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Fredrick Scott Fine, experienced Business, Family Law attorney in Woodland Hills, CA with 47 reviews
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26,82
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4.5/5
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4.5
47 Reviews
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23 Oct, 2024 by Msoverflo
I am joyful I chose Mr. Marcarian Law Firm to represent my case over the years. I felt encouraged, motivated and fortunate. Even though, there were a lot of twists and turns in my case and difficult times. I always felt reassured that both of my attorneys Mr. Marcarian and Kristina were vey supportive and loyal every step of the way throughout my case. If you are looking for a professional and dedicated attorney, Marcarian Law Firm is an excellent choice! Ms. Wade ❤️
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12 Jan, 2024 by Twinkle .mrdigito
Great Work Experience
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04 Jan, 2024 by Marie kinsey
If want to lose your case.. I would highly recommend him.
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Timothy Donald Rhodes, experienced Family Law attorney in Woodland Hills, CA with 33 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
26,80
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4.5/5
Google Maps
4.5
33 Reviews
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11 Feb, 2025 by Derek paoli
I was referred to this law group by another firm who thought their expertise would fit my cases. Upon looking at their website I found the areas of law that they allegedly represent people pretty much were spot on. I left information and an intake call was provided. It was on a friday and the lady said I had 15 minutes. I felt rushed. I told her I had a powerpoint presentation on my case. Which they didn’t ask about further. She ended the conversation with you’ll receive an email in 2-3 days seemed like a no already which it was, they gave me the standard don’t stop searching for a lawyer, and time limitations on filing cases. Their website says the following : “When we get a call from a prospective client, our first consideration is, “How can we help this person?” By being in practice for over 40 years, we have developed a strong network of attorneys- many of whom started their careers with our firm. We can reach out to provide the client with an attorney who can best meet their needs. This ensures you will not be turned away without resources.” In my situation they don’t practice what they preach.
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08 Nov, 2024 by Ro luna
Thank you SO much JML team for being there for me during hard times! Thank you for fighting for me MY HEROES JML team! Wishing you many years and decades of success. God Blessings
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12 Oct, 2024 by Brian gilton
I couldn’t say enough about the team at JML Law if I tried. Before finding them, I’d had my fill of many “lawyer types.” Rushed people who always seemed bothered to answer my questions as if I should already know the tiny technicalities of legal issues, what the risks were, how my odds looked. Everything changed when I met Katy Fund and her incredible team at JML Law. From day one, Katy treated me like an equal. Always patient and kind—and extremely tough—Katy never made me feel like a burden. Steeped in humanity and with a great sense of humor, Katy always told it like it was, and she always had my best interests at heart—until the very end. To the others on her team—Dina, Bryce, Marilyn—many thanks to you as well. And to Katy, Big SIs—I’ll never forget ya.
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Denise Lite, experienced Family Law attorney in Woodland Hills, CA with 68 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
25,65
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4.3/5
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4.3
68 Reviews
star star star star star
20 Aug, 2024 by Clara r
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05 Jul, 2024 by Katie m
I cannot speak highly enough about the incredible team at the Law Offices of Todd M. Friedman. From the very beginning, they exhibited the utmost kindness, compassion, and friendliness, making what could have been a daunting process feel manageable and supportive. Their trustworthiness was evident throughout, always keeping me informed and ensuring my best interests were at the forefront. The settlement I received was beyond my expectations, and though the process took some time, their diligence and persistence truly paid off. They got the job done, and I am more than pleased with the outcome. I would highly recommend the Law Offices of Todd M. Friedman to anyone in need of legal assistance. Their dedication and commitment to their clients are unparalleled. Thank you, Todd and Meghan for your outstanding service!
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28 Jun, 2024 by Diamond st. hillaire
This is the best firm ever, he even waived all my attorney fees when the settlement didn’t go as planned.
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David Norman Weiss, experienced Estate Planning, Family Law attorney in Woodland Hills, CA with 68 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
25,65
star star star star star
4.3/5
Google Maps
4.3
68 Reviews
star star star star star
20 Aug, 2024 by Clara r
Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Jul, 2024 by Katie m
I cannot speak highly enough about the incredible team at the Law Offices of Todd M. Friedman. From the very beginning, they exhibited the utmost kindness, compassion, and friendliness, making what could have been a daunting process feel manageable and supportive. Their trustworthiness was evident throughout, always keeping me informed and ensuring my best interests were at the forefront. The settlement I received was beyond my expectations, and though the process took some time, their diligence and persistence truly paid off. They got the job done, and I am more than pleased with the outcome. I would highly recommend the Law Offices of Todd M. Friedman to anyone in need of legal assistance. Their dedication and commitment to their clients are unparalleled. Thank you, Todd and Meghan for your outstanding service!
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28 Jun, 2024 by Diamond st. hillaire
This is the best firm ever, he even waived all my attorney fees when the settlement didn’t go as planned.
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Kousha Adhami, experienced Family Law, Immigration attorney in Woodland Hills, CA with 68 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
25,65
star star star star star
4.3/5
Google Maps
4.3
68 Reviews
star star star star star
20 Aug, 2024 by Clara r
Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Jul, 2024 by Katie m
I cannot speak highly enough about the incredible team at the Law Offices of Todd M. Friedman. From the very beginning, they exhibited the utmost kindness, compassion, and friendliness, making what could have been a daunting process feel manageable and supportive. Their trustworthiness was evident throughout, always keeping me informed and ensuring my best interests were at the forefront. The settlement I received was beyond my expectations, and though the process took some time, their diligence and persistence truly paid off. They got the job done, and I am more than pleased with the outcome. I would highly recommend the Law Offices of Todd M. Friedman to anyone in need of legal assistance. Their dedication and commitment to their clients are unparalleled. Thank you, Todd and Meghan for your outstanding service!
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28 Jun, 2024 by Diamond st. hillaire
This is the best firm ever, he even waived all my attorney fees when the settlement didn’t go as planned.
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Amir A Nader, experienced Business, Family Law attorney in Woodland Hills, CA with 29 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
25,07
star star star star star
4.2/5
Google Maps
4.2
29 Reviews
star star star star star
07 Jun, 2024 by Martha hernandez
Fred, and his staff, are wonderful and caring people. He represented me on a case, with the upmost professionalism. He was thorough, and efficient. I truly believe, I couldn’t have had a better defense attorney. He defended me with respect, and determination. I couldn’t have hoped for a better outcome. I am eternally grateful to Fred Hanassab, Lily and other office staff. I highly recommend him, his high standards of integrity, and respect I received from him and the staff. Thank you Fred and office. You are all wonderful, and knowledgeable people.
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18 Mar, 2024 by Brandy betts
Attorney Nader was friendly, very knowledgeable and genuinely had our best interest in mind.
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28 Nov, 2023 by American septic
Good litigation attorney. Fought our case for our employees that were in an accident. Took a while due to covid other than that he fought all the way for us.
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Siranush Zhamakochyan, experienced Child Custody, Domestic Violence attorney in Woodland Hills, CA with 29 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
25,07
star star star star star
4.2/5
Google Maps
4.2
29 Reviews
star star star star star
07 Jun, 2024 by Martha hernandez
Fred, and his staff, are wonderful and caring people. He represented me on a case, with the upmost professionalism. He was thorough, and efficient. I truly believe, I couldn’t have had a better defense attorney. He defended me with respect, and determination. I couldn’t have hoped for a better outcome. I am eternally grateful to Fred Hanassab, Lily and other office staff. I highly recommend him, his high standards of integrity, and respect I received from him and the staff. Thank you Fred and office. You are all wonderful, and knowledgeable people.
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18 Mar, 2024 by Brandy betts
Attorney Nader was friendly, very knowledgeable and genuinely had our best interest in mind.
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28 Nov, 2023 by American septic
Good litigation attorney. Fought our case for our employees that were in an accident. Took a while due to covid other than that he fought all the way for us.
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John Francis Nicholson, experienced Business, Family Law attorney in Woodland Hills, CA with 9 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
19,16
star star star star star
3.6/5
Avvo
3.6
9 Reviews
star star star star star
01 Oct, 2023 by Pamela
John Nicholson never should have taken my case, Mr Nicholson was recommended to me by a casual friend, it was a simple probate, he took over 4 years to barely complete it, he didn't know what he was doing and didn't text or use Email, which I found highly unusual, he had excuses for everything, maybe he's done great work for someone else, but certainly not for me, at the end of the day , I hired him, so I messed up, but like I said, he never, ever should have taken my case ! Just a word to everyone, if you have a family death and need a probate attorney, hire a probate attorney
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08 Dec, 2017 by Henrik
I have nothing but good to say about John F. Nicholson and the Services he has provided to me since MAR2015 and still does. He took on a very messy ongoing Divorce Case for me and has provided nothing but honest and realistic guidance, advise, and hard work in trying to get my case "cleaned up" and turned around. He has even provided me with unrelated legal business advise at no cost in the process. Attorney billings are notoriously high, but John F. Nicholson is the first Attorney I have dealt with, where the cost very reasonably reflect the work and long hours he has put into my case - Do I like to pay : NO - but I put my self in this situation, and he promised to assist me, and he has, so I actually don't feel too bad about paying his Invoices - I just wish I had met him earlier on, maybe if I had my mess would have been less of a mess ! John f. Nicholson is, by my standards, a good, old school, Attorney, hard working, not afraid of digging in and getting it done, is fair towards his clients, to the case, and towards the opponents (whether they believe so or not), and he will tell it to you as it is. I hope I wont need his services again in the future, but if I do, I will for sure contact John immediately !
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08 Dec, 2014 by Adam
I am in Texas and I needed a Lawyer in California. John was recommended to me and did a great job. I would highly recommend him. He kept everyone cooled down, which helped get the situation resolved.
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Andrew Michael Wyatt, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Woodland Hills, CA with 20 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
18,02
star star star star star
3.3/5
Avvo
3.3
20 Reviews
star star star star star
30 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
Be careful with this lawyer . He wasted my time over a month . He kept promising to review my case and he never did .
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25 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
I would not recommend Andrew Wyatt. Do not hire this man. Andrew Wyatt is a con man and disgrace to the legal profession. The only time he was nice when he wanted me to pay him the huge retainer amount of $8000, he demanded. He made promises that he would work hard on my case, and he is accepting my case because it's a strong case. Once I paid the retainer, he showed me his true colors. He made no efforts to work on my case except doing copy paste of the claims. Andrew misrepresented me in the court filings and even supported the opposing party to file sanctions against me based on misinformation his was spreading. Each time I asked Andrew about my case update he would either ignore and/or use unprofessional and disrespectful language to insult me. Andrew is just a petty thief who stole my hard-earned money with no intention of working on my case. Andrew even took bribe from the opposing party/double-dipping to not work on my case and withhold case information from me. This man just steals retainers from his clients and runs. Unfortunately, I didn't see other negative reviews before hiring this man. All the good reviews you see are fake reviews from Andrew's equity partners and friends.
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27 May, 2021 by Annette
Mr. Wyatt is an excellent attorney. I wasn’t sure how things were going to work out due to Covid, but Mt. Wyatt communicated to me through emails, phone calls, and the mail. Mr. Wyatt is professional, reliable and honest. He always answered any questions I had in a fast and prompt manner. I would highly recommend Andrew Wyatt to anyone who is in need of an attorney.
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Shannon Marie Vener, experienced Estate Planning, Family Law attorney in Woodland Hills, CA with 11 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
15,48
star star star star star
3.4/5
Google Maps
3.4
11 Reviews
star star star star star
08 Feb, 2024 by Michael de st. aubin
I cannot speak highly enough of her expertise, professionalism, and compassionate approach. From the moment I began speaking with Shannon, I knew I was in capable hands. Shannon possesses a unique ability to empathize with her clients while educating them about the complexities of the legal process. Unlike other attorneys, Shannon goes above and beyond to ensure her clients fully understand their rights and options, making informed decisions with confidence. Her wealth of knowledge and top-tier professionalism are truly remarkable. Shannon was able to set realistic expectations for my case while instilling in me a sense of confidence and assurance. Despite the challenges of navigating the family court system, Shannon's guidance and support served as a beacon of hope during what can often be a daunting and emotionally taxing experience. In a system that can sometimes feel overwhelming and intimidating, Shannon shines as a bright light of positivity and reassurance. Her unwavering dedication to her clients' well-being is evident in every interaction, and I am immensely grateful to her. Working with Shannon DeBiase has been nothing short of amazing, and I cannot thank her enough for her outstanding advocacy and support throughout my legal journey. I wholeheartedly recommend her services to anyone in need of exceptional legal representation. Thank you, Shannon, for your unwavering commitment and for making a positive difference in my life.
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12 Jan, 2024 by Steve portaro
Amazing firm of very helpful and knowledgeable Trust and Probate lawyers
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23 Aug, 2023 by Raul ramirez
Avoid at all costs. I had the misfortune of using an attorney from this firm. They over charge, and then proceeded to do the bare minimum. In court they are too passive letting the other side have their way resulting in my child suffering as a result. Do not let your family suffer. Update: my attorney from this firm contacted me about my review. They stated that their poor work was intended to save me money. I never asked for that.
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William E. Woodcock, experienced Divorce, Family Law attorney in Woodland Hills, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
8,00
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0.0/5
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Evan Khyabani Abbassi, experienced Family Law, Litigation attorney in Woodland Hills, CA with 2 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
7,19
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
02 Aug, 2024 by Anzor
She is only demand money! Destroyed our asylum case. She doesn’t know nothing about it. Terrible “professional”.
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25 Dec, 2022 by Happy
This lawyer was hired and paid by reviewer to do a Will and Trust, I was convinced to have a Trust written, which I did, the attorney says to me that I bragged about I have this and I have that, but yet she was writing a Trust, so I had to tell her what I had to protect, the attorney appears to make everything personal, the attorney made a huge error on my Will with the pain section, which honestly I thought was intentional at the time, and had my state of residence wrong on first draft, much was left out of the Trust and a few of my Banks did not accept it, she had not response to that, this attorney has more then once called and yelled on the phone
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Kian Moghbeli, experienced Family Law, Personal Injury attorney in Woodland Hills, CA with 1 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
7,17
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
27 Feb, 2023 by Anonymous
Stopped handling my divorce case after petition , no phone or email response . Do not recommend
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Amir A. Nader, experienced Bankruptcy, Family Law attorney in Woodland Hills, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
7,00
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0.0/5
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Emily Faye Robinson, experienced Family Law attorney in Woodland Hills, CA with 2 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,59
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
27 Jul, 2024 by Karina
I scheduled a consultation to speak with Emily Robinson about my case, and immediately upon talking to her it was so clear that she did not have good intentions. The fee she quoted me was ridiculous for what she was offering. I suggest going to anyone but her.
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26 Jul, 2024 by Anonymous
Do better. She can't even protect kids from their abusers. If you're looking for a lawyer to protect your kids, find a different one.
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Rand Foster Harris, experienced Family Law attorney in Woodland Hills, CA with 1 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,57
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
19 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
Waste of money and time. This attorney didn’t send me an itemized bill for months and kept my remaining funds. He incorrectly prepared necessary court documents as per other attorney and opposing attorney. Had to teach this Family law specialist, for 6 hours on my dime, about the California healthcare system . He uses a relic of a computer and sends files that I cannot even open. Wasted time coming up with strategies that never made sense for my case.
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Salvatore Desimone, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Woodland Hills, CA with 1 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,57
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
15 Sep, 2015 by Anonymous
My rating to this lawyer is 0. Not a very good one ! Very temperamental ! Not very supportive, just because he's been a trial lawyer for 30 years doesn't mean he's right on everything he does. Failed to study and research more on the case before trial, i.e., evidence should have been strongly studied upon and presented to jury aggressively. Poorly representation.
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Burton Elliott Falk, experienced Consumer Protection, Family Law attorney in Woodland Hills, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Ashley Wood Edwards, experienced Family Law attorney in Woodland Hills, CA with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Dena R. Taub, experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in Woodland Hills, CA with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Kristina M. Hohne, experienced Family Law attorney in Woodland Hills, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Robert Arthur Budd, experienced Family Law, Litigation attorney in Woodland Hills, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Lisa W Lee, experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in Woodland Hills, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Thomas Hilbern Warden, experienced Estate Planning, Family Law attorney in Woodland Hills, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Jonathan Kraut, experienced Family Law attorney in Woodland Hills, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Melody Heinemann Dosch, experienced Family Law, Trusts attorney in Woodland Hills, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Debrah Beth Rosenthal, experienced Family Law attorney in Woodland Hills, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Christine Mary Macfarlane, experienced Family Law, Workers Compensation attorney in Woodland Hills, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Matthew Levi Morris, experienced Entertainment, Family Law attorney in Woodland Hills, CA with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Cynthia J Ponce, experienced Family Law attorney in Woodland Hills, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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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:

  1. What experience do you have with family law cases like mine?
    Make sure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it's a contested divorce, child custody dispute, or adoption.
  2. How will you charge for your services?
    Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, a flat fee, or requires a retainer. Ask for an estimate of the total costs involved.
  3. What are the possible outcomes of my case?
    An experienced lawyer should be able to give you a general idea of what to expect based on the facts of your case.
  4. What is your approach to resolving disputes?
    Ask whether the lawyer tends to favor negotiation and mediation or whether they prefer to take cases to court. This can help you determine if their style matches your goals.
  5. How long do you expect my case to take?
    While it’s difficult to predict, the lawyer should give you an estimate based on similar cases.
  6. Who will be handling my case?
    In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may do much of the work, so make sure you understand who will be your main point of contact.

How to Check the Credibility of a Family Law Lawyer

To ensure you're hiring a reputable family law lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and reputation:

  • Check state bar association records: Verify that the lawyer is licensed to practice in your state and is in good standing with no disciplinary actions.
  • Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on websites like Avvo, Google, or Martindale-Hubbell. Previous clients can give you insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and success in family law cases.
  • Request references: Ask the lawyer for references from past clients who can speak to their experience with the lawyer.
  • Review their website or professional profile: Look at the lawyer’s background, case history, and areas of focus to ensure they have substantial experience in family law.
  • Look for professional memberships: Membership in reputable organizations, such as the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), can indicate a lawyer's expertise and dedication to family law.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To get the most out of your first consultation with a family law lawyer, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what you should bring:

  • Relevant documents: Bring any documents related to your case, such as marriage certificates, prenuptial agreements, financial records, custody agreements, or court orders.
  • List of assets and debts: For divorce cases, prepare a detailed list of all assets (e.g., homes, bank accounts, retirement funds) and debts (e.g., mortgages, loans, credit card balances).
  • Details of the family issue: Provide a written summary of the situation, including key dates and facts related to your divorce, custody dispute, or support issue.
  • Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions you have about the legal process, costs, and potential outcomes.
  • Your goals: Be prepared to discuss your objectives, such as custody arrangements, property division, or spousal support, so the lawyer understands your priorities.

Being organized and clear about your situation will help the lawyer evaluate your case more effectively and offer the best advice for moving forward.

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