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28 Dec, 2023 by Ron hedrick
27 Dec, 2023 by London klucas
27 Dec, 2023 by Bethany diacou
David is an excellent criminal defense attorney
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20 Oct, 2024 by Anthony lubinski
This company really looks out for you great communication through out the entire process even after the decision came in they have been there for me. I would highly recommend them for sure thank you very much for your hard work and dedication to me
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13 Oct, 2024 by Cierra b
Made the entire experience easy. Always quick to respond to any questions or needs. Promptly followed up with me to inform me of what was going on. Couldn’t be happier with the experience I had.
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01 Aug, 2024 by Cindy null
Thank you for taking on my case
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16 May, 2024 by Andrew price
Food was really good, good service and a clean place.
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24 May, 2023 by Diane russell
Margaret is so nice and very thorough. I have every confidence in her. She really knows how to get things done. I was very impressed by her and have referred multiple people to her.
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12 Jan, 2023 by Sally ravas
22 Aug, 2024 by Len
Alex,
He handled our case and was excellent at explaining and helped us with what we need done in our case. Huge thank you and if you need an attorney reach out to Alex.
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13 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
I’d like to take a few moments to say a few words about attorney, Alex Savickas. I felt I had no hope after receiving a court ruling that put my daughter in extreme danger. My ex was violent and accused of horrific crimes by multiple victims, including our daughter together, and was requesting long-distance (to FL from OH) visitation with my young daughter. The attorney I previously had butchered my case, leaving us with a detrimental ruling that forced my child into visitations with her dangerous father.
By the grace of God, someone recommended Alex. He immediately filed motions to appeal the order, and we were able to get safer visits established. It has been an ongoing battle for more than 3 years as my ex continues using the system to harass us, and Alex has stayed a few steps ahead the entire time, and every round gets us closer to keeping my little girl safer. He has been one of few throughout all of this to stand up and be our hero.
I have always admired Alex for his exemplary demeanor. Not only does he present himself in a clean-cut and professional manner, but he also carries himself exceptionally well. His calm and composed nature is truly inspiring. Whenever I find myself overwhelmed with frustration and ready to impulsively react, Alex has the remarkable ability to help me take a step back and refocus on the bigger picture. With his unerring guidance and advice, he has proven time and again that he is always right. It's truly remarkable to witness such wisdom and insight into action.
It is evident that Alex possesses a deep understanding of the legal system, as well as an extensive knowledge of the law and how it applies in different circumstances. His expertise is truly impressive. However, what sets him apart is his ability to work well with opposing counsel and all other parties involved. He possesses excellent interpersonal skills and knows how to navigate through difficult situations with tact and professionalism.
I had the pleasure of witnessing firsthand Alex's unwavering determination and exceptional skills in navigating through any obstacles that may arise. His relentless drive to make a difference is truly humbling, especially within a system that is often characterized by its flaws and shortcomings. Alex's remarkable ability to confront challenges head-on without any hesitation or fear of failure sets him apart from others. His willingness to lend a helping hand, even in the face of adversity, further exemplifies his altruistic nature. It is truly refreshing to witness someone who doesn't shy away from difficult situations but instead embraces them as opportunities for growth and change. Alex's remarkable capabilities and unwavering dedication continue to leave a lasting impression on me, and I am certain that his impact will be felt by many others as well.
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20 Sep, 2023 by Norma
I met Alex through the Domestic Violence Network & YWCA. He has always being very profesional & he has always taking the time to hear the different stories & what the victims opinions. He has being able to give each victim the time that they need & answer any questions that they have even if they only speak Spanish. This is one of what one of our victims said about him "Alex y tu son mis angelitos!!!! Alex es un ser humano increíble que me a ayudado con ese proceso tan dificil y tedioso…. Gracias a él pude terminar y cerrar mi caso en Minnesota y lo más irónico toda su ayuda a cambio de nada!!! Por que sus servicios para mi han sido gratuitos… solo tengo palabras de agradecimiento para el y bendiciones /Alex has being my little angel!!!! Alex is an incredible human being who has helped me with that difficult and tedious process…. Thanks to him I was able to finish and close my case in Minnesota and the most ironic thing was all his help in exchange for nothing!!! Because his services to me have been free... I only have words of gratitude and blessings for him another opinion of our victims "Ok…exelente servicio siempre buscando lo mejor para sus clientes atento a todo nose que mas puedo agregar yo me siento muy bien con su manera de trabajar/Ok...excellent service always looking for the best for their clients attentive to everything I don't know what else I can add I feel very good with his methods & professionalism." Thank you Alex for everything!!!
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12 Dec, 2024 by Martin hamernik
Yeah, I had some issues with my child support at one point in time and I had to use them. He gave me my retainer all the way back thank you, David.
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15 Oct, 2024 by De ke
09 Oct, 2024 by Walt s
Excellent communication and service! Very helpful and ready with the information I needed.
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14 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Karen is by far the best attorney in Toledo. She's extremely personable, knowledgeable. She isn't afraid to speak out on yout behalf and get things done. She did what 2 other attorneys told me was impossible to do. Don't ever second guess hiring her and she is worth every single penny.
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16 Aug, 2016 by Sandra beard
I had Karen settle my custody issues, she was professional and returned all my phone calls. Excellent lawyer. Its a difficult situation dealing with custody, but Karen reassured me that I had my rights and help me fight, won my case. Karen takes care of her clients and make sure they are prepared.
Thanks
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06 Jan, 2015 by Tara
I'm a colleague and former client of Karen. I'm a family law attorney who used her services in a custody matter. Of all the lawyers I work with daily, I chose Karen because of her reputation and from seeing her in action in the courtroom. She's given me a run for my money on more than one occasion! I was not disappointed in my choice. She settled the case quickly and was able to negotiate far more than what I expected. She's personable and very likable but will fight for you like no one else. HIGHLY recommended for your legal needs! A lawyer testimonial from another lawyer is quite uncommon so give this review extra merit. Thanks, Karen!
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19 Dec, 2016 by Kristen
Gretchen Weston has been our attorney on multiple matters and has always been efficient and extremely competent. Thank you!!!
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30 Dec, 2008 by Anonymous
I used Ms. Weston for my divorce and found her to be extremely caring, tough and a great listener all in one package! Her prices are fair...as a lawyers can be, and she was willing to work with me! Go Ms. Weston!
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07 Sep, 2016 by Shawna
must talk to on lifetime of issues and medical issues had 2 heart surgeries 1 back surgery , the last 2 of them was messed up plus other issues in life. i know you helped someone i knew in the past and you was always there for her
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22 Jan, 2010 by Margo
Attorney West -Estell was very helpful I live outside of Ohio and she confirmed her staus with IL so she could represent me. She has and still is very informative and professional, nothing she has done has failed, she honest, trust worthy and I would highly recommend her to anyone with family,forecloser, child support, or credit issues she's the BEST!
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18 Dec, 2012 by Toni
Mr. Anderson was very informed and able to get the answers I needed regarding my case in a timely manner. Throughout the case he was very professional and provided a strong supportive atmosphere especially concerning the nature of the business he was handling. I would strongly recommend him for services and will utilize him again if the need should arise.
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26 Dec, 2019 by Sheri
David Friedes is very knowledgeable in disability laws. I would highly recommend him. He made me feel at ease from the moment I meet him.
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03 Sep, 2023 by Zandra williams
They are very friendly and they tell you step by step what to do and they are so well organized.
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18 Feb, 2019 by Jill corral-blossom
Things didn't go as planned but they are really helpful and caring.
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02 Jan, 2019 by Micaela dixon
James O'Brien was amazing! He explained everything very thoroughly without making me feel dumb. I would highly recommend him to any and everyone! Thanks James!
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29 Dec, 2024 by Thundah
27 Dec, 2024 by Luna thornton
Incredible staff!!
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11 Dec, 2024 by Lynzie tansel
Great communication on updates and information and always staying on top of things really caring about the client
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29 Dec, 2024 by Thundah
27 Dec, 2024 by Luna thornton
Incredible staff!!
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11 Dec, 2024 by Lynzie tansel
Great communication on updates and information and always staying on top of things really caring about the client
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12 Jan, 2025 by Donaimee r
Would NEVER EVER recommend. Being our first time every needing a attorney and referred to her. Yea she in fact made our situation worse for our loved one and now have a reputable attorney who is saying she in fact screwed our loved one over by having them agree to certain things they never should have cause NO PROOF!! DO NOT USE UNLESS want worse case scenario for your loved one.
It won't let me leave 0 stars as she isn't even a one star in our families eyes.
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09 Jan, 2025 by Littlestar3311
Received advice, and I'm very grateful. Honest and trustworthy legal team here. Thank you for hearing me out and giving me an avenue when I called concerning my car. Appreciate the time you took to help me.
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04 Sep, 2024 by Jordan austin
I've been with denny for over 15 years he is honest and his loyalty is with you and will stand up for you when no one else will stand next to you 5 star lawyer's he built a generation of dedicated lawyer's I trust his sons just as I trust him... real lawyer's for real life problems Thank you to Sawan & Sawan
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29 Dec, 2024 by Thundah
27 Dec, 2024 by Luna thornton
Incredible staff!!
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11 Dec, 2024 by Lynzie tansel
Great communication on updates and information and always staying on top of things really caring about the client
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13 Dec, 2023 by Thomas lambrecht
Dorf and Kalniz are excellent at what they do.
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06 Oct, 2023 by Israel rodriguez
I absolutely recommend Mr. Kalniz and his team 10/23 and Dorf & Kalniz Ltd.are still the best team I could ask for.
Thank you
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15 Sep, 2023 by Kay tuttle
Steve Kalniz has helped me with my Workers Compensation case.
I would highly recommend him.
He is very respectful,kind and caring. He always answers my calls in a timely manner.
He always makes me feel like ever question I have is important no matter how stupid they may be.
Mike Dorf is there to answer my questions also. They are a great team.
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28 Dec, 2023 by Ron hedrick
27 Dec, 2023 by London klucas
27 Dec, 2023 by Bethany diacou
David is an excellent criminal defense attorney
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09 Jan, 2024 by Addison o'neil
15 Dec, 2023 by Anthony rowan
I can’t believe nobody has given her a review yet. Julie is amazing I got in a bit of trouble over the last few years and she helped me get record sealed. I feel like she has a fairly healthy relationship with the courts as well which of course makes things easier. Thank you for everything again.
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13 Oct, 2023 by Jeff camp
710 days thanks to this evil person I have not got to spend with my daughter. I can't wait to sue you for everything you have.
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21 Oct, 2024 by Jaclyn palmer
I chose the Kalniz firm, because my mother worked for one of its predecessor firms, decades ago. I met with attorney Epstein, last week, to review needed changes to my will, due to changes in my family circumstances, and I gave him written notes regarding the changes I wanted to make. The initial draft I received back from attorney Epstein had a section that was inconsistent with my notes and inconsistent with what I was trying to effectuate. I sent him a marked-up version of the draft, correcting that section, correcting one typo, and crossing out one word in another section that didn’t make sense to me, in context. I came in, today, to sign what I thought would be the final document. The problematic section had been partially revised, but it retained the word “neither,” where it should have said “either,” which was a meaningful difference. In addition, the one word I had crossed out in a different section had not been deleted. When I pointed those two items out to attorney Epstein, (which could have easily been addressed), he responded by telling me he was right and I was wrong, but that I should do whatever I wanted. When I asked him to explain, he told me the word I crossed out shouldn’t have been crossed out, because he meant for the reference to be there. When I tried to explain why I had crossed the word out, he reiterated that I was wrong, but should do whatever I wanted. I told him I was trying to understand and that it was unacceptable for him to just tell me that I’m wrong but to go ahead and do whatever I wanted. He told me he didn’t care what was unacceptable and that maybe I should take my will elsewhere to have it done. I told him I would. After today’s interaction, one thing I know, for certain, is that I came to the wrong place.
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11 Jan, 2023 by Roxanne collum-snider
I called and spoke with Mr. Kalnix. He was so nice and understanding. We will be picking up this week hopefully because of the holidays and my case is very odd so I understand how difficult it will be to start getting things going. I'm looking forward to working with him and his staff
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18 Sep, 2019 by Lisa blake
Strong advocate
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26 Sep, 2024 by Marcos ortiz
he is one of the best there in Toledo.....
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27 Aug, 2024 by John berry
Larry very helpful and great don't hesitate and call him great guy to work with
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01 Mar, 2024 by Chris
Gretchen was 100 percent on my side from the minute we met! I was wrongfully accused of 2 major felonies and could have been put in prison for a long time! Gretchen went above and beyond what a public defender would ever do! She stayed in contact with my family and friends to keep me updated while I was behind bars! She is awesome and when my charges were dismissed I felt the right of the world was off my shoulders she is excellent lawyer and I appreciate her hard work and I think she should get a medal for what she did for me!
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26 Sep, 2024 by Marcos ortiz
he is one of the best there in Toledo.....
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27 Aug, 2024 by John berry
Larry very helpful and great don't hesitate and call him great guy to work with
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01 Mar, 2024 by Chris
Gretchen was 100 percent on my side from the minute we met! I was wrongfully accused of 2 major felonies and could have been put in prison for a long time! Gretchen went above and beyond what a public defender would ever do! She stayed in contact with my family and friends to keep me updated while I was behind bars! She is awesome and when my charges were dismissed I felt the right of the world was off my shoulders she is excellent lawyer and I appreciate her hard work and I think she should get a medal for what she did for me!
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26 Sep, 2024 by Marcos ortiz
he is one of the best there in Toledo.....
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27 Aug, 2024 by John berry
Larry very helpful and great don't hesitate and call him great guy to work with
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01 Mar, 2024 by Chris
Gretchen was 100 percent on my side from the minute we met! I was wrongfully accused of 2 major felonies and could have been put in prison for a long time! Gretchen went above and beyond what a public defender would ever do! She stayed in contact with my family and friends to keep me updated while I was behind bars! She is awesome and when my charges were dismissed I felt the right of the world was off my shoulders she is excellent lawyer and I appreciate her hard work and I think she should get a medal for what she did for me!
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26 Sep, 2024 by Marcos ortiz
he is one of the best there in Toledo.....
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27 Aug, 2024 by John berry
Larry very helpful and great don't hesitate and call him great guy to work with
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01 Mar, 2024 by Chris
Gretchen was 100 percent on my side from the minute we met! I was wrongfully accused of 2 major felonies and could have been put in prison for a long time! Gretchen went above and beyond what a public defender would ever do! She stayed in contact with my family and friends to keep me updated while I was behind bars! She is awesome and when my charges were dismissed I felt the right of the world was off my shoulders she is excellent lawyer and I appreciate her hard work and I think she should get a medal for what she did for me!
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26 Sep, 2024 by Marcos ortiz
he is one of the best there in Toledo.....
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27 Aug, 2024 by John berry
Larry very helpful and great don't hesitate and call him great guy to work with
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01 Mar, 2024 by Chris
Gretchen was 100 percent on my side from the minute we met! I was wrongfully accused of 2 major felonies and could have been put in prison for a long time! Gretchen went above and beyond what a public defender would ever do! She stayed in contact with my family and friends to keep me updated while I was behind bars! She is awesome and when my charges were dismissed I felt the right of the world was off my shoulders she is excellent lawyer and I appreciate her hard work and I think she should get a medal for what she did for me!
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31 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
I LOVE BRIAN HIZER HE HAS SAVED MY LIFE I WAS ABOUT TO BE RUINED I WAS ABOUT TO GO BANKRUPT BECAUSE I BOUGHT A TESLA ON CREDIT CARD AND WAS CRIPPLED WITH DEABT LUCKILY BRIAN CAME IN CLUTCH LIKE TOM BRADY AT THE SUPERBOWL THANKS BRIAN
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15 Apr, 2020 by Anonymous
Starting off , was very good. I really thought he had my back, and best interest of my situation. But now that I have learned what I should of and should not of settled for. It makes me mad. I wanted to go to full trial. He was not having it unless I paid way more money, so had no choice but to settle. Learning now things should of been in my divorce papers that wasn’t.
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4.0
8 Reviews
4.1
32 Reviews
09 Jan, 2024 by Addison o'neil
15 Dec, 2023 by Anthony rowan
I can’t believe nobody has given her a review yet. Julie is amazing I got in a bit of trouble over the last few years and she helped me get record sealed. I feel like she has a fairly healthy relationship with the courts as well which of course makes things easier. Thank you for everything again.
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13 Oct, 2023 by Jeff camp
710 days thanks to this evil person I have not got to spend with my daughter. I can't wait to sue you for everything you have.
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19 Dec, 2024 by Matt bowland
Michael was fantastic. Whenever I had questions, he was always sure to give me an answer. Whenever something new would come up, he had a way to navigate it. I never felt pressured in any scenario and he got me everything I needed or asked for.
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04 Nov, 2024 by Susan weaver
Everyone here was very helpful. Action taken was handles swiftly. I worked with Blanca Wheeler. She was great!! Took care of business and myself. I appreciate her kindness and business like manner. I had very good results because of her hard work.
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11 Oct, 2024 by Eddie tucker
Mr. Bruderly carries himself with such confidence and knowledge that it alone will help put you at ease. He’s honest and would never make something sound better than it is. I’ve dealt with many attorneys over the years, and one thing I can say for certain is that if I were ever to pursue such a profession, I would hope to be half as good as Kurt.
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09 Jan, 2025 by Evan bassett
I have custody of my daughter again, due to the representation of Jeremy Levy and his team.
I was fighting a case, and it seemed the court was against me. Everything seemed hopeless, as it seemed the judge and magistrate were not adhering to the law. To that extent, my previous lawyer filed to be withdrawn from the case.
I made my mind up. This time I was going to find the best lawyer and put an end to the injustice happening to me. I found that lawyer in Jeremy Levy.
Professional and affirmative, every step of the way. I could call 10 times a day or 1 time a month. Every time we spoke, he was just as passionate as in my initial consultation.
Every motion filed, every law show I have seen, seems illiterate. From strategy and timing, to research and sense of urgency, NO ONE could hope for a better lawyer.
We fought tooth and nail and prevailed. My daughter is back home with me, and life is back to normal after such a scary hiatus. All thanks to Levy and Levy.
PS. While he was in court, I heard even the bailiffs say to each other “man that Jeremy is a bulldog”
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28 Oct, 2024 by Cody reardon
I hired Jeremy Levy to assist me in obtaining shared parenting for my son. Unfortunately, my experience was extremely disappointing. Despite my clear desire for more time with my child, the outcome of the case was far from satisfactory. I was awarded visitation only on Wednesdays for 2 and half hours and every other weekend. When I expressed my desire for a reevaluation of the custody arrangement, Jeremy Levy advised me to wait for a year. This delay seemed unreasonable, and I felt as though my child's best interests were not being adequately considered. I would not recommend Jeremy Levy to anyone seeking legal representation in family law matters.
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09 Jul, 2024 by Samuel meier
Jeremy and his staff are great. If you want a lawyer who truly cares look no further.
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09 Jan, 2025 by Evan bassett
I have custody of my daughter again, due to the representation of Jeremy Levy and his team.
I was fighting a case, and it seemed the court was against me. Everything seemed hopeless, as it seemed the judge and magistrate were not adhering to the law. To that extent, my previous lawyer filed to be withdrawn from the case.
I made my mind up. This time I was going to find the best lawyer and put an end to the injustice happening to me. I found that lawyer in Jeremy Levy.
Professional and affirmative, every step of the way. I could call 10 times a day or 1 time a month. Every time we spoke, he was just as passionate as in my initial consultation.
Every motion filed, every law show I have seen, seems illiterate. From strategy and timing, to research and sense of urgency, NO ONE could hope for a better lawyer.
We fought tooth and nail and prevailed. My daughter is back home with me, and life is back to normal after such a scary hiatus. All thanks to Levy and Levy.
PS. While he was in court, I heard even the bailiffs say to each other “man that Jeremy is a bulldog”
Read more
28 Oct, 2024 by Cody reardon
I hired Jeremy Levy to assist me in obtaining shared parenting for my son. Unfortunately, my experience was extremely disappointing. Despite my clear desire for more time with my child, the outcome of the case was far from satisfactory. I was awarded visitation only on Wednesdays for 2 and half hours and every other weekend. When I expressed my desire for a reevaluation of the custody arrangement, Jeremy Levy advised me to wait for a year. This delay seemed unreasonable, and I felt as though my child's best interests were not being adequately considered. I would not recommend Jeremy Levy to anyone seeking legal representation in family law matters.
Read more
09 Jul, 2024 by Samuel meier
Jeremy and his staff are great. If you want a lawyer who truly cares look no further.
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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.
