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15 Aug, 2024 by Frank armenio
My divorce was not an easy one by any means. The other party did not want to be a participate in the process that she initiated, be fair financially, and was in character throughout the two and half yr process. Veronica weeded through this from minute one.
Veronica jumped on board in my case more than halfway through the process from the recommendation of my previous attorney to get my case resolved. There is a reason he recommended her. Veronica was forceful and stern during the negotiations(mediation) with the other party and was always looking out for my best interests financially which included doing everything possible from the first day I spoke to her to avoid trial which is where my case was headed. The reason for the referral from my previous attorney.
During one of most difficult times of your life, Veronica attempted to understand everything on a personal/emotional level as well beyond the business aspect of divorce.
Veronica is extremely knowledgeable of the NJ laws of divorce which is so important. She is professional, cordial, assertive, and great at explaining things/answering questions. Veronica also will hold you accountable if she needs to which is important in this process.
The firm in Springfield is professional and welcoming; which is includes her paralegal Diana O who I would like to acknowledge as well.
In divorce, no one wins or loses. My JOD was fair and equitable at the end of the day which is what should have happened. Veronica accomplished that for me with honesty and sincerity from day one.
Five star review.
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17 May, 2024 by Paula
Emeral provided excellent mediation work and demonstrated advanced knowledge of pet agreements and custody, which was not easy to find for pet parents in New Jersey. She is a very professional, active listener, and compassionate woman. It was very productive working with her and her office on this sensitive matter. I highly recommend contacting her and engaging her services for legal pet-related matters.
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12 Oct, 2023 by Jamie ryan - mih
Judi McDermott Esq. is direct, compassionate and effective!
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15 Aug, 2024 by Frank armenio
My divorce was not an easy one by any means. The other party did not want to be a participate in the process that she initiated, be fair financially, and was in character throughout the two and half yr process. Veronica weeded through this from minute one.
Veronica jumped on board in my case more than halfway through the process from the recommendation of my previous attorney to get my case resolved. There is a reason he recommended her. Veronica was forceful and stern during the negotiations(mediation) with the other party and was always looking out for my best interests financially which included doing everything possible from the first day I spoke to her to avoid trial which is where my case was headed. The reason for the referral from my previous attorney.
During one of most difficult times of your life, Veronica attempted to understand everything on a personal/emotional level as well beyond the business aspect of divorce.
Veronica is extremely knowledgeable of the NJ laws of divorce which is so important. She is professional, cordial, assertive, and great at explaining things/answering questions. Veronica also will hold you accountable if she needs to which is important in this process.
The firm in Springfield is professional and welcoming; which is includes her paralegal Diana O who I would like to acknowledge as well.
In divorce, no one wins or loses. My JOD was fair and equitable at the end of the day which is what should have happened. Veronica accomplished that for me with honesty and sincerity from day one.
Five star review.
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12 Oct, 2023 by Jamie ryan - mih
Judi McDermott Esq. is direct, compassionate and effective!
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03 Oct, 2023 by William green
PHENOMENAL ATTORNEY!!!
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15 Aug, 2024 by Frank armenio
My divorce was not an easy one by any means. The other party did not want to be a participate in the process that she initiated, be fair financially, and was in character throughout the two and half yr process. Veronica weeded through this from minute one.
Veronica jumped on board in my case more than halfway through the process from the recommendation of my previous attorney to get my case resolved. There is a reason he recommended her. Veronica was forceful and stern during the negotiations(mediation) with the other party and was always looking out for my best interests financially which included doing everything possible from the first day I spoke to her to avoid trial which is where my case was headed. The reason for the referral from my previous attorney.
During one of most difficult times of your life, Veronica attempted to understand everything on a personal/emotional level as well beyond the business aspect of divorce.
Veronica is extremely knowledgeable of the NJ laws of divorce which is so important. She is professional, cordial, assertive, and great at explaining things/answering questions. Veronica also will hold you accountable if she needs to which is important in this process.
The firm in Springfield is professional and welcoming; which is includes her paralegal Diana O who I would like to acknowledge as well.
In divorce, no one wins or loses. My JOD was fair and equitable at the end of the day which is what should have happened. Veronica accomplished that for me with honesty and sincerity from day one.
Five star review.
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12 Oct, 2023 by Jamie ryan - mih
Judi McDermott Esq. is direct, compassionate and effective!
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03 Oct, 2023 by William green
PHENOMENAL ATTORNEY!!!
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15 Aug, 2024 by Frank
My divorce was not an easy one by any means. The other party did not want to be a participate in the process that she initiated, be fair financially, and was in character throughout the two and half yr process. Veronica weeded through this from minute one.
Veronica jumped on board in my case more than halfway through the process from the recommendation of my previous attorney to get my case resolved. There is a reason he recommended her. Veronica was forceful and stern during the negotiations(mediation) with the other party and was always looking out for my best interests financially which included doing everything possible from the first day I spoke to her to avoid trial which is where my case was headed. The reason for the referral from my previous attorney.
During one of most difficult times of your life, Veronica attempted to understand everything on a personal/emotional level as well beyond the business aspect of divorce.
Veronica is extremely knowledgeable of the NJ laws of divorce which is so important. She is professional, cordial, assertive, and great at explaining things/answering questions. Veronica also will hold you accountable if she needs to which is important in this process.
The firm in Springfield is professional and welcoming; which is includes her paralegal Diana O who I would like to acknowledge as well.
In divorce, no one wins or loses. My JOD was fair and equitable at the end of the day which is what should have happened. Veronica accomplished that for me with honesty and sincerity from day one.
Five star review.
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04 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
Veronica did a fantastic job helping me navigate my divorce process. She consistently and clearly laid out how to secure an agreement in the best interests of my children and myself.
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08 Feb, 2023 by Terence
This is an attorney that you need to hire. Veronica is silent, yet very focused and through. Her skills are very efficient and you will be handled in a professional manner at all times. I'm very pleased with the final results and if you want your case done correctly... this is the attorney for you.
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01 Jul, 2024 by J0
Ms. Chelnik returned phone calls and emails promptly. She guided me through the divorce process so that I felt confident about the decisions I was making. I like that she is pro "Collaborative Divorce", which
has helped us as parents to remain on friendlier terms for the benefit of our child.
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01 Jan, 2022 by Alex
Whitney was excellent at brainstorming and coming up with non-orthodox solutions that took into account my unique situation and my personality. Great quick thinker.
She was always positive and emotionally supportive through those challenging times.
Whitney was great at educating me and answering my multiple questions (even silly ones) with exemplary patience.
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12 Oct, 2021 by Cathy
Ms Whitney Chelnik is the best lawyer I have ever known . Her prompt and perfection service is great appreciated.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Frank armenio
My divorce was not an easy one by any means. The other party did not want to be a participate in the process that she initiated, be fair financially, and was in character throughout the two and half yr process. Veronica weeded through this from minute one.
Veronica jumped on board in my case more than halfway through the process from the recommendation of my previous attorney to get my case resolved. There is a reason he recommended her. Veronica was forceful and stern during the negotiations(mediation) with the other party and was always looking out for my best interests financially which included doing everything possible from the first day I spoke to her to avoid trial which is where my case was headed. The reason for the referral from my previous attorney.
During one of most difficult times of your life, Veronica attempted to understand everything on a personal/emotional level as well beyond the business aspect of divorce.
Veronica is extremely knowledgeable of the NJ laws of divorce which is so important. She is professional, cordial, assertive, and great at explaining things/answering questions. Veronica also will hold you accountable if she needs to which is important in this process.
The firm in Springfield is professional and welcoming; which is includes her paralegal Diana O who I would like to acknowledge as well.
In divorce, no one wins or loses. My JOD was fair and equitable at the end of the day which is what should have happened. Veronica accomplished that for me with honesty and sincerity from day one.
Five star review.
Read more
12 Oct, 2023 by Jamie ryan - mih
Judi McDermott Esq. is direct, compassionate and effective!
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03 Oct, 2023 by William green
PHENOMENAL ATTORNEY!!!
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15 Aug, 2024 by Frank armenio
My divorce was not an easy one by any means. The other party did not want to be a participate in the process that she initiated, be fair financially, and was in character throughout the two and half yr process. Veronica weeded through this from minute one.
Veronica jumped on board in my case more than halfway through the process from the recommendation of my previous attorney to get my case resolved. There is a reason he recommended her. Veronica was forceful and stern during the negotiations(mediation) with the other party and was always looking out for my best interests financially which included doing everything possible from the first day I spoke to her to avoid trial which is where my case was headed. The reason for the referral from my previous attorney.
During one of most difficult times of your life, Veronica attempted to understand everything on a personal/emotional level as well beyond the business aspect of divorce.
Veronica is extremely knowledgeable of the NJ laws of divorce which is so important. She is professional, cordial, assertive, and great at explaining things/answering questions. Veronica also will hold you accountable if she needs to which is important in this process.
The firm in Springfield is professional and welcoming; which is includes her paralegal Diana O who I would like to acknowledge as well.
In divorce, no one wins or loses. My JOD was fair and equitable at the end of the day which is what should have happened. Veronica accomplished that for me with honesty and sincerity from day one.
Five star review.
Read more
12 Oct, 2023 by Jamie ryan - mih
Judi McDermott Esq. is direct, compassionate and effective!
Read more
03 Oct, 2023 by William green
PHENOMENAL ATTORNEY!!!
Read more
15 Aug, 2024 by Frank armenio
My divorce was not an easy one by any means. The other party did not want to be a participate in the process that she initiated, be fair financially, and was in character throughout the two and half yr process. Veronica weeded through this from minute one.
Veronica jumped on board in my case more than halfway through the process from the recommendation of my previous attorney to get my case resolved. There is a reason he recommended her. Veronica was forceful and stern during the negotiations(mediation) with the other party and was always looking out for my best interests financially which included doing everything possible from the first day I spoke to her to avoid trial which is where my case was headed. The reason for the referral from my previous attorney.
During one of most difficult times of your life, Veronica attempted to understand everything on a personal/emotional level as well beyond the business aspect of divorce.
Veronica is extremely knowledgeable of the NJ laws of divorce which is so important. She is professional, cordial, assertive, and great at explaining things/answering questions. Veronica also will hold you accountable if she needs to which is important in this process.
The firm in Springfield is professional and welcoming; which is includes her paralegal Diana O who I would like to acknowledge as well.
In divorce, no one wins or loses. My JOD was fair and equitable at the end of the day which is what should have happened. Veronica accomplished that for me with honesty and sincerity from day one.
Five star review.
Read more
12 Oct, 2023 by Jamie ryan - mih
Judi McDermott Esq. is direct, compassionate and effective!
Read more
03 Oct, 2023 by William green
PHENOMENAL ATTORNEY!!!
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06 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr. Brown was very professional and such a lifesaver in my time of need. A divorce is just like a death and he helped our death be as painless as possible!
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16 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
He is a very good person, a good lawyer and cares about his clients. He is very patience. Works well with everybody. He is very straight forward. He works with you in terms of payments.
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17 Sep, 2024 by D c
09 Jul, 2024 by Salvatore mattiaccio
We did a project which included several change orders asked for by the Hicks at his residence . Mr. Hicks, a partner at this law firm , acted very unprofessional, his wife actually contacted my employees via text causing tortious interference with our contracts. While completing his contracts, we found his soil was sub par and full of clay and needed to be remediated. He and his wife practically had temper tantrums causing for an unbelievably unsuitable work environment at his home. Even with their attempts to cause harm to me and my company, we competed the contract. A year later, he claimed that some of the brick pavers moved, I explained to him that he refused to pay to remedy the soil situation and therefore it was not covered by our warranty. He proceeded to use his law degree to sue us, he filed suit for over $24,000.00 which included almost $12,000.00 in new landscaping which was not part of my contract. While delivering the discovery to his house, the driveway which he claimed to have been removed and reinstalled in his lawsuit had the same pavers sinking in the same spot a year after they were supposedly replaced.. if this partnership allows attorneys like this, who use their law license to try to steal from hard working contractors then I would say run away from this firm. They support disgraceful behavior like this from their partners! We just recently went to binding arbitration. The arbiter threw out 99% of his case and awarded him $2300.00, one tenth of what he was fraudulently suing me and my company for!
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23 Feb, 2024 by Paranjay joshi
21 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
Judith is just another cog wheel in the system, with an arrogant demeanor. She has clearly chosen her career path for money, not to help divided families and children. Judith is rude, hostile, and defensive. Rather than talking to you as a client, or human, she will talk down to you and belittle. What she charges is outrageous, hundreds of dollars for one email. Free consultations and online sources can get you similar results. Do yourself a favor and find a different attorney.
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06 Oct, 2016 by Stania
Judi Mcdermott and her staff were rude and not knowledgable about any same sex dissolution laws. When she did not know how to proceed legally she would get defensive, and hostile. Her legal solutions did not resolve the issues and ended up costing me money even though she did nothing. I then had to hire another attorney,Deb Guston, who is brilliant, knows the law and found creative solutions to resolve my legal issues, efficiently, expediently and without overcharging.
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31 Mar, 2016 by Tammy
As a divorce lawyer, Judi McDermott has no doubt led a lot of people on a road to freedom. But no matter how well-worn her path is, she'll never take a shortcut. I'm probably no different than most of Judi's clients in that I came to her miserable, scared and desperate to get on with my life. I wanted to be done with marriage, and fast. No matter how contentious things got, though, Judi shored me up and steered me toward an outcome that made my life better in the long run. She looked out for me when I was so low I was unable, and I am eternally grateful. Judi is a powerhouse and whip-smart and a great lady; she's compassionate and dedicated and fair. No one who asks about my divorce escapes the conversation without hearing me rave about my brilliant blond lifesaver lawyer.
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17 Sep, 2024 by D c
09 Jul, 2024 by Salvatore mattiaccio
We did a project which included several change orders asked for by the Hicks at his residence . Mr. Hicks, a partner at this law firm , acted very unprofessional, his wife actually contacted my employees via text causing tortious interference with our contracts. While completing his contracts, we found his soil was sub par and full of clay and needed to be remediated. He and his wife practically had temper tantrums causing for an unbelievably unsuitable work environment at his home. Even with their attempts to cause harm to me and my company, we competed the contract. A year later, he claimed that some of the brick pavers moved, I explained to him that he refused to pay to remedy the soil situation and therefore it was not covered by our warranty. He proceeded to use his law degree to sue us, he filed suit for over $24,000.00 which included almost $12,000.00 in new landscaping which was not part of my contract. While delivering the discovery to his house, the driveway which he claimed to have been removed and reinstalled in his lawsuit had the same pavers sinking in the same spot a year after they were supposedly replaced.. if this partnership allows attorneys like this, who use their law license to try to steal from hard working contractors then I would say run away from this firm. They support disgraceful behavior like this from their partners! We just recently went to binding arbitration. The arbiter threw out 99% of his case and awarded him $2300.00, one tenth of what he was fraudulently suing me and my company for!
Read more
23 Feb, 2024 by Paranjay joshi
06 Mar, 2024 by P rob
STAY AWAY!
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25 Jun, 2023 by Kathy freeman
DO NOT GO TO HIM! This guy will rob you blind and do no work at all!
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30 Jan, 2023 by Gimaran serede
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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.
