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28 Aug, 2023 by Jeffrey doyle
Amazing attorney's!!
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08 Jun, 2020 by Christina
Ashlings knowledge of law is unmatched. I contacted her because of a pretty big legal issue I had. She handled it with grace, professionalism and the upmost courtesy I have seen in any attorney. Not only did she go out of her way for me, she eased my mind most of the time in a VERY uncertain time. Her constant and consistent understanding of her craft is amazing. I would recommend her to anyone who has a legal issue that needs to be handled.
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18 Feb, 2020 by Paul collins
My divorce was difficult and emotional. We have children and my former wife was very difficult to deal with. Eric and his team helped me to make sure i made sound decisions for my children and me and my former spouse. I never felt they were trying to just get fees out of me. I felt they were there to help me and even to give me tough advice if i needed it. Even 7 years after the final legal settlement, Eric continues to counsel me when i need him. I have recommended Eric and his team to personal friends also having to go through a divorce and would not hesitate to do it again.
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28 Feb, 2024 by Mel solis
Susan was my attorney through a very difficult time in my life and was extremely supportive and wise, and her guidance was immensely helpful. She is a genuinely caring person who is always helpful as one is working one's way through a very difficult process. I cannot recommend her highly enough.
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28 Feb, 2024 by Nofar steiger
I had a great experience with Susan Wakefield during my process. Her approach to mediation and family law counseling was very clear, offering a guiding hand through a challenging time. Susan was very professional but also kind and easy to talk to. She made a tough time a bit easier for me.
Susan explained everything clearly, so I always knew what was going on. Her expertise allowed me to navigate the legal intricacies of my situation with confidence, ensuring that I was informed and prepared at every turn. She was very supportive and always looked out for my best interests. I felt like she really cared about helping me.
I would tell anyone who needs help with divorce or family law to go to Susan. Her advice showed me new options I hadn't thought of, always aiming for a friendly solution that's best for everyone.
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28 Jan, 2024 by Johnny garcia
22 Jul, 2020 by Anonymous
Even though Joseph Maya wasn’t able to help me legally he spent much time researching and listened to me when I spoke to him with his undecided attention. Highly recommend him as an attorney.
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09 Jul, 2020 by Catherine
Joseph Maya provided me with an honest and informative explanation of the law related to defamation in Connecticut. He was well informed and patient in answering all of my questions. I would definitely recommend him for legal representation.
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28 May, 2020 by Annette
I was able to talk to Joe Maya about my husband's case regarding his daughter and her refusal to do schoolwork. I needed advice on whether my husband can legally do something since his ex isn't notifying him about his daughter's refusal to do work and since he hasn't seen his daughter since the pandemic began. Joe was very helpful and told me the direction that my husband can go if he decides to. It is good to hear that my husband may be able to fight to help his daughter even if that includes changing custody.
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02 Nov, 2020 by Roseann stenson
I highly recommend Joyce Riccio! She has extensive knowledge of divorce law, and fought for my kids and assets. She was always prepared, had a powerful presence in the courtroom, yet was compassionate and supportive when privately discussing my case. Attorney Riccio had comprehensive explanations of the law and proceedings, was accessible, and professional.
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02 Nov, 2020 by Roseann
I highly recommend Joyce Riccio! She has extensive knowledge of divorce law, and fought for my kids and assets. She was always prepared, had a powerful presence in the courtroom, yet was compassionate and supportive when privately discussing my case. Attorney Riccio had comprehensive explanations of the law and proceedings, was accessible, and professional.
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22 Dec, 2019 by Jj cole studeny
What a professional, was honest and upfront with me. I wish I had known about Joyce when my divorce process began
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05 Aug, 2008 by Anonymous
I found Andy Nevas to be extremely patient, knowledgeable, and personable. Even while dealing with the unpredictable nature of our divorce; the emotional aspect, the financial ramifications, and the general heartache that is associated with the dissolution of marriage, Andy maintained his professionalism, calm demeanor, and kept his eye on the bigger picture the entire time. During the process I always felt confident that Andy was by my side. He is confident, a quick thinker, and experienced. He handles people very well; clients, family, other lawyers. He is a good man and very fair, He gets an A+ from me!
James Todd
212-243-4040
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01 Aug, 2008 by Anonymous
Andrew is an excellent attorney. He represented me during my divorce and helped make a very difficult process bearable. he is a very personable man who related to me as an equal rather than just another client receiving a service which sometimes happens. Andrew kept me well informed throughout the process and always returned my phone calls promptly. I was well prepared for my court appearance which ultimately turned out favorably.
I highly recommend Andrew Nevas.
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31 Jul, 2008 by Anonymous
Andrew is a highly trustworthy and effective attorney. I would highly recommend him and his firm.
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17 Sep, 2019 by Wiwatsorn viwatthanasorn
We were introduced to Conlon & McGlynn by our friend/realtor. From the start, Louise and Karin were very helpful, very straightforward, and honest in their opinions and recommendations. We utilized their service as closing attorney on a short sale property we put an offer in for. The whole journey took over 6 months. Couldn’t have made it 6 1/2 months through this whole journey without their guidance and expertise in the matter. They helped two people buy a seemingly impossible house! We appreciate everything that the office had done to help push through the legal and red tape bureaucracy. All in all, their flexibility, patience, professionalism, and persistence was unmatched! Thanks for everything!
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08 May, 2019 by Jack macphail
Divorce is never easy and it wasn't for me, nor my family. I worked closely with Louise through the actual proceedings, and subsequently through a number of post-judgments. At all times, she and her associates displayed amazing patience, empathy, understanding and professionalism for all parties concerned. I whole-heartedly recommend Louise and her firm to anyone facing this life-changing circumstance. Should someone approaching this point in her/his life want to talk about my experience with Louise and her associates, am perfectly willing to connect with whomever.
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07 May, 2019 by Heather l
Conlon & McGlynn is an amazing practice. Louise McGlynn was everything I was looking for in an attorney. She was forceful yet extremely professional; knowledgeable, resourceful and at the same time, was very empathetic to me and my situation. This helped make a very difficult time more much more tolerable. I have already recommended her to others and will continue to do so. I could not have asked for a better firm to represent me.
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22 Oct, 2019 by Krys
I hire Efrain after my construction accident. Only because of his help I was able resolved all my medical bills and lost wages. Thank you so much, forever appreciated. Krys .
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10 Jul, 2015 by Kathryn
I contacted the law firm of Maya Murphy after another attorney had already initiated my divorce. What should have been a straightforward divorce (married 5 years, no kids, all assets/debt kept separately and listed in our individual names, both of us employed in well paying jobs with benefits) was turning into anything but straightforward. I really wanted to end my marriage as amicably as possible without a long drawn-out divorce and trial. I had some upcoming court dates and was unable to get any meaningful information from my first attorney about what was expected. When I walked into Maya Murphy, I was very concerned that my divorce was going to be long and costly. As soon as I walked into the offices of Maya Murphy and spoke with Ephraim Fink (EJ) and his colleagues, I felt completely relieved and confident in my decision to switch law firms. EJ got up to speed very quickly on my case and understood the issues. He was professional, thorough, and knew exactly how to proceed. I always felt that EJ was looking out for my best interests. In less than two months, my divorce was settled amicably, with a very fair settlement, during a pre-trial hearing. He made sure I understood and agreed to every aspect of the settlement. Everything was handled in a very timely manner. Maya Murphy was very reasonable when invoicing for his time. I would definitely recommend EJ and the Maya Murphy law firm.
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22 Jun, 2015 by Jillian
I retained EJ just 3 months before a trial date for a high conflict divorce and custody battle. The divorce had been filed 15 months prior and the cards were so heavily stacked against me I didn't think I'd make it through this. In just 90 days EJ changed this whole situation! His attention to detail is impeccable. His personal care and consideration is truly astounding. He is extremely professional yet personal and humorous which is so very important in these types of situations. He has a realistic and logical approach that is not only refreshing but also provides the desired results. He has an ability like no other to keep clients calm and confident through a difficult life transition. My only regret was not having found this incredible attorney at the beginning of my divorce, however even with out doing so he managed to win this case. He truly made the best interest of the children his over arching objective at all times. He was in no way intimidated by the smoke and mirrors coming from the other side and maintained professionalism at confidence at all times. EJ truly changed the course of my life by being my attorney. If you are considering him I assure you that you will not be disappointed and he will surpass your expectations. If you are reading this review... you truly have found the best attorney for you.
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28 Aug, 2023 by Jeffrey doyle
Amazing attorney's!!
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18 Feb, 2020 by Paul collins
My divorce was difficult and emotional. We have children and my former wife was very difficult to deal with. Eric and his team helped me to make sure i made sound decisions for my children and me and my former spouse. I never felt they were trying to just get fees out of me. I felt they were there to help me and even to give me tough advice if i needed it. Even 7 years after the final legal settlement, Eric continues to counsel me when i need him. I have recommended Eric and his team to personal friends also having to go through a divorce and would not hesitate to do it again.
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17 Aug, 2010 by Suzanne
Traci Saxon advised me in my divorce proceedings and handled all aspects of my case. She was detailed, professional, and informative. Her advice and support through the entire process was invaluable. While I hope not to need her services as a divorce attorney again, I highly recommend her to others!
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13 Aug, 2010 by Stephen
I credit Traci with striking exactly the right note with my ex-wife's attorney and smoothing and accelerating what might otherwise have been a contentious, protracted and expensive divorce. She was also excellent at explaining the legal ins and outs of the proceeding to me and of keeping me timely informed along each step of the way. She has my highest regard as an attorney.
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28 Aug, 2023 by Jeffrey doyle
Amazing attorney's!!
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18 Feb, 2020 by Paul collins
My divorce was difficult and emotional. We have children and my former wife was very difficult to deal with. Eric and his team helped me to make sure i made sound decisions for my children and me and my former spouse. I never felt they were trying to just get fees out of me. I felt they were there to help me and even to give me tough advice if i needed it. Even 7 years after the final legal settlement, Eric continues to counsel me when i need him. I have recommended Eric and his team to personal friends also having to go through a divorce and would not hesitate to do it again.
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07 Dec, 2012 by Michael
Joe's extensive experience, approachable and friendly demeanor, remarkable responsiveness, dedication to his clients' particular goals and priorities, and professional but appropriately feisty advocacy in court made him an excellent legal representative for me during a painful divorce proceeding involving child custody, health and disability issues, complications stemming from a signed prenuptial agreement and my former spouse's willingness to be dishonest in court. Joe not only did his job well but provided me with tempered and welcome advice about how to best focus my efforts and emotional energy. I am grateful that he has been my lawyer and recommend him highly.
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25 May, 2011 by Stephanie
Joe Hubicki handled my divorce with skill and integrity when all other options failed. My ex-husband and I were in an endless loop of anger, sadness and stress going through the divorce process. Our horrible communications only added to the stress. There came a time when it was obvious we needed a thrid party. I hired Joe and he turned it all around for me. His words "ok, let me take care of it from here" were a gift to me. Shortly after I was divorced with a fair settlement. And that is exactly what I wanted. So, from one "been through it" to another, if you're looking for a good representative through this hellish process, I would say call Joe for a consultation.
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02 Jul, 2021 by Yury tatiana aristizabal
14 Feb, 2019 by Jeffrey doyle
Deborah and her staff have been wonderful to work with. She calls you back, she doesn't leave you hanging, and she explains herself in a way that you'll understand. You won't be disappointed.
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20 Feb, 2018 by Yolande suzin
Deborah Eddy having never met me took my inquiry call about a potential case. She spent time to explain concisely and clearly what would be required and what the process would be. It was refreshing to receive a completely unbiased presentation of my situation. Well worth the phone call.
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5.0
1 Reviews
5.0
1 Reviews
13 Aug, 2024 by Nyle
I give my highest recommendation for Dori-Ellen. Her confidence and knowledge could only be considered elite. For anybody going through a divorce or renegotiating the terms of an already settled divorce, she would be the first name out of my mouth.
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26 Jul, 2019 by James perry
If you’re entering into a real estate transaction in Connecticut, hire Jamie Gerard, partner at Nevas, Capasse & Gerard LLC, as your attorney (or run the risk of her being snapped up by the other side). Even the simplest transaction can become difficult or complicated (or both, as ours did) and if that happens, you will want the best legal advice and representation available. Jamie was able to navigate us through the contract and closing process of selling our home that was made problematic by demanding buyers and their unpleasant representatives. Her quick responsiveness, sound judgement, calm demeanor, and keen legal acumen resulted in the satisfactory closing of a transaction that at times seemed nearly impossible. We are very grateful to her, and we can’t recommend her highly enough.
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15 Mar, 2024 by Matthew torchia
i am very grateful for the team at Freed Marcroft for everything they did for myself and my family. They are all extremely professional and I was treated fairly and respectfully during the entire process which was a year.
During that time my attorney Michael Jack Paris was fantastic and knowledgeable. He really handled my case concern and I felt lucky to have such good legal advise.
I would recommend anyone going thru child custody or similar matters to use there services as they specialize in family law.
Matthew Torchia
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10 Mar, 2024 by Doug phaiah
FREED MARCROFT and associates were so helpful throughout our family dilemma. they were so caring and helpful throughout the whole process. I couldn’t have asked for better support during this very emotional time for my son and I and I know I can always fall back on them in the future I want to personally think everybody involved signed Xander and Douglas Phaiah 🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻👍👍👍👍
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16 Aug, 2024 by Donald mcguire
Melissa, Kevin and Kelly showed the perfect combination of compassion and competence as they took me thru the most financially threatening, emotional disturbing and overall challenging time of my life. As a result I landed on my feet happy and in good shape for my future. I am now able to take care of my sons and look forward to happier days in every aspect of my life. The service approach of always being there to answer questions combined with their deep knowledge of divorce law and decades of experience combined to quickly build my trust in the Needle Cuda team. If you find yourself in a divorce situation I highly recommend your first call be to this team.
Don McGuire
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08 Aug, 2024 by Sheetal kantawala
Kevin and Heather were the perfect team for my divorce. They made one of the toughest experiences of my life bearable. They showed that they cared and were there every step of the way. They always had my best interest in mind.
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16 Jul, 2024 by Bellamy bo
Needle | Cuda is the best choice for child custody cases. Their commitment to children's well-being is unwavering. They fought tirelessly for my child's best interests, and I couldn't have asked for better representation.
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16 Aug, 2024 by Donald mcguire
Melissa, Kevin and Kelly showed the perfect combination of compassion and competence as they took me thru the most financially threatening, emotional disturbing and overall challenging time of my life. As a result I landed on my feet happy and in good shape for my future. I am now able to take care of my sons and look forward to happier days in every aspect of my life. The service approach of always being there to answer questions combined with their deep knowledge of divorce law and decades of experience combined to quickly build my trust in the Needle Cuda team. If you find yourself in a divorce situation I highly recommend your first call be to this team.
Don McGuire
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08 Aug, 2024 by Sheetal kantawala
Kevin and Heather were the perfect team for my divorce. They made one of the toughest experiences of my life bearable. They showed that they cared and were there every step of the way. They always had my best interest in mind.
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16 Jul, 2024 by Bellamy bo
Needle | Cuda is the best choice for child custody cases. Their commitment to children's well-being is unwavering. They fought tirelessly for my child's best interests, and I couldn't have asked for better representation.
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16 Aug, 2024 by Donald mcguire
Melissa, Kevin and Kelly showed the perfect combination of compassion and competence as they took me thru the most financially threatening, emotional disturbing and overall challenging time of my life. As a result I landed on my feet happy and in good shape for my future. I am now able to take care of my sons and look forward to happier days in every aspect of my life. The service approach of always being there to answer questions combined with their deep knowledge of divorce law and decades of experience combined to quickly build my trust in the Needle Cuda team. If you find yourself in a divorce situation I highly recommend your first call be to this team.
Don McGuire
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08 Aug, 2024 by Sheetal kantawala
Kevin and Heather were the perfect team for my divorce. They made one of the toughest experiences of my life bearable. They showed that they cared and were there every step of the way. They always had my best interest in mind.
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16 Jul, 2024 by Bellamy bo
Needle | Cuda is the best choice for child custody cases. Their commitment to children's well-being is unwavering. They fought tirelessly for my child's best interests, and I couldn't have asked for better representation.
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16 Mar, 2023 by Jen diamond
We were hit with a situation that we had no idea how to handle. Justin was recommended to us and he was phenomenal. He called us back quickly, was a great listener and gave us very thoughtful responses. Justin proceeded to do a lot of research, and concluded that another attorney, with experience in our case, was better suited to help us. He was right – the attorney he found for us was exactly who we needed. Justin was professional, compassionate, thorough and beyond helpful. We are so impressed with Justin and highly recommend him.
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19 Feb, 2023 by Lee seslar
Best in the business
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16 Feb, 2023 by Emily anne scalise
If I could offer 10 stars, I would.
Trustworthy, responsive, ethical, considerate, fair, real, honest, reassuring, committed, gritty, and a perfectionist to the very degree you need him to be is how to describe Eric Bernheim at FLB. But most of all.. overwhelming dedicated and intelligent. We were able to win a highly complicated, intense, and non-favoring case (involving residential property rights x easement x utility company x conservation) because of his unwavering focus and exquisite strategy. Eric came highly recommended to me from the Brody Wilkerson group and I’m grateful for their referral as I know we could not have won the case if anyone else but Eric represented my family and I. I’m grateful to every last end for his help and recommendations along the way which ended in a win.
Google Eric Bernheim and you will find him to be one of the best. Here’s a quote of his I found online of his that I can verify first-hand to be true as one his clients…. “My primary motivation is to ease the burdens of my clients and help them to be successful in whatever they are pursuing. It’s my job to minimize their risk so they can maximize their potential. By providing sound legal counsel in an atmosphere that promotes collaboration, I put them at ease so they can address the other priorities in their businesses and lives. My goal is to always try to provide them peace of mind when it comes to their legal challenges.”
Highly recommend.
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19 Dec, 2023 by Maria perez
Easy to talk to and genuinely listens to concerns with the guiding heart of professionalism.
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19 Oct, 2021 by Brenith gilbert
Jerry and Tim Shea provided me with excellent guidance through a very lengthy Probate case. Both are very professional and personable with great consistency with communications, no question too small to respond to. I felt that they were always looking to provide the best an attorney has to offer: quality, professionalism, kindness and compassion.
I highly recommend the law firm of Shea and Shea for excellent legal representation that you will be glad you chose.
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22 Jul, 2020 by Candice urbanowicz
Attorney Shea is probably very good. HOWEVER, I found him through a legal aid type of website & she seemed to decide there was no money for him in my situation & basically hung up in my face. I told him from the start that I was not looking to make money; rather just needed to know my rights. If he isn’t looking to help/advise people, he should remove his name and/or firm from those sites. I’m sure there are many more attorneys who are kind, patient, and have10 minutes for a few questions pro-bono. If you have a lot of money and want to sue someon, Mr.Shea may be your guy. If not, look further
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19 Dec, 2023 by Maria perez
Easy to talk to and genuinely listens to concerns with the guiding heart of professionalism.
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19 Oct, 2021 by Brenith gilbert
Jerry and Tim Shea provided me with excellent guidance through a very lengthy Probate case. Both are very professional and personable with great consistency with communications, no question too small to respond to. I felt that they were always looking to provide the best an attorney has to offer: quality, professionalism, kindness and compassion.
I highly recommend the law firm of Shea and Shea for excellent legal representation that you will be glad you chose.
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22 Jul, 2020 by Candice urbanowicz
Attorney Shea is probably very good. HOWEVER, I found him through a legal aid type of website & she seemed to decide there was no money for him in my situation & basically hung up in my face. I told him from the start that I was not looking to make money; rather just needed to know my rights. If he isn’t looking to help/advise people, he should remove his name and/or firm from those sites. I’m sure there are many more attorneys who are kind, patient, and have10 minutes for a few questions pro-bono. If you have a lot of money and want to sue someon, Mr.Shea may be your guy. If not, look further
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13 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
Going through a divorce is stressful enough. Do not bring this man into your life unless you're looking to make it more stressful, and lose all your money while you're at it. Towards the end of the literal YEARS I was stuck with Dan (got too far in and couldn't afford starting over with another retainer somewhere else), I really started to believe Dan was a malicious person. As some years have passed and I have more perspective on it now, I see he is someone who is simply just lazy and in it for the $$. To pay this man $500/hour is both sickening and laughable when I think about what he actually did during that time. A whole lot of nothing. He is arrogant, overpriced, and just a lazy man. There's plenty of decent overpriced lawyers on the Gold Coast. Go find one, because Dan Murphy isn't it.
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17 Nov, 2022 by Tom
Dan provided outstanding legal counsel in a number of varied settings over the last several years. He represented a family member in court. It went very well. I was thankful that we hired him. He also helped my family with a legal issue. I have also referred him to several of my clients and they were all very happy. I suggest you talk to Dan about your legal issues. He will either be able to help you or he will be candid and tell you he can't help you.
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18 Sep, 2020 by Staci
I signed up for a divorce. After $45,000 in fees, he convinced me to settle to avoid a costly custody battle. I was promptly sued for custody. The settlement was reviewed and the judge determined I owed another $12,000 to my ex. After I went bankrupt, he sued my aunt. My aunt had given me the $10,000 retainer, and co-signed, so he used his highest billing rate and sued her for another $50,000, knowing full well she had only agreed to the initial $10,000. I then had to spend $20,000 defending against his suing my aunt, because he could just file motion after motion. Destroyed my relationship with my aunt. I lost my son. Never go to this man.
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30 Jan, 2024 by Michael sanchez
Told them my story and they said “can’t work with you” and immediately hung up. Unprofessional.
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12 May, 2021 by Timothy butler
Parrino & Shattuck is one of the highest quality family law firms in the state. They are experienced, professional, and thorough. They get results through meticulous preparation and analysis, often resulting in settlements. But when need be, they are seasoned litigators who fight for their clients. Having been on the other side of the firm, I can honestly say Parrino & Shattuck is a formidable firm and I highly recommend them.
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26 Apr, 2021 by Dec c
30 Jan, 2024 by Michael sanchez
Told them my story and they said “can’t work with you” and immediately hung up. Unprofessional.
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12 May, 2021 by Timothy butler
Parrino & Shattuck is one of the highest quality family law firms in the state. They are experienced, professional, and thorough. They get results through meticulous preparation and analysis, often resulting in settlements. But when need be, they are seasoned litigators who fight for their clients. Having been on the other side of the firm, I can honestly say Parrino & Shattuck is a formidable firm and I highly recommend them.
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26 Apr, 2021 by Dec c
30 Jan, 2024 by Michael sanchez
Told them my story and they said “can’t work with you” and immediately hung up. Unprofessional.
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12 May, 2021 by Timothy butler
Parrino & Shattuck is one of the highest quality family law firms in the state. They are experienced, professional, and thorough. They get results through meticulous preparation and analysis, often resulting in settlements. But when need be, they are seasoned litigators who fight for their clients. Having been on the other side of the firm, I can honestly say Parrino & Shattuck is a formidable firm and I highly recommend them.
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26 Apr, 2021 by Dec c
30 Jan, 2016 by Ilene
I recently hired Susan to handle a divorce that was uncontested and had a post-nupt guiding the entire divorce proceeding. Susan often called with confused questions forgetting the details of my case. Her continual delays in creating the divorce paperwork were inexcusable. Her overall gruff manner and lack of communication are infuriating. She neglected to file the post-nup in accordance with the law and left me at great financial risk. If she was so remiss in my simple case, you should be very wary of using her for yours. When confronted with this egregious error she agreed to return my retainer - and then reneged on that agreement by claiming her error was easily fixable. Be very careful. She is not a woman of her word and her legal skills are clearly are highly suspect.
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30 Jan, 2014 by Anonymous
Attorney Moch gave my case the diligent energy and unwavering devotion to fight for what was right for me. She was trustworthy and ethical in a setting where these qualities can be hard to find. Susan provided the organization and control I needed in a pretty chaotic situation. She is tough, experienced, and clearly knows how to get the best for her clients. After experiencing the work of other lawyers, I can honestly say I am deeply thankful that Susan Moch was on my side. I don’t know where I would be now without her defense, wisdom and guidance.
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FAQs
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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:
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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.
