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22 Aug, 2024 by Meg v
If you're disabled or part of the LGBT community and you turn to these people for help you WILL be turned away after being lied to and promised help, and when it will be far too late to do anything about it to save yourself. NEVER TRUST THESE PEOPLE WITH ANYTHING OF IMPORTANCE. Last year I was living in Putnam County and barely escaped being trafficked, and HVLS turned me away after weeks of promising help me in court, only to finally abandon me at the last possible second. Now, I am living in Dutchess County in a black mold and asbestos infested slum house with a landlord who is stalking and harassing me, and the first thing AMANDA made sure to tell me was, because of THEIR negligence on my last case and my efforts to escalate it which were refused anyway, that I would probably not be helped this time. This is pure retaliation and it's illegal, but who is going to stand up to a bunch of lawyers for using their power to harm the people who trust them? ME. I have made it my goal to sue the State of New York and HVLS will absolutely be part of any future litigation due to the immense harm and suffering they have caused me mentally and physically. I TRUSTED THEM to do the right thing for once after how badly they treated me when I was nearly trafficked (and yes there is proof, Google Hunks and Hunnies Animal Sanctuary to see) and they responded by gaslighting me and threatening to retaliate against me. AGAIN. I will not let these people get away with doing this to me twice or to ANY other disabled/LGBT people when their entire purpose is supposed to be to help people like us. If I could find an attorney I would sue HVLS personally for ableism, discrimination, violating my rights, retaliation, negligence, and so much more. If anything, do not disclose that you're disabled or LGBT as they obviously use that information to prey upon vulnerable individuals and cause far more harm than they would if they simply didn't try to "help".
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04 Nov, 2023 by James jenkins jr.
Legal support service for veterans.
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17 Aug, 2023 by Glamma over 50
Waste of time! They only want Landlord Tenant and Illegals easy prey!!!! Lmao.
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17 Sep, 2024 by Nancy morales
LOS PEORES ABOGADOS DE INMIGRACIÓN!!!!
Busquen ayuda con una firma que si les importa sus cliente y NO SOLO EL DINERO. Son buenos para exigirles dinero, pero cuando uno les pregunta de sus casos, evaden responsabilidades/respuestas. NO GASTEN SU TIEMPO NI DINERO CON ESTA FIRMA!
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05 Sep, 2024 by Vanessa jones
I cannot begin to express my gratitude for Ms. Rosario, she handled my case with compassion, concern and diligence. The outcome was a successful one. Thank you, Ms. Rosario. I will be contacting you again real soon.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Denise page
I am so grateful to Glenys M. Rosario PLLC for the way she handled my case with such urgency. I would definitely recommend her to my friends and family.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Clark shin
Brett handled both the sale of our condo and purchase of a new home. He was very knowledgeable and approachable. He was very responsive and promptly let us know about anything unusual or risks that we as seller or buyer should be aware of. He took care to explain the key points of real estate transactions. He handled the communications on both ends very well. He has a very deep knowledge and network of realtors and real estate industry contacts in Westchester. He was able to coordinate both closings and the closings went smoothly. For real estate transactions, I highly recommend Brett and his team.
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02 Jul, 2024 by Severe narcoleptic
12 May, 2023 by Tyrone jones
Fantastic service friendly and helpful goes over and beyond
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12 Mar, 2012 by Kevin
She knows how to represent men in divorce cases to level the playing field. I thought because I was a man, I would get the short end of the stick and lose the sympathy vote. But Marcia was able to command the judge's respect and get a good verdict.
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31 Aug, 2011 by E rosamonda
She handled my divorce six years long she calls the shots she forgets who is paying her fees .By the end she screwed everything up over 2500 dollars never ever would i recommend her .Then she had a fall out with the law firm she is on her own now . I should had known she fired everyone in her firm like 6 women lost their job because of her demanding ways
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08 Aug, 2011 by Debbie
I had bad lawyers and ended up with the best. I wish I had found Marcia in the beginning and my nightmares would have been few. She is no nonsense, brilliant and determined. She gives 110%. When your life and the lives of your children are at stake- you want Marcia beside you.
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17 Sep, 2024 by Nancy morales
LOS PEORES ABOGADOS DE INMIGRACIÓN!!!!
Busquen ayuda con una firma que si les importa sus cliente y NO SOLO EL DINERO. Son buenos para exigirles dinero, pero cuando uno les pregunta de sus casos, evaden responsabilidades/respuestas. NO GASTEN SU TIEMPO NI DINERO CON ESTA FIRMA!
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05 Sep, 2024 by Vanessa jones
I cannot begin to express my gratitude for Ms. Rosario, she handled my case with compassion, concern and diligence. The outcome was a successful one. Thank you, Ms. Rosario. I will be contacting you again real soon.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Denise page
I am so grateful to Glenys M. Rosario PLLC for the way she handled my case with such urgency. I would definitely recommend her to my friends and family.
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11 Jul, 2024 by Jessica benvenisty
Dana and her team are all around excellent - responsive, commercially-minded, and patient. Couldn't recommend more highly!
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09 Jun, 2024 by Chad estep
Dana and her team were so thoughtful and helpful throughout the entire process. We needed to close quickly, and she ensured that happened. We would definitely use her again. Thanks!!!
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16 Apr, 2024 by Arthur klein
Attorneys Bave and Matos helped guide us through my wife's mother's probate. They answered our questions and directed us through this process during a very difficult time. Their timely responses, helpful manner and clear communication made it easy to work with this firm. We would definitely use their services again and would highly recommend them to others.
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11 Jul, 2024 by Jessica benvenisty
Dana and her team are all around excellent - responsive, commercially-minded, and patient. Couldn't recommend more highly!
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09 Jun, 2024 by Chad estep
Dana and her team were so thoughtful and helpful throughout the entire process. We needed to close quickly, and she ensured that happened. We would definitely use her again. Thanks!!!
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16 Apr, 2024 by Arthur klein
Attorneys Bave and Matos helped guide us through my wife's mother's probate. They answered our questions and directed us through this process during a very difficult time. Their timely responses, helpful manner and clear communication made it easy to work with this firm. We would definitely use their services again and would highly recommend them to others.
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12 May, 2023 by Tyrone jones
Fantastic service friendly and helpful goes over and beyond
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09 Nov, 2022 by Robbie monteesi
Galgano is an excellent attorney who cares about his clients.
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06 Sep, 2016 by Marc mazzarulli
Very caring about each case.
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12 May, 2023 by Tyrone jones
Fantastic service friendly and helpful goes over and beyond
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09 Nov, 2022 by Robbie monteesi
Galgano is an excellent attorney who cares about his clients.
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06 Sep, 2016 by Marc mazzarulli
Very caring about each case.
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03 Nov, 2020 by Darren gannon
26 Feb, 2016 by Marjorie
Dear Georgia,
Thank you for everything!
It took me several hours last night to get over the unexpected strong emotions I was feeling from the events of the trial today.
You and your staff have spent hours, days and weeks doing the most thorough job in preparation for my trial, including all those heavy file boxes you methodically carried back and forth to court.
You were superb! You walked into a situation where several meetings with the judge, my ex-husband's attorney and my prior attorney had already taken place. You fought full-force against a judge who believed my ex-husband was ill, penniless and not capable of earning money.
When you examined my former husband on the stand, much to my ex-husband’s dismay, you were able to prove, based on a report from his doctor, that he was no longer ill nor incapacitated as a result of his illness. You were also able to prove he was far from penniless, and had, in fact, spent lavishly on apartment renovations, his dogs, restaurants, travel and other luxuries. You were able to prove he had just received a substantial payment from one of the companies with which he is actively involved. You thus proved he had the means to pay me the court-ordered alimony on which he had been in default of for over two and a half years.
Georgia, you turned a judge slanted to the other side into seeing the true situation. As you know, I have had other attorneys in my lifetime, but never have I had one who did the magnificent job you have done and never have I had an attorney or known a person who is as compassionate and as fine a human being as you.
I feel so lucky you came into my life and I honestly cannot imagine what would have happened to me without you.
With much gratitude and, yes, love,
Marjorie
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15 Feb, 2016 by Diane
After my husband and I went to a mediator for a separation agreement, a lawyer friend insisted that I go to Georgia Kramer, and ONLY Georgia Kramer, before I signed it. Am I glad I did! I cannot imagine what my post-marriage life would be like had I not had Georgia as my advocate and divorce attorney.
At Georgia's suggestion, I faxed the agreement to her, and when I arrived for our first meeting she was fully prepared to help. Her calm and personable manner alleviated much of my anxiety, and her suggestions and advice inspired great confidence in her ability to manage my case.
She wasted no time . After asking specifically about my needs and concerns for my future,she took out her notes on the already studied document, and began editing it to eliminate vague and ambiguous language that could present problems for me in the future, while clearly explaining the ramifications of these changes. Her amazing patience and her ability to help me understand the implications of what was done illustrated to me how knowledgeable, how experienced and how committed she is to her clients. She clearly understands the difficult situation that divorce presents, and she went out of her way both personally and professionally to represent my interests.
I also noticed her professionalism during meetings with my soon to be ex and his lawyer. While she acted respectfully toward my husband and his attorney, she was also quite assertive, and exhibited a strong, no-nonsense approach while arguing for the best outcome for me, her client. It was clear to me that my husband's lawyer knew of and had great respect for Georgia.
Because of all this, my settlement was more than I ever could have hoped for. It meets far more than my needs and concerns. Despite Georgia's extensive experience, her deep knowledge of divorce law and her obvious expertise in tax law, she constantly explained to me clearly what she was doing on my behalf, and how it would affect me. Georgia never talked down to me. She always included me in the process. And still, there was always time for a smile and a pat on the back from her.
I am so grateful to her .
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16 Dec, 2015 by Christopher
Highly recommended by a client of mine. Met a year prior to the commencement. Unfortunate circumstances led to another attorney in the firm a year later. Rejoined my case late in the proceeding's. She was instrumental in helping close & move towards settlement. Unfortunate circumstances beyond our control made this case a very costly one. In the end I was grateful to her years of experience & decision making. Highly recommend her wisdom from start to finish!
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15 Jul, 2019 by Jaqueris
I love my Lawyer Pablo Emilio FernanDez Herrera, he was clear about my case, he explained to me the process and the time frame of the case.... I will definitely recommend Pablo.
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01 Jul, 2019 by Jessica m.
Very good listener, he will tell you right away if you have a case or not to proceed so you dont loose your money like other lawyers that will tell you nice things and warm your ear so you spent thousands with them when they cant do nothing. Very knowledgeable staff. Worth to make an appointment.
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14 Feb, 2019 by Sandra prado
Estoy enojada me perdieron mis documentos originales. Todo horroroso
Estoy enfadada. Es un abogado que ríe para pedirte plata también te ofrece hacer unos TRABAJITOS. Luego te grita si llamas y pasan los días finalmente quise irme y perdieron mis originales estoy desesperada.
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14 Oct, 2013 by Grant
I am amazed to read these other reviews. i could not have found a more professional and reliable attorney who was fair in her billings and use of time. Hopefully I never need to use her again but would recommend her without reservation to anybody I know
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09 Aug, 2010 by Anonymous
I have had nothing but amazing result with Terry. I am happy with my divorce agreement, and follow-up work she had done for me with regards to keeping my child support at the stipulated amount.
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21 Jul, 2009 by Anonymous
My experience with Therese Malach was a very negative one. I am very disallusioned about the entire field due to my experience with her. She was unreliable and unprofessional.
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14 Jan, 2022 by Tom
I was referred to BriAnne Copp through a coworker. Before my family custody court session, BriAnne negotiated a deal with the opposing attorney to lower my child support payments. While in court, the opposing attorney actually interrupted the session to state the terms of the deal which can be read in the transcript. Since I'm not an attorney I don't know any other way of putting it: Brianne Copp really really screwed up! Somehow, mom got her end of the deal BriAnne Copp negotiated but I never got my CS lowered. This will be costing me a minimum of $100,000. That's a whole hell of a lot of money for some one who makes about $60/hr. This is only where this disaster started. First, she lied to me telling me the deal wasn't done because there was some paperwork she couldn't find. About 7 months later I found it in one of her own emails. That was LIE #1 that I'm aware of.Jumping ahead, I had a 3-way with her and the co-worker who introduced us. During this call I found out that BriAnne Copp told him I "INSISTED" on representing myself (for a related court session which I thought was just a formality). This was LIE #2 that I'm aware of. The truth is I "ASKED" BriAnne if I could represent myself. I'm guessing she gave me this advice in order to distance herself from my case and her screw up. Otherwise, why would anyone recommend I represent myself in that specific situation. Her 3rd LIE that I'm aware of was telling the co-worker she "hadn't heard from me in a long time." The truth is, I emailed her twice about 6 weeks prior to which she never replied.This is tough for me to write. I'm not a malicious person nor do I generally wish ill will on any one, but when you royally screw up, lie to cover up your mistake and conspire with your co-worker which screws someone out over $100,000 then something has to be said. Something has to be done about it. I tried being appropriate by calling the co-worker to discuss her screw up but apparently they were ready for me and played the 'lie, deny and twist the facts' game.Unfortunately, all I can do now is write this review in hopes of warning any unsuspecting potential clients. That $100,000 was going into a 529 college tuition plan but that idea is gone. She basically got away with it. No recourse for her. Nothing.I almost forgot to mention this part...after her screw up, she was billing me for trying to fix her screw up.In short (too late), if you're thinking about hiring a family attorney, I wouldn't hire BriAnne Copp.
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25 Nov, 2020 by Carolyn winston
Shari is an extremely talented attorney who cares a great deal about her clients and her firm. Shari has a strong sense of organization which helped her to always gain the upper hand in court and win a large majority of her cases. Shari is very through and competent professional who always had my interest in mind. She never missed a scheduled meeting and always took my calls. She has an exceptionally strong eye for details. Shari has a very calm demeanor that was a blessing when I was in physical therapy for a total knee replacement. I owe a debt of gratitude for her service. She is a solid lawyer who practices nothing but the best customer service for her clients. She has taken pro bono cases each year to help people who would have otherwise not been able to afford legal counsel. Shari is always available for anyone who is need of legal assistance.
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26 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
I would of been better off representing myself. Horrible communication and just overall lazy when it comes to doing her job.
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16 Nov, 2018 by Scott
Bernie Krooks is a top-rate person, diligent and has true empathy for those facing caregiving and aging challenges. Highly regarded by his peers, Bernie has earned an excellent reputation for his quick intellect and his ability to create innovative solutions for the infirm elderly and their caregivers, estate planning clients and people with special needs.
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23 Feb, 2021 by Stacey
Horrible service and representation of any related to professionalism. Takes advantage of elderly. With possible intent to drag cases. Possibly turning in documents on behalf of clients missing required information with the intent of delaying legal proceedings in timely manner
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15 Dec, 2016 by Anonymous
Hired Ms. Trott for a family court case concerning visitation and custody. Ms. Trott helped to correct a previous visitation order that was poorly formed causing endless disputes. We dealt with 2 other lawyers that either made promises they couldn't keep, tried to squeeze every dime they could out of us, or simply didn't care and did the bare minimum of work. The case was complicated and dragged out by the other party, but Ms. Trott never treated us unfairly and was patient. She was always understanding, and honest so we knew what to expect and that she would do her best. Hopefully we won't need to, but we would definitely hire Ms. Trott again.
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22 May, 2022 by Anonymous
Lawyers like this one associate themselves with agencies like Family Kind, a 'non profit' organization used by the courts that bills itself as 'helping families'. The agency itself may be a NFP, but Family Kind professionals like Ms. Jonas make plenty of money billing clients who in many case are strong armed by the courts and their own lawyers to use their various pricey services. Their own marketing materials show them smiling alongside photos of judges and other lawyers in the system, a lucrative cycle of referrals that seems to benefit these players the most, with questionable effectiveness for the families involved.
They tell themselves they are 'helping families' who are 'high conflict' but in many cases, they are only enabling post separation abuse, at a high financial cost to protective parents.
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11 Apr, 2018 by Anonymous
I spoke with Emily extensivley and mediation seems like a much better option than a regular divorce. Cheaper, faster and more importantly less emotionally difficult. She has so much experience and clearly cares about helping people get the best outcomes.
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17 Sep, 2015 by Anonymous
Hired him and provided all the documents he asked from us. I even had a checklist for all the documents I gave them. We missed our deadline and had to wait another year to have my mom get her much needed visa.
My mom needed surgery to repair valves in her heart. Very disappointed with his promised good service and result. I would stay away from him and his mom's law firm. They don't even return my calls or emails to them.
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30 Nov, 2014 by Junior
Jesus Antonio Cachaya did a wonderful job on adjusting my son's immigration status. Now my son is legal to work and complete his MED studies in the US.
Thank you very much Jesus.
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28 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
I’ve been appointed to this lawyer I called this lawyer so far and no one called me back & it’s been like 3 weeks already, I have court in a week & never spoke to this lawyer just the receptionist : @. so for the most part I can see why this lawyer has a 1 star SMH will update after my court date!!
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09 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
I had the displeasure of “consulting” with this lawyer due to a family court case. Her decision to award my ex-husband custody of our daughter has torn my family apart. My ex brainwashed our daughter to move in with him, which prompted a breakdown in the relationship that I had with my daughter. Furthermore, it had a profound effect on the dynamics in my family, which also negatively affected our son. Although she is a court-appointed “guardian”, professionally, she should consider the consequences of her actions. In my case, it tore my family apart. She should be ashamed of herself. I would give her a 0 star rating, but unfortunately that’s not an option.
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08 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
So far I can agree with the last review. Eve has not retuned my calls either and her phone person was not professional. I believe the unfamily court choose her for me is because she will do nothing to help my case. A attorney is suppose to represent their client zealously. These people are in the same sandbox playing with each other its a game for them. They userpt the law everyday.
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24 Feb, 2012 by Anonymous
This individual (and the attorneys we were eventually pawned off on within his firm) are among the most unresponsince. This firm not only cost me in excess of 40K in direct billing but an additional 300-400K in business losses because they never informed of a setrious cinflict of interest. Stay away from this frim if you value your money and your business.
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10 Jan, 2008 by Anonymous
Client focus at least in my case was very poor and damaging. My mistake paying him $295.00 per hour promptly caused Lee not to think of me until just before the court appearances. After 3 years and a total of his $30,000.00 fee my bowling business that took me a lifetime to establish was lost. My business partmer who passed away elected the executrix who's attorney and Lee Wiederkehr seemed to have a pride battle with each other which resulted in my losing the business.
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24 Feb, 2023 by Gabrielle
I saved Ben for last. I gave him 22 pictures of an undamaged apartment door as evidence before my pretrial date. I had five court appearances. I kept asking him to show the Judge my evidence. Never got a straight answer. When Ben told me that my Judge, Walter Rivera got it wrong I decided to fire Ben. The Judge never knew about the picture evidence. A month before, I had contacted another lawyer to ask why Ben would not want to end this court case. I was told Ben was probably holding out for the actual trial where Ben would receive a percentage of what the court would award me for a framing, false arrest, false imprisonment, denying me legal counsel and committing perjury against me by the Greenburgh NY Police. When I attempted to get my evidence back, Ben took the pictures hostage. Ben would not give them back unless I told him if he would be my lawyer going forward. My new professional lawyer told him to FedEx the evidence to him. Instead, Ben wanted to handdeliver the evidence to him. My new lawyer never consulted with me about this exchange method. I have since found out that Ben had some not so nice things to say about me to my new lawyer. I noticed a change in his behavior towards me. Never found out what Ben told him, but the tension was so there I had to settle the case without any vindication or payment of my $12,488 in legal fees. I would say this classifies Ben as an “Ambulance Chasing Buffoon”.
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27 Dec, 2013 by Anonymous
I stupidly hired this attorney in 2005 to handle my custody part of my divorce. Not only did she choose a defense that was sure to loose and then yelled at me that it effected her that we lost more than me but afterward she stabbed me in the back and helped get my visitation taken away permanently because she wanted off of my case
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27 Sep, 2020 by Anonymous
Dear Ellen and Neil,
I am now over 3 years into a finalized divorce, one that you both (two partners of supposedly a top Westchester law firm) negotiated. So you are aware, I've been back to court over 8 times over 3 years (for both family court and with the Support Magistrate) because of a negligently-constructed Stipulation of Settlement due to your professional and moral incompetencies. Each time I've been back, I've represented myself and come out with the favor of the Judge and Support Magistrate. The Judge has stated that the Stipulation of Settlement you both were responsible for was a poorly negotiated document full of flaws and not in the best interest of our children; in fact, it is on record that she would have never allowed mid-week visitation for my school-aged children from the start, as she believed it to be detrimental to their stability and development (although you warned me that a Judge would have forced me to allow it if I went to trial, despite you being aware of the physically and emotionally abusive patterns that my ex demonstrated). I have faced off against Westchester lawyers that have represented my ex, based upon conditions and requirements that I initially asked you both to negotiate on my behalf - at the cost of $120,000 (transparently without assets to match that)...without ever going to trial. Please note that I have won all of these decisions without legal representation, while against legal representation. This confirms to me that your negotiating skills and legal rates are deficient and obscenely bloated compared to what you actually deserve for your professional (or lack thereof) services.
Throughout these past few years, I've made sure that if someone had asked for my advice or recommendation for a divorce attorney in Westchester, I've been forthright about my experience with your firm. It is detrimental to your profession that your firm continues to practice dishonest law, without the best interest of your client (and their children) at the forefront of your business. I would have been more successful on my own, and at trial, from the start - which is disturbing, considering you both have law degrees and have practiced in this field for decades. Yet, despite the additional and inexcusable emotional and financial setbacks you have caused both me and my children, I have thrived. I am a wonderful mom, who consistently puts her children first while facing relentless vexatious and abusive litigation. I have sought therapy for both myself and my children, due in part to the recklessness of your services. I am proud of myself at the end of every day for obtaining my Masters and teaching high school English in a top Westchester school district. In my profession, I make a positive, lasting impact on the lives of others, daily - money will never interfere with my wanting to do the right thing for my students, always. I'm sorry to say that (at least in this instance...and if it's happened to me, it's likely happened to several other clients of your firm) you cannot say the same.
Sincerely,
Xxx
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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.
