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06 Apr, 2018 by Ronald
I was involved in a case recently in which my family needed someone with Karissa's expertise. She did an excellent job keeping us informed and up-to-date on our case, and her experience helped address potential problems we may not have anticipated. She is a pleasure to work with and I would highly recommend her to anyone in need of a competent, experienced, and highly intelligent Family Law attorney in Lake County.
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09 Nov, 2017 by Anonymous
I am extremely fortunate to have had the pleasure of meeting and being represented by Ms Anderson. Not only did Karissa listen and understand my concerns but she focused on doing the 'right thing' for me, and most importantly for my children. Karissa's approach is flawless and unwavering. She is assertive and determined but also empathetic and understanding. Ms Anderson is extremely knowledgeable, resourceful and intuitive. I feel extremely blessed that I had her support during my difficult situation. Her guidance was, and continues to be, invaluable. I highly recommend Karissa Anderson
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04 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
Karissa is amazing. She is on top of her game, and is always available when you need help the most. She knows what she is doing and always has a good answer for you. I've already referred her to 2 other people and their amazed by the things that she got done for them. Thanks for everything Karissa!!
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13 Jun, 2024 by Brice
David represented me in a combination of family law / criminal law cases 25 years ago. He was excellent then. He must be amazing now. Highest recommendation.
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03 Jan, 2021 by Anna
I do not feel like I can write a review that truly describes how worthy David Weinstein truly is. I retained Dave for the first time 8 years ago and I have worked with him several times since then. I wouldn’t recommend any other attorney for the Lake and Cook county area. Hiring an attorney is never going to be cheap but his prices are reasonable... but it’s his work inside and outside of the courtroom that truly makes him the best bang for your buck. He's good, tough, professional and knows the law and the practice of law. I have hired him for several fields of law, and I have recommended him many times, and no one has been let down by his performance.
Dave’s approach to customer service is fantastic. He is responsive unlike many attorneys. He may not tell you what you want to hear, but he will tell you what you NEED to hear. He prepares you for whatever is to come. He was extremely helpful when he outright told me how I need to appear in court, examples- attire, attitude and how to speak to a judge. Always keep in mind that an attorney is not a therapist, many people seem to think an attorney is going to take all of the calls about personal issues that do not directly relate to their case... which is an unreasonable request for an attorney. I may have pushed his patience in this category a time or two.
In the courtroom he remains cool, collected and sharp witted. I was amazed by how resourceful and sedulous he is. I have the utmost respect for the fact that he won’t take on work he doesn’t believe will benefit the client, meaning he won’t have you pay for a service that he cannot accomplish. Overall, I could never ask for more in an attorney!
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21 Jan, 2015 by Anonymous
I first would like to say that I unfortunately have been in Lake County courts for many years of my life. Fighting different felony cases. I have pretty much dealt first hand with a lot of the most respected felony lawyers in the area. Not to take anything away from this websites top rated but David should be much higher rated.
I know personally two separate murder cases that he has won in the same year with two completely different cases. I was refered to David by one of these men. I had him represent a family member in a felony drug case. David was able to secure misdemeanor probation for my family member. Which is a win because my family member was looking at 4-15 years. I ended up in a similar situation and hired David. I was facing a class X felony (6-30 years) David was able to secure me probation also. His price was fair and I am very happy to have had him represent me . If you see this ,Thanks Dave
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17 Jan, 2014 by Kirstan
She did everything quick and easy. She made me comfortable through all of the process. She was easy to communicate with
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14 Jan, 2014 by Kasia
Shyama is very knowledgeable, compassionate and dedicated. She is regarded with mutual respect by all. Syama has helped me on many divorce different issues, and always been fair, diligent and wise. She seeks their best interests, not high billings. I trust Shyama implicitly with any of my legal issues. I highly recommend her to anyone who wants personal attention from a skilled attorney in a famly law case.
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26 Aug, 2010 by Connie
Shyama S. Parikh was an excellent attorney!!! Shyama would be my first choice of attorneys if I ever needed one again in the future. I would also be very happy to recommend her to other people. Shyama was very detailed oriented when handling my case. I loved how detailed Shyama was in filling out the Affirmative Matter section in my legal documents. She was very thorough in handling my whole case. The people that I brought to court, as witnesses, were extremely impressed, as well, with Shyama. They kept going on and on about what an excellent attorney I had today. She was able to expunge the false Emergency Order of Protection that was against me by my ex-boyfriend. Shyama also stopped him from getting the petition for Order of Protection from going through. My ex-boyfriend was just doing this out of revenge any way and not basing anything on facts. My ex-boyfriend was just upset that I found about his evil past, with 2 attempted murders. He was trying to make me look like the bad person because he was afraid he was going to go back to prison again because of my knowledge of these facts. Shyama helped me with showing the judge my side of the story and what really happened that day. I found favor with the judge thanks to Shyama being there as my attorney. I highly recommend Shyama to anyone that needs a Family Law attorney. Shyama puts in her website that, "My approach towards resolving legal issues is quick and cost efficient." This statement is very true. She handled my case very quickly, where it didn't drag on and on. Her fees were very cost efficient too. It was worth every penny that I spent having Shyama as my attorney. Shyama restored my faith in the legal system! Thanks Shyama for all your hard work in handling my case!
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13 Dec, 2010 by Anonymous
Jenny Valsamas had our families well being in her hands. She listened to me, trusted me every step of the way. (12 months of custody and removal from Illinois battle.) She always put the well being of my three children first and kept her sites, reminding me often of our long term goal of removing my children from the state. She providing priceless service at an affordable price. Her office staff were always helpful and managed my case excellent. Jenny kept me informed always; not only M-F 9-5 but 24/7. Even after I was awarded custody and moved from the state she accepted my calls for advice on moving the parenting agreement to the new state. If I called today, she would still help me. She was the reason I have my family and my children have the good life they have today.
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14 Feb, 2009 by Anonymous
Very just trustworthy and knowledgable, I learned a huge amount just listening to her. She helped smoothed a path for my family and continues to help us today.
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07 Aug, 2014 by Anonymous
Attorney Vinson is very knowledgeable in all of her practice areas. I have consulted with her numerous times related to various legal issues. She is always prompt in returning phone calls and emails. Client satisfaction is very important to her and she strives to provide excellent legal advice and representation to her clients.
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14 Dec, 2020 by Aimee
Greg was so helpful, he took care of everything for me. I was stressed out about the closing, but he put my mind at ease every step of the way. I would recommend him for all or any of your real estate legal needs.
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12 May, 2015 by Sandy
I recently worked with Joe Rominski on a very difficult real estate transaction and know without hesitation, it was his knowledge, expertise and professionalism that closed the deal. As a realtor I only want the very best for my clients, and Mr. Rominski & his staff far exceeded my expectations!
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5.0
20 Reviews
4.9
397 Reviews
24 Sep, 2024 by Pd 21
Yo recomiendo mucho al abogado Andrés Cerrito es un abogado muy bueno y me ayudó mucho .Yo habÃa consulte otros abogado y cobraban demasiado y me cobro a mi presupuesto y mi residencia me salió exacto el tiempo que el me dijo y fue todo rápido .Gracias adiós primero y al abogado Yo les recomiendo mucho al abogado.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Chris evans
Dan is a amazing Attorney answered everyone of my questions and walk me through the entire process.
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22 Aug, 2024 by Franky poseidon
Best lawyers around hands down!
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24 Sep, 2024 by Pd 21
Yo recomiendo mucho al abogado Andrés Cerrito es un abogado muy bueno y me ayudó mucho .Yo habÃa consulte otros abogado y cobraban demasiado y me cobro a mi presupuesto y mi residencia me salió exacto el tiempo que el me dijo y fue todo rápido .Gracias adiós primero y al abogado Yo les recomiendo mucho al abogado.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Chris evans
Dan is a amazing Attorney answered everyone of my questions and walk me through the entire process.
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22 Aug, 2024 by Franky poseidon
Best lawyers around hands down!
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24 Sep, 2024 by Pd 21
Yo recomiendo mucho al abogado Andrés Cerrito es un abogado muy bueno y me ayudó mucho .Yo habÃa consulte otros abogado y cobraban demasiado y me cobro a mi presupuesto y mi residencia me salió exacto el tiempo que el me dijo y fue todo rápido .Gracias adiós primero y al abogado Yo les recomiendo mucho al abogado.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Chris evans
Dan is a amazing Attorney answered everyone of my questions and walk me through the entire process.
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22 Aug, 2024 by Franky poseidon
Best lawyers around hands down!
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27 Sep, 2024 by David gonzalez
24 Sep, 2024 by Mason pruitt
i’m sure he is a good lawyer but he assigned me Christine Fields. It was my first scrape with the law, i am a veteran,I paid the full bill ip front, i spoke respectfully and only to my attorney (keep quiet in front of the judge) i came in 15min early to every court date and i answered every time she called which was very seldom. She would not push for a good plea deal. She wanted me to plea to a felony or go to trial. Looking back it was probably because trial means i pay another 10 grand on top of the 5 grand i already paid. So i called another lawyer who easily got me a plea bargain to a mister meaner with 1 year probation, and i paid to seal it right after. My new lawyer called her to talk and she only sent a statement saying she would not be at my next court days and that was sent a day after the court date.
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24 Sep, 2024 by Dave hanson
I received excellent and timely representation by the Hirsch firm and Jim Brzezinski.
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30 Apr, 2024 by Diane davis
David Winer is an Excellent Attorney very thorough..Mr Winer knew exactly what he was doing..my driving privileges got full reinstatement. 😀
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26 Mar, 2024 by Matt mcguire
Very professional and helpful, helped me get my license back after ten years
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03 Mar, 2024 by Linda saimes
24 Nov, 2023 by Richard adamson
Great attorney.
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24 Nov, 2023 by James s.
I have known Bill for years and the work that he does has greatly benefitted friends and family. I highly recommend him as an attorney.
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19 Nov, 2023 by S. valo (valo -diversestudiollc)
This was my lawyer back in the day " lived a wild youth" he took good care of me. Best lawyer to have highly recommended.
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02 May, 2024 by Sang choi
We are truly happy to have won our case with friendly explanations and quick resolutions.
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01 May, 2024 by Frank tomy
Excelente abogado luis Albarran
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30 Apr, 2024 by Osmel ochoa
Luis Albarran and Brittany Mennie are the best! Today, Luis Albarran beat my second case. The judge found me not guilty of DUI. Mr. Albarran was even able to beat my speeding ticket. The best news was when Mr. Albarran told me that he got the statutory summary suspension thrown out. I am so happy right now. I was worried that the DUI would cause me to lose my job but now I do not have to worry that any longer.
While this case was going on Britany Mennie was very good at explaining everything that was going on. She was very good at communication.
I also had a misdemeanor alcohol case about seven years ago. The police tried to give me a DUI but Albarran and Mennie beat that case too.
I do not plan to get into any more trouble and I thank Luis and Brittany for keeping my record clean.
I highly recommend them and give them 5 stars.
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02 May, 2024 by Sang choi
We are truly happy to have won our case with friendly explanations and quick resolutions.
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01 May, 2024 by Frank tomy
Excelente abogado luis Albarran
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30 Apr, 2024 by Osmel ochoa
Luis Albarran and Brittany Mennie are the best! Today, Luis Albarran beat my second case. The judge found me not guilty of DUI. Mr. Albarran was even able to beat my speeding ticket. The best news was when Mr. Albarran told me that he got the statutory summary suspension thrown out. I am so happy right now. I was worried that the DUI would cause me to lose my job but now I do not have to worry that any longer.
While this case was going on Britany Mennie was very good at explaining everything that was going on. She was very good at communication.
I also had a misdemeanor alcohol case about seven years ago. The police tried to give me a DUI but Albarran and Mennie beat that case too.
I do not plan to get into any more trouble and I thank Luis and Brittany for keeping my record clean.
I highly recommend them and give them 5 stars.
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27 Sep, 2024 by David gonzalez
24 Sep, 2024 by Mason pruitt
i’m sure he is a good lawyer but he assigned me Christine Fields. It was my first scrape with the law, i am a veteran,I paid the full bill ip front, i spoke respectfully and only to my attorney (keep quiet in front of the judge) i came in 15min early to every court date and i answered every time she called which was very seldom. She would not push for a good plea deal. She wanted me to plea to a felony or go to trial. Looking back it was probably because trial means i pay another 10 grand on top of the 5 grand i already paid. So i called another lawyer who easily got me a plea bargain to a mister meaner with 1 year probation, and i paid to seal it right after. My new lawyer called her to talk and she only sent a statement saying she would not be at my next court days and that was sent a day after the court date.
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24 Sep, 2024 by Dave hanson
I received excellent and timely representation by the Hirsch firm and Jim Brzezinski.
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24 Nov, 2023 by Richard adamson
Great attorney.
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24 Nov, 2023 by James s.
I have known Bill for years and the work that he does has greatly benefitted friends and family. I highly recommend him as an attorney.
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19 Nov, 2023 by S. valo (valo -diversestudiollc)
This was my lawyer back in the day " lived a wild youth" he took good care of me. Best lawyer to have highly recommended.
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24 Nov, 2023 by Richard adamson
Great attorney.
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24 Nov, 2023 by James s.
I have known Bill for years and the work that he does has greatly benefitted friends and family. I highly recommend him as an attorney.
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19 Nov, 2023 by S. valo (valo -diversestudiollc)
This was my lawyer back in the day " lived a wild youth" he took good care of me. Best lawyer to have highly recommended.
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27 Sep, 2024 by David gonzalez
24 Sep, 2024 by Mason pruitt
i’m sure he is a good lawyer but he assigned me Christine Fields. It was my first scrape with the law, i am a veteran,I paid the full bill ip front, i spoke respectfully and only to my attorney (keep quiet in front of the judge) i came in 15min early to every court date and i answered every time she called which was very seldom. She would not push for a good plea deal. She wanted me to plea to a felony or go to trial. Looking back it was probably because trial means i pay another 10 grand on top of the 5 grand i already paid. So i called another lawyer who easily got me a plea bargain to a mister meaner with 1 year probation, and i paid to seal it right after. My new lawyer called her to talk and she only sent a statement saying she would not be at my next court days and that was sent a day after the court date.
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24 Sep, 2024 by Dave hanson
I received excellent and timely representation by the Hirsch firm and Jim Brzezinski.
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05 May, 2024 by Lizzy alemu
Helped me on my disability case and made sure to be with me every step of the way. God bless.
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01 May, 2024 by Alicia williams
I worked we Attorney Robert Stavins a few years back on a disability case and he was successful with that case. When circumstances required an attorney to represent me for a new case, I immediately thought of Attorney Stavins because of his professionalism and compassion. He didn't hesitate to represent me. He is flexible with schedule appointments and provided in detail how our case was going to work and he didn't hesitate to answers all of my many questions. He is patient, passionate and professional. I highly recommend Attorney Stavins if you are looking for excellent representation with positive results.
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30 Apr, 2024 by Patricia de la cruz
Excelente abogado! Robert, es muy profesional y un buen ser humano, siempre me ayudó y cuido de mis intereses dándome sugerencias, pero siempre respeto lo que yo le pedÃÂa sobre mi caso. Realmente lo recomiendo! Excelente servicio!!
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18 Jan, 2024 by Adriana
There is not enough great things I can say about Laura Horner. My ex-husband went through about 5 attorneys in the span of our divorce, I stuck with Laura and there was never any doubt in my mind. She is thorough and quick on her feet. She doesn't sell you a dream she sets realistic expectations. I am highly convinced that my divorce would not have gone as great as it did, if I did not have her representing me. I have had her help me with different family matters over the span of about 12 years, she gets it done, every single time! Don't think twice about seeking her services, you will do yourself a favor!
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24 Nov, 2023 by Richard adamson
Great attorney.
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24 Nov, 2023 by James s.
I have known Bill for years and the work that he does has greatly benefitted friends and family. I highly recommend him as an attorney.
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05 May, 2024 by Lizzy alemu
Helped me on my disability case and made sure to be with me every step of the way. God bless.
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01 May, 2024 by Alicia williams
I worked we Attorney Robert Stavins a few years back on a disability case and he was successful with that case. When circumstances required an attorney to represent me for a new case, I immediately thought of Attorney Stavins because of his professionalism and compassion. He didn't hesitate to represent me. He is flexible with schedule appointments and provided in detail how our case was going to work and he didn't hesitate to answers all of my many questions. He is patient, passionate and professional. I highly recommend Attorney Stavins if you are looking for excellent representation with positive results.
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30 Apr, 2024 by Patricia de la cruz
Excelente abogado! Robert, es muy profesional y un buen ser humano, siempre me ayudó y cuido de mis intereses dándome sugerencias, pero siempre respeto lo que yo le pedÃÂa sobre mi caso. Realmente lo recomiendo! Excelente servicio!!
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20 Jun, 2022 by Pepper
Most basic lawyer. But if you want a lawyer to fight, he is not the one.
The communication was lacking. I was told at one point "you should think about self representation". This because I asked him to have stuff included within the final divorce. But he wanted it his way or else find someone else. "I work for you" doesnt really apply here.
Then, I tried to follow up AFTER the case was closed so I would not need another lawyer, completely ignored be on 3 separate requests. So he was done with me without telling me.
Forwarded me emails from the other party with not a single word of context or what Im supposed to do. "Review and get back to me". Yes, I probably could have self represented. And should have. Win some, lose some.
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20 Aug, 2018 by Andrew
Thank goodness I finally found an attorney that represented me with integrity and helped me through this long nightmare of a divorce. Robert was very responsive from the beginning, answered every communication, kept my case on track, and gave me counsel that finally gave me some relief. Robert came in late in the case to wrap up the final stages, and he got more accomplished in one action than was done in 2 years of constant attacks. I wish I had started my divorce process with him.
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05 Jul, 2018 by Jan
Robert Stavins is very competent and effective attorney in family law. I must admit to be a lawyer-phobic so when my exwife filed a law suit to get me pay half of my sons University of Michigan tuition when he could have studied Loyola University Chicago or Marquette University for free thanks to my employee benefits, I first attempted to represent myself. When a judge strongly suggested I needed a lawyer, and some awful forms were due in Waukegan court soon, I quickly choose Robert based on two facts: first, he worked pro bono from time to time (not that I would need that but it shows his kind heart so I felt he would understand that I cannot afford excessive fees), and, second, he did not remind me during our first meeting a vulture (unlike most other attorneys I observed working in the courtroom). I was so lucky with my selection! The complicated case morphed into child support case for another child and took a year and many petitions and counter-petitions to complete. Robert was always there - calm, knowledgeable, explaining my options clearly. We did not win it all but my new family and I would be probably financially ruined without his assistance.
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5.0
21 Reviews
4.2
40 Reviews
04 Oct, 2024 by MarÃa
me ayudó a finalizar mi divorcio… y desde el dÃa uno se dedicó a hacer su trabajo y hacerlo muy bien siempre tenÃa comunicación con migo y si tenÃa dudas siempre me ayudó .. por fin estoy divorciada.. gracias abogada Fiona gracias Elsa soto ….
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28 Mar, 2024 by Kimlet nichols
In my eyes he did nothing good for my daughter. I think he takes on to many cases at a time. I would not recommend him.
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26 Mar, 2024 by Kirsten dugan
David Del Re is a top tier, extremely smart, ethical and present attorney. He Looks at the details and thinks of the bigger picture. He is experienced, knows the law, thinks fast on his feet and fights hard. I wish I found him sooner!
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5.0
20 Reviews
4.1
40 Reviews
28 Mar, 2024 by Kimlet nichols
In my eyes he did nothing good for my daughter. I think he takes on to many cases at a time. I would not recommend him.
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26 Mar, 2024 by Kirsten dugan
David Del Re is a top tier, extremely smart, ethical and present attorney. He Looks at the details and thinks of the bigger picture. He is experienced, knows the law, thinks fast on his feet and fights hard. I wish I found him sooner!
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23 Feb, 2024 by Chad deal
Great law firm. I hired Fiona to represent me and she works hard for her clients and keeps you informed on your case and guides you in the direction that is best for you. She is quick to respond and extremely helpful
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5.0
15 Reviews
4.1
40 Reviews
28 Mar, 2024 by Kimlet nichols
In my eyes he did nothing good for my daughter. I think he takes on to many cases at a time. I would not recommend him.
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26 Mar, 2024 by Kirsten dugan
David Del Re is a top tier, extremely smart, ethical and present attorney. He Looks at the details and thinks of the bigger picture. He is experienced, knows the law, thinks fast on his feet and fights hard. I wish I found him sooner!
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23 Feb, 2024 by Chad deal
Great law firm. I hired Fiona to represent me and she works hard for her clients and keeps you informed on your case and guides you in the direction that is best for you. She is quick to respond and extremely helpful
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18 Feb, 2023 by Ana rodriguez
If you need legal help go to Scott he will walk you through everything and will explain all the process.
He help me out with a partition law suit everything went great
Thank you Scott if I need legal matters again be sure I will be there 🙂
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31 Oct, 2019 by Ulla giampa
28 Oct, 2019 by Hawthorn woods auto
Been my lawyer for 20 plus years, highly recommended!
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04 Sep, 2024 by Otoniel mora zamora
16 Aug, 2024 by Alderson villamil
La atención es muy buena.
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18 Jul, 2024 by Oscar carabez
18 May, 2012 by Terese
I recently asked Michael Ori to represent my son-in-law. It wasn't his job to keep me informed. I was impressed with how quickly he responded to my call. He was able to listen to me then give me answers that reassured me.
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25 May, 2024 by Google user 1234
He got one star because I had to give a star to leave a review..Used to be the best lawyers in lake County when rosing was in charge..now they're lazy trash lawyers that sometimes appear to be working for the other side..avoid like the plague..I could have represented myself and done a better job and he uses that sleezebag,no moral having a axelrod for collections..you'll have a bigger problem than you have now if you use this trash "attorney" save yourself the trouble,enlist an actual lawyer and not a money grubbing corrupt loser!Or represent yourself,the law library at the the courthouse will tell you what paperwork you need to file..the facts are that facts!He isn't the only lawyer I've ever had but he's definitely the worst..the rest actually did their job..you've been warned!
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24 Mar, 2023 by Sara macwilliams
We hired Julie to help with our daughter's divorce and she took amazing care of our family. As an attorney in private practice myself, I know what is and isn't skilled and caring service, and Julia exemplifies those values. In fact we switched attorneys after our first hire turned out to be less than capable, and we were so glad we did.
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11 Sep, 2022 by Melissa dennis
I used Julie years ago for a difficult divorce . I appreciate everything she did for me and my children.
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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.
