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23 Aug, 2024 by Karen
I'm very thankful to have found Melissa. I was being sued by a family member and it was an absolutely gruesome experience. The lawyer I initially had was an incompetent buffoon. I had tremendous anxiety every time we spoke and would literally be sweating. That lawyer took up my time with long phone calls that did zero to help me and and she wasted my resources pretty badly by referring to me to her friend, a trust attorney, who I paid thousands to just to find out what an hour long google search could have turned up. Getting ripped off by attorneys is too common. It's a jungle out there.
Finding Melissa was the opposite experience from top to bottom. She was always available to talk but my own questions determined the length of the call so I never once felt she kept me on the phone unnecessarily while the meter ticked away. She was always to the point and told me what I needed to hear with the utmost respect without being scary. I always felt better after talking to her. She advised me to go to my own hearing which was amazing advice and that really paid off. The person suing me hid behind his lawyer and didn't attend. Melissa always listened to me and went above and beyond to help me. It was such a complex and horrible situation involving family members and a mess of a trust that was crafted years ago along with the personal element involved in such a case and being harassed and lied about.
Melissa was able to hold so many things in her brain at the very same time that honestly I have never met anyone who could do this as well as her. She's even-keeled and understands the big picture of your case and the legal system in general very well. She's honestly amazing and you will not get more or better service from any other lawyer.
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19 Aug, 2024 by Christian vega
Melissa is the best!
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29 Jun, 2024 by Silvia silva
Melissa Pomares handled my paternity case. She was extremely knowledgeable, patient and kind. Very dedicated law firm- Attorney Sutton is not only a remarkable attorney but a remarkable person* The whole process in court along the way went very well Thanks to Attorney Pomares and the whole team. Love and gratitude always Leonor Silva
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13 Dec, 2021 by Anonymous
I am a partner in a law firm who has been practicing for over 20 years. I hired Max to handle my divorce. As a high-earner with a stay at home mom and three kids, it was a challenging case. With the mom's serious mental health issues, it was a tremendously challenging case. He carried me through the hardest years of my life and delivered the most unexpected and beautiful result I couldn't have even hoped for. You are making a mistake if you do not hire Max for your case. Simply top notch.
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04 Sep, 2020 by Anonymous
I hired Max to handle my separation from my children's mother when she wanted to move them to another city.
Max worked tirelessly on my case, contacting me frequently, working with experts, the guardian ad litem, and the opposing party's lawyer. We were prepared to go to trial, but Max managed to finagle an extremely beneficial settlement at the last minute that I truly believe reflects the best possible outcome that I would have received in court.
I now spend almost every day with my children, and I could not be happier with my choice to hire Max.
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25 Oct, 2018 by Ida
A Special Soul.
Choosing Max Leinoff for my divorce case was the answer to my prayers. Especially for a woman like me going through a very hard moment in her life, having Max representing me lightened up the entire process. Max was always present. He was there for me all the time. Never did I wait more than two minutes for an answer or a return phone call. He is an elegant and incredibly prepared lawyer. His knowledge and his sensitivity is definitely a unique combination. I always felt protected with him by my side. He is always on top of all situations and his goal is always the best possible thing for his client. I will never forget being in Court the first time. As he was explaining the situation to the Judge, I was like a petrified statue, I couldn’t breathe. But even in this intense situation, he was able to steal a smile from me due to his protective and professional attitude. Max is an incredible professional who works with passion, going above and beyond, and not limiting himself to the scriptures of the law books. He is able to read between the lines. He is funny but also can be very tough when necessary. He is a special soul. Thank you Max, you really do make a difference and I appreciate you.
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19 May, 2023 by Leah
I am thoroughly pleased with my experience working with Paul Leinoff. He was timely, thoughtful, strategic and accountable - a true professional. He has a deep understanding of family and Florida law and was always honest and transparent. His patience and commitment to my case with invaluable. I highly recommend his services.
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18 May, 2023 by Manuela
I hired Paul and he continued to fight for me and protect me throughout my case. He was able to secure a very favorable financial settlement for me and was incredibly attentive to my needs and was very patient with me. One of a kind!
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18 Dec, 2020 by Peter
Cheese and Crackers. Paul just pulled me out of THE MOST INSANE HOLE I have ever been in. Literally the difference between my ex getting $30k instead of MILLIONS!!!! Paul showed me the light which turned out to be a train barreling towards me at 100mph about to destroy my life. Him and Max slapped me out of my daze, pulled me aside, and put together the most CLUTCH 97-page contract and got 9 other people which included me, my ex, 4 witnesses, 2 notaries, and another lawyer to show up at this signing ceremony and WE MADE IT HAPPEN!!!!! Holy guacamole. Im a FREE MAN thanks to Paul with a BRIGHT FUTURE. God bless this guy he's SHARP AS A TACK and a force to be reckoned with. God help those he's against. May their souls and sh*tty deals rest in peace. Thank you Paul and Max!
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26 Mar, 2017 by Claudia
Choosing an attorney when going through a devastating process such as a non amicable divorce is critical. I felt like my life was turned upside down and my heart was ripped into pieces. My biggest fear was hurting my two beautiful children in the process, and so protecting them was my main priority. I consulted with several divorce attorneys and the level of anxiety just kept increasing. It wasn't until I met Natalie Lemos that I finally felt safe and hopeful. She had been highly recommended by a friend and the minute I consulted with her I instantly knew she would be my "forever attorney". You see, Natalie was totally aligned with my family values. She is a woman of integrity and her main focus is the children's well being. All decisions were based on protecting us as a new family, with our new future. That is something a parent always can appreciate, it is priceless. Natalie guides you through the steps to consider pre and post divorce. She really cares about her clients, their financial stability and emotional state. You need her, she's immediately there. She will not make you wait. She literally spoils her clients. Shes effective and fast. She's not an attorney that prolongs the process. Her honesty and loyalty are the things I admire the most. She's strong in court and in mediation, I always felt well represented and at ease. She's phenomenal! I respect her for her outstanding mentoring and leadership during and after my divorce. She gave me hope when I was going through the darkest time in my life, I will forever be grateful for giving light to my life again.
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20 Mar, 2017 by Jorge
Although divorce is not ideal, I’ve gone down that unfortunate path. Having Ms. Lemos on my side made a profound and positive difference. She ensured my kids were untouched by the unfortunate divorce process. Natalie's advisement helped me to prioritize my contentions. Her keen understanding of the nuances of family law coupled with her compassion and empathy for “the family”, made it possible for me and my-ex wife to find an amenable solution. So much so that today we are on good terms. Personally, I discourage my friends from pursuing divorce if at all possible. But once divorce becomes inevitable, then Ms. Natalie Lemos is the right person to have on your side! She’s smart, knowledgeable, balanced and particularly clear on helping you pinpoint what matters most. I highly recommend Natalie Lemos.
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19 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
I'm a single father of two and I was very pleased with Natalie's guidance through my challenging divorce. She is extremely knowledgable and well prepared. She gave me great advice on financial matters and with regard to my children. I highly recommend Natalie.
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19 Oct, 2015 by Carlos a. peñate
Mr. Sutton was always available whenever I needed him. A fantastic attorney who always put in a tremendous amount of work on my case. I highly recommend him!
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30 Sep, 2014 by Anonymous
John R Sutton has been my attorney for the last 6 years. I do not add my name as my case is still active in the Courts. When I reach final disposition, I will sign this recommendation with full disclosure.
This firm has handled issues for me that include Family Law, Employment Law and Civil Litigation. I retained John Sutton for his reputation of Integrity, Legal Knowledge, Trial Law, Board Certification in Civil Litigation and his experience with Family Law. I can tell you that I am often amazed by the scope of his mind, he can remember and cite information which most of us forgot after we read it. Exceptional. I believe that every law student should be required to sit in on one if his trials to learn the proper way to formulate, present and defend an argument. If that were to happen, we would have a much greater population of Attorneys that are fair, competent and respect the law our Country designed. His office staff is highly skilled and work for him because they can't imagine working for anyone else. I will keep Mr. Sutton as my attorney for everything I need and very often recommend him to others to correct the mistakes made by high powered, over priced attorneys with outrageous fees and an outcomes which have left people destitute. John Sutton has a reputation with the Judges in Miami that is one of admiration and respect. I give John and his staff my highest recommendation .
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18 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
I went to Jamie's firm Leinoff and Lemos to get help during my divorce. Jamie was one of the associate's at the firm and assigned to my case. She gave me the attention that her bosses didn't. She knew the law well, was compassionate and honest, managed my expectations and was clearly respected by the judges. I highly recommend her.
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14 Aug, 2024 by Robert dube
I had to most outstanding experience with E.J. Hubbs. I called a few attorneys before deciding who would represent me. He was the only one who took the time to hear my story and listen to all of the details before requiring payment. He was patient, professional, helpful, pleasant, and most importantly he facilitated a good outcome.
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23 Jul, 2024 by Kay hanson
Mr. Hubbs and his office represent true professionalism. They work with you and always readily available to answer any queries you may have.
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27 Jun, 2024 by Jorge
Mr. Hubbs’s expertise, dedication, and strategic approach resulted in the successful dismissal of my case. From our initial consultation, Mr. Hubbs demonstrated profound knowledge of the law and a deep commitment to achieving the best possible result for my case. Throughout the process, Mr. Hubbs maintained clear communication, promptly addressed my concerns, and meticulously prepared our defense. His professionalism and confidence instilled trust and reassurance during one of the hardest times in my life.
Equally deserving of praise is Jordy Meija, Mr. Hubbs legal assistant, whose support made a significant difference. Mr. Meija was always available to answer my questions, provide updates, and ensure that everything ran smoothly. His organization and responsiveness is excellent and he helped always make sure that I knew everything that was going on with my case.
I highly recommend Mr. Hubbs to anyone seeking legal counsel. His passion for justice and unwavering advocacy make him an invaluable asset in navigating legal complexities. Thank you, Mr. Hubbs, for your outstanding representation and for securing the best possible outcome in my case.
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22 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
Does not care about his Clients only cares about their Money! He ignores Clients requests, does not review their paperwork having his associates doing all the work for him His priority is reviewing what he bills you and not your interests & reviewing what you request or information you send him
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17 Apr, 2019 by Polina
I can attest that Andrew Leinoff is a courteous and a straightforward attorney. My experience with Andy has proven to be efficient while he worked tirelessly and made himself available at all times during the 2 year divorce.
There is no secret recipe for all cases and like me most of us begin with unrealistic expectations. Andrew's expertise, high standards and integrity yielded a favorable outcome and led me to freedom.
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09 Sep, 2018 by Anonymous
There were numerous billing questions. He would not meet to discuss the bills. He restricts your time to question a bill to a 10 day time window from the statement date, otherwise, by his fee agreement, you have to pay all of the fees. The only responses given were by e-mail, and he would say they are all correct and provided no further details. With about 10% of the total bill in question, he decided to withdraw from the case by filing for a court proceeding to pursue arbitration. He did this within one week before my previously scheduled final divorce hearing. Needless to say, this delayed my divorce for several weeks because now I had no representation. The unpaid balance in question was less than $5,000. His contract requires you to agree to pay for another divorce attorney for the arbitration from his list of three choices, and that you pay all of the fees for the arbitration. At my request, The Florida Bar agreed to arbitrate the billing questions for free, but he declined the complementary service. In summary, his pursuit of fees delayed my divorce by several weeks and increased his fees by another $15,000.
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Family Law Lawyer Can Do for You
A family law lawyer provides legal services related to family relationships, including marriage, divorce, child custody, and adoption. Family lawyers help clients navigate emotionally charged legal issues, providing guidance and representation in disputes that affect spouses, children, and parents. Whether you're going through a divorce, seeking custody of your children, or drafting a prenuptial agreement, a family law lawyer ensures your rights are protected and your interests are represented.
Family law attorneys often handle sensitive matters and offer objective legal advice, helping clients reach fair outcomes either through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.
When Should I Hire a Family Law Lawyer?
Hiring a family law lawyer is beneficial in several situations, especially when legal matters involve close personal relationships. Common reasons to hire a family law lawyer include:
- Divorce or separation: When ending a marriage, a lawyer can help you navigate issues such as division of assets, spousal support, and child custody arrangements.
- Child custody and visitation disputes: If you and your co-parent can't agree on custody or visitation, a lawyer can represent your interests and work toward a solution that benefits your children.
- Child support: Whether you’re seeking child support or defending against a claim, a lawyer can help ensure the appropriate amount is calculated and enforced.
- Prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: A lawyer can help draft or review agreements that protect your assets in case of divorce.
- Adoption: Family law lawyers guide you through the legal process of adoption, ensuring that all requirements are met.
- Domestic violence or restraining orders: If you're a victim of domestic violence or being falsely accused, a lawyer can help you obtain or challenge protective orders.
- Paternity cases: If there are questions about the paternity of a child, a lawyer can help establish or dispute legal fatherhood.
Hiring a lawyer early can prevent issues from escalating, and they can offer you the best chance of achieving a favorable outcome in emotionally charged situations.
What Does a Family Law Lawyer Do?
A family law lawyer provides a wide range of services depending on your specific legal needs. Their responsibilities may include:
- Advising on legal rights and options: Helping you understand your legal rights regarding divorce, child custody, support, and other family law issues.
- Filing legal documents: Drafting and filing petitions, motions, and agreements with the court, such as divorce papers, custody agreements, or support orders.
- Representing clients in court: Arguing your case in front of a judge if a settlement can’t be reached through negotiation or mediation.
- Mediation and negotiation: Assisting with alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, to reach agreements on issues like custody, property division, and support without going to trial.
- Enforcing court orders: Helping you enforce court orders related to child support, alimony, or custody if the other party fails to comply.
- Drafting prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: Creating agreements that protect your assets in the event of a divorce.
- Handling adoption proceedings: Ensuring that the legal process of adoption is followed, from filing paperwork to finalizing the adoption in court.
How Are Family Law Lawyers Paid?
Family law lawyers typically charge clients in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Common payment arrangements include:
- Hourly rates: Most family lawyers charge by the hour, with rates varying based on experience and location. Clients are billed for the time spent working on their case, including consultations, court appearances, and document preparation.
- Flat fees: For more straightforward legal services, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, some lawyers offer flat-fee arrangements.
- Retainer fees: In cases that are expected to require significant time and attention, such as contentious custody battles, a lawyer may charge a retainer, which is an upfront payment that covers the initial costs of legal services. The lawyer then bills against the retainer as they work on your case.
The exact cost will depend on the complexity of your case and the lawyer’s fee structure, which should be discussed upfront.
How Much Does a Family Law Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a family law lawyer varies based on factors such as the lawyer's experience, the location, and the complexity of your case. Here are some general cost guidelines:
- Hourly rates: Family law lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour, depending on their experience and the complexity of the case.
- Flat fees: For simpler cases, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, fees may range from $1,000 to $5,000.
- Retainers: For more complex matters, such as contested divorces or custody battles, lawyers may charge a retainer ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 or more. The lawyer will bill against the retainer for the work they do on your case.
- Additional costs: You may also be responsible for additional costs, such as filing fees, mediation fees, or expert witness fees.
Always ask for a clear breakdown of the lawyer’s fees and any additional expenses during your consultation.
Top Questions to Ask a Family Law Lawyer
Before hiring a family law lawyer, it's important to ask questions to ensure they're the right fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:
-
What experience do you have with family law cases like mine?
Make sure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it's a contested divorce, child custody dispute, or adoption. -
How will you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, a flat fee, or requires a retainer. Ask for an estimate of the total costs involved. -
What are the possible outcomes of my case?
An experienced lawyer should be able to give you a general idea of what to expect based on the facts of your case. -
What is your approach to resolving disputes?
Ask whether the lawyer tends to favor negotiation and mediation or whether they prefer to take cases to court. This can help you determine if their style matches your goals. -
How long do you expect my case to take?
While it’s difficult to predict, the lawyer should give you an estimate based on similar cases. -
Who will be handling my case?
In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may do much of the work, so make sure you understand who will be your main point of contact.
How to Check the Credibility of a Family Law Lawyer
To ensure you're hiring a reputable family law lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and reputation:
- Check state bar association records: Verify that the lawyer is licensed to practice in your state and is in good standing with no disciplinary actions.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on websites like Avvo, Google, or Martindale-Hubbell. Previous clients can give you insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and success in family law cases.
- Request references: Ask the lawyer for references from past clients who can speak to their experience with the lawyer.
- Review their website or professional profile: Look at the lawyer’s background, case history, and areas of focus to ensure they have substantial experience in family law.
- Look for professional memberships: Membership in reputable organizations, such as the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), can indicate a lawyer's expertise and dedication to family law.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a family law lawyer, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what you should bring:
- Relevant documents: Bring any documents related to your case, such as marriage certificates, prenuptial agreements, financial records, custody agreements, or court orders.
- List of assets and debts: For divorce cases, prepare a detailed list of all assets (e.g., homes, bank accounts, retirement funds) and debts (e.g., mortgages, loans, credit card balances).
- Details of the family issue: Provide a written summary of the situation, including key dates and facts related to your divorce, custody dispute, or support issue.
- Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions you have about the legal process, costs, and potential outcomes.
- Your goals: Be prepared to discuss your objectives, such as custody arrangements, property division, or spousal support, so the lawyer understands your priorities.
Being organized and clear about your situation will help the lawyer evaluate your case more effectively and offer the best advice for moving forward.
