I'd highly recommend avoiding this firm. Please read below and anything I said below can be…read moreverified or is a statement of opinion. Joe Wolch and Kate Mignani my message for you, don't ever forget how a 30 year old respondent with no law experience and a $20 a month ChatGPT subscription outsmarted and beat your entire firm in court. Law School 101: It's not what you know, what you feel or think, it's what you can prove in court Joe. (I did also have an attorney but most of my preparation was done with AI). Big thanks to Joe Wolch and Kathryn Mignani for representing my ex in both our divorce and a restraining order case. In my opinion, it lacked evidentiary support and may have been tactically motivated, as I've come to learn is not uncommon in Family Law cases for leverage in negotiating. For a marriage that lasted just six months with roughly around $5,000 in total community property, no kids, no houses, they still managed to rack up over $57,220 in legal fees on her side. This review is legitimate and follows Yelps TOS as it deals with my experience with them being the OC in this case. Their client (my ex) was ultimately found not credible and impeached multiple times in court, leading Honorable Judge Wendy Coates to dismiss the TRO completely. And at the end of the divorce case, she had to write me a equalizing check for property division.... Kathryn Mignani specifically was the attorney that questioned me when I was on the stand testifying. During my testimony, I observed Kate Mignani struggling with basic questioning and often stuttering over her words, and seemingly not able to respond with how I was answering the questioning. From my perspective, she seemed unprepared to challenge testimony that I had carefully and anticipated for months. I studied for hours on how to properly answer these questions and Mignani didn't grasp I was able to circumvent what she was wanting me to say. In my opinion, this demonstrated a lack of competence in trial advocacy. My attorney and I were expecting at least a little more in-depth questioning but got nothing of substance. I have no formal legal training, so I actually used AI and large language models to simulate potential cross-examination questions from Wolch, Mignani, and their paralegal (I believe her name is Kate Gums). I fed the system our prior correspondences and noted their behavioral patterns in how they reacted to documents my attorney, Aaron, and I would submit. This helped me prepare extensively for what I anticipated would be a much more thorough line of questioning. The AI was actually more in-depth and subjectively speaking, harder to answer than Mignani herself. In my personal opinion, it was fairly obvious from the start that this wasn't truly a domestic violence case, but rather an attempt to manage my ex's public image. Now I don't know whether or not Wolch's team advised my ex this claim had no foundation, but one can only hope they did. Looking back, I'm surprised Wolch's firm chose to proceed. But seeing the attorney's fees disclosure each party exchanged, showing around $57,220 plus several days of trial that hadn't been billed yet, it now puts the situation into a clearer perspective. I left the courtroom genuinely surprised that someone this terrible in trial advocacy could be in active legal practice. Joe Wolch, who I assume owns the firm and I'd assume is responsible for approving this case and continuing it to depths of ridiculousness, continued to pursue the matter despite the absence of any credible evidence indicating wrongdoing on my part. This resulted in an unwarranted challenge and attempt to ruin my reputation and professional standing. I understand not every attorney shines in litigation, but in my perspective, this felt more like someone winging it than advocating effectively. Kate Mignani was absolutely terrible at questioning me up on the stand and I'd highly advise contacting me if you want to see the transcripts of how awful she was during the trial. If anyone is interested in reviewing the partially redacted public transcript or the case itself, feel free to reach out, everything was said on the record and is available for verification. Thank you again, Joe and Kate, for representing my ex throughout both our brief marriage and a lengthy restraining order dispute. Despite a marriage that lasted just over six months with limited community property and no children, legal fees on her side exceeded $57,220. In my opinion, the TRO lacked evidentiary support and appeared strategically motivated. Ultimately, Honorable Judge Wendy Coates dismissed the restraining order after finding my ex's testimony not credible and specifically noting that certain claims were impeached by video and witness evidence. It turns out the court sided with actual evidence over uncorroborated allegations. I never had any doubt I'd win.

Now I know first-hand why Joe, Robert, Jenn & team are widely recognized and respected across our…read moreCounty. They are true experts that intend to bring your case to completion. Robert Sehn led my divorce case. He is tremendously knowledgable, and throughout the case, was highly regarded by the judge and opposing counsel. Robert's initiative and attention to detail is stellar. During our settlement conference, Robert began crafting the the agreement memorandum in real-time after moving through a complex set of variables. This firm is the very best--they will get your case to the finish-line, as they did mine.

I don't usually write reviews, but I had to share my experience. I spent 5 years with another…read moreattorney and got absolutely nowhere--just delays, frustration, and no real progress. Finding Dorothy completely changed everything. From the start, she was proactive, clear, and genuinely focused on getting my case resolved. Within just 3 months, she did what my previous attorney couldn't do in 5 years. One thing that really stood out was her deep familiarity with the local court system. She knows how things work, what to expect, and how to navigate it efficiently--which made a huge difference in moving my case forward. She kept me updated, explained everything in a way I could understand, and made me feel like my case truly mattered. That level of dedication is rare. If you're feeling stuck or unheard, I highly recommend Dorothy. I only wish I had found her sooner.

I am beyond grateful that Dorothy was recommended to me. I reached out the very same day, and…read morewithin an hour she personally called me back. From day one, I have never once doubted having Dorothy by my side. No second guessing, and no uncertainty. I trust this woman completely. As a mother, navigating a difficult child custody case while trying to protect and advocate for my son has been one of the most emotionally draining and heartbreaking experiences of my life. There were moments where I felt overwhelmed, exhausted, scared, and emotionally worn down trying to balance court, parenting, work, and simply holding myself together through it all. Dorothy never once made me feel like I had to carry that weight alone. What truly sets Dorothy apart is that she does not treat you like "just another client." She takes the time to genuinely know you as a person, your life, your family, your fears, your goals as a parent, and what truly matters to you and your children. She understood that this was not just a legal case to me. This was my child, my family, my everyday life, and my future as a mother. Every conversation, every hearing, every late-night worry answered through an email, and every difficult moment throughout this process has shown me how deeply invested Dorothy is in helping her clients and protecting families. She fights for you with the same passion and dedication as if your case were her own. In moments where I felt emotionally defeated or uncertain, Dorothy helped me feel grounded, reassured, and supported. Dorothy is honest, compassionate, incredibly knowledgeable, and always responsive. During such a long and emotionally exhausting custody case, having an attorney who communicates in a timely manner and consistently stands beside you makes all the difference. Her professionalism and courtroom experience are undeniable, but it is her heart, dedication, and genuine care for people that truly make her exceptional. You can tell this firm is built on integrity and compassion. Her husband, Matthew Losinski, has also always been extremely welcoming, kind, and professional whenever I've visited the office. You immediately feel comfortable walking through their doors. It truly feels like a family-oriented law firm that understands the human side of family law, not just the legal side. As a parent, putting your trust in someone during one of the hardest periods of your life is not easy. But I can honestly say Dorothy made me feel heard, protected, supported, and never alone! If you are looking for an attorney who will genuinely care, fight tirelessly for you, guide you honestly, and stand beside you through one of the hardest times in your life, I wholeheartedly recommend Dorothy Chow-Losinski and Matthew Losinski.

I had the great pleasure of working with Arlene and her staff, for an issue I had from my divorce,…read moremy ex refused to pay a court ordered (good sized) equalization- payment to me, for over six years in arrears. The ex is a millionaire, and I am not even close.... the sum he was ordered to pay me was a mere drop in the bucket for him. No other Law firm I contacted would talk about handling my case, except for I need to give them a special credit card that they could use on tap, at huge rates for their whole legal team, never really told me what they could do for me, nor did they care. They wanted to know about me issuing a credit card first and foremost. These were all men. I gave up after to speaking to the men of three law firms just like that. Five years later, I decided to look again for attorneys... I came across Arlene by scrolling on the net for lawyers once again...in San Ramon Immediately I like the way Arlene looked, for starter she's a woman, I was tired of the emotionless men, only in it for the $$...Arlene strong, female, fit and I love that , that means serious and disciplined, and the years of legal experience she had, impressed me. True sharp professional I sent Arlene an email of my problem of my over- six year non payment of a court order from my ex. Arlene told me my ex was in contempt of court, not he isn't paying me, and smiling about it, he is telling the court to F-off. It's the court who ordered that Payment it had a begin date and an end date to pay... and he blew it off, he's in contempt of court and over six years he's going to have some sanctions to pay. Arlene assured me she worked cases like this in her practice, who've done the same thing to wives like me. These men all end having to pay sanctions, end up paying their ex-wives, so much more than the original sum, the court ordered. I knew right there I wanted Arlene to represent me, she didn't talk about how much money she would need from me, or I have to give her a credit card to use at her & her team's leisure.. she talked about me, winning, what I could expect and my ex ( is playing a losing game) We discussed fee shortly after .. It was Saturday.. that following Monday I I gave her a retainer utilized my savings account to pay for this case, she said I'll make it all back and my attorney fees are usually paid by the x-husband who put x-wives in the position to open a case. Needless to say Arlene won my case, my Ex had to pay over double his original sum the court originally ordered in 2019 It was all due in one large lump sum, within seven days. If he was late he was warned more sanctions would incur, that's exactly what Arlene said would happen. My ex paid in one check early before due date ended... and he never spoke to me again, because he planned to screw me over by withholding this from me, so I could never have a down payment to buy a house. This ex also thought he was smarter than Arlene. Arlene I know saved the day for me. m so glad I listened to her and all her advise. Everything Arlene said was true she went up to bat like a pro and did everything she said she would. Arlene is worth every penny, and she takes care of a lot of people and their cases, so if it takes time to resolve your case, so be it. Do you want to win and get justice or you want hasty instant gratification Where mistake can happen? I have read some of these negative comments about Arlene, ie. "how long it takes her to finish a case" and how expensive she is.... it took a few months for my case, and worth it, "expensive" All attorney's are expensive. you get what you pay for. Some lawyers are not as strong, thorough, tremendously intelligent, savvy, cares about your case and you, her experience rules. with Arlene you win and you feel it right away. ...

For the past 15 years, I have relied on Arlene Kock for exceptional guidance in marriage and family…read morelaw matters, and I cannot recommend her highly enough. Her advice is consistently clear, strategic, and easy to understand, and her billing is always fair and transparent. The teamwork within her office is truly impressive -- organized, responsive, and professional at every level -- which makes even high-conflict and complex cases feel steady and well handled. I have confidently referred people to Arlene over the years because I know they will receive thoughtful counsel, strong advocacy, and real experience behind every decision. With more than 40 years in the field, her depth of knowledge is extraordinary, and her hourly rate represents tremendous value for the level of expertise she delivers. If you want seasoned, steady, and highly skilled representation, Arlene Kock is outstanding. Simply the best!

I have had the immense pleasure of having Mr. Witt as my attorney for numerous years. He assisted…read moreme in a long and difficult child custody case, in which we were successful in obtaining what we requested. These court proceedings and these times were some of my most challenging moments, however, with Mr. Witt as my attorney I felt secure in knowing that he would do an incredible job. Mr. Witt is astonishingly knowledgeable in family law. He is clear, concise, articulate, professional, and compelling when speaking with judges and other officials. Mr. Witt is a very impressive attorney that I would highly recommend. In addition, Witt Family Law has an extraordinary team, Venus Tojoy (Law Clerk) and Gian Rosales (Paralegal) were very helpful in other aspects of my case. Thank you kindly, Mr. Witt and Witt Family Law for helping me and providing support in such a tumultuous period. I am forever grateful and appreciative of your services. Mr. Witt has sincerely made a positive impact on my life.

This law firm doesn't even let you speak to a attorney for their free 15 minute free consultation…read moreso that right there should tell you all you need to know you must speak to a Paralegal and even then no questions of a "legal" nature can be asked because you will not get an answer to them so I mean what's the point?

I highly recommend. Kathleen Caswell. She recently represented me in a legal matter and was very…read moreprofessional and knowledgeable throughout the process. Kathleen worked quickly and she was exceptionally responsive, which provided a great deal of peace of mind. Her extensive experience and familiarity with the local courts and judges were evident. I would recommend Kathleen to anyone needing skilled legal advocacy.

I spoke with Kathleen this morning, and was in a real pickle at the time of our conversation. She…read morewas so very helpful and so kind while talking me through the problem. I would definitely go back to her for assistance in the future And I am so very grateful for her help today.

This law firm will steal all of your money blatantly with no remorse. Beware!!!!…read more I was promised that my case were simple domestic violence and divorce would take $10,000-$15,000 max they started out with Miss Dost who was professional kind, caring, and attentive to the case and the billing was so minimal as time progressed in the beginning and then here comes the bait and switch the main Attorney steps in and sees that I actually have money to pay for my attorneys fees. All he did is ask me questions about my financial position and getting to know me and that is when I saw him start to go to work on me not my case. I got an email from a lady in the law firm demanding an additional $5000 so I looked at my bill and saw that Paul had reviewed my case for strategic planning and execution November 4, $3000 charge out of my account which I thought was very steep, and what did he do to charge that amount of money was a question to me. In December we where to have a phone conference which he postponed for a later date and I accepted, but when I spoke to him about my case he knew absolutely nothing about the case, none of the details and then tells me that "he didn't have my file in front of him", and the phone call kept dropping and trying different method to communicate which he was still charging me Before. I immediately wrote an email to the whole entire law firm, expressing my concerns about the lack of knowledge and preparation in a detailed itemized list, then reflecting back on what he charged me for a month prior was "strategizing and reviewing the case". So I asked Paul the question how could you charge me $3000 and then 30 days later you know nothing about the case?? He assured me, (Paul) that he likes to get familiar with the case right before the court date that way it's fresh in his mind and do not worry I will not double charge you. Not only was he still not prepared at the court date he was studying in the hallway and jotting down notes. He then was delivering to the court and to my ex-wife false information that I had to correct him on in the courtroom. While questioning me on the stand he also asked me questions to clarify dates and he had the dates wrong in his questions that I had to clarify on the stand. At the end of all this he charged me double again!!!! When I confronted him about the double charge, (because they requested an additional $15,000 which would put me at $30,000 and we still haven't even finished the domestic violence) He had his Hinchman bill collector office lady call me demanding the funds and said, "well it's your right to have representation and if you don't want it come pick up your things or I will mail them to you"! Paul finally got on the phone after a week or two of me demanding his presence and an explanation for these charges. He argued with me and said "I don't even remember your ex-wife's name right now, we are guaranteed to forget, so if I charged you for it back then and I forgot...... it's legal services that I provide and I'm not giving you any money back". As a business owner I replied to him... "can you imagine if I told you that I put in an air-conditioning unit at your home and it's guaranteed to not work, but I'm going to charge you for it anyways. I was dumbfounded by his response!! All of the email responses that were supposed to go over to my ex and her lawyer, when I received all my documents nothing was communicated only three responses at the beginning of the case they prolonged the case along with Joanne Scheinberg law firm to exploit myself and my ex-wife and misappropriate the funds. One of the court appearances Paul said so loudly "this law firm (speaking of Joanne Scheinberg) are crooks!. All they want to do is want to take your money". I think the judge heard him!! He said it so loud and the Attorney for Johnn Steinberg smirked and looked at Paul as they locked eyes. I'm going to spend a lot of time and effort and energy to expose this law firm along with Joanne Steinberg. It is criminal what they are doing. I fired Next Leagl and represented myself the next trial. They didn't even give me my documents to the day of my hearing in the morning. They have no regard for you as a person. All they want is your money do not fall for the bait and switch this Attorney comes to court even in a dirty suit, uncut hair and bad breath, it was the worst experience of my life. And I deal with many attorneys in my day-to-day business. This is by far the worst law firm ever. And they will be exposed. Anyone with questions or validation of these claims. Please reach out directly and I will provide all documentation so you can see the truth for yourself run from this law firm protect yourself from this scam.

After the case had concluded, I won most of my family law issues. Contact them for a consultation…read moreto get a good foundation where to start.

Denise has helped me multiple times. She helped me when I was getting custody of my oldest over 15…read moreyears ago, and then recently as I have been going through a divorce. She was very informative and always answered my questions with clarity. Its baffling to me that anyone would write a bad review about Denise. Please ignore them!!!

I've had the pleasure of working with Denise Reposo, paralegal in Martinez, and Gina, her…read moreassistant, for the past two years, and I truly can't say enough good things about them. From day one, they've treated me like family--always kind, supportive, and welcoming. Denise is funny, straight to the point, and most importantly, honest. She doesn't sugarcoat anything; she tells you how it is and goes above and beyond to help. Gina is just as wonderful--professional, caring, and always there when you need her. Their dedication and compassion make a stressful process so much easier. I know many lawyers who recommend Denise, and after my experience, I completely understand why. Highly recommend them both

When my first attorney began having memory problems and losing track of important documents…read morerelevant to my divorce I knew it was time to find a new one. Mike had a good reputation and after meeting with him it was clear that he was smart and had a lot of experience as a family law attorney including divorce matters so I hired him. Immediately, Mike found an error my previous attorney made that would have had me paying for unnessary expenses while separated from my ex-wife and successfully had it removed from the draft stipulation. Mike was no nonsense and he focused entirely on the legal issues relevant to my divorce and getting me a fair settlement quickly while minimizing legal fees which was exactly what he did. My ex-wife hired an attorney who did a lot of divorce litigation and given the complex issues involved with my divorce there was a possibility it could have gone to court. Mike helped me track down assets that my ex-wife had not disclosed and effectively negotiated with her attorney such that we reached a settlement without having to go to mediation or court which would have been very expensive and time consuming. Additionally, Mike's hourly rate was very reasonable especially for the SF Bay Area and he was meticuous in his billing practices. He kept track of everything he did relevant to my case such that I never doubted the validity of any invoice I received from him, and his attention to detail helped ensure that all bases were covered in my case for the best possible outcome. Thanks to Mike's legal representation the divorce settlement was in my favor and the total cost of the divorce was reasonable given the circumstances. Mike is an excellent family law attorney and I highly recommend using his legal services if you are facing a divorce.

Extremely insensitive lawyer with a stereotypical mindset. Makes a complete assumptions without…read morefully hearing or understanding the situation. Conversations go one way!!