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28 Jan, 2014 by Brian law jr
I have been in family court fighting for joint custody of my 2 small children for almost 3 years now. Kevin has been nothing less than amazing. He worked so hard on my case. He went above and beyond any of my expectations. My case was really not easy and extremely complex. He knew exactly what to say and what was helping my case. He was ALWAYS there when I needed him for anything and I was very needy. I would recommend him to be used as anyone's representation in any matter needed. In the end, I got exactly what I was asking for and I owe it to Kevin's knowledge and incredible sense/judgement of character
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23 Apr, 2012 by Anonymous
Kevin read through my entire case and then we sat down to discuss it. He kept me informed of everything going on and stayed on top of every detail. He called me when he said he was going to call me and insisted on a re rewrite of my court order when it came back to him incomplete and not covering everything we agreed on in court.
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29 Jan, 2012 by Esther
Mr. Goodwin was a Godsend. In my time of crises, in Family court his representation helped me to make sure that my family was safe. He made me feel safe and confident. I was always able to reach him and he kept me updated. I recommend him without hesitation, he is very straightforward and effective.
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03 Feb, 2016 by Ken
Jim was my fourth matrimonial attorney and after firing my first three, I was just fed up with the "system" and mediocrity. I felt that I would never find someone to care about my situation as much as I cared. Jim proved me wrong. Jim Caruso is a sincere, caring legal professional that vests himself in his clients situation. He is pragmatic in his approach and offers realistic goals and outcomes. What Jim provides his clients is not only exceptional service, but he is thorough, creative and passionate about his clients success.
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28 Sep, 2015 by Kelly
For those of you who are looking for an attorney to provide you with top notch, unwavering representation, I would highly recommend James Caruso. Jim served as my matrimonial attorney for the past year through multiple supreme court appearances. He was 100% prepared with the facts on my case through every appearance in great detail which gave me the confidence that I needed to get through my difficult divorce which involved the custody of my children.
Jim spent the time to dive deep into the facts of my case, leaving no stones unturned in order to give me the best representation possible. Jim was also very honest and factual with the hours my case would require. He prepared me to go into my case with realistic expectations and encouraged me to work through the small things with my spouse on my own, which enabled me to save the billable attorney hours for what mattered most to me in my case. He always kept me focused on what truly mattered.
His personal coaching on how to get through the tough part of divorce was acceptional. He considered every possible scenario in order to give me the best representation and outcome possible. I thank Jim for the outcome of my divorce. He was a true partner in my case.
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05 Feb, 2015 by Toni wells
Jo Katz represented me in family court and did a wonderful job. She is professional and concise and does not beat around the bush. I would highly recommend her!
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12 Jan, 2012 by Anonymous
Worked diligently, was straight foward and honest. He is very familliar w/ court staff, and seemed to have respect of the judge. Office staff was also very helpful.
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19 Apr, 2017 by Doug baron
Nick was great from beginning to end. Clear communication, good advice, and takes quick action. Thank you.
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04 Feb, 2014 by Patricia
I have had David as my grandchildren's att. for 19 years off and on. He has always
shown an interest in the girls and any concerns I have had. David always calls me back whenever I leave messages. For once, someone that cares.
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17 Aug, 2018 by Anonymous
Laura was very hard to contact, many unanswered phone calls and emails. Over a 4 month period she only emailed me 4 times, no phone calls and only one separation agreement was sent to the opposing lawyer. Her receptionist said she was sorry but they have been busy and recommended different lawyers to be because Laura was too busy for me. I made a appointment to get my retainer back and Laura did not show up and charged me $1300 for 1 agreement and 4 emails over a 4 month period. She never answered any of my questions. I was promised more copies of paperwork and nothing. DO NOT USE THIS LAWYER!
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27 Feb, 2018 by Anonymous
*NOT RECOMMENDED
I retained services in late 2017 and paid the service fee in full at time of retainment. In Jan 2018 I received an email from Laura Darling Law PLLC stating that I will receive a fine in the mail, with no explanation of what the fine is for. Since January I have attempted to contact this office via phone and email. I have left 5 voicemails and have around the same number of unanswered emails. The one time a secretary was willing to talk to me she indicated that Laura was busy and she would get back to me eventually. To date, there has been no contact from the lawyer and we are entering the 4th month since the lawyer received full payment for services.
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15 Sep, 2017 by Janna
Laura Darling has helped me in both family law custody and contractual matters. She listened to my concerns, protected my interests in all matters, and made me feel confident about my cases because of her expertise. She always answers my questions and addresses my concerns in a timely manner. She handled all aspects of my custody case seamlessly. I feel very confident in recommending her in both contract and family law matters.
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11 May, 2023 by Earl farley
If you need a lawyer don't call Matthew Matthew j Turner I'll take your case as a lawsuit wait three years and tell you he can't do it even though he did your brother's case has one year after says his wife was sick and he had to do his his politics to be a judge horrible lawyer
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05 May, 2023 by Miguel torres
Was recommended by a friend he is a great human being helped me through my divorce that was a train wreck other party made it nearly impossible but I’m glad I choose him as the person to get me through that step of my life 100% recommended
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02 Mar, 2023 by Richard thorpe
Very responsive
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09 Mar, 2024 by Ashley
James Gross was a life saver at one of the worst times in our lives. No one would believe her plea of innocence except Mr. Gross. He got 8 felony charges YES 8 felony charges completely dropped. Mr. Gross never did the minimum and really set out to prove her innocence in anyway he could. Can't recommend Mr gross enough. God bless people like him. Without him our family would have lost everything.
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02 Feb, 2023 by Andrew
He was on top of this case from the start and kept me update the entire time. And he won the case.
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02 Dec, 2022 by Stephen
James Gross really helped me out of a bind! He makes you feel heard, understood, and very easy to talk to. Has extreme knowledge and is respectful and dose not talk down to you. Definitely fights for his clients and for a good solid outcome. Reasonable priced and professional. I will be using Jim for all my legal needs going forward.
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03 May, 2021 by Anonymous
Ms. MacKenzie was honest about what to expect throughout my divorce process. She prefers to help with collaboration because that is the least harmful way for all parties but in a hostile situation she will fiercely represent her client in court. She is shrewd and strong. She will not back down if she believes in your case and in her solutions.
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07 Feb, 2019 by Anonymous
She is always prepared and knows every detail of my case. She cares about my children and helps to keep me focused on them and their needs. She often reaches out to the other side and settles on issues when possible to move things along, but she will not give up if she thinks you are getting a bad deal. Very smart and very creative. She is also honest, direct, and no-nonsense and won't tolerate exaggeration or lies or unnecessary drama.
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16 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
In retaining this attorney I was hopeful that she, as an older, experienced woman would be able to advise me through my divorce and custody battle. I should have terminated her long before I did. Not only was she rude and condescending to me more and more as the case went on, after over 20k+ her office was unable to supply a draft of a settlement offer that both parties were willing to sign. I was told I had to go though all of the emails that had gone back and forth for months in order to glean the information that I needed in order to settle my case. Melody herself, throughout the case and increasingly became highly emotional when asked about particulars of my case and often refused to answer emails stating I had to contact her by phone. I had started emailing her exclusively after being screamed at and told I was a "charity case" over the phone one day. She was not able to discern simple calendar parenting information which I laid out in detail in writing and in google calendar format insisting that I was the one not being clear in my proposals and communications. Overall, I would not recommend this attorney to anyone. At all. Ever- unless you like spending a lot of money and being berated while not getting results. I regret the initial decision to hire her immensely.
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08 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr. Gruenberg took on my DWAI and commonlaw DWI case. I was completely dismissed from both charges, Mr. Gruenberg was meticulous enough to find an error in filing paperwork that brought about the dismissal. My father has also used Mr. Gruenberg in two divorce cases and lets just say my mother was paying my father and leave it at that. Great results, so my father used him again. Also I referred a friend to Mr. Gruenberg who was able to quickly settle her divorce, I was not involved in the process but she said he did a great job. All around great lawyer.
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19 Jun, 2014 by Raquel
Do not use this poor excuse for a lawyer. He took on a criminal case knowing very well criminal cases are not his area. Rather than recommending a criminal defense attorney he took the case and charged $3,500.00. This guy is a joke; strongly do not reccomend. We ended up firing him.
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07 Mar, 2012 by Ib
My son was recently divorced. Mr. Gruenberg was excellent. His expertise was evident during the trial. My son retained full physical custody of his 3 young sons, will receive child support and will keep his home. It doesn't get any better than that! This was the best outcome we could hope for and our 3 grandsons are where they should be---safe and with their father.
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01 Aug, 2021 by Gabrielle
A fantastic attorney, has been flexible, communicative and invested in my case and the wellbeing of my children. Easily accessible to his clients, always ensures I am well informed and included in all decisions going forward. Doesn’t sugar coat things or provide false hope. Makes a plan going forward and follows through quickly. Divorce and custody battles are hard enough. Ryan provides results and peace of mine that are more than worth his retainer. His legal assistant is also very friendly and approachable.
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23 Mar, 2021 by Ursula
A con artists with a law degree , that's how I feel after meeting Ryan E. Cooke. I met with this man on 3/23/21 for a consultation after having talked to him for 45 minutes over the phone on 3/22/21.
Ryan said he would charge me 1500 flat rate for all proceeding in family court until case resolves' and 1000 for trial, if it had to go to trial. I told him I was out of work and he said he would help me out.
the contract that he gave me to review was in fact anything but helpful and in it stated the complete opposite of what we agreed to verbally.
His contract is a two page robbery and leads people to a road of bankruptcy quickly , asking his clients to pay 1500 monthly with an additionally 10 percent interest charged on the 15th day of each month if you are late -is he a bank? and he charges these fees until case concludes.
If you are going to charge people fees you should do it honestly and up front and charge those who have the money to give.
I'm so happy I dogged this bullet and did not get into contact with this crooked attorney because Ryan E Cooke is a Crookie ,and you've been warned!
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06 Mar, 2020 by Anonymous
Ryan is unprofessional and crude to interact with. He made many
costly mistakes in my case. He missed filing dates, gave questionable legal advice. You will not save money with Ryan Cooke. In the long run it will likely cost you more time and money, at best.
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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.
