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10 Dec, 2024 by Mark l
Was referred to Dan by a friend who spoke very highly of him. Went through a difficult child custody and support matter when I hired Dan to represent me. At our first hearing Dan came out strong and assertive against a female referee and two female attorneys. I had a glimmer of hope that I would have kept my custodial parent status even though my ex was able to manipulate my daughter to side with her. Dan did try to present some of the things that I presented to him but were dismissed by the referee. I felt he got frustrated and gave up as my wife got all that she wanted with no push back. He's a nice guy and an knowledgeable attorney but if your a guy needing help with custody issues, I would suggest looking elsewhere.
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17 Jul, 2024 by Asmaa hamad
Micheal is a great attorney I had speed 6 points ticket and he just got it dismissed as if it was never happened. He is great at communicating he explain steps and what the out comes you basically walk out of the office and have all your questions answered. He truly care about their clients and wants the best for them. I like that he is straight forward with the clients and so transparent. I would definitely rehire him over and over again. If you are looking for great attorney look no further than this guy.
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24 Mar, 2024 by Jausaun murden
19 Apr, 2024 by Gina marlowe
Always professional and easy to work with.
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17 Apr, 2024 by Joshua lavigne
18 Dec, 2023 by Mary mckane
Highly recommend this firm. Knowledgeable and professional. Thank you for all you do!
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02 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
This lawyer took my money and did not provide the service I paid for. He let the case drag on for 2 years and would sometimes take weeks or more to respond to phone calls, and other times would just not respond at all. Ultimately it led to losing my family home. Please steer clear of this lawyer.
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26 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
Filed and negotiated an acceptable repayment plan with my creditors. Bronson is the attorney to contact for all your all your chapter 11 needs....and remember your initial call is FREE.
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22 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
Bruce has done a wonderful job getting us out of a stressful situation, going above and beyond what we asked him to do. He's managed to successfully get us a mortgage modification and a chapter 7 done which helped out my family tremendously. Thanks so much for the hard work.
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18 Sep, 2024 by Aleksandr frolov
I have worked with Kristina Ramos(attorney) and Jocelyn (paralegal) on a closing. Prompt communication, clear guidance through the process, and no delays. 10/10, would work with them again
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12 Mar, 2024 by Ron and renee bellamy
06 Feb, 2024 by Frank coheley
13 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
After he got his retainer he did nothing. No document production, no motion to get documents from prior counsel. Seven months. He told me nothing. He even tried settling my case without my knowledge. I know because I saw his email from another counsel. He must have made a deal with the other side without my knowledge because he harmed me terribly in my case.
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04 Nov, 2019 by Anonymous
Doug has worked on my case tirelessly for over a year. His knowledge of the law and consideration of an exceedingly delicate situation has been extraordinary. He has both been incredibly professional and personable. I would recommend Doug to anyone who is in need of someone that is both caring and requires an attorney who is well-versed in the nuances of the law.
In my case, Doug was able to change a seemingly impossible situation - an "onion that needed to be peeled layer by layer" as he put it. He is very thoughtful of the fact that my ex is extremely abusive and helped prepare me for what abusers typically make their next steps. In doing so, I have been better able to care for my children in devastating circumstances. He also has helped me better understand the legal process and what is typical vs atypical in the court room. Having that background, the legal jargon and proceedings were easier to comprehend in what has previously been very overwhelming.
While my case is not finished yet, I expect Doug to keep fighting with the veracity and intelligence that he has exhibited thus far and will post again at the conclusion of my case! I think the best I can say so far is thank you for everything Doug!
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02 Nov, 2019 by Max
I had an attorney and was not happy with her services. I consulted several lawyers, all of whom wanted my case for a significant retainer. I consulted with Mr. Barics who reviewed my case, and said that my current counsel was properly representing me. He explained in detail what should be done and what to do if the judge didn't do what she was supposed to do.
I was ready to change lawyers, and Mr. Barics was high on the list. However, his honesty in telling me to stay with my current counsel and declining to accept a large retainer is worthy of mention.
I stayed with my existing attorney, and the case proceeded nearly exactly how Mr. Barics predicted it would.
I did not retain Mr. Barics then, but I am impressed he would decline a client when he felt the client was properly represented with current counsel.
My former attorney has since retired and if I need new counsel Mr. Barics would be my first choice.
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14 Apr, 2024 by Carolyn morsch
Plays into the system of the county. Does not actually listen to the children and leads them into responses with negative questions. Very misleading…does not have the children’s best interest at heart. Does not allow the children to actually speak their true feelings. Speaks to only one parent and does this during court and it makes representation negative to the other. Horrible person! She should officially retire!! Children tell her one thing and she reports the opposite due to her “in” at the county. How pathetic!!
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02 Oct, 2022 by Florence warchocki
Very nice person,, gave my husband excellent advice...will definitely be keeping her #
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02 Jul, 2021 by Paul freeman
Couldn't help me but very nice!
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29 Apr, 2024 by Eric k
Amazing service. Took the time to patiently assist me with my complex issue, giving me clear guidance on how to manage the situation. Thank you David!
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27 Feb, 2024 by Marty arnold
Robert Link is a tremendous lawyer. He has helped me on many legal issues and is a real professional. I recommend him very highly. He is really knowledgeable and responsive.
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26 Feb, 2024 by Jerome vivona
If you’re seeking to retain counsel, look no further. The attorneys and staff at David A. Gallo and Associates are some of the finest people I’ve ever known. They are great Attorney’s, that’s a given. But, they are also really fine human beings. They care about your case, your situation and you personally and they will fight for you to receive everything you are entitled to. I highly recommend this firm and hope you’ll set a meeting to find out for yourself just how great they are.
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02 Sep, 2024 by Ariyo israel oluwasola
24 Apr, 2022 by Darren white
05 Apr, 2022 by Roxana orellana
28 Feb, 2025 by Latisa day
05 Feb, 2025 by Henry
The process with Peri was a great and and simple experience. She truly cares and works with anyone. Definitely recommend her to anyone 👌
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01 Feb, 2025 by Yovana g.
The experience with Peri Edelman has been amazing. She has helped our family with many cases over the years and we are so grateful to have been introduced to her. Highly recommend her 🫶
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16 Feb, 2022 by Anonymous
Had a wonderful experience through a very difficult time. Caring, understanding and extremely helpful throughout the process. Highly recommended
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16 Feb, 2022 by Anonymous
Mr. Weiner and his team were definitely a godsend. I lost everything due to a gambling addiction back in 2015. I owed just about every casino in Vegas and on the east coast with threats of lawsuits and arrest. I sought counsel from many firms and they all told me things I didn’t want to hear. When everything felt hopeless my wife found Mr. Weiner’s firm online. He and Mr. Musso helped negotiate my debts, stay in my house and give me a second chance. I have been able to rebuild my life, save my marriage, start another successful business and remain free of gambling for 7yrs now. They charged a very reasonable, fair amount and were always available; even if it was to say “thing’s will be okay”. They truly saved my life. I can’t express my gratitude to their work highly enough.
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07 Feb, 2017 by Brian
I didn't get a single bill for months after Bruce was engaged for a bankruptcy auction and was shocked when he suggested that he'd used up the retainer (or even half).
"I am not going to go line by line with you, just take this as not agreeing with anything you say. There is no reason for further discussion."
So completely unwilling to return any of the retainer nor to speak directly in support of the unsupportable bill. He mailed in the work and stonewalled any discussion (via email).. and has not returned calls.
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25 Nov, 2024 by Erica skurnik
We had the best experience getting our dog from Ethical Frenchie! They are extremely well informed about the breed and helped answer all our questions along the way, and for months after we got him. Our puppy is also THE cutest frenchie in the world (not biased at all) so would add 6 stars if I could 😊
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15 Nov, 2024 by Arthur avagyan
Field Law Group is very professional and knowledgeable!!! They keep you updated and always available to answer any questions !!! Very recommended!!!
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15 Nov, 2024 by Maged gergis
I was very impressed from my conversation and how they explained and handled my case till the end. Very professional highly respected!!!
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23 Jul, 2017 by Jonathan m.
Long story short, this excuse for a lawyer completely screwed up my case involving a foreclosure. He is not up on current laws and I will be filing a complaint with the Bar Association. I paid this moron and he did NOTHING! NOTHING, NOTHING NOTHING! He even had the nerve to tell me to seek another lawyer specializing in probate, when my matter had NOTHING to do with probate although he claimed he knew all about probate. RUN AS FAST AS YOU CAN.
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29 Oct, 2016 by Jonathan grindell
Neil defended me during my first civil disobedience arrest. While the charges were mitigated, I was told it would be expunged However, this was not the case when I tried to cross the border.
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07 Jan, 2015 by Anonymous
Got my tenant out quick! Answered his own phone! Was concerned, polite and cost was reasonable! I could even reach him at night or on weekends. THE BEST!!!
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15 Nov, 2022 by Collin bartoldus
03 Nov, 2022 by Jonathan miller
Howard Greenberg works magic. I highly recommend him for anyone in the finance industry. He provided me with great service. He would always return my calls promptly, and treated me as if I was his only client. I was referred to work with him because of the great work he's done with colleagues, and I recommend anyone else to work with him as well.
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19 Jun, 2022 by Jason scherl
This guy was my hero and he said my terminal fatal disease is psychosomatic and he didn’t do any of the cases I paid him for and then he quit a few days later and decided to keep the money this guy is a thief and a liar and he’s too old to practice law I’m so upset my hero betrayed me you should avoid this lawyer he’s kind of got some kind of Old age related problems
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09 Dec, 2023 by Shigeaki kitaoka
01 May, 2022 by Pavlina kasparkova
When you need partner for IP in USA. Great choice.
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24 Jun, 2021 by Tickwise 3 moms organics
These guys are AMAZING! As a small women owned business, the daunting trademark/patent world was completely foreign and overwhelming to us. Amster, Rothstein and Ebenstein and everyone on their team took the time to explain (and made sure we understood) every step in the process. They have been more than professional, they actually care about our business and our success. Thanks guys for helping out our small business and making it the success that it is
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18 Jun, 2024 by Rajin bahadur
Worst lawyer ever. Her and her partner work together to drain every single penny possible from their clients. Please save yourself financially and mentally from going to her place of practice. It’s all about the money for her
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12 Jun, 2024 by Ara ahmed
I was looking for a job, and a friend referred me to work at her law office. Came in, showed her my resume and she told me to start working. After two weeks, she told me that she wasn't hiring me to be permanent but she refused to pay me for the two weeks and never even acknowledged what she did. This woman is a scammer. Stay away. Don't let the smart talking fool you. There are too many options on Sutphin to choose this place for your legal services.
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04 Nov, 2023 by Tyson max
18 Nov, 2024 by Jingxuan sun
Great attorney! Very patient and give insightful advices.
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01 Nov, 2024 by Jillian garrison
I highly recommend Peter. He responded in a timely manner regarding questions I had about my finances. He provided a 30 minute, no charge consultation for me. He made recommendations about moving forward without actually filing for bankruptcy. I found Peter to be extremely helpful, and knowledgeable regarding bankruptcy laws and how consumers are protected in New York State.
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29 Aug, 2024 by James arlotta
What bankruptcy attorney doesn't include a broken tenancy lease in a chapter 7 bankruptcy?
Unless I'm "mistaken."
Perhaps all the money I paid them, (why is there a RED FLAG on the bankruptcy court documents. INDICATING THAT I QUALIFIED IN FORMA PAUPERIS AS A POOR PERSON,) should be returned?
ESPECIALLY CONSIDERING I COULD'VE RECEIVED A PRO BONO COURT APPOINTED LAWYER, AS I AM AND WAS A SERVICE CONNECTED DISABLED VETERAN DISPLACED FROM THE STATE OF FLORIDA 2004 HURRICANE SEASON...ALONG WITH BEING INDIGENT!
HOW DOES THAT APPEAR?
I WONDER, DOES THE UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE POLICE AND THEIR INSPECTORS' NOTICE WHEN MR. GRUBEA TRIES TO SOLICIT POTENTIAL CLIENTS VIA USPS?
WITHOUT INDICATING ON THE ARTICLE OF MAIL THAT'S AN..."ADVERTISEMENT?"
I SUPPOSE WHEN THE LETTERS IFP AND THE WORDS RED FLAGS ON THE TOP OF THE DOCUMENT YOUR PRACTICE'S LAWYERS FILED ARE CLEARLY EVIDENT... WHO'S LYING TO WHO?
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18 Feb, 2025 by Kali zuppinger
Val is personally the best! She makes you feel like family. Her work inside and out of the courtroom is great. Always there when we need her. We plan to use Val for life!! Cannot recommend her enough
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13 Feb, 2025 by Ryan wilcox
Valeriya took great care of me when I really needed someone in my corner. Highly recommend!
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13 Feb, 2025 by Julee rogers
Nitko law is very professional. V. Nitko treats you like family and cares about her clients.
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30 Aug, 2019 by John greco
Joe was an absolute professional from start to finish. Made our lives more relaxed during the closing of our old house to the closing of our new home. Smooth transition. Highly recommended!!!
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26 Nov, 2018 by Jason brownrigg
Joe did a fantastic job representing us for both the sale and purchase of our new home. He was always there both day and night to answer any and all questions and concerns in an honest and straight forward manor, advising us every step of the way with the knowledge and experience he has gained from his many years of practicing law. Not only did he made it possible for us to close on both properties on the same afternoon he made it an enjoyable and stress free endeavor. This is our second time using his services as he also has taken care of our wills in the past, I highly recommend him and will be using his services the next time a need arises.
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22 Aug, 2017 by Pat lambert
Joe was very kind and patient in handling both the sale of my previous home and purchase of my new home. After living In The same place for 45 years it was overwhelming to make this major move. His calm manner made this transition easier. I highly commend his services and appreciate all he did
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19 Apr, 2024 by Gina marlowe
Always professional and easy to work with.
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17 Apr, 2024 by Joshua lavigne
18 Dec, 2023 by Mary mckane
Highly recommend this firm. Knowledgeable and professional. Thank you for all you do!
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01 Dec, 2024 by Priscilla v
Cindy helped us with our estate planning. She was recommended by a friend and we would recommend her to our friends as well. Explains things well and gets the work done. We’ve worked with other attorneys in the past that weren’t great and was pleasantly surprised at how down to earth and knowledgeable she is and didn’t feel like she tried to scam us.
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01 Nov, 2024 by Elvon baptiste
This firm has defended me in a real estate litigation since June 2018 through 2024. So far, we have had 3 major victories against the plaintiff and in almost every court decision. I am so impressed with their competence, knowledge and results thus far. I highly recommend them in any civil litigation.
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07 Oct, 2024 by Richard smith
I came to this firm in November, 2023 to defend me in highly litigious case in NY federal Court. I saw first hand how Jeff Benjamin strenuously advocated for me throughout the process. Even to today, he has been very generous with his time, despite his busy caseload. This is a "Class A" firm with "Class A" lawyers. Thank you!
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15 Jan, 2025 by Jorge alvear
My situation is a bit complicated since not to many attorneys specialize internet crime and this is one of the firms that does. I recommend to anyone to do their due diligence before wasting energy, time, and money
Very rarely does the small company wins against a major corporation like GoDaddy. specially in a fairly new space of technological advances. With that being said it’s feels like you’re paying for a study instead of an advocate.
Sometimes is just best to leave things alone and keep moving forward these problems will only ad more stress and financial burden derailing you from what your main focus’s should be, Rebuilding the losses and time with your family.
To Mr. Bryce jones and Mr.Devon Seva thank you for your service. Nothing personal I’m sure these gentleman are good and fair attorneys but my overall experience with the firm as a whole was not the most pleasant and upfront,
Justice is a tricky situation $$$
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09 Nov, 2023 by Michael tenaglia
Great lawyers! answered all my questions and always got back to me.
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24 Oct, 2023 by Kurt klein
Jones’ legal advice has always been spot on. I’ve recommended him to a number of friends as well, who have all been very pleased by his diligence and perspicacity. He gets to the heart of the matter very quickly, determines the appropriate steps, and follows up (some lawyers let cases languish that could easily have been moved along had they been paying attention). Another strong point is that he won’t accept cases where he feels that potential clients would be better served elsewhere, and says so.
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30 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Hired Charles and after paying him in full he just stop answering and put my case in jeopardy.
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28 Jun, 2023 by Kenneth
He is terrible. After paying him, he stuck around to answer calls for a couple of months, never filed the BK plan, never did anything.
I called and emailed dozens of times with no response.
Light your money on fire before you hire Higgs.
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16 May, 2023 by Svitlana niskoklon
I want to share my gratitude for the outstanding work that Charles and Melissa did for my client whose house was in foreclosure and was about to be sold at the public auction. The situation with my client's property was very tough - his property in Queens, NY was underwater, and the bank didn't want to entertain any short payoff offers. However, Charles and Melissa put together and executed a compelling strategy involving the bankruptcy sale, which forced the mortgage bank to return to the negotiation table and allowed the client to sell the property on his terms. Charle's and Melissa's expertise in the complicated world of bankruptcy is undeniably strong; I will recommend their services to any homeowner whose house is in foreclosure and who requires similar legal representation.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Elizabeth montejo
20 May, 2024 by L cl
21 Mar, 2024 by Andrew engert
Do not return phone calls, para legal may pose as lawyers or try to give advice as a lawyer, lies about their willingness to take clients.
Ultimately I was recommended this office for help after three electrical fires in my building, by my city council woman’s office. They had already recieved many documents from my city council woman’s office pertaining to my case.
When I spoke with them they said they aren’t taking new cases. Why would you tell my city council woman’s office your interest in my case and then not take it?
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14 Jun, 2024 by Blake
02 Mar, 2024 by Joyeeta hasan
22 Sep, 2023 by Poran c
30 Aug, 2024 by Samantha cyr
Horrible experience. He showed up in swim trunks and a t shirt for a meeting he was 2 hours late for, and acted cocky and arrogant the entire time; Gaslighting me and talking down to women. (Wouldn't surprise me if he tried to gaslight me here honestly) I HIGHLY recommend a different attorney for family law at least. He has little to no knowledge unless it's personal injury claim where he rips off the injured and disabled. (Had him try to sign me for a personal injury case while he was defending the perpetrator of a crime I was the victim in, come to find out which is illegal, not to mention unethical)
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04 Jun, 2024 by Michael maniscalco
09 May, 2024 by Eggs actley
15 Dec, 2023 by Kike chavez
Michael is very efficient he was always on top of my case he is always available for his clients ,wonderful employees, i will definitely recommend this Law Firm .
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18 Aug, 2023 by Jacqueline rodriguez
Mr. Goldberg is a lawyer who is available 24 hours and he said the truth about his firm having an A+ in Better Business Bureau. I am a new client and many attorneys want my case but I chose him. He always willing to help me and always answers my calls with respect. When I called the office, the customer service is excellent and Mayra is an excellent and good worker. Mr. Goldberg and all the employees are excellent. Mr. Goldberg and staffs deserve no 5 stars but Billions of Stars.
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16 Dec, 2021 by Zahira colon
I took me two years to be able to review Mr. Goldberg and his partner David Waterbury. Mr. Goldberg handled my car accident case. Mr. Goldberg denied to fight my case in court becase I was a hispanic woman with an accent. He personally told me that the court was prejudice to minorities. He has a nice personality but he doesn't know his job and he really don't care to fight for his clients. He just want to get paid. That's all he care for. There are plenty of others lawyers in NY. Good lawyers. I wouldn't never recommend Michael Goldberg and David Waterbury. Michael Goldberg worse lawyer in NY.
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06 Oct, 2019 by Holly lyons
13 Sep, 2024 by Austin wurmb
Crazy group no good values
Willing to do what ever for money.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Jeremy henegan
29 Feb, 2024 by Brittney clarke
10 Sep, 2023 by Kirsten robertson
Dirtbag.
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12 Apr, 2023 by Chrissy khalil
He’s amazing !! I just love this man. He pours his heart out for his clients. You can trust this lawyer and I never have nothing good to say about lawyers. If you see this Fred, thank you for what you done for my family.
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19 Jun, 2020 by Pederson mitch
18 Jul, 2024 by Darleen brumfield
06 Jan, 2024 by Ashley scanlin north star real estate
13 Nov, 2023 by Kris filkins
Tim has handled many real estate transactions for me, over 20 years. Never a problem, he's always available for questions and his staff is excellent!
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Foreclosure Lawyer Can Do for You
A foreclosure lawyer specializes in helping homeowners navigate the legal complexities of foreclosure, working to protect their rights and potentially save their homes. Foreclosure lawyers assist homeowners facing foreclosure by negotiating with lenders, filing legal defenses, and representing them in court. They also help with loan modifications, short sales, and other alternatives to foreclosure. Whether you’re behind on mortgage payments or already in foreclosure proceedings, a lawyer can help you explore your legal options and work toward a solution.
If you’re at risk of losing your home, a foreclosure lawyer can provide guidance on how to stop or delay the foreclosure process and protect your financial future.
When Should I Hire a Foreclosure Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a foreclosure lawyer in several situations where you are facing financial difficulties with your mortgage. Common reasons to hire a lawyer include:
- Facing foreclosure proceedings: If your lender has initiated foreclosure proceedings, a lawyer can help you file a legal defense and explore options for stopping or delaying the process.
- Loan modification: If you want to modify the terms of your mortgage to make payments more manageable, a lawyer can help you negotiate with your lender and ensure that the modification complies with legal standards.
- Challenging the foreclosure: If you believe your lender has violated foreclosure laws or the terms of your mortgage agreement, a lawyer can help you challenge the foreclosure in court.
- Stopping a foreclosure sale: If your home is about to be sold at a foreclosure auction, a lawyer may be able to file for a temporary restraining order or injunction to halt the sale.
- Short sale or deed in lieu of foreclosure: If you cannot afford to keep your home but want to avoid foreclosure, a lawyer can assist with arranging a short sale or a deed in lieu of foreclosure, where you voluntarily transfer ownership of the home to the lender to avoid foreclosure.
- Filing for bankruptcy: If you’re unable to manage your mortgage debt and other financial obligations, a lawyer can advise whether filing for bankruptcy might stop foreclosure and help you restructure your debts.
Hiring a lawyer as soon as possible - especially when foreclosure is imminent - can provide you with more legal options to save your home or limit financial damages.
What Does a Foreclosure Lawyer Do?
A foreclosure lawyer provides a variety of legal services to homeowners facing foreclosure, working to protect their rights and help them avoid losing their homes. Their responsibilities often include:
- Negotiating with lenders: A lawyer can negotiate with your lender to modify your mortgage or create a repayment plan, helping you avoid foreclosure by securing more favorable terms.
- Filing a legal defense: If your lender is improperly foreclosing or has made errors in the foreclosure process, a lawyer can file a legal defense, challenging the foreclosure in court. Defenses may include violations of foreclosure laws, predatory lending practices, or failure to follow the terms of the mortgage.
- Representing you in court: A lawyer can represent you in foreclosure proceedings, whether you are defending against the foreclosure, seeking more time to negotiate with the lender, or filing for bankruptcy.
- Stopping or delaying foreclosure sales: If your home is scheduled for a foreclosure auction, a lawyer can help file a motion to stop or delay the sale, giving you time to explore other options.
- Advising on bankruptcy: A foreclosure lawyer can assess whether filing for Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy would be beneficial, as bankruptcy can temporarily stop foreclosure and give you time to reorganize your finances.
- Arranging short sales or deeds in lieu of foreclosure: A lawyer can help facilitate a short sale (selling the property for less than the mortgage balance) or a deed in lieu of foreclosure (transferring the property to the lender), which may allow you to avoid the foreclosure process.
How Are Foreclosure Lawyers Paid?
Foreclosure lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the case and the legal work involved. Common payment structures include:
- Hourly rate: Many foreclosure lawyers charge by the hour, with rates typically ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and location.
- Flat fee: For specific legal services, such as negotiating a loan modification or filing a bankruptcy petition, some lawyers offer a flat fee. Flat fees can range from $1,500 to $5,000, depending on the scope of the work.
- Retainer: In more complex foreclosure cases, especially those involving ongoing negotiations with lenders or court appearances, a lawyer may require a retainer. This is an upfront payment that is billed against as the lawyer works on your case.
- Contingency fee (rare): In some rare cases, particularly when suing a lender for wrongful foreclosure, a lawyer may work on a contingency fee basis. This means they only get paid if they win the case or settle on your behalf.
It’s important to discuss fees and payment arrangements with your lawyer upfront, especially if you are facing financial difficulties.
How Much Does a Foreclosure Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a foreclosure lawyer depends on the complexity of the case, the lawyer’s experience, and the amount of time required to resolve the issue. General cost estimates include:
- Hourly rates: Foreclosure lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour. For example, a simple case with 10 hours of legal work at $300 per hour would cost $3,000.
- Flat fees: For straightforward services such as filing for bankruptcy or negotiating a loan modification, flat fees typically range from $1,500 to $5,000, depending on the complexity of the work.
- Retainers: In more complex or ongoing foreclosure cases, a lawyer may require a retainer ranging from $2,500 to $10,000, depending on the length of the case and the lawyer’s experience.
In addition to legal fees, you may also need to cover additional costs, such as court filing fees or expenses related to property appraisals.
Top Questions to Ask a Foreclosure Lawyer
Before hiring a foreclosure lawyer, it’s important to ask key questions to ensure they have the necessary experience and approach to help you. Key questions to ask include:
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What experience do you have with foreclosure cases?
Ensure the lawyer has experience handling foreclosure cases similar to yours and has successfully helped homeowners avoid foreclosure or negotiate better terms. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, a flat fee, or requires a retainer, and ask for a detailed estimate of the total cost of their services. -
What are my options for stopping foreclosure?
Ask the lawyer to explain the different legal strategies available for stopping or delaying foreclosure, such as loan modifications, filing a legal defense, or bankruptcy. -
What is the likelihood of success in my case?
Ask the lawyer for an honest assessment of your case and the chances of successfully avoiding or delaying foreclosure. -
How long will the process take?
Foreclosure cases can vary in duration, so ask the lawyer how long they expect the process to take and what factors might affect the timeline. -
Will I need to go to court?
Ask whether your case is likely to settle out of court or if a trial may be necessary. If a trial is possible, ask what steps the lawyer will take to prepare. -
What steps can I take to protect my home?
Ask the lawyer for advice on steps you can take to protect your home, such as making partial payments, negotiating with your lender, or exploring foreclosure alternatives.
How to Check the Credibility of a Foreclosure Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable foreclosure lawyer, take the following steps to verify their credentials and experience:
- Check their bar status: Verify with your state bar association that the lawyer is licensed to practice law and has no disciplinary actions against them.
- Look for foreclosure experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in foreclosure law and have successfully handled cases similar to yours.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients have said about their experience with the lawyer.
- Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have worked with them on foreclosure matters.
- Check for certifications or memberships: Look for lawyers who are members of organizations like the National Association of Consumer Advocates (NACA) or who have specialized certifications in real estate or foreclosure law.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a foreclosure lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:
- Mortgage documents: Bring a copy of your mortgage agreement, payment history, and any correspondence you’ve received from your lender, including foreclosure notices or demand letters.
- Financial information: Provide information about your income, expenses, and debts, as this will help the lawyer assess your financial situation and determine the best legal strategy for your case.
- Previous communications with your lender: If you’ve already tried to negotiate with your lender, bring any emails, letters, or records of phone calls that document these communications.
- Court documents (if applicable): If foreclosure proceedings have already begun, bring any court documents related to the case.
- Questions about your legal options: Prepare a list of questions about the foreclosure process, your options for avoiding foreclosure, and how the lawyer plans to help you.
By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your situation more effectively and provide the best possible legal advice for protecting your home from foreclosure.
