped. I did not have to go through the hassle of attending dui classes, AA meeting, lengthy hours of community service, SR-22 inaurance. I went to court once on the day of my trail and my dui was dismissed. Did not even have to pay any court fees. Thanks George!
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07 Feb, 2011 by Anonymous
George helped me with a felony charge. It only took 2 visits to court and we had a great result! They treat you very well, the office is amazing, very high class, definitely up there with the best in LA.
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20 Nov, 2009 by Tony
Atty. Chroman was very professional, knowlegeable and makes as feel comfortable. He was very courteous and walk the extra miles to give us
the legal advice we want to hear.
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5.0
2 Reviews
4.8
75 Reviews
28 Aug, 2024 by Max m. lourizadeh
I had the pleasure of working with Mr Sasan Okhovat and his team for my recent accident case, and I couldn't be happier with the outcome. From our first meeting, they were incredibly professional and compassionate, making me feel at ease during a very stressful time.
Mr. Sasan communicated clearly throughout the entire process, explaining each step and ensuring I understood my options. He fought diligently on my behalf and was always available to answer any questions I had. I received the best settlement I could have hoped for. I highly recommend Priority Law Group specifically Mr Sasan to anyone in need of a reliable and effective accident.
Thank you again!
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23 Aug, 2024 by Saul munoz
This is the place you wanna call, they are very helpful very professional they walk you out with all the questions you have and they help you thought out the whole process
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24 Jul, 2024 by Jennifer silva
In December of 2019 I had a slip and fall and was not sure how to proceed. I was doing my research looking for a great experienced attorney that would be able to handle my case. Since the first day Sasan Okhovat did his best in making sure I received all medical assistance needed. Without him & his team I don't know where I would be. After almost 5 years Sasan and his team settled my case with a great value. The whole team at Priority Law Group did their best in understanding my point of view in every aspect & helping me in any assistance I needed. SASAN IS THE ONE TO GO TO WHEN LOOKING FOR A PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEY! I will definitely be recommending him to family and friends!
PS// If you're viewing this I suggest to reach out for a free consultation.
(Sasan over any attorney)
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15 Nov, 2024 by Isabella soto
Great communication, was always on top of things, and easy to reach. Great service! 100% recommend!
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15 Nov, 2024 by Jesus soto chavez
This law firm was very helpful and dedicated to helping our family with our case. They were very efficient and explained in detail our choices and was an excellent voice for us throughout our hard time.
I would highly recommend them.
Thank you.
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08 Oct, 2024 by Kaveh karandish md
Amazing experience with Mr. Fakhimi… He was able to help me in the best way possible, and we ended with the best outcome… I totally recommend his team and expertise and professionalism! Five stars all the way!
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24 Aug, 2023 by Natan mallinger
Excellent advice and care for my situation. Highly recommend.
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22 May, 2023 by Jason montoya
01 Sep, 2022 by Nunya beezwax
Extremely competent attorney, in every way.
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15 Dec, 2024 by Dan gilboa
I cannot express enough how wonderful and friendly the team specially Kevin hakimi and David for generous an understanding to my situation I am an 85-year-old man and they were very gentle and understanding they got me the best settlement I could have asked for I would highly recommend talking to them and going with their team I will definitely pass on and recommend them to everyone I know I appreciated them and everything they have done for me!
Read more
20 Nov, 2024 by Mike fomin
Very Knowledgeable and Professional. Thank you for your help. Definitely 5 star Lawyer.
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16 Oct, 2024 by Matt nieves
MR LIOR, very patient understanding and will further explain to your full expectation. Very secure answers and takes the weight of stress off the mind. Making an over all experience of this law office the best .
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16 Sep, 2024 by Dawn garcia
I can’t say enough good things about Okhovat Law Firm and the incredible job they did on my personal injury case. From the very beginning, they were professional, compassionate, and truly dedicated to getting the best possible outcome for me. They took the time to explain every step of the process, answered all my questions, and kept me updated throughout. Their expertise and attention to detail were evident in every aspect of my case, and they fought tirelessly to ensure I received the compensation I deserved. I felt supported and confident knowing I had such a skilled team on my side. If you’re looking for a law firm that genuinely cares and delivers exceptional results, I highly recommend Okhovat Law Firm!
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17 Jul, 2024 by Alejandro lopez
What a great team to work with!
They were all very knowledgeable and helpful throughout the process.
Kudos to Steven for getting the job done!
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17 Jul, 2024 by Jo n
19 Sep, 2018 by Fern
When my then-husband decided against continuing divorce mediation because he couldn't have his way and signed on with an expensive family law firm, I was at a loss of what to do. I had given up my career 17 years earlier to raise our children and, though I worked part time, was dependent on my husband for many things including my medical coverage. I was frightened, naive, and did not understand how divorce "worked".
I asked a friend who was a prominent lawyer specializing in California family law and he recommended George Seide, who he knew from a legal study group they both belonged to. He assured me that George was smart, honest, principled and not someone who could be bullied. My friend was right. George was also compassionate and reassuring. It was a relief to have George handling my divorce. My phone calls and emails were returned quickly and efficiently. He made sure that property division and child custody were handled fairly.
I recently came across a handwritten post-it note George had stuck on one of the outrageous demands from the opposing lawyer: "Don't be worried by this nonsense. George".
I highly recommend George Seide to anyone seeking a lawyer for family law issues.
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26 Jul, 2017 by Chuck
Years of litagation, wouldn't ya know it, I married an attorney and her friends are attorneys and her family is attorneys and wow, George goes in, fights and we win. He has been fighting for years because I am not getting a right deal and, she pissed him off. He is the best attorney money can buy, I have 89% custody of my 3 children and long long ago, I was a Male Porn star. Come on. He is the BEST, his prices are the Best. My results speak for themselves, George accomplishes all he goes for and he knows everyone from his years of work and his humanitarian ventures, working with CSSD attorneys and staff and teaching, educating and participating to the entire California court and law system. A teacher I would say... and everyone loves him. He saved my kids time and time again from vicious attorneys and lunitic ex to be. He saved me time and time again for years now and it is ongoing, year 6, year 3 with George and Thank God! George will help me finish this divorce and finish the monster trying to rob me of everything I worked my life for, 1st was my home and kids and multiple properties I owned paid in full, Now God willing, it is her turn to pay for th elies and give me my stuff back!.
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03 Dec, 2012 by Lilly /eric
George was a great attorney who really did a great job with my sons divorce! He worked out a great visitation agreement and we would use him again at anytime! Thanks george!! Lilly and Eric
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14 Aug, 2009 by Petrea
"My divorce was one of the worst periods of my life, and I did not have an easy case. To have an attorney in whom I could place my unqualified trust was essential to me. Wendi came through in every area. She achieved a settlement that my previous attorney had told me was not possible. She listened to my concerns and goals, and then drafted an overall strategy that got results. - And she did it quickly, keeping my costs down! I finally felt like someone understood my situation and knew exactly what to do about it. I give major credit to Wendi for the positive outcome, as well as for treating me as a respected partner during the process. It's nice to have your calls and emails returned so quickly! I would unhesitatingly recommend Wendi's services."
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07 Aug, 2009 by Anonymous
I came to Ms. Wagner after my (now) ex-husband served me with divorce papers, as an overwhelmed and frightened woman. I had never used a lawyer before and I had no idea what to expect from a lawyer, much less the process of a complicated divorce after an 18 year marriage. Over the duration of my divorce proceedings, Ms. Wagner proved herself to be not only a highly professional and incredibly knowledgeable lawyer, but an amazingly compassionate person as well. From the very beginning, she helped me go from frightened woman to a confident and empowered individual with the strength to get through my situation. She kept me informed of every new development, every step I needed to take, and helped me understand the process in a way I never thought I would. I truly felt Ms. Wagner cared more about me and my situation, than in just "getting my business". Ms. Wagner is a kind person and a competent lawyer, and I am very happy to have had her on MY side!
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06 Aug, 2009 by Anonymous
Mrs Wagner helped with my divorce and I must say that she was the perfect choice to help me go through this transition with my ex. She cares and is very knowlegeable.
Her honesty is what really pleased me.
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03 Jun, 2010 by Sam
I have worked with this attorney on several business litigation matters and she is an excellent attorney. More than anything, she is honest, which is more than can be said about most of the lawyers... I would use her again for any other matter.
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06 Aug, 2009 by Anonymous
I know Roza Crawford for many years- and she is excellent attorney, very professional. ... She handle my case... criminal matters, and I recommend Roza as attorney!!!!!!!!
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19 Mar, 2018 by Trystan
It has been several years now since our adoption went through, but our memories of working with Elise are still as strong as ever. She worked tirelessly on our case, which was a complicated one. She somehow managed to sift through all of our emotional responses to family court and elaborate tracking systems to soothe us and find the details that would come to make the difference between winning our case or languishing in the probate system. She was truly dedicated and tireless in supporting our family through emergency guardianship, permanent guardianship, and finally-- permanent adoption. We are an LGBT family and she never showed any bias towards us whatsoever; on the contrary, she approached us with kindness, care, and compassion. We would recommend her to anyone needing assistance with their family law case!
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09 Jul, 2015 by Nereida ammari
I was referred to Ms. Greenberg by an attorney while cold calling because I needed an attorney the following day.Having just been served to appear the next day, I was frazzled, worn out and terrified. Ms. Greenberg walked me through the process, had an associate appear for me in court despite the last minute hiring, advised me as to how to appear, and was crucial to my winning. She turned my lost, defeated self into someone who looked confident, competent and together for court. She held my hand when I didn't believe I could get through it. I am grateful I was referred to her.
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28 Mar, 2021 by Sandy
Jennifer was knowledgable and professional while guiding us through the estate planning process. We felt comfortable discussing our needs with her and she was kind and patient when we had questions. The entire process was organized and easy to follow, and her partner Bill was very helpful with the signing process. I highly recommend Jennifer Dietz for your estate planning needs!
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08 Mar, 2018 by Arta
I reached out to Jennifer Jancosek with Southern California legal solutions because I was looking for someone that would advocate for my mom in a property insurance dispute without litigation. Jennifer is a remarkable attorney and just a wonderful person and I am so fortunate that I found her. Her and her law clerk William are a great team!
In our first conversation she listened so carefully to my concerns and gave me the courses of action and timelines. I was under such tremendous amount of stress for over a year in dealing with the insurance and their various unethical tactics in trying not to pay my mother's property claim fairly that I was literally exhausted and on my final breaths by the time she came on board, but what I loved about her is that she totally understood that and if at times I was not lucid because of that, she was kind and compassionate enough that she totally got that! Within less than a day from when I hired her she had already sent a letter of representation to the opposing party which immediately lifted a huge burden off of my shoulders-- it was literally like she was my angel--- giving me a much needed holiday to advocate on my behalf.
When I had questions, concerns or anxieties, she dealt with them so professionally, and on one particular occasion spent an hour of her time on the phone to go over the plan, and to ease my worries, and to discuss the next steps. She had such a compassionate, multi-dimensional approach to her practice. In addition to being exceptionally knowledgeable, she was also refreshingly humble, which is such a rare quality these days.
I truly admire that as a solo practitioner she makes the time to give such individual attention to her clients.
I very highly recommend her for anyone looking for any type of advocacy. She is dedicated, diligent, compassionate, and exceptionally competent.
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12 Apr, 2016 by Evan
Fred is an amazing and helpful human. Even though I was involved in a serious motorcycle accident, he was able to make me feel like everything is going to be okay again. He was quick with responding back to any questions or concerns I had and really made everything as stress free as possible for me.
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02 Dec, 2024 by Hidayat mohammed
“Excellent service from start to finish! The team was professional, knowledgeable, and always responsive to my questions. They handled my case with great care and attention to detail, ensuring the best possible outcome. I felt supported every step of the way. Highly recommend this law firm!”
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28 Nov, 2024 by Carolina reyes
After a car accident you’re so shaken up that the last thing you want to do is deal with phone calls to explain the same thing over and over.
Michaels firm helped me understand the steps moving forward and took care of everything while I was able to focus on my pain management.
Strongly recommend this law firm.
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14 Nov, 2024 by Sophia roberts
I had a great experience with Vanessa at Legal One following a car accident I experienced earlier in the year; she was professional, informative, and kind every step of the way. I felt well taken care of and would definitely recommend!
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24 Aug, 2023 by Natan mallinger
Excellent advice and care for my situation. Highly recommend.
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22 May, 2023 by Jason montoya
01 Sep, 2022 by Nunya beezwax
Extremely competent attorney, in every way.
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24 Aug, 2023 by Natan mallinger
Excellent advice and care for my situation. Highly recommend.
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22 May, 2023 by Jason montoya
01 Sep, 2022 by Nunya beezwax
Extremely competent attorney, in every way.
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03 Feb, 2023 by Angela yepremian
Very knowledgeable attorney who took my case when another attorney said it’s likely my fault. He filed a lawsuit instead of taking a lowball offer and was able to secure an amazing settlement.
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12 Apr, 2021 by Tracy gonzales
06 May, 2020 by Alicia arcelia aguilar
10 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
We lost our battle in court and he didn't really do much. He was always late in court and would not answer his phone a lot of times. Very unprofessional.
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02 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
What a mistake it was hiring this firm. They claim to work as a group but when it came to my case they sent an Associate who had no idea what she was doing in court. Of course, I lost the case and wasted all my money. I regret ever hiring these people.
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11 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
I hired Mr Sperling as a self-proclaimed aggressive litigator to set safe custody boundaries in a matter involving documented domestic violence, child abuse and substance abuse.
That one of his first consult questions was about ex's $$ resources should have been a warning but I was focused on securing safety for my children.
His representation consisted of dramatic posturing and expensive weekly 'ex parte' hearings that accomplished nothing. The writing and client contact was assigned to his overburdened legal assistant.
The three times he returned my calls, his demeanor was dismissive and it was evident they were not taking place in a professional setting.
He showed up to court unfocused, clearly not even having read what was in the documents produced by his office, and opposing counsel capitalized.
Five weeks into representation, at 4:30 p.m. the day before the 8 a.m. trial that should have secured our safety, reasonable child support, and full custody, he informed me the 15k retainer was gone (that's $3,000/ week he spent with no benefit) and demanded another $15k to show up for the trial the next morning. When I couldn't raise that much with less than 24 hours notice, he subbed himself out, leaving me unprepared to represent myself or find anyone else to.
The result was devastating, requiring significant legal effort by others to rectify, but most heartbreaking is the additional physical and emotional damage to the children that therapeutic support can't undo.
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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:
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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.
