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19 Sep, 2022 by Kristofer
Peter was very experienced and well talented in the work he does.! He is very knowledgeable and gets right to the point. I would definitely recommend peter over and over again.!!!
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12 Sep, 2024 by John conti
My 87-year-old father was hit by a car out walking in his neighborhood. My immediate concern was, is he going to be OK, how bad he was hurt. When I knew my father would recover, and my next concern, I didn't want my parents to be saddled with huge bills. I called and met Kevin Williams and his paralegal, Jan Shear. Their initial care and understanding was very comforting to me and my parents. Their knowledge and understanding of the situation and the best course of action was precise and clear. They informed us of every step along the way and even knew what issues we would encounter before it happened. Shortly after the accident my father received a bill for nearly $30,000 from the hospital and emergency room. I immediately forwarded the bill to Jan, and she got the bill to the proper responsible party to be paid. Kevin and Jan were able to get all the bills paid and even corrected a bill that was paid in error by my father's insurance carrier. My parents ended up with no out of packet payments for any of the many doctor visits or tests, and received a very nice reward from the driver's insurance company. The outcome was better than I ever expected. However, what I appreciated the most was the care and concern both Kevin and Jan had for my parents’ well being, the effort they gave, and timeliness of the entire process.
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06 Sep, 2024 by B lynn
I reached out to the firm here when we had a personal injury and was able to work with Kevin and his team. From start to finish I felt my needs were being met I was filled in with any and all information. Both Jan and Kevin were always a call away, extremely thorough and made my family feel at ease through the whole process. I would highly recommend Levene Gouldin & Thompson (vestal).
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29 Aug, 2024 by Yatenga greenwood
Working with Kevin Williams and Jan Shear from LG&T was amazing. The attorney stayed on top of everything. The secretary kept me abreast of next steps. If you’re looking for a great attorney consider LG&T.
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12 Sep, 2024 by John conti
My 87-year-old father was hit by a car out walking in his neighborhood. My immediate concern was, is he going to be OK, how bad he was hurt. When I knew my father would recover, and my next concern, I didn't want my parents to be saddled with huge bills. I called and met Kevin Williams and his paralegal, Jan Shear. Their initial care and understanding was very comforting to me and my parents. Their knowledge and understanding of the situation and the best course of action was precise and clear. They informed us of every step along the way and even knew what issues we would encounter before it happened. Shortly after the accident my father received a bill for nearly $30,000 from the hospital and emergency room. I immediately forwarded the bill to Jan, and she got the bill to the proper responsible party to be paid. Kevin and Jan were able to get all the bills paid and even corrected a bill that was paid in error by my father's insurance carrier. My parents ended up with no out of packet payments for any of the many doctor visits or tests, and received a very nice reward from the driver's insurance company. The outcome was better than I ever expected. However, what I appreciated the most was the care and concern both Kevin and Jan had for my parents’ well being, the effort they gave, and timeliness of the entire process.
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06 Sep, 2024 by B lynn
I reached out to the firm here when we had a personal injury and was able to work with Kevin and his team. From start to finish I felt my needs were being met I was filled in with any and all information. Both Jan and Kevin were always a call away, extremely thorough and made my family feel at ease through the whole process. I would highly recommend Levene Gouldin & Thompson (vestal).
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29 Aug, 2024 by Yatenga greenwood
Working with Kevin Williams and Jan Shear from LG&T was amazing. The attorney stayed on top of everything. The secretary kept me abreast of next steps. If you’re looking for a great attorney consider LG&T.
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12 Sep, 2024 by John conti
My 87-year-old father was hit by a car out walking in his neighborhood. My immediate concern was, is he going to be OK, how bad he was hurt. When I knew my father would recover, and my next concern, I didn't want my parents to be saddled with huge bills. I called and met Kevin Williams and his paralegal, Jan Shear. Their initial care and understanding was very comforting to me and my parents. Their knowledge and understanding of the situation and the best course of action was precise and clear. They informed us of every step along the way and even knew what issues we would encounter before it happened. Shortly after the accident my father received a bill for nearly $30,000 from the hospital and emergency room. I immediately forwarded the bill to Jan, and she got the bill to the proper responsible party to be paid. Kevin and Jan were able to get all the bills paid and even corrected a bill that was paid in error by my father's insurance carrier. My parents ended up with no out of packet payments for any of the many doctor visits or tests, and received a very nice reward from the driver's insurance company. The outcome was better than I ever expected. However, what I appreciated the most was the care and concern both Kevin and Jan had for my parents’ well being, the effort they gave, and timeliness of the entire process.
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06 Sep, 2024 by B lynn
I reached out to the firm here when we had a personal injury and was able to work with Kevin and his team. From start to finish I felt my needs were being met I was filled in with any and all information. Both Jan and Kevin were always a call away, extremely thorough and made my family feel at ease through the whole process. I would highly recommend Levene Gouldin & Thompson (vestal).
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29 Aug, 2024 by Yatenga greenwood
Working with Kevin Williams and Jan Shear from LG&T was amazing. The attorney stayed on top of everything. The secretary kept me abreast of next steps. If you’re looking for a great attorney consider LG&T.
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12 Sep, 2024 by John conti
My 87-year-old father was hit by a car out walking in his neighborhood. My immediate concern was, is he going to be OK, how bad he was hurt. When I knew my father would recover, and my next concern, I didn't want my parents to be saddled with huge bills. I called and met Kevin Williams and his paralegal, Jan Shear. Their initial care and understanding was very comforting to me and my parents. Their knowledge and understanding of the situation and the best course of action was precise and clear. They informed us of every step along the way and even knew what issues we would encounter before it happened. Shortly after the accident my father received a bill for nearly $30,000 from the hospital and emergency room. I immediately forwarded the bill to Jan, and she got the bill to the proper responsible party to be paid. Kevin and Jan were able to get all the bills paid and even corrected a bill that was paid in error by my father's insurance carrier. My parents ended up with no out of packet payments for any of the many doctor visits or tests, and received a very nice reward from the driver's insurance company. The outcome was better than I ever expected. However, what I appreciated the most was the care and concern both Kevin and Jan had for my parents’ well being, the effort they gave, and timeliness of the entire process.
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06 Sep, 2024 by B lynn
I reached out to the firm here when we had a personal injury and was able to work with Kevin and his team. From start to finish I felt my needs were being met I was filled in with any and all information. Both Jan and Kevin were always a call away, extremely thorough and made my family feel at ease through the whole process. I would highly recommend Levene Gouldin & Thompson (vestal).
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
29 Aug, 2024 by Yatenga greenwood
Working with Kevin Williams and Jan Shear from LG&T was amazing. The attorney stayed on top of everything. The secretary kept me abreast of next steps. If you’re looking for a great attorney consider LG&T.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
12 Sep, 2024 by John conti
My 87-year-old father was hit by a car out walking in his neighborhood. My immediate concern was, is he going to be OK, how bad he was hurt. When I knew my father would recover, and my next concern, I didn't want my parents to be saddled with huge bills. I called and met Kevin Williams and his paralegal, Jan Shear. Their initial care and understanding was very comforting to me and my parents. Their knowledge and understanding of the situation and the best course of action was precise and clear. They informed us of every step along the way and even knew what issues we would encounter before it happened. Shortly after the accident my father received a bill for nearly $30,000 from the hospital and emergency room. I immediately forwarded the bill to Jan, and she got the bill to the proper responsible party to be paid. Kevin and Jan were able to get all the bills paid and even corrected a bill that was paid in error by my father's insurance carrier. My parents ended up with no out of packet payments for any of the many doctor visits or tests, and received a very nice reward from the driver's insurance company. The outcome was better than I ever expected. However, what I appreciated the most was the care and concern both Kevin and Jan had for my parents’ well being, the effort they gave, and timeliness of the entire process.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
06 Sep, 2024 by B lynn
I reached out to the firm here when we had a personal injury and was able to work with Kevin and his team. From start to finish I felt my needs were being met I was filled in with any and all information. Both Jan and Kevin were always a call away, extremely thorough and made my family feel at ease through the whole process. I would highly recommend Levene Gouldin & Thompson (vestal).
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
29 Aug, 2024 by Yatenga greenwood
Working with Kevin Williams and Jan Shear from LG&T was amazing. The attorney stayed on top of everything. The secretary kept me abreast of next steps. If you’re looking for a great attorney consider LG&T.
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28 Sep, 2018 by Dan
This guy collected more than $6000 from me and did not even glance at the notes I provided him prior to walking into court. The guy shows up to a rural county court 45 minutes late and blames "traffic". Then he got owned in the lone hearing which he represented me by kid-lawyer with no case but who was prepared. He then tells me that opposing counsel has a new proposal which he'll forward to me - turns out the proposal was not new, I already received it two weeks prior, and provided him with detailed notes related to the proposal immediately. He neither read my notes or recalled that he already sent the proposal. He was either wrong about, lied about or simply took no action related to the only two important legal questions I asked him during the consultation. He's either incompetent, dishonest or lazy. My guess is lazy. I'm now on the verge of losing my children, home and career and have been forced to find new representation. You are better off representing yourself. If you are in the market for an attorney then you have too much at stake to roll the dice on this guy or this firm. Had I done so I'd have and extra $6000 and no worse off legally.
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09 Nov, 2016 by Peter
Peter is a skilled matrimonial and family court attorney. His years as a Judge, combined with his years of practice, make him one of the best in the state. I have found him to be a go-to guy for any questions that I have in the area. I recommend him enthusiastically.
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07 Mar, 2015 by Susan
Received advise on client confidentiality and subpoena issues. As a professional it is important that I receive accurate information. Peter was very responsive to my questions and was prompt with his responses. I would highly recommend him.
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12 Sep, 2024 by Stephanie rogers
Terrible communication, and extremely rude.
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14 Jan, 2024 by Robert wright
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08 Nov, 2023 by Bonnie hust
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18 Sep, 2020 by Anonymous
My divorce took almost 2 years to complete and twice he agreed to a price and then changed it. The first time I had documentation and he fixed the error the second time it had been word of mouth and I was out a few hundred dollars. The good news is, he would likely be a very cheap option if you are able to keep him honest. Get everything in writing and save it.
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15 Aug, 2020 by Anonymous
I had Mr. Sullivan as a court appointed attorney. He was lazy with my case. In the 22 & 1/2 months I awaited trial Mr Sullivan did not investigate into my case at all. He treated me as if I was guilty. I would've gave him negative stars but this site made me give him at least one.
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25 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous
I have hired this attorney to represent me for at least 4 different types of matters from a divorce to an estate settlement, to child support 2x , and child custody he got the best possible outcome for me in every situation and was able to think outside the box. I would certainly hire him again but i hope i dont need to!
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29 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
- We paid copious amounts of money for him to argue for the other side. - Does not listen to wishes of client. Will not advise you of anything prior to court day. - Not responsive to emails or phone calls. (Multiple attempts to contact) - Does not do any investigative work. - Will not take you seriously. - Does not know the case. - Did not know who was petitioner and who was defendant. - When picking up the file after discharging him as our attorney, he gave us someone else's confidential information. - Unprofessional. Do NOT recommend.
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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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

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