Reviews

I hired Ben Schaefer on two separate occasions to represent me in traffic violation cases -- one in Fairfax County and one in Prince William County. I was extremely impressed with Mr. Schaefer's professionalism and attention to detail throughout the process both times. He started by giving me an excellent overview of the process and what to expect in terms of achieving the best possible outcome. He clearly has a lot of experience in this area in both counties. Without going into too many specifics, I will just say that the final resolution in both cases far exceeded my expectations. Mr. Schaefer was able to turn what could have been a nightmare scenario into nothing more than a minor annoyance. I can't thank him enough or recommend him highly enough.

I met Sharon in a courtroom when I was finalizing my divorce that I mistakenly decided to do it without any legal advice. She quickly volunteered to help me with the final questions in front of the judge. Who in this world will have the warmth heart to volunteer without expecting anything in return? Only a lawyer who has a real passion for her job. Months later, I realized that a lot of things were left out from the divorce documents and my ex-husband was filing for custody. I contacted Sharon and she was able to organize, find solutions and better options for my case. She helped me file for child support and set a fair and detail visitation agreement. My case was complicated due to the other party not cooperating and asking for far too much. But she helped me going through it, giving excellent advice, realistic expectations, and at the end even the opposing counsel thanked her. I will always be thankful for her precious support and help during that painful part of my life.

Going through a divorce is a painful experience, even more so when the lines of communication are broken. Throughout the process, Sharon Filipour gave me sound advice, making sure I understood my rights, but giving me time to process the information and decide what was best for me. She is very good at listening and getting to know her client, and works hard at defending his/her interests without imposing her views. She is very knowledgeable, patient, and above all kind and caring. She also has a great sense of humor, which helps tremendously to get through the most difficult parts. Her depth of knowledge about the law and her understanding of my position and concerns made working with her rather easy. Sharon is very civil but will not hesitate to fight for you in court if necessary.

My daughter was transported around the country by her mother for many years, after going to Sharon she was able to track her down and was able to get emergency custody granted and I was able to obtain full custody. Without her knowledge and expertise my daughter would still be out there in unsafe care. In the end, she was able to get me (a father) full custody of my precious daughter. I would recommend her a thousand times over. Her patience with me as I went through very trying times, and emotional roller coasters was very comforting.

When my ex-wife and I originally divorced there was no dispute over property, just an agreement I wrote to govern child custody and visitation. The agreement was very specific on some matters but ambiguous on others. I had it reviewed by an attorney to ensure it was legally viable but nothing more. After re-marrying, changing my residence, and taking a different job, much of the original agreement was no longer workable. I was in frequent dispute with my ex-wife about visitation, responsibility for expenses, and it was extremely stressful on my two school-age children. Ms. Filipour was recommended by a friend who'd had a difficult divorce and I found her to be compassionate, informed, expert in the workings of the Fairfax County Family Court, and able to offer useful solutions to our complex problems. My ex-wife was extremely challenging, agreeing to something at the mediation table but then refusing to codify it in a contract. Her proposals would serve her interests and meet the letter of an agreement, but result in a chaotic, unpredictable schedule for my children. I found it extremely frustrating and unproductive. In addition, my ex-wife began to make legal challenges to my new wife's competence as a step-parent. My wife and I found Sharon gracious and charming from the very start. At first she was a little incredulous about my ex-wife's actions, but soon realized we'd painted an accurate picture of a capricious and difficult opponent. Sharon then set about coming up with workable solutions to our conflicts, both from a legal standpoint and from a personal one, because as she got to know my wife and me, as well as my ex-wife, she knew what we could, and could not, tolerate an agreement. We were prepared to go to court but at the last minute my ex-wife proposed another mediation which Sharon counseled me to accept. Throughout the process, when I was clenching my jaw and my fists in frustration, she remained a calming influence, addressing me not only as a strong legal advisor, but as a compassionate friend. My ex-wife's counsel was surprised at many things revealed in both deposition and mediation since my ex-wife had not been entirely forthcoming. I had been completely honest with Sharon, however, and she took my case without judgment or criticism. As a wife and parent, she understands first-hand the issues faced by a parent in divorce and while she is also unreserved and honest, she is always entirely appropriate in what she shares. Through her expertise and compassion we were able to fashion a new custody and visitation agreement which has resulted in less anxiety for my children which, in turn, has resulted in better performance in school, relationships with their friends, and in their relationships with me, my wife, and their mother. I have recommended Sharon Filipour to other friends and I cannot speak highly enough of her. She is a wonderful asset to have if you are facing separation, divorce, or a child custody dispute in Fairfax County. I am remaining anonymous to protect the identities of others in my case.

Sharon guided me through difficult times with strength and humor... She gives no-nonsense advice and tries to keep things civil, but is willing to go to court and fight hard.... I highly recommend Sharon... You'll laugh through your tears in her office, and feel reassured by her legal knowledge and steady hand.

Nobody should ever wants to go through a divorce or custody situation. Mine started five years ago. I started with one lawyer, represented myself for a while, and finally found Sharon. She was referred to me by an old client of hers. Since 2012 she represented me in a very complicated custody case. As soon as Sharon came into the case the tide turned. She was able to take a messy court situation and simplify it as much as possible. She gave me and my family clear recommendations and instructions on how to deal with the other side appropriately. Our case went from JDR to the Court of Appeals and back down to JDR. Because of Sharon's direction we were able to gain a very favorable decision. Another aspect of custody cases is the personal and emotional parts. Sharon was more than our attorney, she was our mentor and kept the situation manageable. There were times when I felt like there was no hope and I didn't feel like I could continue. She was there to encourage me and my family every step of the way. Custody cases are an unfortunate reality for many people and can destroy people. Sharon had a kind heart and was fair and honest throughout the process. She kept my head in reality and always did what she said. I would definitely recommend Sharon. Like what someone said above me, Sharon was far superior to the opposing counsel in every way. She is by far the best attorney I have ever worked with .

My words might sound simple, but when you’re hurt and carrying a burden you don’t know how to carry by yourself, you need someone like Sharon to help you. I’m happy I did. Here are a few things I remember most about Sharon. From the beginning, Sharon quickly EARNED my trust. There was no doubt in my mind we couldn’t work together to resolve a complicated problem. Sharon was HONEST and TRANSPARENT throughout the WHOLE process. Sharon QUICKLY organized facts and details to develop a strategy that best PROTECTED me and my son. Sharon never gave me any false hope and only offered me REALISTIC advice. Sharon ACCOMPLISHED all of these deeds while being SENSITIVE to my needs and my son’s needs. It’s been 15 months since the child custody trial and I’m still very GRATEFUL for the results. Thank you so much Sharon.

Ms. Filipour handled my divorce in 2008. It was a fairly straightforward divorce, with only minor "hot button" issues. She provided insights which went beyond the generic advice which is frequently given. I followed all of her suggestions/advice and things worked out well. I am a single father and she was able to obtain a 50% custody agreement with my only child. Ms. Filipour has previously represented the former wife of a close friend of mine. My friend referred Ms. Filipour to me. He said that she was far superior to his counsel. During the course of my divorce, I can make a similar staement that she was far superior to the counsel of my ex wife.