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03 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
Lawyer Sanchez didn't stand by my side; he always supported the other party and made fun of my English pronunciation because it's not my first language. He significantly favored my husband and never provided any advice or assistance when I needed it. This caused more pressure on me; it felt like my husband had two lawyers. He did everything possible to make me feel frustrated. If you're a woman, don't let him handle your case, or else you'll regret it. I was forced to seek another lawyer and ended up losing the initial payment I gave him.
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30 Jul, 2015 by James
If you need a Divorce lawyer who can handle the most impossible situations, money, psycho ex, and all the insanity of divorce, Nilo Sanchez should be your choice. He represented me in the most difficult time of my life. Nilo is smart, honest, and always prepared. I still can't believe he settled my case. Nilo, you were worth every dollar I spent. Thank you, again.
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09 Apr, 2015 by Julie
Mr Sanchez is a respectful and trustworthy attorney. I felt confident that he and his staff ALWAYS had my best interest in mind. He guided me through a difficult transition in my life, and I knew that I could trust that he would do all in his power to assist me. I can say with 100% certainty, that I would reccomend Mr. Sanchez to anyone requiring legal help.
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06 Jan, 2025 by Sophia viera
wonderful Social Security disability attorneys
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28 Nov, 2024 by Darnel michel
Listen fellas if you have the arrest warrant or you need legal counsel, this is a place to go 11 out of 10
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25 Nov, 2024 by Sarah viera
Wonderful law firm, very knowledgeable experts in the areas of personal injury and criminal law.
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15 Jun, 2019 by Anonymous
Stephen Hayman is an excellent attorney. He has handled a variety of cases for us, including real estate matters and contract disputes. He is knowledgeable, conscientious, dedicated and understanding. He discusses with us the best course to take. I highly recommend him
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23 Jan, 2018 by Dotty
After interviewing several attorney's I settled on Mr. Hayman as he was responsive from the beginning, knowledgeable and spent quality time with me. My case was long and required great versatility in working with all the components and several other attorneys in and out of state. I highly recommend Mr. Hayman and I'm thankful for the representation he gave to me.
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27 Nov, 2017 by Edward
Stephen Hayman is an excellent real estate attorney. I am a local attorney and I refer any complex real estate transactions and/or real estate related matters to Mr. Hayman. He is very knowledgeable and thorough in his research. He once did a detailed analysis of several properties that changed hands over the years for a probate matter which needed a real estate specialist.
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11 Dec, 2024 by Patrick mcfadden
DeWitt Law Firm is exceptional! Their team is professional, knowledgeable, and genuinely cares about their clients. They made the entire process smooth and stress-free, always keeping me informed and answering my questions promptly. I felt confident knowing they were on my side. Highly recommend for anyone seeking top-notch legal representation!
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30 Oct, 2024 by Danyi braithwaite
This law group really cares. I can say that they are really hands on. They make sure you are informed about your case. They are an awesome firm and I’m happy I came to the Dewitt law firm.
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30 Sep, 2024 by Friendly neighbor
Just call Moe! Hands down, the best law firm in town!
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11 Dec, 2024 by Patrick mcfadden
DeWitt Law Firm is exceptional! Their team is professional, knowledgeable, and genuinely cares about their clients. They made the entire process smooth and stress-free, always keeping me informed and answering my questions promptly. I felt confident knowing they were on my side. Highly recommend for anyone seeking top-notch legal representation!
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30 Oct, 2024 by Danyi braithwaite
This law group really cares. I can say that they are really hands on. They make sure you are informed about your case. They are an awesome firm and I’m happy I came to the Dewitt law firm.
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30 Sep, 2024 by Friendly neighbor
Just call Moe! Hands down, the best law firm in town!
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17 Dec, 2021 by Diego
Very thankful for their help in the step parent adoption process. Kimberly Lewis was excellent with communication and kept us informed the whole time. My family thanks you greatly. - Diego
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27 Sep, 2021 by Sarah
Helpful, friendly, understanding and responsive! They helped us with our adoption and made it into a simple process. Highly recommend
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31 Mar, 2009 by Anonymous
Martha Curtis has been wonderful to work with from the very beginning. She takes her time with us, and is always willing to answer every question without delay. Martha has never made me feel that she was watching the clock and obviously loves what she does. She also has a fantastic reputation in the legal community. I would highly recommend her to any couple looking for a trustworthy guide and knowledgable professional.
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24 Jan, 2025 by Robert
Hands down, Ty is the best attorney in the world! (My opinion) and the 100's of clients I referred to him.
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18 Sep, 2024 by Colin powers
Ty is fantastic and always answers my calls.
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27 Aug, 2024 by Shady boulos
Amazing group of people who know what they are doing, my case was dropped, best law firm in town, Ty Trayner and Ryand Sawdy are the best, worth every cent you spend.
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20 Feb, 2025 by Rachel moates
I was so fortunate to be referred to Mr. Michael McLaughlin and his professional and responsive team, in a very difficult time in my life.
When you are injured and are suffering Michael will listen and understand. His focus was my recovery and on my victory. I will recommend him to everyone and pray I won’t have to. My situation was very personally and I can’t thank Mr. McLaughlin enough for listening and acting on my behalf.
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16 Jan, 2025 by Larry hatfield
Matt answered all my questions and gave me very sound advice.I would definitely use him going forward.Thank you.
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12 Dec, 2024 by Randy walker
Don Greiwe is a great listener, very good in accessing the problem, sizing it up with applicable law, then properly advising the potential client the best route to take in receiving a favorable outcome. He was open and honest with me about my situation. A decent person and a knowable professional ATTORNEY. He now gets what he deserved from me.
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20 Feb, 2025 by Rachel moates
I was so fortunate to be referred to Mr. Michael McLaughlin and his professional and responsive team, in a very difficult time in my life.
When you are injured and are suffering Michael will listen and understand. His focus was my recovery and on my victory. I will recommend him to everyone and pray I won’t have to. My situation was very personally and I can’t thank Mr. McLaughlin enough for listening and acting on my behalf.
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16 Jan, 2025 by Larry hatfield
Matt answered all my questions and gave me very sound advice.I would definitely use him going forward.Thank you.
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12 Dec, 2024 by Randy walker
Don Greiwe is a great listener, very good in accessing the problem, sizing it up with applicable law, then properly advising the potential client the best route to take in receiving a favorable outcome. He was open and honest with me about my situation. A decent person and a knowable professional ATTORNEY. He now gets what he deserved from me.
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01 Mar, 2025 by Maleka rashid
We are very happy with the services we received. She explained it every step of the way, and her professionalism is excellent.
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28 Feb, 2025 by Khaledur rashid
03 Feb, 2025 by Bane yameen
I recently worked with this outstanding estate planning law firm. Naseem was professional, knowledgeable, and reassuring. She expertly guided me through all legal jargon. I highly recommend this firm if considering wills, establishing a trust, and setting up a power of attorney. Her attention to detail and ability to explain complex concepts clearly were impressive. Highly recommended for anyone seeking top-notch estate planning services.
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01 Mar, 2025 by Maleka rashid
We are very happy with the services we received. She explained it every step of the way, and her professionalism is excellent.
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28 Feb, 2025 by Khaledur rashid
03 Feb, 2025 by Bane yameen
I recently worked with this outstanding estate planning law firm. Naseem was professional, knowledgeable, and reassuring. She expertly guided me through all legal jargon. I highly recommend this firm if considering wills, establishing a trust, and setting up a power of attorney. Her attention to detail and ability to explain complex concepts clearly were impressive. Highly recommended for anyone seeking top-notch estate planning services.
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07 Feb, 2024 by Melanie lopez
Great attorney.
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02 Feb, 2021 by Joanne ayala
I was not sure how to handle my car accident and Mr. Guito was very professional and guide me thru the whole process. Both him and Juliette were always there when I had a question and their response was always on point. Thank you both!
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15 Dec, 2020 by David simmons
24 Dec, 2008 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. Foster to defend me in a probation violation case. Mr. Foster provided me with top-notch legal defense at a great rate. Mr. Foster was extremely patient with me and handled the case very efficently. The judge ended up terminating my probation and gave me a new start and I am very grateful to Mr. Foster, thank you and God bless!!
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20 Apr, 2008 by Anonymous
Mr. Walter Foster helped me with my divorce case. Everything went fast and smoothly. Resonably priced and my money was well spent. I highly recommend Attorney Walter Foster to my friends.
Sincerely,
Svetlana
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12 Dec, 2024 by Nelson
I got Summer’s name from my social media group. She had a flat rate, took my case and stayed with me to the end. I know that there are no winners in divorce, but I feel that I got the best outcome based on my situation.
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30 Nov, 2024 by Samantha
Ms. Preston took excellent care of my case. She was compassionate to my situation, but a BEAST in court.
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11 Sep, 2024 by Chuck polansky
I met with Francisco Garcia concerning a matter of liability. He was professional , concise and through. He clearly answered all of my questions and concerns . He also provided guidance on the most beneficial manner to proceed on my issues. I would highly recommend him for any future legal needs .
I would also recommend this firm as the entire team from first contact to final consult was smooth and seamless.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Selina baci
Lauren Mabe was absolutely amazing . From beginning to end she made everything very smooth . She also talked to me until I understood everything . She was very patient and kind. If you deal with Lauren in the future you won’t be disappointed. Thank you
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08 Apr, 2024 by Heidi morales-hake
This review is for the Berlin Patten Ebling office in South Tampa, which our realtor recommended us to use for the closing on the sale of our home. We were very pleased with the services received, and their staff took care of a last minute snag that came up with the closing. The staff is very dependable and professional and would highly recommend them.
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10 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
Candace helped me during my divorce, reconciliation, and finally the divorce. What should have been an easy 50/50, turned out to be full custody, no alimony, and I was awarded the girls and child support. Unfortunate but the mother's behaviors left me no choice. Thank you Candace for everything.
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19 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
Mr. Delaughter has helped my family in many ways. My husband got charged for something he didn't commit. Mr.Delaughter was very informative, respectful, and kind hearted! He went above abd beyond. Thank you for blessing my family!
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23 Mar, 2016 by David f
I used her in family court and she exceeded my expectations. There was nothing she couldn't handle. She is sharp as a tack and very enthusiastic about her work.
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31 Dec, 2016 by Anonymous
I hired Mrs. Weed to handle my divorce. She was efficient and intelligent from our first meeting together. She handled my case with care and I felt completely at ease. I would use her again.
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09 Apr, 2018 by John
Was very satisfied with Mr wells.ive been using him for 4 years now and will continue.
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11 Jun, 2010 by Jay
Very easy to talk to and has good insight in to basic human nature and feelings. We found that our initial meeting provided us with the peace of mind we needed. Frank was very prompt in his follow ups and so porfessional. Would like to have him as a next door neighbor.
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10 Feb, 2025 by Victoria baigush
I sincerely want to thank Emel Ersan Law Office for their professionalism and efficiency. My case was quite complex, but Emel always knew exactly what to do, even in the most challenging situations. She is a true expert in her field—clear, concise, and absolutely the best. I truly appreciate her support and outstanding work!
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06 Feb, 2025 by Branka ik
As someone who recently went through the immigration process, I can say that hiring lawyer Emel Ersan was one of the best decisions I made. She basically saved me a lot of money and time. Definitely the best immigration lawyer!
After many consultations with other lawyers we found out Emel Ersan. Unlike the others she was so confident, made this process easy and stress free and the most important thing I am extremely satisfied with the results. I highly recommend her for anyone in need of immigration legal services.
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27 Jan, 2025 by Medhat makram
She is professional, knowledgeable, and worked very hard to win our case. She explained everything clearly and made the process stress free. I’m so grateful for her help and dedication. If you need a lawyer who truly cares I highly recommend her she is the best!
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16 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
Took a large retainer and said he could help. Then admitted the case was beyond recovery.
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13 Oct, 2023 by Kate
Mike Lundy is an extremely competent and professional attorney. I would highly recommend him to those seeking the very best in legal counsel. He is an exceptional attorney with amazing skills. He is polished, articulate, well prepared, confident, understands complex financial matters and is very well respected among his peers and the judges. Mike is also very responsive and answered all my emails and phone calls in a timely manner.
My case was a divorce modification case brought about by my ex-husband. Mike Lundy was not the attorney I used in my original divorce, but how I wish I had! My life would be entirely different. The most important decision anyone makes in a divorce is the choice of counsel. Choose wisely, because there are no do overs! I made a wise decision in selecting Mike Lundy to represent me during this tumultuous time.
My case was contentious and long and unfortunately could not be settled outside the courtroom. Mike has amazing skills in the courtroom. His arguments are well prepared, concise and he is an exceptional strategist. I would strongly recommend him to anyone in need of the very best in legal representation. You will not be disappointed.
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09 Dec, 2018 by Cynthia
From the moment I met Michael, he was very thorough in explaining the specific details of what I could expect in my divorce case all the way to the day I finally got divorced. He was an excellent listener and was compassionate throughout the entire 2 years of my divorce. He was very kind, caring, personable and had an authentic interest in all the specifics of my life/case and continued to provide me with excellent advice every step of the way. His courtroom skills were top notch; he was extremely prepared, eloquent, confident, sharp, professional
in every way as he presented my case in the courtroom. He was very responsive to every email, phone call and question I had was respectful of the time we spent working together. His team was consistently on top of the smaller details and also had a very compassionate professional manner while handling my case. Michael is unique and unlike most lawyers....he cares about his clients and demonstrates this in his client attorney relationship and in the courtroom.
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09 Feb, 2020 by Stacey
Ms. Davis represented me in a difficult divorce. My situation was complicated because my husband runs his own business, but Ms. Davis was with me every step of the way. She was always well prepared and knowledgeable. She and her staff were available to speak with me whenever I had questions. Susan was especially helpful. I was happy with with the outcome for myself and my 2 boys. While it is difficult to go through a divorce, Ms. Davis and her team were always there to protect me with getting a fair financial outcome. My children still have a good relationship with their dad and I am happy about that. I highly recommend The Women's Law Group and Ms. Davis.
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08 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
Ms. Davis is extremely knowledgeable and ethical, and she and her office staff are quick to respond to any questions or issues surrounding a divorce and child custody. I feel she went far above and beyond what most attorney's would do for their client. She is very organized and listened to everything regarding my case. I would hire her again, as a divorce is never easy, and mine has been extremely complicated with domestic violence- she prepared me for potential outcomes with my situation. She is honest, trustworthy and supportive. I highly recommended her.
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06 Jul, 2017 by Daniel
Mrs. Lara Davis helped me out tremendously with my case. I found her to be trustworthy and reliable with every interaction I had with her. She took the time needed to make sure I understood my options and always had all the bases covered when it came time to handling my case and seeing it through to resolution. I was always impressed with how calm and organized she was and with how confidently she handled my case during negotiations. She never wasted my time or money and I really appreciated that about her. I hope I never have to hire a family lawyer again, but if I do, I know I will make sure I have Lara Davis handling my case. Thank you for all of the wise guidance, attention, and support you gave me. You're the best!
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27 Apr, 2024 by Denise arvay
As one of Mr. Hackworth’s former client’s, I can truly say that he really does care for his clients. I had a high conflict divorce case with minor children involved and he answered every single one of my texts, at any hour of the day. He knows the law inside and out, confident in the courtroom. Absolutly the person you want sitting next to you!!!!
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24 Apr, 2024 by Sean davis
Jonathan Hackworth personally has been with me and helped me through my charges and my marchman. For almost 4 years and he has been a super blessing and his whoteam. They are very good at getting back to you. Especially when you call them and you leave a message. They always answer back and I have had nothing but success with Hackworth. Law
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10 Apr, 2024 by Lawrence kalgstein
I’m from Broward county and needed a local Tampa attorney for a situation I got into a few years ago. John was highly referred to me by a paralegal at a Ft Lauderdale firm.Well I thank my lucky stars John represented me. He is the most caring, thorough, and educated attorney you will find. Always picks up the phone and never seems to be bothered when you ask him something.
Well here we are several years later and I needed some documents pertaining to my old case and within 3 hours they were in my email. He is a God-send and you cannot go wrong with John in your corner!!
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13 Jan, 2025 by Carmen ortega
Quedé increíblemente impresionado con la experiencia y dedicación del abogado Ralph Fernandez durante todo mi caso. Me explicaron cuestiones legales complejas de manera clara, siempre me mantuvieron informado y lucharon incansablemente para lograr el mejor resultado posible. Me sentí totalmente apoyado y confiado en sus habilidades, y los recomendaría ampliamente a cualquiera que necesite asistencia legal.
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08 Jan, 2025 by Leandro nuñez
Exceptional service, always attentive to the case, they call you at all times and keep you informed, do not hesitate to call Ralph Fernández, 100% recommended 👍
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30 Dec, 2024 by Osmel dominguez
Les recomiendo este servicio muy satisfecho y la rapidez fue todo un éxito
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01 Dec, 2024 by Mamoun almhamed
25 Nov, 2024 by Karim elshazly
I had the pleasure of working with Sam Badawi and his staff on my H1B visa application, and I couldn’t be happier with the experience. They guided me through every step of the process with professionalism and expertise, ensuring everything was done right. Thanks to their efforts, my application was accepted, and I successfully obtained my visa. I will definitely be working with them again in the future and highly recommend their services.
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11 Nov, 2024 by B bash
23 Aug, 2024 by Tiffany
Robert is the BEST family law attorney you will ever find! When I say he will fight for you and your children as if it was his own personal case, this is your guy! He is tenacious, organized, committed and extremely intelligent. We came out on top because he wouldn’t back down until the truth came out and the girls were saved. He truly saved innocent children from a horrific environment. He is the absolute best around!
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27 Feb, 2024 by Tony
John Robert Angstadt is expensive and doesn't really worth all that money. I currently have him in my case but don't want to disclose my name
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21 Oct, 2019 by Tony rucker
Mr. Angstadt you are the best of best I would have never thought I would get custody of my daughter. You bring nothing more than 5 star results to the table everytime I call on you job well done. You will be highly recommend to my friend's and family members.
Keep up the great work.
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23 Jul, 2024 by Nicole bloomer
I’ve been using this firm for a few years to help me with my trademark and other services. Always been quick to respond when I reached out for assistance. Erica and Jessica have been wonderful!
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10 Jul, 2024 by Bob rinaldi
I have been working with the fantastic team at DiAngelo Law for a couple of years, procuring my trademarks for my company. I can wholeheartedly attest to their competence, professionalism, effectiveness, and all-around good people to work with. I would hire them again and am doing so. I think that is as good as a testimonial as you can ask for no?
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18 Jun, 2024 by Erman e
04 Dec, 2017 by Stephen hayman
I know Mr. Frisicia both personally and professionally. He has provided legal services to me, and I have worked with him on numerous legal matters, involving family law, real estate and probate. I have always found Mr. Friscia to be very knowledgeable, diligent and well-prepared. He has a lot of experience in court and is very thoughtful and astute with his legal arguments and analysis. I highly recommend him!!
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11 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
Honestly, He's a great guy and so is his staff. My Case exceeded my retainer and had about 1.5 years of effort into my case. In my opinion, divorce law is not his specialty. I do believe he did everything he could but there are things he should have pushed back on, and I mean numerous times. It was not completley my counsels fault. Rather the extraordinarily odd requests from opposing counsel. Talk about redundant. The other this lawyer could have done was let me know thousands of dollars prior that I had exceeded my retainer so I could have made arrangements with him to continue my case. Otherwise an ok attorney.
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18 Jun, 2013 by Anonymous
He is always quick to return a phone call and does his best when representing you. He charges a fair rate and never coats it with sugar.
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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.
