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12 Aug, 2021 by Michelle
We retained the services of Attorney Dennis Delman to represent our interest in a complicated real estate transaction during the height of the pandemic and was very impressed and pleased with his ability to get through the red tape of purchasing a short sale/foreclosed property in timely manner. I highly recommend Dennis Delman as a polite experienced attorney, always putting the client first and educating you throughout the process. If I ever need an attorney again I will be calling Mr. Delman!!
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28 Jun, 2015 by Merry
Dennis has helped our family with a variety of issues ranging from social security to real estate to legal issues my elderly mother was facing. In all cases, he was attentive, quick, reliable, and caring. He was sensitive to our position, patient, able to explain our options and the laws that pertained to our situation. He made us feel as if we had his undivided attention and we were his main priority. We felt safe in his hands and would turn to him again in a heartbeat.
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28 Jun, 2015 by Merry
He has handled several legal matters over the years and am totally pleased with his knowledge and timely attentiveness to all of my concerns. He is very knowledgeable and treats everyone with courtesy and respect
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02 Jun, 2022 by Lynn sassounes
We have been using the services of Dennis Delman for over 40 years and he has gotten us through everything from teenage kid troubles to taking care of situations we have gotten in by unscrupulous people. We thank our lucky stars the day his name was given to us by mutual friends because he has become a friend who is always kind, professional, unpretentious, knowledgeable and a gentleman. We would heartily recommend him as the BEST at what he does !!!
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11 May, 2022 by The king “gettinggwop2342” pharoah gamo x
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13 Aug, 2021 by Michelle lauren
We retained the services of Attorney Dennis Delman to represent our interest in a complicated real estate transaction during the height of the pandemic and was very impressed and pleased with his ability to get through the red tape of purchasing a short sale/foreclosed property in timely manner. I highly recommend Dennis Delman as a polite experienced attorney, always putting the client first and educating you throughout the process. If I ever need an attorney again I will be calling Mr. Delman!!
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05 Feb, 2022 by Angelica
It’s was a long battle for a frustrating situation after a family death but Stephen worked so hard to get what my family wanted. My father passed away a few months before the long 5 year case ended which added a couple bumps in the road but we finished. Thank you Stephen for everything.
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11 Dec, 2021 by Anne
Stephen showed concern and was very informative during our case. He always answered our questions and emails in a timely manner. It was great to have an attorney with his knowledge and compassion for my family during this time. Thank you Stephen and you are on the top of my list.
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24 Nov, 2021 by Nancy
Stephen Coukos did an incredible job for us getting us a settlement in a rather unusual case. He worked extremely hard and long to bring us to a point of victory! He is an extremely thorough lawyer. Happy he was on our side!
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22 Dec, 2022 by Linda r.
Sharon Corse handled my divorce last year. She was kind, caring and particularly concerned about my future welfare. She had my husband served in just a few days, and was able to get a good maintenance award for me. Most of all, she really listened and addressed my fears and apprehensions. She helped me realize that my life was going to get better and that the divorce was a chance for a new beginning.
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22 Dec, 2022 by Mona
Sharon Corse mediated a divorce for me and my ex. Not only is she very knowledgeable and efficient, she also showed true human compassion for our family during a hard time in our lives. She paid extra attention to the needs of our children. She is a voice for calm and reason when I was at my most emotional. She has a strong work ethic. She is fair and honest and I have referred her to many of my friends in need. I highly recommend Sharon Corse.
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27 Dec, 2014 by Valentina
I hired Mr. Plotnick to represent me at my horrible divorce and trial. While opposing counselor and my ex lied their way through, Mr. Plotnick did everything he possibly could always being professional and true to the facts. I really appreciated his effort, honesty, and smart way of asking questions at the trial when I worked pro-se on the appeal of the judgment. Working on my Brief I found everything in the transcripts that I needed for my appeal to be successful. I won my appeal and I’m not an attorney. Based on the trial evidence presented to the judge by Mr.Plotnick, all three Appellate Court judges recognized that our trial judge abused her discretion (the judge retired after my appeal). After appeal I re-hired Mr. Plotnick and with his help we reached a settlement on my terms. I highly recommend Mr. Plotnick for divorce case and trial. I trusted his experience, knowledge, intuition, and always felt that he is on my side.
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25 Jun, 2024 by Nairen cao
Lisa is an amazing lawyer who truly respects her clients. When I first went to her, she answered all my questions with so much patience and made sure I understood everything I needed to know. Legal issues can take years and cause a lot of stress, but Lisa helped me stay positive and focused on my life. Anytime there was an update on my case, she let me know right away and helped me figure out my next steps. I highly recommend Lisa because she not only solves problems but also genuinely cares about her clients' best interests.
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12 Feb, 2024 by Matt harline
Lisa Braganca was a consummate professional and her previous experience as a Branch Chief for the SEC proved invaluable. Not only did she get a fair and favorable result for the Village, but she did also it efficiently and returned the unused portion of the original modest retainer. So, at the end of her work, we got a closed case and check back.
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16 Mar, 2023 by David bowles
Ms. Bragança advised me with regard to preparing for a deposition with the SEC. She was extremely knowledgeable, responsive and helpful throughout the process. I highly recommend Braganca Law LLC for matters related to the SEC.
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07 Aug, 2024 by Adam spacke
Jade helped us create a living trust and was an excellent partner from start to finish. She was knowledgeable, persistent (in a helpful way to get things done) and timely with all responses.
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30 Jul, 2024 by Dani kearns
We worked with Lee on estate planning to help us set up a trust. He is extremely knowledgeable and walked us through all the steps so we felt comfortable during the entire process. He was accommodating to our tight turnaround and we were able to get everything competed on time.
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24 Jul, 2024 by Syed saq
This is coming from an actual client of Mr. Lee Zeidman, so please read carefully. Mr. Zeidman charged me over $18,000 over a course of 9 months handling (or dare I say mishandling) my divorce case. I hired Mr. Lee Zeidman in early Feb 2023 as my divorce attorney. He started with $4500 retainer. As my case progressed it appeared to me he did not know what he was doing. For example, my spouse had been a working individual all 16 years of marriage and decided not to work after filing to give me a hard time. I asked Mr. Zeidman at several occasions to find a legal way to make her look for a job. He said there was no way and gave me many excuses how it was not possible. (I later learned that all an attorney needs to do is to file a motion to compel to work). Due to Lee Zeidman’s inability, I had to pay my spouse exorbitant sums for support which would otherwise be unnecessary. So much so, her attorney argued and compelled me to pay her attorney’s fees also since she didn’t have a job and Mr. Zeidman couldn’t do anything about it. Don’t forget, I was also paying for mortgage on the house where I no longer lived on top of support. To add insult to my injury, when my financial records were subpoenaed by my Ex’s attorney, both of these attorneys (mine and hers) were charging me at attorney’s rate to review those financial records. When I objected and asked Lee Zeidman to ask for court appointed independent financial expert, he had no idea what to do. Mr. Zeidman’s response was that each party had a right to have these records reviewed “whichever way they wanted”. Last but not least, I kept asking Lee Zeidman to have appraisals done on all property while he kept dragging it for reasons unbeknownst to me. Make long story short after working with Lee Zeidman for 9 months and spending more than $18,000, I was getting nowhere. My spouse was still not working, no financial expert had been hired and no appraisals were done while Mr. Zeidman kept charging me legal fees for useless work that was producing no results. At last, I came to my senses and let go Mr. Zeidman in late Oct 2023 and finally hired an attorney who knew what he was doing. He started to produce results immediately using the law to my advantage. My spouse was working in no time, financial expert, called 503(I) expert was hired at reasonable rates, my soon to be EX started paying her own attorney’s fees and appraisals got ordered. Most distressing part in dealing with Lee Zeidman was that I kept asking him what to do, while he kept ignoring me either due to gross negligence or just sheer incompetence. As painful as divorce is, Mr. Zeidman just added to my misery many folds. He charged me hefty legal sums for work that produced NO RESULTS. I don’t know how much more he would have dragged this on, had I not had the foresight to cut ties with him and hire someone else. STAY AWAY FROM LEE ZEIDMAN AND ZEIDMAN & CARPENTER!!
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27 Sep, 2024 by Diana bambusch
Absolutely the best law firm. Answered every question I had. Always was a email or a phone call away. They worked hard and got my son 30 months probation instead of 30 yrs. They are amazing lawyers .
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13 Sep, 2024 by Mayra sanchez
if you need a great divorce attorney, I highly recommend Attorney David Wolkowitz. My divorced was completed quick within 90 days. My petition for divorce was filed right away and the office was in constant communication with me. They provided guidance every step of the way. I was pleasant surprised with how smooth the process was. It really helped ease the uncomfortable proceedings of a divorce. I would give more than 5 Stars if possible.
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07 Sep, 2024 by The penmnist martin
In 2002, Mrs. Rhonda Stuart helped me gain sole custody, of my oldest son. She is a Remarkably Gifted Attorney, who will fight for You, and will go above and beyond, to litigate on your behalf. Thank You Rhonda, for everything You have done for me. I Sincerely Appreciate You. Michael T. Martin
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27 Sep, 2024 by Diana bambusch
Absolutely the best law firm. Answered every question I had. Always was a email or a phone call away. They worked hard and got my son 30 months probation instead of 30 yrs. They are amazing lawyers .
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07 Sep, 2024 by The penmnist martin
In 2002, Mrs. Rhonda Stuart helped me gain sole custody, of my oldest son. She is a Remarkably Gifted Attorney, who will fight for You, and will go above and beyond, to litigate on your behalf. Thank You Rhonda, for everything You have done for me. I Sincerely Appreciate You. Michael T. Martin
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10 Aug, 2024 by David dean
I went to Dave and Sam for my uncontested divorce and they made the whole process really smooth and took all the stress out of it for me. They helped me out and I was always able to reach out to them if I had any questions. I am super greatful to them.
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27 Sep, 2024 by Diana bambusch
Absolutely the best law firm. Answered every question I had. Always was a email or a phone call away. They worked hard and got my son 30 months probation instead of 30 yrs. They are amazing lawyers .
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07 Sep, 2024 by The penmnist martin
In 2002, Mrs. Rhonda Stuart helped me gain sole custody, of my oldest son. She is a Remarkably Gifted Attorney, who will fight for You, and will go above and beyond, to litigate on your behalf. Thank You Rhonda, for everything You have done for me. I Sincerely Appreciate You. Michael T. Martin
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10 Aug, 2024 by David dean
I went to Dave and Sam for my uncontested divorce and they made the whole process really smooth and took all the stress out of it for me. They helped me out and I was always able to reach out to them if I had any questions. I am super greatful to them.
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12 Oct, 2023 by Pamela brown
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09 Jun, 2023 by Lloydis shelby
I truly enjoyed working with Ben Schneider to get the job done where other’s were just getting out of the starting block. A sound and solid legal firm with a sound solution and an legal approach that makes sense on the legal front. Ben was highly successful in closing our family case so I can now focus on getting back with family and friends. Thanks Ben. God bless.
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02 Jun, 2023 by E d
Helpful, friendly, and all around awesome service. Would recommend to anyone!
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30 Aug, 2019 by Juan
I hired Rhonda Stuart for my divorce in Illinois. She didn’t do anything for my case and charged me $4000.00 plus retainer fee. She never sent me an itemized bill until I retained another attorney. She wouldnt respond to my emails until several attempts. Waste of time and money. Don’t recommend her
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15 Mar, 2019 by Amy
Long story short, my ex was acting crazy. It seemed like every day he was bringing up some new fantasy as way to try to get back to me in court. Yeah, I freaked out. But Things handled it well. when she told me we were going to let him dig his own grave, I didn't really know what she was talking about. Then It worked out. She had great ideas and explained things to me, which is a lot more than I can say for my old lawyer. Great!
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02 Feb, 2017 by Mike w
I have a matter that involves cases in both Illinois and New York. That means lawyers in both states. Rhonda didn't waste my time and set me on the right path. I will use her in the future.
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12 Oct, 2023 by Pamela brown
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09 Jun, 2023 by Lloydis shelby
I truly enjoyed working with Ben Schneider to get the job done where other’s were just getting out of the starting block. A sound and solid legal firm with a sound solution and an legal approach that makes sense on the legal front. Ben was highly successful in closing our family case so I can now focus on getting back with family and friends. Thanks Ben. God bless.
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02 Jun, 2023 by E d
Helpful, friendly, and all around awesome service. Would recommend to anyone!
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30 Sep, 2014 by Anonymous
Non responsive. never followed through with promises made at time of hiring and giving her my retainer. Agreed o=with opposing attorney on spousal support without confering with me. Never did what she s aid she would do, ate up thousands of dollars ignoring jus=dges order, be=never got jusdge to enforce any of opposing parties court orders. was more interested in her own billing then helping me. Terrible - passed everything onto her assistant who had little to no experience and couldn't remember one conversation to the next. I did all the work and they did nothing to help me. Once the funds were gone she requested to be taken off the case.
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20 Mar, 2013 by Anonymous
I didn't end up hiring this attorney because I found another way to resolve my issue. But I spent some time with her, both on the phone and in her office. I found her very easy to talk to, smart and quick on the uptake and above all kind -- not like the other divorce attorneys I met, who have no manners and only want to know what you're going to pay them and when. I also asked around (through a friend who is a lawyer), and learned that other lawyers generally speak well of her. She does a lot of child representative work. She definitely seemed to know her way around the Cook County domestic relations courts and judges. Definitely worth speaking with if you need a divorce or child custody attorney.
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10 Oct, 2012 by Anonymous
Dealt with Frank to set up a trust. At first he seemed pleasant enough, but as the process unfolded he became more curt and impatient. At one point telling me point blank "I don't have time for this" when I didn't understand what he was explaining. Given his hefty fees, I don't consider his services or his attitude worth the price at all.
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11 Mar, 2011 by Anonymous
He is forthright and knowledgable. He is honest. He does not gouge or milk people of their money. He is very personable and professional in demeanor. He is punctual. He stays on top of things and never misses a deadline. He puts his clients' needs first and foremost. He makes sure his clients are protected.
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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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