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04 Feb, 2019 by Ashley
I received excellent advice regarding my case along with prompt attention to details and very reasonable pricing. I would recommend that you call Gerard Falzone with your legal needs. You won't be disappointed.
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12 Oct, 2012 by Anonymous
I met with Mr. Falzone last week for a consultation at his Alameda office, which was most convenient for me. After our meeting I have no reservations about referring his family law practice to other locals. He was very welcoming, I'd almost say soothing in a way, as I felt a lot better leaving than I did going in.
He was able to answer all of my questions clearly without making me feel dumb for asking, and let me take more of his time than I expected. I'm not ready to hire him on retainer yet, but when the time comes, he's the guy I'll call.
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04 Oct, 2012 by Leslie
I saw Mr. Falzone for help with a long-term child support issue. My child support has been in arrears for more than four years. I was concerned about my children and my relationship with my ex-husband. He helped resolve the situation and helped me get the child support arrears from my ex. This allowed me to assist my daughters with their college expenses. At every step, he explained my options and kept me informed. I was able to resolve this issue with a minimum of expense and his counsel helped to keep communication with my ex civil and direct. Until I worked with Mr. Falzone I was certain attorneys were only concerned with their retainers and generating bills. As the sole support for my daughters costs were a concern. I did my research and was fortunate to have him represent me. I was and continue to be very satisfied with his service and I strongly recommend Mr. Falzone for assistance in resolving marital and support issues. He cares about what is best for you and for your children. The fees I paid was truly a great value and money well spent. I had tried to handle my situation on my own without success. Mr. Falzone delivered, and he listened to my concerns.
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08 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
Very good listener and his advice was well received. The initial dispute between the property management company and myself was resolved within 2 days.
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11 Nov, 2015 by Jim
Marc has been my lawyer and then very close friend for 20+ years, and I simply do not know what I would do without him. He is smart, tenacious, ethical, wise, and damn witty - a very rare assortment, in friendship and/or the law.
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11 Nov, 2015 by Linda
My case involved Real Estate and financial abuse of a family member. While selling a home I asked the realtor if she knew of a Real Estate attorney and she gave me Marc Fong's information. Marc was the answer to my prayers, he sheltered my elderly family member from the stress of litigation and met with her many times at her assisted living facility when necessary. I cannot express strongly enough how Marc was the strength and calm in the midst of mediation which was extremely stressful. He is everything you want an attorney to be, knowledgable, ethical and
supportive I will alway be grateful for his expertise.
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25 Jul, 2024 by Reggie ayala
This dude is not a good lawyer don’t be fooled I hired him and multiple I know I was incarcerated with he will play u out your money he’s a liar and someone out his law firm that represented me told me they hate working for him he’s a shark … I paid for his service and sent a public defender that was trying out for his law firm to represent me saying he was good in that division … Do not hire this dude he’s money hungry because his daughter have cancer so he’ll do anything for money if see your looking for a lawyer
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07 Jul, 2024 by Matthew messias
They deadnamed me and quoted my REAL legal name, and told me it was because they weren’t “woke”. It’s bad enough they took 40% of my earnings after being hit by a car. Not doing business with them again.
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30 Mar, 2024 by Chikako hall
My experience in leaving a high conflict marriage (with a litigation attorney) has been nothing but frightening. Feeling confused, dismissed, deflated and defeated by a marriage I had put so much of my efforts and energy into left me lost and lacking any belief things could improve. Meeting Greg Silva was intimidating as I had lost faith and trust in attorneys after contacting many throughout the Bay Area - all dollar driven (watch out for those ads). Learning my rights which is never clear in our present society and putting faith into a stranger was my biggest growth and lesson thus far. David Falik is someone who can hold this with care, class and grace. The cost is high, however, their level of expertise and the safety I felt in my experience thus far has been priceless. I’m slowly getting my life back. Mr. Falik (and Silva & Associates) are ready to fight for your rights and if not well-verse in an area, they continue education to prepare. Mr. Falik has phenomenal listening skills and shocking expertise in handling high conflict personality types to an unbelievable degree. Mr Falik also is able to keep a wonderful sense of humor about unexpected obstacles, which has been imperative for me. Mr. Falik and his team are truly a light in such a dark place. He can put your words into an eloquent beautifully written respectable request (particularly when we cannot). In this industry, where a massive hurdle is finding ethical, cost conscientious and grounded attorneys, they are the firm fighting the “good fight”.
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Mediation Lawyer Can Do for You
A mediation lawyer specializes in resolving disputes outside of the courtroom through a process called mediation. Mediation involves a neutral third-party mediator who helps the disputing parties reach a mutually acceptable agreement. Mediation lawyers can represent clients in various matters, including divorce, business disputes, employment conflicts, contract issues, personal injury claims, and more.
Unlike litigation, mediation is a less adversarial and more cost-effective way to settle disputes, often leading to faster resolutions and preserving relationships between the parties involved.
When Should I Hire a Mediation Lawyer?
Consider hiring a mediation lawyer when you’re involved in a dispute and want to avoid the time, expense, and stress of going to court. Common reasons to hire a mediation lawyer include:
- Divorce or child custody disputes: A mediation lawyer can help you reach a fair settlement on issues like property division, alimony, and parenting arrangements without going to court.
- Business or contract disputes: For disagreements such as contract disputes, partnership conflicts, or intellectual property issues, a mediation lawyer can assist in resolving the matter through negotiation.
- Employment disputes: Issues like wrongful termination, discrimination, or wage disputes can be addressed through mediation to find common ground and avoid lawsuits.
- Personal injury cases: Mediation can help both parties agree on compensation in cases like car accidents or slip-and-fall claims without a prolonged court battle.
- Property disputes: Disputes over property ownership, landlord-tenant issues, or boundary disagreements can be settled more amicably through mediation.
- Family or inheritance disputes: Mediation can help resolve conflicts over wills or trusts without further dividing the family.
What Does a Mediation Lawyer Do?
A mediation lawyer provides a range of services to help clients resolve disputes through negotiation and mutual agreement. Their responsibilities often include:
- Representing your interests: Acting as your advocate during mediation to ensure your rights are protected and you understand your legal options.
- Preparing for mediation: Reviewing the facts of the case, gathering necessary documents, and advising you on potential resolutions.
- Facilitating communication: Helping to facilitate open and constructive dialogue between parties to clarify points of contention.
- Negotiating settlements: Assisting in negotiating fair and balanced settlement terms that are in your best interest.
- Drafting mediation agreements: Preparing the official mediation agreement that outlines the terms of the settlement, which is often legally binding.
- Avoiding litigation: Aiming to reach a settlement that eliminates the need for a court trial, saving time and resources for both parties.
- Handling complex legal issues: Explaining the legal implications of various settlement terms in cases with complicated legal matters.
How Are Mediation Lawyers Paid?
Mediation lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the case and the time involved. Common payment methods include:
- Hourly rate: Charging an hourly fee ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on experience and case complexity.
- Flat fee: For simpler mediations, some lawyers may offer a flat fee covering all legal work involved in the process.
- Retainer: In ongoing or complex cases, a retainer may be required as an upfront payment billed against as work progresses.
Discuss fees and payment structures with your lawyer during the initial consultation to understand the cost of mediation services.
How Much Does a Mediation Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a mediation lawyer depends on several factors, including the case's complexity, the lawyer’s experience, and the time required to resolve the dispute. General cost estimates include:
- Hourly rates: Typically between $150 and $500 per hour.
- Flat fees: For simple mediations, fees may range from $1,000 to $5,000.
- Total mediation costs: Can vary widely, from $2,000 to $10,000 for straightforward cases, up to $10,000 to $50,000 or more for complex disputes.
Always request a detailed cost estimate during your consultation to understand total expenses.
Top Questions to Ask a Mediation Lawyer
Before hiring a mediation lawyer, consider asking the following questions:
-
What experience do you have with mediation cases like mine?
Ensure the lawyer has relevant experience in handling similar disputes. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify the fee structure and request an estimate based on your specific case. -
What is the likelihood of resolving my case through mediation?
Seek an honest assessment of whether mediation is suitable for your situation. -
How long will the mediation process take?
Inquire about the expected timeline and number of sessions required. -
Will you personally handle my case?
Confirm who will manage your mediation and represent your interests. -
Can we pursue alternative dispute resolution (ADR) if necessary?
Ask about other forms of ADR, such as arbitration, if mediation doesn't resolve the conflict.
How to Check the Credibility of a Mediation Lawyer
To ensure you're hiring a reputable mediation lawyer, take the following steps:
- Verify their bar status: Confirm with your state bar association that the lawyer is licensed and has no disciplinary history.
- Look for mediation experience: Review their website or professional profile for specialization in mediation and successful case histories.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Check platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google for client feedback.
- Ask for references: Request references from past clients familiar with their mediation skills.
- Check for certifications: Look for certifications from organizations like the American Arbitration Association (AAA) or the Association for Conflict Resolution (ACR).
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To maximize the effectiveness of your initial meeting, bring the following:
- Relevant documents: Any materials related to the dispute, such as contracts, emails, financial records, or court filings.
- List of key issues: A detailed list of the main points of contention that need resolution.
- Timeline of events: A chronological account of events leading up to the dispute, including prior resolution attempts.
- Goals for the mediation: Be prepared to discuss your desired outcomes and areas where you're willing to compromise.
- Questions for the lawyer: Any queries about the mediation process, fees, or their approach to dispute resolution.
Being well-prepared will help the lawyer assess your case effectively and provide the best possible advice for resolving your dispute through mediation.
